FREE WEBINAR
Feng Shui Application in Bedroom and Workplace Designs: A Scientific Study of Personal
and Transpersonal Preferences
Study 2 (Online survey)
by Jan Cisek

I’m speaking at the 2025 Feng Shui Summit on Sunday May 4, 12:00-12:50pm All times noted are Eastern Daylight Time / US+Canada (5:00–5:50 pm UK time)
Presented by the International Feng Shui Guild
https://www.ifsguild.org/feng-shui-summit/

How we design our spaces directly shapes our lives. As Winston Churchill famously said, “We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” In this free session, Jan Cisek will present findings from the second phase of his scientific study exploring how feng shui principles preferences apply for to bedroom and workplace design. The study investigates how individuals relate both personally and transpersonally to their environments, using online surveys as part of a broader research programme which will employ Virtual Reality (VR) and psychophysiological measures in the Study 3.

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Understanding Time in Feng Shui through the Lens of Greek Mythology

Feng shui, the ancient Chinese art of harmonising with one’s environment, often intertwines with various aspects of time. The concept of time in feng shui is multifaceted, integrating cyclical patterns, the flow of energy, and auspicious moments for actions. To deepen our understanding, it is insightful to compare these notions with the Greek mythological concepts of time: Aion, Chronos, and Kairos. These three deities embody different aspects of time, offering a rich framework for understanding how time functions in feng shui.

Aion: The Eternal and Cyclical

In Greek mythology, Aion represents unbounded, eternal time. Aion is depicted as a serpent biting its tail, symbolising the cyclical and endless nature of time. This mirrors the feng shui perspective where time is seen as a continuous cycle, influencing energy flows and environmental harmony. For instance, the Chinese zodiac operates on a twelve-year cycle, each year associated with a specific animal that influences that year’s energy.

In feng shui, Aion’s influence is evident in the use of the Chinese lunar calendar, which guides the timing of activities such as renovations, relocations, and even daily routines. The Bagua model, a central feng shui tool, also reflects cyclical patterns, with each section corresponding to different life aspects that must be harmonised cyclically.

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A personal account of Jan Cisek*

Let’s go back to a cosy Tuesday evening on cold November 9th, 1993, at Gina Lazenby’s flat in London. Gina, me, Mark Beakhouse, Graham Gun, and a cuppa or two, chatting about the charming wisdom and promise of feng shui. It’s here that Gina (with her genius of marketing) threw in the idea of starting the Feng Shui Society (FSS) – an easy-going gang to spread the cool vibes of feng shui. And, just like that, the rest, as they say, is history!

Zooming 30 years forward (blimey, how time flies!), I find myself pondering about the grand old times of the FSS. This society has turned into a beacon of knowledge and wisdom, spreading the essence of feng shui far and wide.

The FSS has grown into a treasure trove of ancient know-how, connecting age-old wisdom with our bustling, modern lives, making sure that the magic of feng shui is a piece of cake for everyone to grasp. It’s brought a wave of harmony and spark to numerous homes, offices, and lovely little corners of the world, optimising the flow of energy and rejuvenating spaces with happy vibes.

“feng shui is a physical affirmation, a ritual”

The FSS has been the heart of a vibrant community of feng shui buffs, offering a mix of workshops, friendly chats, and reads to anyone eager to learn and grow personally and spiritually. It’s woven a tapestry of people who are keen on living a balanced life filled with good vibes and prosperity.

The commitment of our society to uphold the real-deal principles of feng shui has made it a trusted brand name. It’s stood strong against the watered-down and commercialised versions, ensuring that the profound teachings of feng shui are passed down with respect and true spirit to the future chaps.

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Michael Y. Mak’s and Albert T. So’s study explores integrating traditional feng shui principles into the preliminary building design process using a knowledge-based expert systems approach. This interdisciplinary research combines ancient Chinese geomantic techniques with modern technological methods to enhance the design and evaluation of building environments.

Michael Y. Mak is a lecturer at the School of Architecture and Built Environment, University of Newcastle, Australia. He has co-authored a book titled Scientific Feng Shui for the Built Environment: Theories and Applications with Albert T. So. This book aims to integrate historical feng shui theories with scientific data and practical applications. The book offers an in-depth view of feng shui by combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches, likely covering:

• Fundamentals of scientific feng shui
• Case studies demonstrating practical applications
• Integration of historical theories with scientific data

For the full content list, go to Google books: https://www.google.co.uk/books/edition/Scientific_Feng_Shui_for_the_Built_Envir/TX_tBgAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=Scientific+Feng+Shui+for+the+Built+Environment+-+Fundamentals+and+Case+Studies+by+Michael+Y.+Mak+and+Albert+T.+So&printsec=frontcover

Objectives

The primary objective of Mak’s and So’s research is to evaluate the application of feng shui knowledge within the context of building design through an expert systems approach. The study aims to develop a systematic framework that leverages feng shui principles to improve the quality and performance of architectural designs.

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Divination: A Window into the Unseen World and Its Role in Feng Shui

Introduction: Divination, at its core, represents the art of seeking knowledge about the unknown—whether concerning the future, hidden truths, or present circumstances. Rooted deeply in the human psyche, divination has been practised across civilisations, from ancient Mesopotamia and China to Egypt and the Celtic tribes of Europe. It serves as a bridge between the material world and metaphysical realms, providing glimpses into the mysterious currents believed to shape our lives (Cornelius, 2003).

Throughout history, the allure of knowing the unknown has captivated people from all walks of life. Whether used to guide rulers in times of war, determine auspicious times for sowing crops, or bring clarity in times of uncertainty, divination has maintained an essential role in cultural narratives (Raphals, 2013). It is not merely an attempt to predict the future but rather a means of engaging with profound forces at work, seeking to harmonise human intention with the cosmic order.

Divination, derived from the Latin word “divinatio,” meaning “to foresee” or “to be inspired by a god,” refers to the practice of seeking knowledge about the future or uncovering hidden truths through various interpretive methods. The root “divinus” relates to “divine” or that which comes from the gods, reflecting the belief that divination is a way to connect with higher, supernatural insights. Historically, divination has been seen as a means of gaining access to divine wisdom, allowing humans to align their actions with the will of the gods or the forces that govern the universe (Cornelius, 2003).

Part 1: The Essence of Divination

Historical Overview: The origins of divination can be traced back to some of the earliest known human societies. In ancient Mesopotamia, priests, known as baru, examined the entrails of sacrificed animals or observed celestial patterns to predict future events, interpreting these signs as revelations of divine will (Bottéro, 1992). In Egypt, priests communicated with the gods through oracular consultations, using sacred rituals to receive divine wisdom. In ancient China, divination was deeply integrated into societal functions, notably through the practice of oracle bone divination, in which the cracks produced by heating bones were read to discern cosmic insights (Keightley, 1978).

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Creating Supportive Environments for People with Disabilities (ASD, ADHD, neurodiversity) through Feng Shui

Feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of arranging living spaces to create balance and harmony, can be a powerful tool in supporting individuals with disabilities, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), neurodiversity and similar conditions. By applying feng shui principles, we can enhance both physical and psychological well-being, creating environments that are not only more comfortable but also empowering for individuals who face unique challenges. Environmental psychology, occupational therapy, and design for accessibility provide the evidence-based backbone to this approach, ensuring that it is as effective as it is holistic.

The Importance of Environmental Design for Individuals with Disabilities

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face difficulties navigating environments that are not designed with their specific needs in mind. Unfriendly environments can lead to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to acute pain, ultimately impacting the individual’s ability to engage in social, health, education, and leisure activities. Ensuring that an environment is adapted to the unique needs of each person is essential in creating autism-friendly spaces that are comfortable and accessible. The idea that our surroundings impact our mental and emotional state is at the core of environmental psychology. People are deeply influenced by the spaces they inhabit, and for individuals with disabilities, this influence can be particularly significant. Individuals with autism, for instance, can be highly sensitive to sensory stimuli such as bright lights, loud sounds, and cluttered spaces, which may lead to discomfort or distress (Scott, 2019). Research has shown that supportive environments—those that are visually clear, low in sensory overload, and easy to navigate—can play an essential role in improving quality of life and reducing stress (Evans & McCoy, 1998).

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