睇風水 (pronounced "tai fung shui") is a traditional Chinese practice that translates to "looking at feng shui" or assessing the geomantic properties of a place. While deeply rooted in ancient Chinese culture, 睇風水 continues to play an important role in modern life, influencing decisions about home layout, office design, and even major business investments.
What is Feng Shui?
Feng Shui, literally meaning "wind and water," is the ancient Chinese art of arranging spaces to promote harmony, balance, and positive energy (known as chi). The core idea is that the energy flow in a physical environment affects one's health, fortune, and overall well-being. When someone engages in 睇風水, they are usually consulting an expert to analyse the spatial energy of a location using tools like the luopan (feng shui compass) and referencing traditional principles such as the Five Elements and Yin-Yang balance.
Why Do People Still Practice 睇風水?
Despite the advances in modern architecture and science, many people across Asia—and increasingly in the West—still believe in the benefits of 睇風水. This is especially true in places like Hong Kong, where property decisions often include feng shui assessments. Business owners believe a well-designed office can lead to prosperity, while homeowners feel it brings peace and health to their families.
Key Principles in 睇風水
Qi (Chi): The life force or energy that must flow freely in a space.
Yin and Yang: Opposing forces that need to be balanced for harmony.
The Five Elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—each associated with specific colours, materials, and shapes.
Bagua Map: A tool used to evaluate how different parts of a space relate to aspects of life such as wealth, health, and relationships.
Modern Applications of 睇風水
In today’s world, 睇風水 has adapted to modern settings. Interior designers often incorporate feng shui-friendly layouts. Real estate agents use feng shui to attract buyers, while some corporations hire feng shui masters to bless new buildings or restructure office space for better team productivity.
Is 睇風水 Just Superstition?
While skeptics label 睇風水 as mere superstition, others view it as a psychological and aesthetic tool that improves environmental comfort and mental well-being. Whether spiritual or symbolic, its benefits are often felt in the peace of mind it offers its followers.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a believer or simply curious, understanding 睇風水 offers valuable insights into how environment and energy can affect our lives. It’s more than tradition—it’s a timeless guide to living in harmony with our surroundings.
