What does Chinese Feng Shui have to do with the Chinese Zodiac? More than you probably realize. Both Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac are based in part on the interactions of the 5 elements on one’s destiny. These 5 elements of metal, water, wood, fire and Earth have been a driving force in Chinese culture for thousands of years.
What is Feng Shui?
Feng Shui is based in the belief that creation of the “perfect” internal and external environment can cure both the body and the soul. Consequently, only when the body and soul are in harmony can a person be most successful. The basic principles involved with Feng Shui include the 5 elements, yin and yang, compass positions, the environment and the solar system. The Chinese Zodiac relies on the positioning of heavenly bodies as well as the interaction of the 5 elements, yin and yang, the 12 branches and the 10 heavenly stems.
Chinese Feng Shui attempts to harness the Earth’s good fortune in an effort to determine one’s destiny. It is not superstition as some believe. It is very real and homeowners and business owners alike are seeking Feng Shui experts to help create environments that eliminate negative energy or “Chi” and promote positive energy. Those who practice Feng Shui have seen their success and their profits soar!
The importance of birth information
The Chinese horoscope is integral to the workings of Chinese Feng Shui which is why the first step requires that the individual requesting Feng Shui provide his date, location and time of birth. The birth year will correspond with one of the 8 numbers representing the 8 different compass directions. These 8 numbers are called Patzu.
With this information, the Feng Shui expert uses a specialized tool called the Ba Gua. It’s an octagon-shaped chart, the bottom of which is positioned at the front door of space to be worked on. The chart helps determine the positioning of the different colors, water sources and other elements that will be used in the space as well as the overall positioning of the furnishings within that space. Feng Shui also involves incorporating certain objects made out of specific materials because having such items is another way of ensuring good fortune.
The Chinese horoscope is consulted to determine more specific details about the different objects and materials that should be included in the room design to promote the most positive energy. Based on the traits of each of the 12 animals, calculation of the elements deemed most suitable for that individual including colors, numbers and proper positioning (north, south, east or west) can be further determined.
The underlying principles of Chinese Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac are somewhat difficult to comprehend and implement properly. If you’re interested, the best approach is to find someone who understands how the different principles interact with one another and allow that person to “Feng Shui” your space. Then, after a few months, you can decide for yourself whether or not you feel more positive energy in your life!