Our exploration of Feng Shui in the Garden starts with a basic understanding of how qi works. We understand that qi is the 'stuff of life' so it is essential to the well being of life on this planet, Earth, and her inhabitants. The basics of how qi functions are best stated  by Guo Po, so I have repeated him in this introduction.

Qi – existence and properties

Qi cannot be defined but it can be described.  It may exist in the form of matter or energy or both simultaneously. However, we cannot equate matter or energy to qi.

There are many peculiar properties of qi. Guo Pu, who lived in the Jin Dynasty (265-420 AD) wrote the famous Burial Book and tried to describe some of the properties:

“Qi rides with the wind and is dispersed, but it is retained when it encounters water.”

Qi – applications
The ancients collected qi so that it does not dissipate, and directed it so that it is retained. For this reason this art is called Feng Shui.

Therefore, a site is most fortunate if there is water, followed by one that caches the wind.
Mountains are what protects a site from strong winds that disperse qi. Therefore, we always refer to mountains and waters in the study of Feng Shui.

Mountains take care of the people while water takes care of wealth.