Discover the foundational connection between feng shui, the I Ching, and the ancient art of divination in this deep dive into Chinese metaphysics. Learn how the flow of energy, known as qi, has influenced feng shui practices for millennia and why these traditions remain profoundly relevant today. This article is a must-read for anyone curious about the oldest book in the world, cosmology, or how to bring harmony and balance into their lives using the teachings of the I Ching.

Feng shui is an ancient Chinese practice focused on harmonising people with their environments. Literally translated as “wind-water,” feng shui is an ancient system that melds astrology, cosmology, geography, and mathematical concepts to influence the flow of energy—or qi—in a given space.

The practice of feng shui aims to optimise surroundings to bring about prosperity, health, and harmonious living. It draws heavily on concepts like yin and yang, the five elements, and the bagua, a tool that maps life areas to spatial layouts.

Also known as the Book of Changes, the I Ching (or Yi Jing) is considered by many scholars to be the oldest book in the world, dating back over 3000 years to the Zhou dynasty. It has influenced everything from Taoism to Confucius, who wrote a famous commentary on the text.

The book consists of 64 hexagrams, each composed of six lines, either broken (yin) or unbroken (yang). It serves as a tool for divination, offering insights into personal, social, and even astrological events through interpretation of these hexagrams.

In Chinese, the word “ching” (or “jing”) often refers to a “classic” or foundational text. The I Ching is one of the Four Books in Chinese literature, considered vital to understanding the Chinese world and culture. Other texts in this group include the Shu, Li, and Zhen classics.

These ancient texts are not merely superstitious relics. They embody complex systems of Chinese metaphysics, astronomy, and even early Chinese medicine, reflecting how everything in the universe is interconnected and constantly changing.

While feng shui focuses on spatial harmony, the I Ching provides the philosophical and metaphysical backbone for its practices. Both are deeply tied to the yin-yang duality and five elements theory.

In fact, many feng shui consultants use the I Ching as an oracle to guide decisions on placement and design. The eight trigrams (or bagua) found in the I Ching form the basis for feng shui maps, highlighting the foundational nature of this relationship.

Each hexagram in the I Ching is composed of two trigrams, representing natural elements and phenomena such as thunder, water, or fire. These trigrams arise from combinations of three lines, either broken lines (yin) or solid lines (yang).

The 64 hexagrams offer interpretation through their symbolic meanings and correlation to human experiences. Through casting methods like yarrow stalks or coins, a diviner can identify which hexagram reflects a person’s situation.

Absolutely. In fact, interior design is one of the most popular modern applications of feng shui. From choosing the right compass direction for your bed to using colours aligned with the five elements, the goal is to align your space with beneficial qi.

Using tools like the Chinese feng shui compass and bagua maps, practitioners suggest how to organise furniture and decor to invite auspicious energy. The goal is to simplify and enhance the space’s interaction with the surrounding cosmos.

The concept of qi—or life energy—is central to both feng shui and the I Ching. In feng shui, manipulating qi ensures a balanced, harmonious living environment. In the I Ching, qi is examined through patterns in nature, time, and personal development.

Qi flows through everything—homes, landscapes, people. It is influenced by yin and yang, earthly and celestial forces. Understanding its movement is key to applying both disciplines effectively.

While yin and yang are often seen as opposites, they are better understood as opposing yet complementary forces. In feng shui, balancing these forces determines whether a space feels energised or stagnant.

In the I Ching, each hexagram is made up of yin and yang lines. Their arrangement reveals deeper truths about cycles, relationships, and potential actions. The wisdom lies in recognising how both are essential and ever-shifting.

Far from being a relic, the I Ching remains a powerful tool for self-awareness, decision-making, and understanding life’s patterns. Whether approached as an oracle or philosophical text, it offers insight into the flow of energy and yin-yangbalance within our lives.

It has survived the Han Dynasty, the Cultural Revolution, and modern scepticism—yet continues to guide those who study its teachings. As one of the foundational texts of Chinese civilisation, its relevance persists in both traditional and modern contexts.

Ready to align your space and your life? Start with one hexagram. Let the qi guide you.

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