Guest Author - Diane Kern

The study of feng shui is many layered and infinitely fascinating. Having evolved over a period of 5,000 years it is still progressing. Originally feng shui was reserved by the ancient emperors of China for their own personal use in the planning of battles and to maintain their wealth. As life changed and feng shui was available to the common person, its uses expanded and over the years the structures we built changed. The ancients would hardly believe the way we live today.

Research into the ramifications of these changes was necessary. For instance, in the past homes did not have indoor bathrooms. Today people consider the bathroom one of the most important rooms in the house. They have become personal spa retreats and the cause of considerable expense. What effect, either good or bad, the indoor bathroom has in the scheme of things has required considerable study. So feng shui must continue to develop. Feng shui is indeed a living science.


The feng shui consultant uses many tools in his/her evaluations. It is not only a living science but also an art. There are many repeatable mathematical formulas employed by the practitioner, but the art comes from the consultant’s ability to recognize what is actually happening in the surroundings. Trained senses are vital to the interpretation of land forms, shapes, roadways, nearby buildings, and even smells and sounds. The interpretation of these observations added to the formulas result in a plan for the client to better their business and life.

The planning and building of structures that benefit the occupants is the realm of feng shui. From the very start - choosing an appropriate building site, to the finishing touches - landscaping and interior design, making life flow smoothly is the objective. Providing the benefits of health, creativity, opportunity, good personal relationships, and wealth is the ambition of the feng shui consultant.


There are a number of schools of feng shui. Most familiar are the form, compass and flying stars schools and the recently developed Black Hat Sect. There will be more information to come on each. As I practice the traditional, classical form of feng shui, I will concentrate on this view point in my articles. There is room in the feng shui forum for discussion of all types of feng shui and I and the readers will be happy to speak to all questions. I hope you will join me on a journey through this remarkable ancient art and science that is still vigorous today.