Power Position - Are you in Control?
In the ancient practice of Feng Shui, few concepts create immediate energy shifts as the "command position" or "power position." This key principle can transform not only your physical space but also your mindset, productivity, and overall sense of security. Let’s dive into what the power position is, why it matters, and how to implement it in various areas of your home and office.
What Is the Power Position in Feng Shui?
The power position, also known as the command position, is a strategic placement that allows you to:
See the main entrance of a room without being directly in line with it
Have a solid wall behind you for support
Have a clear view of most of the room
This positioning is based on ancient survival instincts—when you can see what's coming while feeling protected from behind, you naturally feel more secure and in control. In Feng Shui philosophy, this translates to psychological comfort, better focus, and enhanced personal power. Although we may be consciously thinking, “I live in a safe neighborhood, my doors are locked, the likelihood of someone coming into my space to threaten me is very low”, our subconscious mind works a bit differently. The subconscious mind operates to keep us safe, and is always surveying the visual information of our surroundings. Let’s break this down: If we are not in power position, our subconscious mind is working overtime on high alert to make sure we are safe and protected. Over time, this results in a slow drain of our personal energy where we can end up feeling anxious, burnt out, and lacking confidence.
Why the Power Position Matters
When you occupy a power position, you're not just arranging furniture—you're creating energetic conditions for success:
Reduced Stress: When you can see who enters your space, you eliminate the startling effect of someone appearing unexpectedly
Increased Confidence: A solid backing represents support, both physically and metaphorically
Enhanced Authority: You appear more commanding when positioned properly
Improved Focus: With fewer subconscious concerns about safety, your mind can concentrate better on tasks
Better Energy Flow: You're able to receive positive chi (energy) directly rather than being blindsided by it
Key Power Positions in Your Home
1. Bedroom Power Position
Your bed placement is perhaps the most important power position to consider. For optimal rest and relationship harmony:
Position your bed so you can see the door while lying down, but not directly in line with it
Place your headboard against a solid wall
Avoid positioning under windows, which create unstable energy
Ensure equal access to both sides of the bed for balanced relationship energy
When your bed is in the power position, you'll likely experience better sleep quality and a greater sense of security in your most vulnerable space.
2. Home Office Power Position
For productivity, creativity, and career advancement:
Place your desk so you can see the door while seated
Position yourself with a solid wall behind you
Avoid sitting with your back to a door or window
If you must face a wall, place a mirror that allows you to see behind you
Consider a high-backed chair for additional support
This arrangement symbolically places you in command of your career and helps prevent others from undermining your authority.
3. Living Room Power Position
The power position in your living room affects social dynamics and family harmony:
Arrange the main seating (usually the sofa) against a solid wall
Position seating to view entrances while encouraging conversation
Avoid having your back to doorways when seated in conversation areas
Create balance with equal seating opportunities around central points
This arrangement fosters healthy communication while maintaining everyone's sense of security.
4. Kitchen Power Position
The kitchen power position influences nourishment and family prosperity:
Position the stove where the cook can see the main entrance
If possible, avoid having the cook's back to the door
Consider a mirror to view entrances if architectural constraints exist
Ensure the cook has solid backing while preparing food
This arrangement supports the person preparing meals, who traditionally holds significant power over family nourishment and health.
How to Adapt When Ideal Power Positions Aren't Possible
Sometimes architectural constraints make perfect power positions impossible. Here are workarounds:
Use Mirrors: Place mirrors strategically to see entrances and activity behind you
Use Symbolic Backing: Heavy furniture, screens, or tall plants can create symbolic support
Create Psychological Divisions: Area rugs, furniture arrangements, and decorative elements can create psychological boundaries
Balance with Other Feng Shui Elements: Strengthen your space with supportive colors, materials, and elements
Claim Your Power
The beauty of Feng Shui's power position concept is that it works on multiple levels—practical, psychological, and energetic. By thoughtfully arranging your spaces to support command positions, you're not just following ancient wisdom; you're creating environments that subconsciously allow you to feel more secure, confident, and in control.
Whether you're looking to advance your career, improve your relationships, or simply feel more at peace in your home, understanding and implementing power positions is one of the most effective Feng Shui adjustments you can make. Start with one room that feels challenging, make the adjustment, and notice how differently you feel in the space.
Remember that Feng Shui is both an art and a science—your intuition about what feels powerful is just as important as following traditional guidelines. Claim your power position, and watch how your environment begins to support your goals and well-being in remarkable ways. I always say, “you either work with your subconscious mind or it works you.”
