The basic principles behind feng shui are rooted in Tao's philosophy, which translates to "the way" in English. Its purpose is to harness energy forces and instil balance with any beneficial forces of nature.

To find this balance, modern devotees tend to consult with feng shui masters before buying an architectural structure to assess the energy, “chi” or “qi”, whose flow must not be interfered with. The flow of movement from the wind and the water, which retains it, is frequently influenced through five key elements around the structure: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These elements are key when determining if the surroundings harbour good or bad feng shui. Along with incorporating these elements, a philosophy of orientation is also implemented to help guide a person to love, success or good health. This can dictate where furniture is placed or at what angle.

Feng shui literally shapes the landscapes in which we live. Take the landmark building of HSBC in Hong Kong, it follows extensive feng shui principles guided by professional masters. The building sits facing a clear view of the harbour to project prosperity from the water, and the ground floor has elevated ceilings for an open atrium where wind and positive qi can flow.The escalator feature is designed at an angle to avoid bad feng shui practices as it is believed that evil spirits can only travel in a straight line. And lastly, two bronze guard lions protect and safeguard the building entrance to symbolise wealth and prosperity.

Today, many people adhere to feng shui principles in interior design and architecture to enforce tenets that protect health, attract wealth, enhance feeling positivity and to improve relationships with others.

Feng shui principles date back as far as 5000 BC, to the Yangshao residents who lived among the Yellow River in China. During 4700 and 2900 BC, the Hongshan people in Northeast China interacted with the Yangshao people, where feng shui was incorporated. Before the magnetic compass was invented for divination and feng shui, the rituals relied on cosmography to set the orientation of structures. According to Yaodian, the cardinal directions are controlled by the mega-constellations known as the Four Celestial Animals:The Azure Dragon, The Vermilion Bird, The White Tiger, and The Black Tortoise.

In ancient China, farms and villages were protected by the folds of mountains and shielded from damaging winds. The calming wind streams nurtured them while they practised the principles of feng shui. Their focus turned to agriculture and trade, which ultimately helped them to prosper and become more powerful. While feng shui has been refined over many centuries, the basic principles remain the same: embrace the lands.  

Back then, feng shui was considered a top-secret traditionally guarded by the Chinese Imperial Court. The feng shui masters were prohibited from releasing their powerful knowledge to the public and instead were handed down in family legacies. The Feng Shui Bagua Map curates a guide for all to use as an energy map of your home. Using the Bagua can help support there solution of a challenge or advance a goal.

Kanso, known as Japan's equivalent to feng shui, also follows a similar philosophy.The ancient Japanese concept is all about ridding non-essential belongings and roots for simplicity in life. While feng shui often looks outwards, kanso largely asks you to face inwards, however they share overlapping principles.

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