What do Karma, Feng Shui, and the Law of Attraction Have in Common?

We almost never associate the principles of Karma, Feng-Shui, and the Law of Attraction with one another. They each originated from a different culture, a different time, and a different mindset altogether. Yet, if you pause and think about the philosophy behind each, they all echo a similar sentiment, although are slightly different in approach.

What is Karma

Karma is a widely used term that originated from Hindu and Buddhist teachings. Now, many parts of the Western world also resonate with and embrace Karma. It is the basic idea “Do unto others as you do unto yourself.” which ties into the universal law of Cause and Effect.

Though there are deeper spiritual meanings to what Karma is that involve reincarnation, the fundamental everyday idea behind it is simple: If you do good things then good things will happen to you. If you do bad things then bad things will happen to you. Therefore the type of karmic cycle is created by your own conduct. You can either generate fortune and wealth or disaster and poverty based on your personal character.

What is Feng-Shui

Feng-Shui means “Wind-Water” in Chinese. It is a system of calculation developed in ancient China that first emerged in 4000 BC. Before the invention of magnetic compass, astronomy was used as a basis for relational calculation. Its purpose is to calculate the position and relationship of man with the universe. In modern days and especially in the Western world, Feng-Shui became primarily known as a tool for designing and decorating your home. Some would use the principle of Feng-Shui to make decisions on purchasing a home as well.

There is an important aspect of Feng-Shui we seldom hear about, and that is the notion “What goes around comes around” which echoes the idea of Karma. The “Wind-Water” concept, which is fluid and ever-changing, shows us the cycle of life and that there is no need to force things but to wait our turn. It also teaches us to put good out there in order for good to come back to us.

What is the Law of Attraction

The Law of Attraction is a relatively new theory that began in the 19th century and was popularized by the book The Secret in 2006. With many mentions of scientific studies and prominent historical evidence, this idea catapulted the fascination with the power of thought and how it manifests in physical and material planes. Thus began our mindful observations on the quality of our thoughts, emotions, and where exactly they are focused every day of our lives.

While the Law of Attraction doesn’t quite touch on the give-and-take part of our actions, it clearly teaches us that the projection of our thoughts and energy come back the same way as our physical conducts — in a very karmic way. Our well wishes of others often feed our own well-being and support our own endeavors; our anger and resentment toward others often create bitterness within us and hinder our own happiness. Basically, we create what we want to attract from what we allow to take up space in our mind.

Despite age, time, religion or culture, the philosophy of reaping the rewards of doing good is something most of us can agree on. I feel the marvel in all three principles and what they are trying to teach us, whether viewing it from a material manifestation of human existence or a cosmic consciousness of our soul evolution. Having been raised in China with heavy Buddhist and Taoist influences, and lived in the U.S. my entire adult life, I see a direct correlation of these principles, even though they came from very different origins. 

The underlying truth in all of them, for me, is the understanding that who we are at a cellular level, which is made up of our every belief, thought, emotion and action equals the sum total of the life we are living. Whether it’s a tangible action or an invisible feeling, our energetic frequency outputs into the world and affects other living beings around us. Even our relationship with objects matter when it comes to creating the life we truly want to live. So if we truly want to live an inspired life, we need to change on a cellular level and rethink taking positive, self-serving actions in the name of Karma, Feng-Shui, or the Law of Attraction.