The Feng Shui of Living on (or near) Water

Properties on lakes and rivers have always been popular among buyers, especially for homes in the Hudson River towns and on the pristine lakes in New York's up-state counties. Oddly, there seems to be a disproportionate number of buyers of Asian descent interested in these properties. One reason Asian buyers favor water properties may be the practice of Feng Shui. The term Feng Shui literally translates to "wind-water" in English.  Pronounced "phung shway," it is the ancient Chinese art of the placement and arrangement of space to achieve harmony with the environment. It is practiced in many Asian countries, including China, Vietnam, Thailand, Korea, Japan and the Phillippines.

Greenwood Lake

Water and the positioning of a property near it is considered to be very important in the Feng Shui of a house. Water is the source and sustainer of life, representing wealth and abundance. Thus an appropriate home location is one near water, ideally with water in front of the house. According to the practice, the house should be elevated above water level, which is as practical a recommendation as it is mystical because it protects the home from the effects of tides and storms. Feng Shui also favors a mountain or hill behind the house, again a practicality against high winds, but one which the rules of Feng Shui say provides the home owner a sense of safety and security.

Eagles Nest Estates | Narrowsburg | Sullivan County

For homes on rivers, it is recommended that the property be located on a winding part of the stream, where the pace of the water is slower. Fast moving rivers and streams are said to cause homeowners to feel like life is rushing by, and that they must always be in a hurry. Rushing water is also associated with the pulling away of wealth.

Piermont on Hudson | Grandview and Nyack

The lower Hudson Valley is fortunate to have a large number of homes and properties located on the water. The river towns of Piermont, Grandview and Nyack in Rockland county are just minutes away from New York City, but offer numerous opportunities for buyers to find riverfront properties. Piermont and Grand View are especially Feng Shui-friendly. Homes dot the Hudson River all along the water on Rockland County's eastern edge. Directly to the west are Tallman and Clausland mountains, providing Feng Shui['s promised sense of safety and security. Above Piermont and Grand View, hundreds of homes are scattered throughout the wooded hillsides, with spectacular views overlooking the Hudson River, Westchester County on the far side, and the three mile long Tappan Zee Bridge.

The lower Hudson Valley counties of Orange, Putnam, Dutchess, Sullivan, and Ulster are generously sprinkled  with many lovely lakes offering waterfront living. Some lakes even ban motorized boating, and the peaceful  tranquility of these areas is remarkable. The pristine luxury community of Pierson Lakes no more than 35 minutes from Manhattan is just one of these.

Whether you believe in the Feng Shui of living on water, or just like the tranquil atmosphere and recreational opportunities lake living has to offer, the Lower Hudson Valley is brimming with waterfront properties. Call GPS to find the home of your dreams. (845) 848 2218.

originally posted at: The Feng Shui of living on (or near) Water