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Finding good Feng Shui education is hard. You've probably looked at many options online and wondered if the American Feng Shui Institute is right for you. This guide will help you decide.
We won't try to sell you anything. Instead, we'll give you honest information about AFSI based on what students say and public data.
Our review will cover everything you need to know. We'll also compare AFSI with other schools so you can make the best choice for your goals.
What Is AFSI?
The American Feng Shui Institute teaches Classical Feng Shui. It was started in 1991 by Master Larry Sang, who wanted to share real Chinese Feng Shui practices with Western students.
Today, people like P.K. Odle continue his work as teachers. They focus on teaching the old methods that have worked for centuries.
Be careful not to confuse AFSI with "All Faiths Seminary International." These are completely different groups. The American Feng Shui Institute only teaches Feng Shui and Chinese Metaphysics.
AFSI believes in teaching traditional methods. This makes them different from schools that teach modern, simplified versions of Feng Shui.
A Synthesis of Reviews
We looked at many student comments and reviews about AFSI. This saves you time and gives you a balanced view.
What Students Praise
Students often mention several good things about AFSI. Their comments show patterns of what works well.
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In-depth Knowledge & Authenticity: Many students talk about how much the teachers know. They often mention instructors like "Pat" and "P.K. Odle" by name and appreciate how they explain complex ideas with real examples.
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Structured Learning: Students like how the lessons are organized. They say teachers are patient, which helps when learning difficult concepts.
Potential Drawbacks & Considerations
No school is perfect for everyone. Here are some things to think about before you decide.
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"No Frills" Approach: Former student David Twicken described AFSI's teaching style as direct and to the point. This works well if you like information without extra fluff, but beginners might want more examples or prettier presentations.
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Information Accessibility: AFSI doesn't have a central place for reviews like Udemy or Coursera. You have to find information from different sources, which is why we created this article.
A Look at the Curriculum
The real value of any school comes from what they teach. AFSI uses methods that have worked for a long time.
Focus on Classical Feng Shui
Classical Feng Shui isn't just about moving furniture or picking colors. It involves complex systems that take time to learn.
Students at AFSI learn important concepts that form the base of professional practice.
Key systems taught include:
* Flying Star Feng Shui: This system looks at how a building's energy changes over time.
* Eight Mansions: A method for finding good and bad directions for each person.
* Form School: How to analyze land features like mountains and water.
* The Luo Pan: How to use the Feng Shui compass, an important tool for serious practice.
The Lineage of Master Sang
In traditional arts, who taught you matters. Studying at AFSI connects you to Master Larry Sang's teachings, which gives your training credibility.
AFSI has been around since 1991. This long history shows the quality and value of what they teach.
The Deciding Factor: Alternatives
To decide wisely, you should know how AFSI compares to other options. Here's how it stacks up against two common alternatives.
| Feature | American Feng Shui Institute (AFSI) | Structured Certification Schools (e.g., Feng Shui Manhattan) | Self-Paced Online Courses (e.g., Udemy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Method | Classical (e.g., Flying Star, Form School) | Often a blend of Classical and Modern/BTB | Varies widely; often simplified or BTB |
| Learning Format | In-person workshops, live training (Historically) | Immersive multi-month programs (Live Online/In-Person) | Pre-recorded video lectures, self-paced |
| Instructor Focus | Rooted in a specific master's lineage (Master Sang) | Led by an experienced, certified master (e.g., Laura Cerrano) | Varies from experts to enthusiasts |
| Certification | Offers professional-level training | Formal certification (e.g., IFSG standard) | Certificate of completion (less formal) |
| Best For... | Students seeking deep, traditional, authentic knowledge. | Students wanting a comprehensive, guided program with modern applications. | Beginners, hobbyists, or those on a budget. |
There's no "best" school for everyone. The right choice depends on your needs, budget, and how you like to learn.
Our 2025 Verdict
Is AFSI worth it in 2025? It depends on who you are and what you want to achieve.
We can't give a simple answer. Here's a guide to help you decide.
Choose AFSI if:
- You care most about authentic teaching connected to tradition.
- You want to understand why the rules work, not just memorize them.
- You plan to become a professional using Classical Feng Shui methods.
Consider Alternatives if:
- You prefer modern approaches that mix different styles and are easier for beginners.
- You need a cheaper, self-paced online course.
- You want a structured program with strong online community support.
Feng Shui is worth studying seriously. Research has shown that proper Feng Shui can be effective, so good education matters.
As a final check, see if a school's teachers belong to professional groups like the International Feng Shui Guild. This shows their commitment to high standards.
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