Feng Shui (pronounced fung-shway) is translated as ‘wind and water.’ According to the early Chinese, they believed as gentle winds approached, it symbolized attracting good harvest and healthy livestock. And living by the water provided food and ensured the survival of settlements against drought. But, with each positive quality, there is the opposite. Too much wind could create damage to homes and too much water could cause flooding, ruining the crops. Besides the practical reasons for respecting the elements of wind and water, there were spiritual purposes as well. The changing patterns of weather; wind, water, rain, fog, sun and clouds were believed to be the energy of heaven and earth.

The word energy (also known as life force energy) is called by different names throughout the world. In China, energy is referred to as Chi or Qi (vital breath), in Japan as Ki (spirit), and in India as Prana (breath / vital force). Energy is so important because its seen to animate the principles of life, acting like a kind of interface between the material world and the non-material world.

Looking specifically at Feng Shui, there are three types of energies you’ll need to become aware of, assess and adjust accordingly because your environment and self is ever changing. 

• Shèng qì: (life, to grow)

• Shà qì: (to weaken, reduce, inauspicious influence)

• Suu qì: (non movement or stagnant)

Shèng qì:

Shèng qì is the life nourishing qì that brings vitality, well-being, and positive energy. You can recognize this qì through basic design. Objects, building structures, and furniture designs that are rounded or curved, mimic the organic designs of nature. The space itself feels light and clear, influencing your mood and mind to reflect those sensations. Occupants report feeling comfortable, open and welcomed.

Suu qì:

Suu qì is a middle ground energy where it’s not quite Shà or Shèng. This type of energy tends to give off a sensation of stillness and stagnation. An easy visual that associates with Suu qì is by observing rooms within your home that are not being used. Suu qì is the embryonic stages to Sha’ qi if left unaddressed. If you come across this type of energy within a room, be sure to transform the look and function of the space to become more lively. 

Shà qì:

In ancient times, Shà qì was referred to as poison daggers or poison arrows, cutting through and draining the land, home, and occupants of their life force energy. People who are influenced by this type of energy repetitively or even for a short period of time tend to feel tired, lethargic, emotionally unstable and scattered with their thoughts. You can easily recognize Shà qì through designs that have sharp 90 degree angles such as with urban landscapes and furniture with sharp edges. Another way to recognize Shà qì is through the designs of straight paths. This includes a straight sidewalk leading directly toward you front door, a front door opening directly toward the back door, or long corridors. The energy itself could also promote a sensation of heavy emotions within you heart chakra and/or obstruct your natural breathing pattern to feel restricted.

Practice Self-care!!….

In order to better your abilities with reading energy intuitively, it’s important to practice self-care. Sensitizing your body, clarifying your emotions (emotional intelligence) and opening your mind are essential ways in how you could connect, assess, and adjust energy more efficiently. 

Below are a few options to consider testing out:

• Establishing and maintaining a healthy living and working environment

• Meditation practice (breath-work, visualization)

• Eating clean

• Proper self-care (stress reduction, establishing healthy boundaries/personal power, physical movement, etc)

• Surrounding yourself with authentic people who help raise your vibration vs draining it

• Giving yourself time and space to digest your personal experiences and journey with connecting to energy

Photo by Enrique Meseguer on Pixabay