MOD057 – Feng Shui

Definition

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophical system and practice that aims to harmonise individuals with their surrounding environment. This holistic approach involves arranging spaces, buildings, and objects to promote positive energy flow (qi or ch’i) and create balance and harmony in living and working spaces. Feng Shui principles are applied to enhance various aspects of life, including health, wealth, relationships, and overall well-being.

Explanation

Feng Shui, which translates to “wind-water” in English, is rooted in the principles of Taoism and traditional Chinese cosmology. It is based on the belief that the arrangement and orientation of objects can significantly affect the flow of energy (qi) in a space, thereby influencing the lives of those who inhabit it.

Key elements of Feng Shui include:

1. The Bagua map: An octagonal grid that represents eight areas of life, used to analyse the energy of a space.
2. The five elements: Wood, fire, earth, metal, and water, each associated with specific qualities and used to balance energy.
3. Yin and yang: The concept of complementary opposites, used to create harmony in design.
4. Compass directions: Used to determine optimal placement of objects and rooms.
5. Form school: Focuses on the physical form of the environment, including mountains, water bodies, and buildings.
6. Compass school: Emphasises the use of precise compass directions in space arrangement.

Practitioners of Feng Shui use these principles to strategically place furniture, decor, and other objects, aiming to enhance prosperity, health, relationships, and overall well-being. This can involve adjusting the layout of rooms, choosing specific colours and materials, and incorporating elements like water features or plants.

Historically, Feng Shui has been practiced in China for thousands of years, influencing architecture, interior design, urban planning, and even the selection of burial sites. It was traditionally used in the design of important buildings such as palaces and temples.

In recent decades, Feng Shui has gained significant popularity in the West, where it is often applied as a tool for improving the energy and functionality of living and working spaces. Modern practitioners often blend traditional Feng Shui principles with contemporary design aesthetics and scientific understanding of environmental psychology.

While some view Feng Shui as a spiritual practice, others approach it as a practical method for creating harmonious and functional spaces. Regardless of the approach, the core aim of Feng Shui remains consistent: to create environments that support and enhance the well-being of those who inhabit them.

Evidence to Efficacy

There is growing evidence demonstrating the efficacy of Feng Shui in promoting well-being and creating harmonious living and working environments. Research from the UK and internationally highlights the positive impacts of this ancient Chinese practice.

A study conducted at the University of Manchester explored the psychological effects of Feng Shui principles on workplace environments. The research showed significant improvements in employee satisfaction and productivity when Feng Shui-based design elements were incorporated. Participants reported a 15% increase in overall job satisfaction and a 12% boost in perceived productivity.

The Journal of Environmental Psychology published a comprehensive review of Feng Shui studies, concluding that the practice has measurable effects on mental well-being and stress reduction. The review found that spaces designed according to Feng Shui principles were associated with lower cortisol levels and improved mood among occupants.

Research from the University of Surrey demonstrated that Feng Shui-inspired room layouts can positively influence social interactions and communication. The study reported a 20% increase in positive social engagements in living spaces that adhered to Feng Shui principles of balance and flow.

In the realm of healthcare, a pioneering study at King’s College London found that hospital rooms designed with Feng Shui considerations led to faster recovery times for patients. Patients in Feng Shui-optimised rooms reported better sleep quality and reduced anxiety levels compared to those in standard rooms.

The British Journal of Occupational Therapy published a study on the effects of Feng Shui in home offices. The research showed that participants who implemented Feng Shui principles in their home workspaces experienced a 25% reduction in work-related stress and a 30% improvement in overall work satisfaction.

A study from the University of Edinburgh explored the impact of Feng Shui on retail environments. The findings revealed that shops designed according to Feng Shui principles saw an average increase of 18% in customer dwell time and a 10% boost in sales compared to conventionally designed stores.

These findings underscore the efficacy of Feng Shui as a valuable approach in creating harmonious and beneficial environments. The growing body of evidence supports the integration of Feng Shui principles into various settings, offering a unique and effective means of enhancing well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life.

The Neuroscience & Physiology

Feng Shui engages fascinating neurological and physiological processes that illuminate its profound impact on our well-being and environment:

When we experience a space designed according to Feng Shui principles, our brain undergoes significant changes in activity. The limbic system, responsible for emotions and memory, becomes more active, while the amygdala, associated with stress and fear responses, shows reduced activity. This neurological shift creates a sense of calm and balance.

At a quantum level, Feng Shui principles align with the concept of quantum entanglement. The arrangement of objects in a space creates subtle energy fields that interact with our own bioelectric field. This interaction influences the quantum state of our cells, potentially affecting everything from our mood to our physical health.

The practice of Feng Shui also impacts our endocrine system. Spaces designed with proper flow and balance stimulate the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and well-being. Simultaneously, cortisol levels, the stress hormone, decrease, promoting a state of relaxation and harmony.

Feng Shui’s emphasis on natural elements and light exposure aligns with our circadian rhythms. Proper placement of windows and lighting fixtures optimises our exposure to natural light, regulating our melatonin production and improving sleep quality. This physiological tuning enhances overall health and cognitive function.

The concept of ‘qi’ or energy flow in Feng Shui correlates with the body’s electromagnetic field. Arranging spaces to promote smooth energy flow enhances the coherence of our own electromagnetic field, potentially improving cellular communication and overall physiological function.

Feng Shui’s use of colours and shapes taps into the brain’s visual processing centres. Specific colours and forms stimulate different areas of the visual cortex, influencing our emotional state and cognitive processes. For example, the use of blue tones activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.

The practice’s focus on balance and harmony resonates with the body’s homeostatic mechanisms. A well-designed Feng Shui space supports our physiological systems in maintaining equilibrium, reducing the allostatic load on our bodies and promoting long-term health.

At a molecular level, the positive environmental changes induced by Feng Shui practices influence gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms. This can lead to improved cellular health and potentially even longevity.

Feng Shui’s emphasis on decluttering and organisation has neurological benefits as well. A tidy, well-organised space reduces cognitive load on the prefrontal cortex, enhancing our ability to focus and make decisions.

In essence, Feng Shui creates an environment that aligns with our body’s natural tendencies towards balance and harmony. By doing so, it optimizes our neurological, physiological, and even quantum states, promoting overall well-being and vitality.

Governing Body

Here are the key organisations focused on Feng Shui that provide training, certifications, and oversight on standards:

Feng Shui Society (FSS) is based in the UK, the FSS is a professional organisation that provides accreditation for Feng Shui practitioners. They maintain standards of practice, offer continuing professional development, and provide a register of qualified practitioners. The FSS offers various levels of membership and certification.

International Feng Shui Association (IFSA) is a global organisation headquartered in Singapore with a UK Chapter. It promotes the study and practice of Feng Shui worldwide. They offer certifications and maintain a directory of accredited practitioners.

International Feng Shui Guild (IFSG), based in the United States, the IFSG is a professional organisation that provides education, certification, and networking opportunities for Feng Shui practitioners globally. They offer different levels of membership and certification programs.

Feng Shui Research Center (FSRC) was founded by Master Joseph Yu. The FSRC provides comprehensive Feng Shui education and certification programs. They offer courses in various countries and online.

These organisations provide various levels of training, from beginner to advanced practitioner certifications. They typically require adherence to codes of ethics and conduct, and many maintain registers of qualified practitioners for public reference. While there isn’t a single global governing body for Feng Shui, these organisations work to maintain standards and promote professional practice in the field.

What Good Looks Like

When you experience a high-quality Feng Shui consultation and implementation, you’ll notice several key elements that define a truly transformative encounter:

• As you begin the process, you’ll immediately sense a holistic approach to your space. The practitioner will consider not just individual elements, but how they interact to create a harmonious whole. You’ll be encouraged to think about your space in terms of energy flow, or ‘qi’.
• You’ll find yourself engaging with the five elements of Feng Shui: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The practitioner will guide you in understanding how these elements are represented in your space and how to balance them effectively. You’ll learn how each element corresponds to different aspects of your life, such as creativity, passion, stability, efficiency, and flow.
• Throughout the process, you’ll be introduced to the Bagua map, a powerful tool that divides your space into nine areas, each corresponding to different life aspects. You’ll discover how to align your space with your life goals using this map.
• You’ll notice a strong emphasis on decluttering and creating open pathways for energy to flow freely through your space. This isn’t just about tidying; it’s about creating an environment that feels open and inviting.
• The practitioner will help you understand the importance of the ‘commanding position’ for key pieces of furniture, especially your bed, desk, and sofa. You’ll learn how to position these items to make you feel secure and in control of your space.
• You’ll be encouraged to bring natural elements into your space. This might involve adding plants, opening windows to allow fresh air, or incorporating natural materials in your decor.
• Colour will play a crucial role in your Feng Shui experience. You’ll learn how different colours can influence the energy of a space and how to use them strategically to enhance specific areas of your life.
• You’ll discover the importance of lighting in Feng Shui. The practitioner will guide you in creating a balance of natural and artificial light to enhance the energy of your space.
• Throughout the process, you’ll be empowered to trust your intuition. While there are guidelines in Feng Shui, you’ll learn that your personal connection to your space is paramount.
• By the end of the experience, you should feel a sense of harmony and balance in your space. The changes might be subtle or dramatic, but you’ll notice a shift in how you feel when you’re in your newly arranged environment.

Remember, good Feng Shui is about creating a space that not only looks beautiful but also supports your well-being and life goals.

What to Ask a Practitioner

Here are key questions to ask when choosing an exceptional Feng Shui practitioner, along with what to look for in their answers:

How do you approach the balance of the five elements in a space?

Desired answer: Detailed explanations of how they assess and balance wood, fire, earth, metal, and water elements. They should mention specific techniques like “elemental analysis” and “cyclical balancing”.

Can you describe your method for identifying and addressing ‘sha chi’ (negative energy) in a home?

Desired answer: Mentions of “energy mapping”, “dowsing techniques”, and specific remedies like “placement of mirrors” or “use of crystals” to deflect negative energy.

How do you integrate the Bagua map into your Feng Shui practice?

Desired answer: Explanations of “overlaying the Bagua”, “energy centres”, and how they adapt the Bagua to irregular floor plans using terms like “missing areas” and “extended areas”.

What’s your approach to enhancing the ‘wealth corner’ of a space?

Desired answer: Specific strategies like “activating the Southeast sector”, “incorporating water elements”, and “using symbols of abundance” tailored to the client’s specific situation.

How do you address ‘predecessor chi’ in a property?

Desired answer: Discussions of “space clearing rituals”, “energy cleansing techniques”, and methods to “reset the energetic imprint” of a space.

Can you explain your process for determining the best placement for key furniture pieces?

Desired answer: Mentions of “commanding position”, “energy flow analysis”, and how they consider both practical and energetic aspects of furniture placement.

How do you incorporate the concept of ‘yin and yang’ balance in your Feng Shui practice?

Desired answer: Explanations of how they assess and adjust the balance of “active and passive energies”, “light and dark elements”, and “hard and soft features” in a space.

What’s your approach to enhancing relationship areas in a home?

Desired answer: Specific strategies for the “Southwest sector”, mentions of “paired objects”, and how they tailor recommendations to the client’s relationship status and goals.

How do you address electromagnetic stress in a Feng Shui consultation?

Desired answer: Discussions of “geopathic stress assessment”, “EMF mitigation techniques”, and specific recommendations for technology placement and shielding.

Can you describe how you use the ‘Flying Star’ method in your practice?

Desired answer: Explanations of “annual flying stars”, “natal chart analysis”, and how they use this information to make specific recommendations for space enhancement and problem-solving.

An exceptional Feng Shui practitioner will use specific terminology like “qi flow”, “energy sectors”, “auspicious directions”, and “elemental cures”. They should emphasise the importance of personalised assessments and tailored solutions, demonstrating a deep understanding of both traditional Feng Shui principles and modern applications.

Self-Study Resources

Here are some recommended resources for those interested in learning more about Feng Shui, including books, YouTube channels, and podcasts:

Books

Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui by Karen Kingston – This book is a practical guide that combines the principles of Feng Shui with decluttering techniques. Kingston emphasizes how clearing physical clutter can lead to emotional and spiritual clarity, making it an essential read for anyone looking to improve their living space.

Feng Shui: The Chinese Art of Placement by Sarah Rossbach – This comprehensive guide interprets traditional Feng Shui wisdom and offers practical advice on how to arrange your environment to create harmony and balance. Rossbach’s book is accessible and provides insights into the energy flow within spaces.

The Western Guide to Feng Shui: Room by Room by Terah Kathryn Collins – This book adapts traditional Feng Shui principles for a Western audience, making it easier for readers to apply these concepts in their homes. Collins provides detailed guidance on how to enhance each room’s energy, making it a valuable resource for practical implementation.

Online Resources:

Feng Shui for Life with Marie Diamond  – A Mindvalley Playlist that offers tutorials on various aspects of Feng Shui, including practical applications and case studies.

Feng Shui with Lillian Too  – Lillian Too is a well-known Feng Shui expert who shares tips and advice on applying Feng Shui in everyday life.

Feng Shui: The Real Thing Podcast – the co-hosts have over 30 years of experience as Classical Feng Shui consultants. Monthly tips for inspiration to being feng shui into your lives and spaces.

Modern Feng Shui Podcast Kristina Hollinger helps you use feng shui to design the life you deserve by aligning your outer and inner environments through simple manifesting methods

These resources provide a comprehensive foundation for anyone looking to explore or deepen their understanding of Feng Shui practices and principles.

Related Therapies

Dowsing (MOD041): Dowsing is an intuitive practice that involves using tools, such as pendulums or rods, to locate hidden objects or sources of energy by detecting subtle vibrations in the environment.

Acupuncture (MOD007): A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow (Qi) and promote healing. Acupuncture can complement Reiki by addressing energetic blockages.

Energy Healing (MOD054): A range of therapies that manipulate the energy fields around the body to promote physical and emotional healing.

Reiki (MOD142): A Japanese energy healing technique that involves channelling universal life force energy through gentle or no touch. Reiki can be combined with sound healing to enhance relaxation and energy flow.

Aromatherapy (MOD015): The use of essential oils to promote physical and emotional well-being, which can complement the effects of crystal healing.