In Chinese, the word "Feng" means Wind and "Shui" means Water. The literal translation of Feng Shui is the study and application of Wind and Water. Figuratively, Feng Shui is the art and science of identifying the dynamic energies (Qi) in our environment, and utilising them to achieve Balance and Harmony in our lives, resulting in good health, wealth opportunities and happy lasting relationship.
Contrary to popular misconceptions that Feng Shui is “New Age” or some form of spiritual practice or religion; Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese science, which evolved to be what it is now, after 5000 years of arduous experimentation, trial and error. It is the study of the different energies (Qi) in the environment, and how they affect us. Feng Shui has been applied within Chinese architecture and design for thousands of years, which are still evident and present today. Feng Shui is a practical way to improve our quality of life and general wellbeing.
In terms of modern day application, Feng Shui can be utilized in the successful and expedient sale of properties, by detailed analysis of the Qi Natal Chart of the building, making changes as required to support the health and wellness of the people living/working within the space, and by activating the relative Wealth Qi with very specific Feng Shui methods.
Secondly, Feng Shui can be utilized in terms of the successful purchase of a property with great wealth, health, and happy lasting relationship potentials, by detailed analysis of the site, and the Qi Natal Chart of the prospective building, prior to an offer of purchase.
Thirdly, Feng Shui can also be utilized in terms of the specific planning in the design and layout of any new structure, or renovation of an existing building, in order to achieve great wealth, health, and happy lasting relationship of the owners.
Here are some general guidelines for property hunting:
• Period 8 – during the 20 years from Feb. 4, 2004 to Feb. 4, 2024, it is desirable for a house being located with real mountains in the NE, and real Water (lake or ocean) in the SW. The same requirements apply to a city/town; the people will do well if the city/town has real mountains in the NE, and real Water (lake or ocean) in the SW.
• Road approach – Winding roads are better than straight roads, it is especially inauspicious when a straight road is heading straight towards the front of the house.
• Exterior Forms – the house is well supported by the Four Celestial Animals:
Back – by a mountain or taller structures about 100 meters away.
Sides – by structures that are taller or longer than the house, e.g. trees, fence, buildings, etc.
Front – open space with distant mountains or structures
*Viewing at the front of the house, it should be situated in an armchair/embracing configuration.
• Other neighbouring buildings, hills & mountains – should not be too close to the house.
• Fence – good to have as protection.
• Trees – well trimmed and maintained, should not overshadow the house, especially when it is directly in front of the front door.
• Healthy vegetation – areas of green pasture/lawn and beautiful gardens.
• Plentiful and healthy wild life in rural areas.
• House and neighbourhood have good history and harmonious relationships.
• Hydro poles, boxes, pylons – not directly in front of the front & side doors and large windows.
• House shapes – consider the Yin/Yang aspect & the Five Elements relationship:
Basically the colours should be pleasing to the eye, no extreme combinations, especially with the use of red and black. The house is preferably in a regular square shape, with an open centre.
• House colours – neutral colours, earth tones, off whites and yellow are the safest colours.
• Swimming pool/hot tub/pond – the location has to be sited with great care. According to the traditional Chinese Feng Shui teachings, moving water activates Qi, which can have auspicious or inauspicious qualities, do please consult a certified Feng Shui professional on the implications.
• A large body of water behind a house has to be backed by a big mountain or large structure.
• Pathways – no straight lines, curves are more desirable.
• Line of vision from front door & windows – no Poison Arrows, i.e. nothing in a narrow straight line or creates any sharp corners.
• Garages/out buildings – uncluttered, clean and tidy.
• Lighting – bright and well lit, especially in hallways, pathways, outside entrances and in the garden.
• Beware of high voltage electrical boxes in close proximity to the building.
• Avoid swampy areas, being too close to cemeteries, garbage dumps, industrial areas and busy highways/roads.
Teresa is one of the certified Feng Shui Masters and Lecturers of the Feng Shui Research Center of Master Joseph Yu, B.Sc., who is a world renowned teacher and founder of the Feng Shui Research Center based in Toronto Ontario. He has also co-authored three books: The Complete Idiot's Guide to I-Ching, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Feng Shui, Third Edition and The Chinese Destiny eBook.
After years of studying Chinese metaphysics on her own and with various teachers, Teresa started her Feng Shui training with Master Joseph Yu in 1998. Teresa was appointed as one of his lecturers in 2004, and certified as a Feng Shui Master in 2007. She teaches various Feng Shui, Mian Xiang/Face Reading and Chinese Astrology Courses. Teresa offers personal coaching and mentoring to students on all levels and from any school. She also offers life readings based on clients’ destiny charts and Mian Xiang/Face Reading.
As a Feng Shui consultant and interior designer, Teresa has helped numerous clients on commercial and residential new construction and renovation projects; Feng Shui real estate appraisals and successful home sales. She had planned and built her own unique home and garden based on traditional Chinese Feng Shui principles.