A Brief History of Feng Shui
Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophical system that focuses on harmonizing individuals with their surrounding environment. It recognizes the interplay between the physical space we inhabit and the energy, or "qi," that flows through it. By arranging and optimizing our surroundings, Feng Shui aims to create balance, promote positive energy flow, and enhance various aspects of life, such as health, relationships, and prosperity. It encompasses principles and practices related to architecture, interior design, landscaping, and personal well-being, all aimed at creating harmonious and auspicious spaces.
Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophical system that focuses on harmonizing individuals with their surrounding environment. Its origins can be traced back over 3,000 years to the Zhou dynasty in China. The term "Feng Shui" literally translates to "wind" (feng) and "water" (shui), representing the fundamental elements that shape our natural environment.
The practice of Feng Shui evolved from an understanding that the land and the environment can greatly influence human life, well-being, and prosperity. It was developed as a means to harness the positive energy, known as "qi," and create balance and harmony between people and their surroundings.
Early practitioners of Feng Shui observed natural landscapes, geographical features, and celestial patterns to determine auspicious locations for settlements, burial grounds, and important structures like palaces and temples. They believed that the arrangement of spaces and the flow of energy within them could impact the fortune, health, and happiness of the occupants.
One of the earliest written texts on Feng Shui is the "Book of Burial" or "Zangshu," dating back to the Han dynasty (206 BCE to 220 CE). This text focused on the placement of burial sites and emphasized the importance of finding areas with good qi flow to ensure the deceased's peace and the prosperity of their descendants.
During the Tang dynasty (618-907 CE), Feng Shui gained wider popularity, and its principles expanded to include the design and arrangement of living spaces. The Chinese believed that adhering to Feng Shui principles could bring harmony, good fortune, and longevity to individuals and their families.
Over the centuries, Feng Shui evolved further and incorporated various schools of thought and approaches. These schools introduced different methods of analyzing and enhancing the flow of energy in the environment, such as the Form School, Compass School, and Flying Star School. Each school offers unique perspectives and techniques for optimizing the energy in a given space.
Feng Shui experienced a resurgence in popularity during the late 20th century, spreading beyond China to become a global phenomenon. Its principles have been applied to interior design, architecture, urban planning, and personal well-being. Many people today consult Feng Shui experts when designing homes, offices, and public spaces to create environments that promote positive energy, balance, and harmony.
While Feng Shui has its roots in ancient Chinese philosophy, it continues to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of modern life. Its enduring popularity reflects a universal desire for balance, well-being, and a connection to the surrounding environment.
Meet your Instructor
C.C. Lee
C.C. Lee, a renowned Feng Shui master, architect, and author, has made significant contributions to the field of Feng Shui. With a deep understanding of both architectural principles and ancient Chinese wisdom, Lee has seamlessly merged the worlds of design and energy flow. In 1999, he founded the Feng Shui Institute of Houston, establishing a platform for teaching and promoting the practice of Feng Shui in the United States.
Lee's expertise, gained through years of experience and study, has allowed him to guide individuals and organizations in creating harmonious living and working spaces. His written works have served as valuable resources, sharing insights and practical applications of Feng Shui principles. With his dedication to spreading awareness and knowledge, C.C. Lee has played a pivotal role in making Feng Shui accessible and impactful to a broader audience.
Background
1999-Present
Feng Shui Institute of Houston
C.C. Lee became the founder of the Feng Shui Institute of Houston which offers Feng Shui training, consulting, lecture, etc.
1999-2019
Rice University
C.C. Lee previously served as a professor at Rice University, where he taught Feng Shui in architecture, focusing on its integration with modern design principles. His course explored spatial harmony, energy balance, and sustainability, bridging traditional Feng Shui concepts with contemporary architectural practices. Through his teachings, he guided students in understanding the cultural and environmental influences on design.
Founder
1983-Present
STOA Architects
Founder, CEO
C.C. Lee founded STOA Architects with a vision to blend innovative design with sustainable and culturally inspired architecture. With a deep background in architecture and urban planning, he established the firm to create functional, aesthetically compelling spaces while integrating his unique "Green TEA" (Total Environmental Alignment) methodology, which combines traditional Feng Shui principles with modern green building practices. Under his leadership, STOA Architects has grown into a respected firm known for its forward-thinking approach to design and development.
Professor
Education
2009-2010
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
C.C. Lee attended the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, where he honed his expertise in architecture and urban planning, further shaping his innovative approach to sustainable and culturally inspired design.
1974-1976
Washington University
C.C. Lee earned his undergraduate degree in Architecture from Washington University, where he developed a strong foundation in design, urban planning, and architectural principles that would later influence his innovative approach to sustainable and culturally inspired architecture.