Leland Yee: Feng Shui - Living in Harmony with the Environment

Within the past decade, employers have been paying closer attention to ergonomics - the applied science of designing and arranging things people use in performing their daily work, so people and things interact efficiently and safely.

In 1996, California adopted a state ergonomics standard, establishing workplace regulations to prevent repetitive motion injuries, strains, headaches and tiredness associated with improper lighting, arrangement of furniture and physical surroundings. These ideas are not far-fetched; we must be comfortable in our physical environment to be happy and productive.

Just as an ergonomic workspace can affect an employee's comfort and productivity, the very structure of a building can affect a person's mood and, consequently, their behavior, work and personal and professional relationships.

While this concept is fairly new to western society, 4,000 years ago palaces in China were built with special attention to maintaining harmony with the natural environment. This practice continues in China today.

There are many misconceptions about the practice of Feng Shui. Contrary to what many may believe, Feng Shui is not a religion, nor is it an eastern philosophy grounded in superstition. Feng Shui, which literally means "wind and water," is an Earth science that examines mathematics, physics, geology, astronomy and architecture, among other sciences. It employs the concepts of balance and harmony and incorporates natural elements to enhance one's health, well-being and prosperity. The concept of Feng Shui is a simple one - to improve your life by improving your relationship to the environment around you.

The physical qualities of our environment can affect us greatly - not just at work but in our personal lives as well. You may have noticed that a messy or cluttered house, car or office can affect your mood, productivity or attention span. Similarly, a poorly-designed space can affect us, but clearing clutter and improving the flow of energy in our lives can lead to great results.

Feng Shui is gaining popularity in America for its proven beneficial effects. Many large companies practice Feng Shui, including Citibank, N.M. Rothschild, Shell and Sime Darby. Donald Trump consults Feng Shui experts at his properties and its principles have been integrated into the showrooms of fashion designers, such as Donna Karan and Tommy Hilfiger.

I have introduced Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 144 to encourage the California Building Standards Commission to adopt Feng Shui principles into the state's building standards. This will not cost the state any money, nor will it mandate any changes in existing law or design standards. The resolution is simply a recommendation based on ancient science and natural wisdom. Its sole intention is to improve the quality of life for California workers. Already, it has received support from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

As our state grows increasingly diverse, we should be open to alternative ideas and practices from various cultures. Perhaps someday Feng Shui will be as commonplace as ergonomics in the California home and workplace. Whether or not you practice Feng Shui in your own life, I encourage you to have an open mind as you consider Feng Shui and the concept of living in harmony with your environment. The Chinese community has been experiencing the positive benefits for thousands of years.

Leland Yee is the assistant speaker pro tempore at the California Assembly.