Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese ascetic which plays upon the idea of creating ideal energy flow within your home and life.

Its goal is to achieve proper flow of Qi, pronounced chee, or life energy. And through proper energy flow, you can help invite balance, harmony, and prosperity into your life.

The five elements commonly mentioned in Feng Shui, as well as other works of Chinese literature, are metal, earth, fire, water, and wood. Today's article will focus on the basics of "water."

Feng Shui literally translates to "wind water." And in our lives, we see on a daily basis how important water is for life. It nourishes and cleans our bodies, and offers a wonderful home to billions of aquatic life.

In this discipline, it is all about placement. You can start with the front door to your home. By placing a water feature on the left-side of the door's exterior (inside looking out), you can bring in good luck! There can be too much of a good thing, however. And that means water features on both sides of your front door can lead to unluckiness.

Both interior and exterior waters will help to promote proper Qi. It is the same principle of water that we see in our natural environment. Water that is healthy flows and moves, just as Qi should flow and move throughout your home. Remember, however, that just as stagnant water in nature breeds disease, so do stagnant waters in your home. Water is refreshing and cleansing, and those powers can be translated to our homes. Fountains can purify your air and environment, reducing allergens. And they can serve to bring in luck and good wealth!

Where should you place water features? Ask yourself where you'd like to enhance learning? Try out an office or kid's study area.

Just avoid placing a water feature in a bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen.

If you are in the need of some "good luck" then consider placing a water feature in your "wealth spot."

In Feng Shui, this is located at the corner diagonally across from the living room entrance. Consider placing a fish tank in this great location! Even a small goldfish bowl can work it's feng shui magic.

Of course, you can always harness the true power of water by building or buying a house near an existing body of water! Wherever your home, keep water as a part of your balanced life.

Published: October 14, 2010

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Carla Hill, M.A., works on the Realty Times staff as Managing Editor for our online publication. She also is Producer for the real estate news channel, seen daily on RealtyTimes.com and on video newsletters nationwide.