| Taoism (also spelled Daoism) refers to a variety of related philosophical and religious traditions and concepts. These traditions have influenced East Asia for over two thousand years and some have spread internationally.The Chinese character Tao (or Dao, depending on the romanization scheme) means "path" or "way", although in Chinese religion and philosophy it has taken on more abstract meanings. Taoist propriety and ethics emphasize the Three Jewels of the Tao: compassion, moderation, and humility. Taoist thought focuses on longevity, immortality, wu wei (non-action), spontaneity, transformation, health and omni-potentiality. An emphasis is placed on the link between people and nature, and that this link lessens the need for rules and order, leading one to a better understanding of the world and one's surroundings.[citation needed]
Reverence for nature and ancestor spirits is common in popular Taoism. Organized Taoism distinguishes its ritual activity from that of the folk religion, which some professional Taoists (Daoshi) view as debased.
Chinese alchemy, astrology, cuisine, several Chinese martial arts, Chinese traditional medicine, fengshui, and many styles of qigong breath training disciplines are intertwined with Taoism throughout history |
| Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese tradition of placement and design that guides human beings in living harmoniously with their environments. This practice of arranging space for optimum well being was first devised almost 4,000 years ago as farmers in China sought appropriate locations for their homes that would bring the greatest opportunity for good health and prosperity.
Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, sees the world as completely alive with its own chi or personality that is directly affected by such details as the arrangement of furnishings, the location of doors and windows, and the choice of colors and materials. Balancing the chi is the key to good Feng Shui. When in balance, there is a harmonious interaction of yin and yang energies (light/dark, hot/cold, male/female, etc.), and harmony and good fortune prevail.
This explanation of Feng Shui is a simple description of a complex discipline. Feng Shui masters spend their entire lives studying universal energies and their relationship to human beings and their environments. In Hong Kong where Feng Shui flourishes, it's a rare business owner who doesn't consult a Feng Shui expert about the auspicious placement, design and decor of his business and residence. In recent years the practice of Feng Shui has increased significantly in the western culture as people search for ways to achieve a balanced and prosperous life through a more holistic approach to their environments.
The Bagua
The Bagua, originating from the I Ching or Book of Changes, is an eight-sided map that overlays the floorplan of a lot, building or room. Each of the eight sections and the center corresponds to a section of life experience: career, wisdom/knowledge, family, finances, reputation, relationships, children/creativity, benefactors/supportive people, and health.
By overlaying the Bagua onto a floorplan (it stretches to fit!), it is easy to identify the locations of these life areas and how chi flows through the structure. If any areas are "missing" or weak in some way, simple solutions can adjust the chi flow to strengthen the area and bring it into harmony.
Simple Solutions
Feng Shui offers many simple and practical solutions that can be integrated into the contemporary home or business. Colors, textures, plants and mirrors are just a few of the many elements that easily create good energy flow and transform an environment to one of harmony and well being. |
