As our planet travels in its orbit around the sun, it is exposed to the influences of the other heavenly bodies around it. Over the span of time, these influences have changed the form of the land and imbued it with Qi. This is the meaning of the interaction between the Heavens and Earth that is referred to by the term "Kan Yu", the original name of Feng Shui. As such, the study of the influence of landforms is key to the understanding of Feng Shui and the effects of Qi upon a property.
Mountain landforms are Yin in nature, while Water landforms are Yang. This is because Mountain landforms are still and Water landforms are active. The spot at which Mountain and Water meet is called a "Meridian Spot", and it is at this point that new Qi is produced.
Mountains can be classified into the Five Elements according to their shapes. Mountains that are sharp and pointed at the top are considered Fire in nature. Mountains with rounded appearances are associated with Metal. Mountains that are tall and slender are Wood shape mountains. Mountains that have irregular, "wavy" forms are associated with Water. Finally, Mountains that are relatively flat on top are considered Earth shape mountains.
Manmade structures like buildings can also be categorized as one of the Five Elements. Although such structures don't generate Qi in and of themselves, they can attract Qi over time, and influence its flow.
At a beginner level, it is possible to evaluate the influence of external Mountain forms upon your property by looking at the Elemental interactions between the environment and your home.
If the forms and buildings around your home are of Elemental forms that produce the Element that your building is associated with, they are considered to provide Qi to your home. For example, if your home has a Fire shape, and your neighbor's home has a Wood shape, your home benefits from the presence of your neighbor's home. If the opposite happens, however, it is detrimental to you, and your home would be "leaking" Qi to your neighbor's home. It is also beneficial if both homes are of the same Element.
If your home's Element controls the Element of a neighboring structure, it is considered good for your wealth prospects. On the other hand, if your home is being controlled, your wealth prospects are being countered.
