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Feng Shui's History: What's Fact, and What's Fiction?

By Kyle Richey
Oct 24, 2008
When learning about the ancient art of feng shui, many people are interested in the real story behind it, in other words, true feng shui history and not just legend or hearsay. Its a good idea to investigate this, because unfortunately, when feng shui tradition began to be introduced to the western culture, a lot of misconception and out-and-out untruths began to be mixed in with the real practice.

Feng Shui History in Ancient China

The Asian cultures always seem to have placed a great deal of importance on harmony, balance, and peace. In Japan, Zen masters taught that simplicity and hard work were the key. In China, they firmly believed that one needed to respect ones surroundings in order to be at peace.

Feng shui history includes stories of how Chinese experts believed that the earth resonated a strong energy that should be welcomed into ones home, and that certain practices fought against this energy, bringing disruption and chaos.

By arranging furniture and buildings the right way, the Chinese believed that a good balance in life could be attained.

Feng Shui in the West

Stories about feng shui history become a bit muddled when the practice was introduced to western cultures; no doubt because there were many unscrupulous persons who realized that they could make a fast buck on the unsuspecting westerners who were unfamiliar with this art.

In addition, many New Age elements had begun to be introduced and were confused as being part of feng shui history. In reality, though, these New Age elements have nothing to do with what is true feng shui. For example, crystals, star shaped mirrors, red front doors and other elements are all among these New Age non-feng shui elements.

In addition, some have claimed that feng shui can heal you if you're sick, bring prosperity and wealth, and accomplish several other amazing miracles. However, true feng shui history has none of these statements in it. Those who practiced it historically had never made such far-flung statements.

However, these experts did firmly believe that using feng shui in the right way can bring positive energy to life. Use of feng shui energy can mean good things as long as you also work to accomplish them yourself. However, feng shui is in no way a "magic pill" that will heal, cure or otherwise influence outside factors positively by itself.

Understanding Real Feng Shui History

If you are interested in the science and art of feng shui, it is important to know its history and what it can and can't do. If not, you might fall prey to one of these so-called feng shui experts who tell their version of the truth rather than the real feng shui facts.

In reality, feng shui history is about balance, harmony, positive energy and order. If you hear stories that don't include at least one of these elements, it's likely that what you're simply hearing is folklore, so you should ignore it. However, once you understand the absolute truths behind this art form, you'll be better equipped to really appreciate and use true feng shui in your own life and home.
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