Feng Shui

Following the basic Taoist principle of Yin and Yang, we might draw the conclusion that the studies of T'ai Chi and Feng Shui are expressive of this law of complimentary opposites. If T'ai Chi is the discovery of the internal laws which govern health, performance, and personal growth, then Feng Shui is the means by which one discovers the external or universal laws which affect the individual from the outside.
Traditionally, a Feng Shui master was called on to perform a broad range of community oriented functions, from selecting auspicious dates for various ceremonies like marriages and business openings, to defining whether specific pieces of land were energetically sound. Much of the esoteric aspect of Feng Shui is "earth Chi" related in that it implies the ability to understand the way energy flows through the earth. This skill to perceive energy flowing through the earth, what the Chinese call "Dragon veins", is similar to T'ai Chi where we seek to feel the energy flow through our bodies. With this skill, a Feng Shui master would select the proper positioning of houses, barns, and other structures correctly in repect to these earth energetic meridians.
Today, Feng Shui is growing in popularity in the West as as element of what I might consider consciuous interior design. The art describes how to maximize room layout in respect to directional reference and use of impliments such as mirrors, plants, and other positive devices, all for the purpose of enhancing the living or work environment. And while this is certainly a viable use of the art, I feel that it is important to take into consideration the broader scope of the study which is to understand that as an individual is presented with an immense amount of cosmic influence or energy. To the degree that one understands this, and has the skill to take advantage of it well, one appreciates the study of Feng Shui.