Feng Shui has gained widespread popularity in the United States and around the world. Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago, it is quickly becoming a part of architecture, building development, and home living. Much has been written and reported about this topic. So truly, what is this thing that recommends avoidance of sharp angles and putting metal objects in your home for balance and other strange recommendations?
Feng Shui is a body of knowledge that has developed and grown for thousand of years. Originally, it was the exclusive knowledge of the court meteorologists of Imperial China. The meteorologist studied medicine, geomancy, astrology, and other esoteric arts. These meteorologists protected their knowledge. People of the time knew little about it. Many people had heard about it, but most knowledge outside the Emperor,s palace was hearsay. Eventually this knowledge spread to only selected families outside the palace. These first Feng Shui masters used the knowledge to help common people. The knowledge was passed from father to worthy son in order to protect the family,s name and position. Over the last 2,000 years, this tradition has continued. However, with each succeeding generation, the Feng Shui knowledge was leaked until a popularized version of Feng Shui has developed in the West today.
What has grown to be known as Feng Shui in the West, is in reality a popularized version of Feng Shui. Feng Shui is not based on any religion, mysticism, or superstition. Rather it is a mathematical science. Feng Shui is based on four aspects: Building, Environment, People, and Time. Most authors and practitioners today utilize only the first two aspects, while leaving out the most important (although more complicated calculations) of People and Time. Just as the Earth is constantly moving and changing, so are the energies of Feng Shui. Modern science has shown that geomagnetics are in a constant flux. Feng Shui calculations show changing results based on the variables of building, people, time, and environment. There is no fixed place for money, love, or study. Although the "chi" (energy) for these objectives exist, they are found in different places in different buildings. It takes a qualified practitioner who knows how to uncover these locations.
