Since Feng Shui is a study of how we are affected by the surroundings - the correct location of our house - where we spend more of our time, is the primary key to having good Feng Shui.

Alright, what are the things that we ought to consider?

According to very old Chinese beliefs, the existence of Sheng Qi around us is very important for our wellness. Sheng Qi, or "living qi" is a type of invisible life force. Still, we can acknowledge its existence if we see well growing groups of fauna and flora. Hence, search all the time for an area having high yield soil and abundant plant life. Instead steer away from rocky surfaces or areas where grass struggles to thrive.

Next, you want to be aware of mountains or hills in close proximity. The ancient Chinese believe that they transport ‘qi’from a higher level to a lower level. The 'qi' will slow down and accumulate at the juncture of mild gradient or horizontal ground with the hills or mountains. It slow and stops when it meets water e.g. pond or river. Therefore the best place to locate a house is on a flat or gentle slope with mountain or hills at the back - to provide support and provide qi - and with a lake or river in front to stop and to allow qi to accumulate.

This concept is well stated in the long established Chinese maxim, "Mountain at rear, facing water".

'qi' can be dispersed by the wind according to the ancient sages When looking at your lake or river, ideally there should be low rises on both sides of the dwelling. The 'qi' can be blown away easily if the lower hills are not present provide cover.

Residing in an urban area makes it challenging to find an ideal location described above. Don't despair -- there's hope.

Here are some practical tips for urban houses.

The principle about the fauna and flora is valid even now. One has to search for land which is abundant for plant life.

Be sure to avoid a location on a hilltop. This kind of dwellings will have to bear the onslaught of forceful winds, preventing the 'qi' from gathering up. You should also avoid one that it located in a deep land locked valley as there is the danger of ‘qi’ stagnating. Equally undesirable is one located on steep slopes. 'Qi' will not gather if the gradient is very high, and this also has the risk of landslides.

Look for one on gentle slopes that contain a hill or ground higher ground at the backside. Lower land in the front of the house is ideal If it faces a clean lake or river then it would be great. Or instead, an unobstructed space like a play field or ground. will be enough.

What about land that has no curvature or slopes? Safety of a home’s rear exterior can be provided by a neighboring dwelling. Otherwise, some trees can be planted in the rear - if there is space - for support. Trees act as a magnet to 'qi'.

Our dwelling should not be much lower than the ground in front, though it can be at the same level or higher. Don't forget that you can agitate water by putting in a small fountain or pond in the foreground. "Plants gather qi" according to a Chinese saying. 'Qi' will accumulate with the help of plants in front

Generally speaking you must avoid houses where the back of the house faces a steep valley and where the front faces a very steep slope.

Moreover, it would be still better to have structures on either side to protect the qi from forceful winds.

Finally, the home is an abode to relax in and it is good to have it situated in a peaceful location. It is advisable not to buy a house that is near a busy and noisy highway and it should not be in front of a busy road.