Feng Shui is not a religion, and it has never followed any particular religious tradition or practice.
At the same time, many religious communities apply Feng Shui principles when creating their temples and monasteries. Most Taoist and Buddhist temples are built in locations that nourish spiritual energy.
In November 2009, I was invited by the abbot of the Yunjuishan Temple in Jiangxi Province (China) to find a suitable site for a new meditation and training center at the monastery. This Chan (Zen) monastery was founded during the Tang Dynasty and has a history of more than 1,200 years.
Feng Shui siting for Zen Temple in Jiang Xi, China
The abbot was familiar with Feng Shui and, as I noticed, had a keen sense of the energy of the place. Since my suggestions largely coincided with the master’s own perceptions, he was very pleased with my visit.
Master Shan-Tung Hsu and the abbot in searching for Ideal place form Temple, Jinag Xi, China
In March 2010, he once again asked me to help select the location for the gates of the new temple. High in the mountains, in the rain and cold, the master moved so energetically through the trees on the rain-soaked ground that I could barely keep up with him. Overall, it was an extremely interesting and rewarding experience.
Dr Hsu Feng Shui Consultation for Zen Temple in Jiang Xi, China
Among all the Buddhist and Taoist temples I have visited, there are hardly any with poor Feng Shui. However, the energy in such places is generally more suitable for spiritual practice and does not necessarily support trade or business.
Good Feng Shui for business requires a more worldly type of energy, usually found in lowlands near bodies of water. Temples, on the other hand, intended for cultivating the spirit, are most often located in the mountains or on elevated areas within cities.
Harmony between the purpose of a space and its intended function is one of the key aspects of Feng Shui design.
From the memoirs of Feng Shui Master Shan-Tung Hsu
Feng Shui siting for Zen Temples in Jiang Xi, China, by Master Hsu
