Feng Shui

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Definition - What does Feng Shui mean?

Feng Shui is a Chinese philosophy dating from the Tang dynasty. Focused primarily on physical placement of objects and architecture, Feng Shui is intended to create a harmonious environment. The Chinese phrase feng shui translates to English as wind and water. The practice of Feng Shui is one that seeks balance between the traditional Chinese yin and yang energy of an environment. Good Feng Shui is believed to positively direct the flow of energy in your home or office in order to contribute to your overall health and wellness.

SureHire explains Feng Shui

Sometimes used in modern interior design, landscaping and architecture, Feng Shui is intended to ensure that the physical placement of an object in its environment is ideal. The determination of where and how something should be placed is based on ancient Feng Shui rules and formulas. The overarching goal of Feng Shui was to create harmony among the invisible forces of the universe.


In practical terms, Feng Shui often applies concepts such as directional placement and relevance of nearby physical features such as rivers and lakes in location buildings. For instance, buildings in cold regions were place in a way that allowed the home to maximize the heat of the sun. The Feng Shui practice predates magnetic compasses. Original Feng Shui guides were often based on astronomical observations. Later, the magnetic compass and other devices were added to assist practitioners in determining the best placement of objects in an environment.

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