Q&A Sunday: Feng Shui and Autism

I found your blog last week and I totally love it. I've already done a couple of simple adjustments that have actually made a great impact on the space. Like moving my couch into a commanding position and clearing my entry way. I also noticed that my son, who is severely autistic, has been affected as well. Our living room seems to now be his perfect place to sit and do a quiet, focused activity- usually reading a picture book. How do you think feng shui applies to those with sensory issues, like autism and Asperger's syndrome? Do you have any recommendations on applying feng shui to an autistic child's bedroom? 

Danielle P., Columbia, MO

Hi Danielle,

Aww thanks so much for your kind words. I’m so happy that the feng shui adjustments have impacted your son in such a positive way! I think this is a really important subject, so I also consulted with two other experts. My sister, Stephanie Cho, is a psychiatrist at George Washington University, and my friend Nancy Guberti, practices functional medicine and has worked with dozens of autistic children.

We all (Stephanie, Nancy and myself) agree that placing autistic children in the commanding position creates a safe and soothing environment. From the feng shui perspective, the commanding position sets you up so that there are fewer surprises; you can literally see what or who is coming into your space. For an autistic child, this helps to prevent opportunities for disturbances and creates a calming space

Stephanie advised that for aspects of the environment that are sensory oriented, such as colors or smells, the feng shui guidelines are not as applicable, as this depends on each autistic child. Their associations with their senses are highly individual. Therefore it's best to notice and be aware of what colors, scents, or objects have positive associations with each child. Then it can be helpful to place that in their bedrooms. But by far, the commanding position is the way to go with the bed and, if possible desk or sitting areas

The commanding position would place the bed (or other major furniture) such that when one is lying in the bed, that they can see the door while not in line with this door. 

Nancy also suggested clutter-free environments for autistic children's bedrooms. The less busyness, the better. Less sensory input and "noise." I would recommend using storage with doors or bins. This is a great way to cut down the clutter and reduce the amount of noise in a space. :)

I'm thrilled to hear that the small changes you made as a result of our blog have made such an impact in such an important area of life. You and your son are proof that feng shui really does work! Please let me know if you make any of the adjustments Stephanie, Nancy and I have suggested and how they work out! 

by Anjie Cho


Mindful Design is a new way to learn feng shui. Our a unique training program takes an holistic approach to learning the art of feng shui design. Mindful design is about becoming aware, and attentive, to the energy around you: both inner and outer qi. It is about promoting a better way of living and creating sacred spaces that support, and nourish. Visit us at mindfuldesignschool.com.


Thanks for reading our "Q&A Sunday".  We will be answering questions submitted by our readers. Click here to submit any Feng Shui or Green Design questions!

Q&A Sunday: Kids Study Spaces and Where to Begin with Feng Shui

I like your blog, it is so inspiring. I am new to feng shui and have 3 questions:
1. Is/are there any effective, specific knowledge/ items which help(s) kids to manage themselves to study or encourage(s) doing homework? I am a Tiger mum and have a Pig boy (June 3, 2007) and a Rabbit daughter (May 29, 2011). Based on this info, I would appreciate any recommendation. 
2. I want to practice feng shui. Where should I start ?
3. Do you ship outside the USA?

Oznur R., Turkey

Dear Oznur,

Thank you for your question and compliments, and welcome to the wonderful world of feng shui!

It’s awesome that you have so many questions; it means you’re really interested and curious. In feng shui, you’re encouraged to inquire, test and scrutinize the teachings. 

Your first question pertains to supporting children in their studies and education. In general, it’s recommended that when your son and daughter are doing their homework, they have a desk or a dedicated area to do their work. An area of the dining table is fine, as long as it’s clear and spacious, and accommodates them. When it is time for them to study, have this space become a real desk. It’s also important to locate them in the commanding position of the room, whether at a desk or another study area. This means that they can both see the entrance of the space, without turning their heads, but are not in line with the door. The best location is diagonal from the door. This way your children are in a relaxed place in their space so they can clearly focus on homework. There’s more information about the commanding position here, here and here.

You’re also a Tiger mother, and your son is a Pig. This tells me that you have a good, compatible relationship to begin with. Tiger and Pig are best friends and ideal companions. Your daughter is a Rabbit, so your relationship to her is neutral. But your Pig boy and Rabbit daughter also get along well, because they form a harmonious relationship (along with the Ram). By the way, be sure to check out our post where Beth Grace shares the forecast for each Chinese Zodiac animal this year.  

Your second question is about how to start studying and practicing feng shui. Well I have an exciting announcement! I’m starting a Mindful Design teaching program with my talented friend, Laura Morris. The program is set to launch in the fall of 2018, so keep an eye out! We're excited to teach feng shui from our shared Mindful Design perspective.

Last but not least, yes we do ship to Turkey for most items! You can email us at info@holisticspaces.com if you have any specific questions about that! Be sure to check out our new apothecary items… I think the Focus mist might be perfect for your little ones! 

by Anjie Cho


Thanks for reading our "Q&A Sunday".  We will be answering questions submitted by our readers. Click here to submit any Feng Shui or Green Design questions!