What Is Feng Shui?

Feng Shui is a fundamental part of traditional Chinese culture. Rooted in the ancient text I Ching (The Book of Changes) and Daoist philosophy, it has been practiced for thousands of years and continues to influence the way many Chinese people make decisions about life, home, and family.

In Daoist thought, there is a saying: “When Feng Shui prospers, people prosper; when it declines, people suffer.” Another traditional expression summarizes it this way: “Destiny comes first, luck second, and Feng Shui third.” This means that a person’s life path is shaped not only by their birth chart (known as the Eight Characters or BaZi) and personal fortune, but also by the environment they live in. Feng Shui refers to the invisible energy patterns that flow through a space—formed by the interaction between human life and nature.

The homes we live in are called Yang Residences, and their Feng Shui can influence our health, relationships, and success. On the other hand, the burial places of our ancestors are known as Yin Residences. The Feng Shui of these sites is believed to affect the prosperity and well-being of future generations. There is an old belief: “Only virtuous people are blessed with auspicious land.” In other words, a well-placed ancestral grave can bring good fortune to the descendants.

Feng Shui is based on the idea of harmony between humans and nature—what the Chinese call “Heaven and Human as One.” Every tree, rock, and stream is thought to carry energy or Qi. Changes in the surrounding environment—such as the movement of water, the construction of roads or buildings, or even the placement of trees—can greatly influence the energy flow of a home or grave. Because the external environment is constantly changing, even a once-lucky location can lose its good energy over time.

This is why some people wonder: “My life used to be smooth—why am I suddenly facing one bad thing after another?” Often, the reason may lie in unnoticed changes in the Feng Shui of their home or their family’s ancestral grave. Perhaps a nearby construction project altered the flow of energy, or a new road redirected vital Qi—yet the family remains unaware of the shift.

If you’re experiencing unusual streaks of misfortune, it may be worth looking into the Feng Shui of your surroundings. Even small changes can have big effects.