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Parent Category: Upper-Intermediate English Students

Category: Upper-Intermediate Mini Lessons

Written by Chris Cotter

Feng shui is an ancient Chinese custom. It claims a connection between heaven and earth, both of which directly influence a person's positive energy. Masters of the feng shui believe that the energy affects prosperity, particularly health, wealth, and personal relationships. It also determines favorable places for homes, burial sites, agriculture, and so on. It's now spread outside China, and it's often used to decide the best arrangement for furniture in homes. Feng shui even affects building design.

Many structures in Asia have had large amounts of money spent in order to tap into the energy. For example, during the construction of a skyscraper that looked like a giant candle, a pool was placed on the roof because water puts out fire. Another building was redesigned with a large square hole in the middle, which would then follow the rules of Feng Shui. The Singapore Flyer, which is a Ferris wheel, rotates clockwise to bring good fortune.