6  Time and space

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6.1 Time orientation

๐Ÿ“– Chinese people tend to have a long-term time orientation, emphasizing the importance of history, tradition, and the future.

6.1.1 item The past is a mirror to the present, and the present is a guide to the future.

  • rationale:
    • Chinese people believe that history can provide valuable lessons for the present and the future, and that by understanding the past, one can make better decisions in the present and avoid repeating mistakes in the future.

6.1.2 item Time is a river that flows both ways.

  • rationale:
    • Chinese people believe that time is not linear, but rather a cyclical process, and that the past, present, and future are all interconnected.

6.1.3 item There is no such thing as empty time.

  • rationale:
    • Chinese people believe that every moment is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve oneself, and that there is always something to be done.

6.1.4 item The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.

  • rationale:
    • Chinese people believe that it is never too late to start working towards oneโ€™s goals, and that even small steps taken today can lead to big results in the future.

6.1.5 item A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

  • rationale:
    • Chinese people believe that even the most ambitious goals can be achieved by taking one step at a time, and that persistence and determination are key to success.

6.2 Perception of space

๐Ÿ“– Chinese people often perceive space as fluid and dynamic, rather than fixed and static.

6.2.1 item Chinese people tend to view space as an extension of themselves, rather than as an external, objective reality.

  • rationale:
    • This belief is rooted in the Chinese concept of qi, which is an energy field that flows through all things. Chinese people believe that their own qi is connected to the qi of the space around them, and that they can influence the space around them by their thoughts and actions.

6.2.2 item Chinese people often use the concept of feng shui to arrange their homes and offices, in order to create a harmonious flow of qi.

  • rationale:
    • Feng shui is a practice that dates back thousands of years. It is based on the belief that the placement of objects in a space can affect the flow of qi, and that this can in turn affect the health, wealth, and happiness of the people who occupy that space.

6.2.3 item Chinese people often use the concept of yin and yang to describe the dynamic relationship between two opposing forces.

  • rationale:
    • Yin and yang are two complementary forces that are present in all things. Yin is associated with darkness, cold, and femininity, while yang is associated with light, heat, and masculinity. Chinese people believe that the balance of yin and yang in a space is essential for creating harmony.

6.2.4 item Chinese people often use the concept of the five elements to describe the different types of qi that flow through the universe.

  • rationale:
    • The five elements are wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Chinese people believe that each of these elements has its own unique properties and that the interaction between these elements can affect the flow of qi in a space.

6.2.5 item Chinese people often use the concept of the four directions to describe the different types of space.

  • rationale:
    • The four directions are north, south, east, and west. Chinese people believe that each of these directions has its own unique properties and that the direction of a space can affect the flow of qi in that space.

6.3 Relationship between time and space

๐Ÿ“– Chinese people believe that time and space are interconnected and influence each other.

6.3.1 item Time and space are not absolute, but relative to the observer.

  • rationale:
    • This belief is based on the idea that our perception of time and space is influenced by our own experiences and perspectives.

6.3.2 item Time flows in a cyclical pattern, rather than a linear one.

  • rationale:
    • This belief is reflected in the Chinese concept of yin and yang, which represents the opposing forces that are constantly in flux.

6.3.3 item Space is not empty, but is filled with qi, or life energy.

  • rationale:
    • This belief is based on the idea that everything in the universe is interconnected and interdependent.

6.3.4 item The relationship between time and space can be manipulated through the use of feng shui.

  • rationale:
    • Feng shui is a traditional Chinese practice that uses the placement of objects and furniture to create a harmonious flow of qi in a space.

6.3.5 item Time and space can be transcended through meditation and spiritual practices.

  • rationale:
    • This belief is based on the idea that our consciousness is not limited to the physical world.

6.4 Concept of feng shui

๐Ÿ“– Feng shui is a Chinese philosophy that seeks to harmonize the flow of energy in a space.

6.4.1 item The flow of energy, or qi, is essential for a harmonious living space.

  • rationale:
    • Qi is believed to be the vital energy that flows through all living things and the environment. When qi flows freely, it creates a sense of balance and well-being. Conversely, when qi is blocked or disrupted, it can lead to negative outcomes such as illness, misfortune, or conflict.

6.4.2 item The placement of objects and furniture in a space can affect the flow of qi.

  • rationale:
    • It is believed that the placement of objects in a space can either promote or hinder the flow of qi. For example, placing a mirror opposite a window is thought to create a negative flow of qi, as it reflects the energy back out of the space. Similarly, placing a sofa in the center of a room is believed to promote a positive flow of qi, as it allows energy to circulate freely.

6.4.3 item The use of natural elements can enhance the flow of qi.

  • rationale:
    • Natural elements such as wood, water, and stone are believed to have positive effects on the flow of qi. Wood is associated with growth and renewal, water is associated with tranquility and peace, and stone is associated with stability and grounding. Incorporating these elements into a space can help to create a more harmonious and balanced environment.

6.4.4 item The colors used in a space can affect the flow of qi.

  • rationale:
    • Different colors are believed to have different effects on the flow of qi. For example, red is associated with passion and excitement, blue is associated with calmness and peace, and green is associated with growth and prosperity. Using the right colors in a space can help to create the desired mood and atmosphere.

6.4.5 item The use of feng shui can help to improve health, wealth, and relationships.

  • rationale:
    • By applying the principles of feng shui to a space, it is believed that one can improve the flow of qi and create a more harmonious and balanced environment. This can lead to a number of benefits, including improved health, increased wealth, and improved relationships.

6.5 Influence of Taoism on time and space

๐Ÿ“– Taoism emphasizes the importance of balance, harmony, and the interconnectedness of all things, which influences Chinese peopleโ€™s perception of time and space.

6.5.1 item Time is cyclical, not linear.

  • rationale:
    • Taoism teaches that the universe is in a constant state of flux, and that everything is interconnected. As a result, Chinese people tend to view time as a cyclical process, rather than a linear one.

6.5.2 item Space is not absolute, but relative.

  • rationale:
    • Taoism emphasizes the importance of balance and harmony, and this extends to the way Chinese people think about space. They believe that space is not absolute, but rather relative to the observer.

6.5.3 item The past, present, and future are all interconnected.

  • rationale:
    • Taoism teaches that all things are connected, and this includes the past, present, and future. Chinese people believe that the past and present influence the future, and that the future is not set in stone.

6.5.4 item Nature is a source of wisdom and guidance.

  • rationale:
    • Taoism teaches that nature is a reflection of the Tao, and that it can provide us with wisdom and guidance. Chinese people often look to nature for inspiration and guidance in their lives.

6.5.5 item Balance and harmony are essential for a good life.

  • rationale:
    • Taoism emphasizes the importance of balance and harmony, and Chinese people believe that this is essential for a good life. They strive to create balance in their lives, and to live in harmony with nature and with others.