Nelson Bostock August 2007
ZEN
WORKPLACE
HOW TO USE FE FEN G SHU SHU I TO REDU REDU CE OFFI OFFI CE STRE STRESS SS
by
S i m o n a F. F. M a i n i n i , D r . A r c h . & F e n g S h u i M a s t e r P h . ( 1 ) 3 1 0 . 8 6 0 .8 .8 9 8 9 www.fengshuiarch.com
Reasons to Reduce Stress in the Office
I N EUROPE UROPE:
According to 2007 data from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, work-related stress was the root cause of 50% of absenteeism, costing the EU a n e s t i m a t e d $ 2 0 b i l l i o n ( EU R) R) a y e a r in direct health costs and lost work-time.
I N THE UNI TED TED STATE STATES:
According to 2004 data from the American Institute of Stress, work-related stress and resulting accidents accounted for 75-80% of absenteeism. This was associated with a n a n n u a l c o st s t o f $ 3 0 0 b i l l i o n ( U S D ) to businesses in terms of diminished productivity and employee turn-over.
I f i n v e st s t i n g 1 - 5 % o f t h i s a m o u n t i n Fe F e n g Sh Sh u i p r e v e n t i v e m e a su su r e s c o u l d sa sa v e y o u 2 0 - 5 0 % o r m o r e o f t h e s e c o st st s , w o u l d y o u d o i t ?
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
- COLOR AND MATERIALS - LIGHT - FURNITURE AND SITTING ARRANGEMENTS
- INDIVIDUAL OFFICES - CUBICLES - OPEN FLOOR PLAN
- GOOD MANAGEMENT DIRECTIONS: KEEPING THE PEACE - INCREASE YOUR PERSONAL POWER - OFFICE ARGUMENT AND HARMONY: DIRECTIONS
SPEND TIME IN NATURE MEDITATION - YOGA, TAI QI, AND QI GONG - MASSAGE - SLEEP
copyright notice
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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T r a d i t i o n a l F en en g S h u i i s t h e a n c i e n t Ch i n e s e n a t u r a l s c i en en c e o f b u i l d i n g d e s i g n a n d p l ac ac e m e n t .
Developed over nearly 5,000 years in conjunction with other nature-based disciplines (like meteorology and seismology), Fe n g Sh Sh u i u s e s n a t u r a l l a w s t o e x p l a i n h o w t h e l i f e - f o r c e e n e r g y o f t h e p l a n e t ( c al al l e ed d “ Q i” i ” ) o p e r a t es e s i n t h e p h y s i c al al e n v i r o n m e n t i n r e l a t i o n t o t i m e , s p ac a c e an a n d i n d i v i d u a l h u m a n b e i n g s. s . It also
gives us specific guidelines on how to site, orient, design, and decorate the buildings where we live and work so as to harmoniously capture this planetary life-force energy and use it productively to support our health and well-being, improve our lives, and attain the goals we so industriously pursue. After decades of study and research in the areas of metaphysics and mystical traditions, I am confident in saying that although Traditional Feng Shui deals with lifeforce energy-- a concept often considered strange in the Western world but regularly integrated into daily life in most parts of Asia-- Fe n g S h u i i s n o t a m y s t i c a l d i s c i p l in i n e . Th T h e k n o w l e d g e a b l e Fe n g S h u i e x p e r t d o e s n o t i n t e n d t o l e a d y o u t o a n y k i n d o f s p ir i r i t u a l e n l i gh g h t e n m e n t , which is the primary goal of many mystical
disciplines. Rather, Feng Shui operates from the basic elements of mathematics and physics, using these scientific principles to improve and maintain physiological, emotional and mental health for those individuals living and working within a building or other space. And contrary to popular thinking, Traditional Feng Shui is n o t a belief-based discipline. T h e l i f e - f o r c e e n er e r g y o f a b u i l d i n g w i l l af a f f e c t i t s o c cu cu p a n t s w h e t h e r t h e y a r e c on on s c i o u s l y a w a r e o f i t s e x i s t e n c e o r n o t . This life-force energy is part
of the “invisible” global energy field of the entire planet and it is t herefore affected by all planetary changes. And, because this powerful, invisible planetary life-force energy runs through all features of the natural environment (including humans) continuously,
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it is significantly larger and stronger than an individual’s life-force energy or belief system. Hence, ancient Chinese scholars and proto-scientist of the time quickly realized that it would be much easier to learn how this powerful force moves so they could find out how to harmoniously work with it rather than attempt to deny it and struggle to work against it, a common Western attitude— not necessarily successful. successful. By observing the natural cycles, they eventually formulated various techniques, many of which involve one of their inventions, a detailed G e o m a n t i c C o m p a s s , to help measure and read the variation of Earth’s life-force energy in a building or room depending upon its degree of orientation (For more specific information on how they came to do this, please refer to my book, Feng Shui for Architecture.)
Ex a m p l e o f a F e n g S h u i M a s t e r ’ s Ge Ge o m a n t i c C o m p a s s
While different people in similar buildings may experience slightly different outcomes due to their age, genetics, genders, educational levels, occupations, and personalities, personalities, I have noticed that i f a b u i l d i n g h a s “ b a d ” Fe n g Sh Sh u i - - i.e. adverse life-force energy-- i t w i l l p r e v en e n t i t s o c cu cu p a n t s f r o m e x p e r i en en c i n g h a r m o n i o u s r e l a t i o n s h i p s a n d f i n a n c i a l s u c c es e s s . On the other hand, a building that h a s “ g o o d ” Fe n g Sh Sh u i - - i.e. positive life-force energy-- w i l l en en h a n c e b o t h f i n a n c i a l and per sonal success.
I have often said that Fe n g Sh Sh u i w i l l n o t m a k e t h e m a n o r w o m a n , b u t i t w i l l affect their life experiences, their accomplishm ents, and the likelihood of t h e m r e a ch ch i n g t h e i r f u l l p o t e n t i a l .
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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2.
The centuries old Taoist tradition of following “the Way” is about setting processes in motion and then letting them t hem unfold naturally, following their natural courses without attempting to force or control the outcomes. Interfering with the process compromises the end result, the consequences of which are generally unfavorable.
An integral component of this tradition is the understanding of the application of the natural cycles of Yi n and Y a n g . Yin is the apparent calm and stillness that allows the subtle and (seemingly) invisible changes to take place deep inside a person or situation; Yang is the rampant activity that causes the more obvious, visible, and tangible changes that we witness as the results.
In our fast-paced modern world there isn’t much room for calm and stillness. Therefore, processes cannot unfold naturally and in their due time when demands for productivity require constant, rigid deadlines-- a n d t h e r e i n l i e s t h e s e ed ed o f t h e u n e a s i n e ss s s t h a t w e ca c a l l “ s t r e s s .” .”
T h e Yi Yi n a n d Y a n g s y m b o l r e p r e s e n t t h e b a l a n c e o f o p p o s i t e s e x i s t i n g i n n a t u r a l c y c l e s. s.
In Feng Shui all that exists in the Universe is either Yin or Yang (or a combination with various measures of both). For example, nighttime is Yin; daytime daytime is Yang. We primarily rest at night while we are mostly active during the day. Summer is Yang, while winter is Yin. We tend to feel more active and want to be outside during the
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warm season with its longer days than during the cold season when we may prefer to spend more time at home and indoors. Similarly, every activity of our body is ruled by this Yin and Yang duality and follows these natural rhythms. In modern scientific language, such cycles of Yin and Yang that effects human beings (and all living creatures in general) are called c i r c a d i a n r h y t h m s (24-hour cycles following the daily cycle of the sun), and c h r o n o b i o l o g y
(the formal study of biological temporal rhythms such as daily, seasonal, and annual rhythms).
During the day, our body is in a Yang mode and our sympatethic nervous system is active and alert. We are awake and moving and our open eyes record every action and activity. In addition, we are exposed to the Yang energy of the sun and spend most of our waking hours working and managing our surroundings. At night (and when we are at rest) our body naturally tends to assume a Yin-mode in which the p a r a s y m p a t e t i c n e r v o u s s y s t e m takes over. As we lie in bed our body is asleep, appearing still and apparently inactive. But under the surface the parasympatetic nervous system quietly repairs the body by counteracting the overstimulation that occured during the day. T h i s n a t u r a l p r o c e ss ss o f r e b a l an an c i n g t h e Y a n g ac a c t i v i t i e s w i t h Y i n a ct ct i v i t i e s r e s t o r e s t h e b o d y t o i t s st st a t e o f n a t u r a l balance.
In this context, the ancient scholors and scientists determined that having the proper amount of sleep at night is a necessary condition to achieve and maintain optimate health. The proper amount, in theory, is whatever amount of sleep is necessary to bring a body back to its natural balance of Yin and Yang, and it varies for each individual. N o m a t t e r w h a t t h a t a m o u n t i s , i f t h e e x c e ss ss o f Ya Ya n g i sn sn ’ t a l l o w e d t o r e l e as as e f u l l y , i t a c cu c u m u l a t e s i n t h e b o d y , d i sr s r u p t i n g i t s b a l a n c e a n d c r e at at e t h a t s e n s e o f “ n o n - w e l ll - b e i n g ” t h a t w e c al al l s t r e ss ss .
In our modern society sleep and downtime are often equated with laziness, and most of us overpack our schedule with activities that completely fill up our days. I have often heard young excutives bragging about waking up at 5 am, jogging and then going to the gym, arriving to the office by 9 am and working until 8 pm, after which
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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they sometimes even take more work home with them or do some other businessrelated activity like have dinner with a client. “Life is too short to sleep,” they say. “I’ll rest when I die” has become become their mantra.
Initially, this overactive lifestyle may feel energizing. The prolonged Yang-dominance of the sympathetic nervous system keeps us focused and alert (i.e. “second wind” effect) — but only for awhile. What we fail to recognize is that this apparent sense of alertness is due to the overworking of our adrenal glands, which secrete hormones associated with the “fight-or-flight” response, otherwise known as “stress”. “ I f t h e i m b a l a n c e i s n o t r e s o l v e d , i t c a n u l t i m a t e l y d a m a g e o u r s y s t e m o n a c el el l u l a r l e v e l , a c ce ce l l e r a t i n g t h e d i s e a s e a n d a g i n g p r o c e s s .” .” -- Henry Han, O.M.D., Glenn
E. Miller, M.D. and Nancy Deville, Ancient Herbs, Modern Medicine, p. 142, 2003.
An early signal of accumulating Yang energy is insomnia: We may experience difficulty falling asleep or remaing in a restful state of sleep during the night. The resulting sleep deprivation depleats kidney life-force energy, leading to fatigue and loss of focus, lack of concentration, the inability to make sound business decisions along with increasing insecurities and fears often out of proportion, as well as back problems. In addition, the constant tension we experience due to the pressures and demands of our busy schedule (more Yang stimulations), adversely effect the life-force energy of the liver, often causing headaches, irritability, lack of patience, and the inability to counteract stressful events. Next, the life-force energy of the t he heart is compromised, potentially resulting in panic and anxiety attacks. It is no wonder that h e a r t d i s e a s e is is n o w t h e l e a d i n g c a u s e o f d e a t h i n i n d u s t r i a l i z ed ed c o u n t r i e s .
In addition, the diminished life-force energy affects other organs, such as the spleen and lungs, causing respectively exagerated worries and depression along with a myriad of other health problems including weak, achy muscles, gastrointestinal difficulties, poor circulation, skin problems, water retantion, shortness of breath and loss of voice. Depending on how long one’s Yin and Yang have been out of balance, early medical examination and diagnostic testing may not reveal a problem until it becomes chronic.
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From this simplified rendition of the health consequences of living a stressful and unbalanced life, one can derive the impact to both personal and professional levels. To resolve these problems at their source, Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture address the imbalance of Yin and Yang, providing excellent results in reversing the effects of stress at all stages of the problem.
A c u p u n ct ct u r e h a s p r o v e n t o b e v e r y e f f e c t i v e in i n t h e t r e a t m e n t o f s t r e s s r el el a t e d s y m p t o m s .
Fortunately, before it gets to this state, many of the problems can be prevented or reduced by increasing Yin related factors and reducing Yang related factors in the environments in which we live and work. To this end, w e l l - d e s ig i g n e d F e n g Sh Sh u i i n a n o f f i c e en e n v i r o n m e n t c a n c o n t r i b u t e t o h e a lt l t h a n d w e l ln l n e ss s s b y r e d u ci ci n g t h e a c cu cu m u l a t i o n o f s t r e s s .
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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“Increased stress increases increases productivity-- up to a point, after which which things rapidly deteriorate, and that level also differs for each of us... You can learn how to utilize and transform stress so that it will make you more productive and less selfdestructive.”
-Pau l J. Rosch, M.D ., F.A.C F.A.C.P. .P. President, The American Institute of Stress, Clinical Professor of Medicine and Psychiatry, New York Medical College, Honorary Vice-President, In ternational Stress Management Association
I n a b u s i n e s s se se t t i n g , Fe Fe n g Sh Sh u i c a n b e a p p l i e d t o a t t a i n a v a r i e t y o f g o a l s ,
one of the most popular being to i n c r e a s e p r o d u c t i v i t y a n d r e v e n u e . Feng Shui can increase wealth and income in many ways, most of which are independent from the well-being of the employees. In my experience, using Feng Shui to increase your business income is easy. But maintaining the happiness and well-being of individuals is a lot more complicated. However, creating a more comfortable work environment certainly increases productivity and reduces absenteeism and turn-over, ultimately leading to more revenue for the business. Furthermore, its value extends beyond the office to create and maintain pleasant relationships with clients and business associates-- again, positively affecting the bottom line.
While strategy, keen business sense, strong goals, and excellent management can move a company forward, m o r e a n d m o r e b u s i n e s s e s a r e u s i n g F en e n g S h u i to remove unexpected roadblocks and c r e a t e t h e s u c c es es s t h a t t h e c o m p a n y d e s i r e s a n d d e s er er v e s .
T h r o u g h o u t t h i s r e p o r t I ’ l l b e p r o p o si s i n g p r a c t i c al al s o l u t i o n s t h a t a d d r e s s t h e u s e o f Fe Fe n g Sh S h u i f o r s t r e s s m a n a g e m e n t i n a n o f f i c e . Implementing all of these
at once may not be possible, especially if numerous and adverse pre-existing conditions are already present in a building. However, simply implementing a few of
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the steps should result in tangible benefits and provide the motivation to tackle the larger or more complex problems. Also, it is important to remember: Fe n g S h u i i s A L W A Y S g o o d d e s i g n , b u t g o o d d e s i g n d o e s n o t g u a r a n t e e g o o d F e n g Sh Sh u i . Therefore, if you’re hiring a designer
to create or renovate an office or retail space, do not assume that his or her suggestions will ensure the proper flow of life-force li fe-force energy that can be achieved by correctly applying the principles of Feng Shui. On the contrary, if you are committed to improving the Feng Shui of your business, m a k e s u r e y o u A LS L SO h i r e a n e x p e r i e n c e d Fe Fe n g Sh Sh u i M a s t e r t o w o r k s i d e b y s i d e w i t h t h e d e s i g n e r .
Integrating Feng Shui into the design is the primary goal of the Masters.
W o u l d y o u s a y t h i s c o n f e r e n c e r o o m h a s g o o d Fe Fe n g S h u i , g o o d d e s i g n , o r b o t h ?
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As already mentioned, s t r e s s i s t h e m a n i f e s t a t i o n o f a n e x c e s s i v e a n d p r o l o n g e d s t i m u l a t i o n o f t h e s y m p a t h e t i c n e r v o u s sy sy s t e m , i . e . a n o v e r a b u n d a n c e of of Y a n g i n t h e b o d y .
To manage stress it is therefore necessary to l i m i t t h e Ya Ya n g d e s i g n f ea ea t u r e s o f a n o f f i c e sp sp a c e a n d c o u n t e r - b a l a n c e t h e m w i t h s o m e Yi Yi n d e s i g n f ea ea t u r e s .
One must also be mindful of n o t o v e r c o m p e n s a t i n g w i t h Y i n , or o r t h e o p p o si si t e e f f e c t w i l l b e a ch ch i e v e d . A work place with an excessive amount of Yin energy will
create stagnation of the life-force energy, manifesting on the employee’s level as excessive introspection, lack of initiative, and lethargic behavior.
Color & Materials The choice of colors and materials for the interior of an office will vary depending on many advanced factors, such as the building’s orientation and the date of construction. However, some general guidelines are as follows:
P l an an t s a n d w a t e r i n g e n e r a l w i l l d o w e l l i n s t r e ss s s f u l en e n v i r o n m e n t s . The “real
thing” can be quiet effective: a table top fountain on a desk (or larger in common areas), an aquarium, or simply a vase of freshly cut flowers or bamboo can help suit the irritated “liver energy” that causes the employees various anger problems. The life-force energy of a healthy liver relates to the wood element, so green plants will strengthen it while water, being productive to wood, will enhance it. In addition, when placed correctly with the help of a Feng Shui Master, water can increase the financial income of the business.
Colors like g r e e n , b l u e - g r e e n , a n d b l u e w i l l d o ex ex t r e m e l y w e l l in in s t r e s s f u l e n v i r o n m e n t s because they relate to the wood and water elements and support the
liver’s depleted energy.
Use a l i g h t e r h u e , rather than a saturated color, f o r l a r g e w a l l s . Reserve the s a t u r a t e d co co l o r a n d d a r k e r t o n e s f o r s m a l l e r d e t a i l s .
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Of all the colors, w h i t e has the most Yang energy and s h o u l d n ’ t b e u s e d e x t e n s i v e l y a s a w a l l co c o l o r , especially for large surfaces.
The c o l o r p a l e t t e s h o u l d b e p l a n n e d i n a d v a n c e for all components of the space. By matching “pigments” you’ll naturally create harmony, which is essential for good Feng Shui. Hire a qualified color consultant if necessary-- because while most of us like colors, not all of us have the sensitivity it takes to create successful color schemes that work well together. A v o i d p a t t e r n s , especially multiple or clashing patterns of colors or textures
(including wood grains). Offices are generally busy enough. A décor filled with “busy” patterns only creates distraction and ‘Leakage” in the individual’s attention (and lifeforce). Exceptions are one-colored fabric textures.
A W i n t e r g a r d e n , p r o v i d i n g n a t u r a l l i g h t , f r e sh sh a i r , p l a n t s a n d w a t e r c a n g o a l o n g w a y t o p r e v e n t a n d r e d u c e s t r e ss ss i n t h e w o r k p l a c e .
Light As much as possible, r e d u c e t h e u s e o f g l a r i n g f l o r e s c en e n t l i g h t i n g . In terms of artificial light a warm light, or (ideally) a full-spectrum light is preferable.
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N a t u r a l l i g h t a n d f r e s h a i r ar a r e a l w a y s t h e f i r s t c h o i c e , the importance of which
has been acknowledged in many parts of Europe by having them even become mandated by building codes. The natural “Yang-ness” of the sun positively stimulates and replenishes the life-force energy of the individual, while the gentle breeze brings in new, vibrant life-force energy. Together these entities support the body’s physiological balance and help create health and wellness. However, b e m i n d f u l o f e x c e s si si v e e x p o s u r e , caused by, for example, enormous floor-to-ceiling windows common in modern office buildings. The “super-Yang-ness” of these design features creates a sense of unprotected exposure that I have nicknamed the “fish-bowl-effect.” The openness of the space causes irritability and an expansion in the individual’s life-force energy, resulting in the feeling of always being “spread thin.” A way to reduce this “fish-bowl-effect” is to design sitting arrangements so that the employee’s back does not face a window or glass wall. A portion of opaque wall, a partition, or even a piece of furniture of medium height is preferable to a whole backdrop of glass.
Ex a m p l e o f t h e “ F i s h - B o w l - Ef Ef f e c t ”
W i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s are also are recommended, when possible, to reduce the “fish-
bowl-effect,” particularly if nearby employees are using computers. Staring at a computer screen with a glaring light coming from a window in front of you causes irritation of the eyes, due to the excessive Yang-ness your eyes are exposed to.
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Furniture & Sitting Arrangements
W h e n e v e r p o s s i b l e , a l w a y s p r o v i d e d i r e c t v i e w s t o a n en e n t r a n c e . It is preferable
not to have employees sit with their backs to the entry of an office or a cubicle, as the perception of activities (Yang) behind one’s back tends to create a sense of uneasiness that reduces one’s attention span and focus and leaves them feeling vulnerable to back-stabbing (metaphorically speaking). P la l a c i n g w o r k s t a t i o n s so so t h a t a n i n d i v i d u al a l s ’ b a ck ck f a ce c e s a w a l l, l , p a r t i t i o n , o r m e d i u m - t o - h i g h p i e ce ce o f f u r n i t u r e w i l l cr cr e a t e l e ss s s ac ac t i v i t y b e h i n d t h e m a n d t h e r e f o r e , l e s s d i s t r a c t i o n .
A v o i d p l a c i n g a n em e m p l o y e e i n a d i r e ct ct l i n e w i t h t h e d o o r o f a n o f f i c e o r c u b i c l e . A similar rationale applies: the continuous distraction from the activity
(Yang) perceived through the door will prevent focus and productivity by splitting the person’s attention and therefore his or her life-force energy will be reduced. P o si si t i o n i n g t h e d e s k t o t h e s id id e o f t h e d o o r w i l l e n h a n c e r e t e n t i o n o f l i f e f o r c e e n e r g y , r e d u c e s t r e s s a n d i n c r e a se se p r o d u c t i v i t y .
D e - c l u t t e r a n d o r g a n i z e desk and storage spaces and create more storage space
whenever necessary. (Even the most organized of us can’t avoid clutter when running out of space.) More and more organizations are striving to “go paperless,” shifting the burden of paper storage in endless filing cabinets to easier, digital files that will be managed by computer software systems (such as Canon’s new iW360).
I n d i v i d u a l o f f i c e s s h o u l d b e r e ct c t a n g u l a r a n d r e g u l a r l y s h a p e d as opposed to L-
shaped or some other irregular shape, which promotes mental and physiological imbalances.
Use e r g o n o m i c f u r n i t u r e a n d p r i n c ip i p l e s whenever possible. Many European countries have adopted ergonomic standards for years, and the positive results speak for themselves.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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Individual Offices Unless you work for yourself or are the CEO of a large company, y o u m a y n o t h a v e m u c h i n p u t a b o u t y o u r o f f i c e, e , cu c u b i c le l e , or o r w o r k s t a t i o n . It is simply assigned to
you. S o h o w c an a n y o u m a k e t h e b e st st o f i t ? D e sk s k l o c a t i o n : When possible, identify the so-called “ p o w e r p o si s i t i on o n ” in the room.
This is where the life-force energy is healthiest and most stable. Generally, this position is one in which you have a solid wall behind you, and you are able to see the door or entrance way, but you’re not in direct line with it.
In some cases, the layout of the office requires the desk to be placed with one’s back to a window. Don’t panic-- just u s e b lil i n d s , w i n d o w t r e a t m e n t s o r p l a n t s t o p a r t i a l ly l y b l o c k t h e w i n d o w . This will improve concentration and reduce back-
stabbing from competition.
Ex a m p l e o f a “ Fl o a t i n g D e sk sk ” w i t h t h e “ P o w e r P os os i t i o n ” a t t h e b a c k
The main portion of the d e s k s h o u l d b e “ f l o a t i n g , ” that is, not facing the wall when doing most of your work. The openness to the front will improve your creativity and logical thinking. The computer should be placed on the main desk. If you need part of the desk for other activities position the computer to one side-- to the right if you are right-handed, or to the left if you are are left-handed. (As for cable placement, placement, it is best
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --15
to just bundle them up and tape them under the desk or ask your company’s electrician to hide them.) The printer, scanner, and other office devices s h o u l d b e r e a ch ch a b l e f r o m y o u r c h a i r a n d a r r a n g e d i n a n L - s h a p ed e d configuration. They should be positioned to your right
if you are right-handed and to your left if you are left-handed. The main access to the chair should be from the open side of the L, with the back of the chair towards the wall. Similarly, if you use t h e r e t u r n o f a n L - s h a p e d d e s k as a secondary work surface it should be on your right if you are right-handed and on your left if you are left-handed. Again, access to the chair should be from the open side of the L and opposite of the return. In this case, your printer, scanner and other devices should be nearby on a separate piece of furniture (across from the return and without blocking the access to the chair).
Cubicles One of the main problems with cubicles is that the person often works with his or her back exposed to the entrance (again, causing distraction and exposure to “energetic” back-stabbing). Furthermore, l o w p a r t i t i o n s e x p o s e t h e ir i r o c c u p an a n t s t o t h e n o i se se a n d c o n v e r s a t i o n s f r o m n e i g h b o r i n g c u b i c l es es -- further distracting them from the
task at hand and often creating resentment towards those colleagues resulting in conflict rather than teamwork. And the insufficient space may also prevent inadequate storage and encourage desktop clutter. All of these circumstances c r e at at e “ l e ak ak a g e ” i n t h e l i f e - f o r c e e n e r g y o f t h e e m p l o y e e s who may then become fatigued after just a few hours in the office.
Not only does overall productivity decrease, but the management usually becomes preoccupied with his or her poor performance—creating performance—creating even more stress for the employee. Redesigning office cubicles so as to make them more effective can be incredibly beneficial to the overall efficiency and productivity of a company. Some of the following suggestions are similar to those offered for single offices, but tailored for the multi-cubicle workspace environment.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --16
The m a i n w o r k i n g s u r f a ce c e should be positioned toward the hallway, separated with a medium-height partition. The storage area and printer should be easily accessible behind the person’s chair. The partition that divides the cubicle from the neighboring cubicle serves as a supporting back wall (reproducing the “power position”). This partition should be high enough to prevent excessive noise from traveling from one cubicle to the next.
The m a i n w o r k i n g s u r f a c e s h o u ld l d h a v e a n L - s h ap a p e d r e t u r n to create additional workspace positioned to the right side for right-handed people and on the left side for left-handed people.
The e n t r a n c e t o t h e c u b i c l e should be on the same wall as the main work surface and not in line with the person’s chair.
It is preferable for the computer, printer, and other technical devices to be located in the part of the cubicle that is opposite the entrance and just below the partition that divides it from the next cubicle.
Open Floor Plan This contemporary office design concept is becoming progressively more popular and can be very effective for work stations in which the employees are not spending most of their time at a desk, but rather need to be in constant communication with others during the course of the day.
The main challenges are similar to those of cubicles, a lack of privacy and exposure to lots of activity that is progressively distracting, again “leaking” life-force energy away from their tasks and causing them fatigue and the risk of becoming less productive. Employees partnered on the same project shouldn’t be sitting facing each other, but rather side by side so that on an energy level they can communicate as equals rather than as “opposing” entities. This will improve their teamwork.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --17
I t i s d i f f i c u l t t o s t a y f o c u s ed e d a n d p r o d u c t i v e w h e n s h a r i n g a s p a ce ce w i t h t h i s m a n y e m p l o y e es es .
In addition to the considerations about light, colors, and sitting arrangements as mentioned previously, I suggest using storage items (i.e. file cabinets) or bookshelves of medium height (or ones higher than the employee when sitting at their desk) to create a supportive element behind the employees’ back while sitting at his or her work station. T h is i s s im i m p l e r e p r o d u ct c t i o n o f t h e “ p o w e r p o s i t i o n ” can do much to create a feeling of protection and stability that will positively affect their productivity and provide easy access access to nearby storage. storage. (The configuration will vary vary depending on the design of your plans.)
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --18
What else can be done to use the life-force energy of the planet in ways that specifically support the individual employees and the company as a whole? Feng Shui provides a multitude of techniques that can be used to increase sales, improve brand recognition, attract more customers, and create a more positive work environment. I have selected a few and described them here below. Each suggestion is based on the date of birth of each individual (when designing and arranging offices and cubicles), or by the office space of the organization at large (to stimulate team work, improve personal energy, and avoid conflicts). To best identify these directions, I suggest you use a compass marked with 45 degree increments (a standard hiking or navigational compass will suffice).
Good Management: Keeping the Peace Based on your date of birth, the following P e a ce ce f u l D i r e c t i o n C h a r t indicates how to reduce bickering, back-stabbing, and politicking as well as how to improve teamwork.
The direction is identified by your year of birth and gender, and it indicates the section of the building, office, or cubicle that will specifically stimulate “peace and good management” for you. When possible, it is ideal to place your chair in that area of the building, or to orient your desk so that your back is facing that direction. Having the entrance to your office or cubicle in your “peaceful section” will help as well.
As an alternative, or in addition to all of the above, this chart uses a productive action of the Fi v e El El e m e n t s Th Th e o r y , one of the basics of Feng Shui and Chinese Medicine. It lists the ideal element (water, wood, fire, earth, or metal) to place in that section to further activate the “peace “peace and good management” energy field. Because Feng Shui is a natural science and its’ results stem from natural laws, it is important to use the actual natural elements rather than substitute them with pictures or plastic representations.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --19
As stated above, your personal “Peace and Good Management Direction” is based on your date of birth and gender. The cut off time is February 5 of every year (as suppose to January 1 or the start of the Chinese new year). This calculation is based on the Chinese solar calendar and this date is scientifically identified as the beginning of spring worldwide. YEAR
MA LE
FEMA FEMA LE
1936
North (Metal)
North East (Fire)
1937
South (Wood)
North West (Earth)
1938
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
1939
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
1940
North West (Earth)
South (Wood)
1941
South West (Fire)
North (Metal)
1942
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
1943
East (Water)
East (Water)
1944
South West (Fire)
South East (Water)
1945
North (Metal)
North East (Fire)
1946
South (Wood)
North West (Earth)
1947
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
1948
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
1949
North West (Earth)
South (Wood)
1950
South West (Fire)
North (Metal)
1951
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
1952
East (Water)
East (Water)
1953
South West (Fire)
East (Water)
1954
North (Metal)
South West (Fire)
1955
South (Wood)
North West (Earth)
1956
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
1957
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
1958
North West (Fire)
South (Wood)
1959
South West (Fire)
North (Metal)
1960
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
1961
East (Water)
East (Water)
1962
South West (Fire)
South East (Water)
1963
Kan (Water)
North East (Fire)
1964
South (Wood)
North West (Earth)
1965
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
1966
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
1967
North West (Earth)
South (Wood)
1968
South West (Fire)
Kan (Water)
1969
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
1970
East (Water)
East (Water)
1971
South West (Fire)
South East (Water)
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WORKPLACE --20
YEAR
MA LE
FEMA FEMA LE
1972
Kan (Water)
North East (Fire)
1973
South (Wood)
North West (Earth)
1974
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
1975
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
1976
North West (Earth)
South (Wood)
1977
South West (Fire)
Kan (Water)
1978
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
1979
East (Water)
East (Water)
1980
South West (Fire)
South East (Water)
1981
Kan (Water)
North East (Fire)
1982
Li (Wood)
North West (Earth)
1983
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
1984
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
1985
North West (Earth)
South (Wood)
1986
South West (Fire)
Kan (Water)
1987
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
1988
East (Water)
East (Water)
1989
South West (Fire)
South East (Water)
1990
Kan (Water)
North East (Fire)
1991
South (Wood)
North West (Earth)
1992
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
1993
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
1994
North West (Earth)
South (Wood)
1995
South West (Fire)
Kan (Water)
1996
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
1997
East (Water)
East (Water)
1998
South West (Fire)
South East (Water)
1999
Kan (Water)
North East (Fire)
2000
South (Wood)
North West (Earth)
2001
North East (Fire)
West (Earth)
2002
West (Earth)
North East (Fire)
2003
North West (Earth)
South (Wood)
2004
South West (Fire)
Kan (Water)
2005
South East (Water)
South West (Fire)
2006
East (Water)
East (Water)
2007
South West (Fire)
South East (Water)
2008
Kan (Water)
North East (Fire)
L e g e n d : In parenthesis I indicate the elements to be placed in that direction to strengthen its energy filed.
WATER – Blue Colors and Water Features. WOOD – Green Colors and Green Plants (tying a small red ribbon to it’s OK). FI R E – Red Color. EARTH – Earth Colors and Natural Stone or Clay-made Objects. METAL – Neutral Colors (White, Gray) and Metal Objects.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --21
Increase Your Personal Power The following chart indicates your P er er s o n a l P o w e r D i r e c t i o n . This direction is ideal to raise your energy, create clarity, and improve overall well-being. To activate its potential make sure to keep this area of your office and cubicle clean, free of clutter, and always well-lit. The Yang-ness of the light will activate the energy of this section contributing to increasing your personal energy as well. In an open floor plan with multiple employees each of the eight directions will relate to some employee or another. In this case, keeping the whole office space clean, organized, and well-lit will help support everyone in the organization.
Your personal “Power Direction” is based on your year of birth. (There is no gender difference in this case.) Again, the cut off time is February February 5 of every year (as suppose to January 1 or the start of the Chinese new year), based on the same reason given for the Peaceful Direction Chart. YEAR
SEC SECTI ON
1936 1937 1938 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959
North North East North East East South East South East South South West South West West North West North West North North East North East East South East South East South South West South West West North West North West
( o f O f f i c e o r Cu Cu b i c l e )
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --22
YEAR
SEC SECTI ON ( o f O f f i c e o r Cu Cu b i c l e )
1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
North North East North East East South East South East South South West South West West North West North West North North East North East East South East South East South South West South West West North West North West North North East North East East South East South East South South West South West West North West North West North North East North East East South East South East South South West South West West North West North West North
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --23
Office Arguments and Harmony: Directions
When an office environment experiences continual multiple arguments and frequent “energetic” back-stabbings, back-stabbings, or lacks an overall sense sense of cohesiveness, cohesiveness, it is possible that some key area—the main entry, common rec. room, management offices, or CEO’s office-- of its layout is located in one of the “unfavorable” directions, which I’ll refer to as the “ a r g u m e n t s d i r ec e c t i o n ” in the following chart. Based on the direction that the office space faces, I have listed the direction that is most likely to be the cause of such conflicts between members of an organization. If an entry way or a principle area of the organization is placed in such a section, the effects will be felt by all members, regardless of the location of their t heir workspace.
Next to the “arguments direction” I have also listed the “ h a r m o n i o u s d i r e c t i on on . ” If the entry way or a common room frequently used by many employees is located in this area, a harmonious office environment will result.
If the layout of the building doesn’t allow for the main entrance to be re-located in the “harmonious direction” direction” create a meeting area or conference room in that part part of the building and encourage its use. Also, make sure that this area remains clean, organized, and well-lit at all times to prevent the stagnation of life-force energy, which would reverse its positive effects.
Each building, depending on its orientation, possesses a direction that supports its occupant’s harmonious relationships relationships and one that causes arguments due to their alignment with the planet’s life-force energy that can be supportive or adverse to that building’s particular life-force energy.
In this chart I have indicated what those are, using the direction toward which t he building faces as a reference. This particular system doesn’t take the time factor into consideration, so you are not restricted by the date of construction of the building.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --24
BUI LDI NG FACI FACI NG
ARGUME ARGUMENTS NTS
HARMONY
South South West West North West North North East East South East
West South South West North West North East East North South East
North North East East South East South South West West North West
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --25
Designing The Building’s Layout Many companies have found that designing a physical workspace using Feng Shui to subtly manipulate the life-force energy of the building-- through the use of furniture arrangements, color schemes, and natural materials-- has had a profound impact on their business: P r o f i t s h a v e i n c r e a s ed e d , c lil i e n t e l e s h a v e g r o w n , c o r p o r a t e r e p u t a t i o n s h a v e im i m p r o v e d , p r o d u c t i v i t y h a s in i n c r e a s ed ed , w h i l e n e g a t i v e o f f i c e p o l i t i c s , co c o n f l i c t s a n d e x c e ss s s i v e s t r e s s a m o n g s t e m p l o y e e s h a v e d e c r e a se se d .
To achieve these results it is best to integrate the Feng Shui guidelines as early in the process as possible - - ideally, when the building is being designed. For example, the locations of entrances-- along with key departments-- have a strong effect on the overall Feng Shui of the building, yet they are difficult to change once the building has been built. Optimal locations and layouts should be chosen for key offices and departments, especially those of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), general managers, departments of sales, marketing and human resources, and executive conference rooms.
Although ignored by modern versions of Feng Shui that have been popularized in recent years, the year of building’s construction also affects the building’s life-force energy. This, combined with the building’s degree of orientation, is largely what establishes its unique energetic patterns and potentials. Some buildings are better then others, and within a building, some areas are better then others for attracting success, opportunity, and wealth. T h e p u r p o s e o f i n c o r p o r a t i n g p r i n c i p l e s o f Fe n g Sh S h u i d u r i n g t h e d e s i g n p h a s e of of a b u i l d i n g i s t o t a k e f u l l a d v a n t a g e o f its positive potent ials and to neut ralize the negative ones.
A f t e r a l l, l , y o u d o n ’ t r e a l ly ly w a n t t o e n d u p s i g n i n g i m p o r t a n t d o c u m e n t s i n a “ b l a ck ck e n e r g y ” a r e a, a, d o y o u ?
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --26
In many ways, Fe n g S h u i d e p e n d s o n p e o p l e ’ s a c t i o n s a n d d e e d s a s m u c h a s t h e Fe Fe n g S h u i d e s ig i g n o f t h e i r h o m e s a n d o f f i c e s. s.
For instance, if we are
experiencing crankiness, a l i t t l e r e st s t r a i n w i l l g o a l o n g w a y in keeping harmony with our colleagues and friends. However, if we notice an escalation in our crankiness and the inability to control it, perhaps we are experiencing a higher level of stress then average and should consider additional measures to regain control.
T h e f o l l o w i n g a r e s o m e p o i n t e r s t o h e l p r e d u c e st st r e s s o n a p e r s o n a l l e v e l .
Some corporations are now integrating these practices, providing employees with effective ways to manage their stress. The results have been surprisingly successful.
Spend Time In Nature I am a strong supporter of s p en e n d i n g a t l e as a s t a n h o u r a w e ek ek w a l k i n g i n n a t u r e . This is not a time t ime for brain-storming or problem-solving. Just breathe the clean air and let nature’s magic work its miracle. Since our body is naturally connected with the invisible web of life-force energy that is present everywhere in nature (yet sadly lacking in our modern, fast-paced urban environments), o u r o w n e n e r g y s y st st e m t e n d s t o r e co c o n n e ct ct t o i t s n a t u r a l r h y t h m w h e n s u r r o u n d e d b y i t .
You do not have to do anything really, just kick back and let it take its course. The results will be faster and more effective if you can turn off your cell phones-temporarily disconnecting from “urgent” questions, issues, and deadlines. This is not lazy indulgence. Rather, it is an investment in your health and well-being and, in turn, your future.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --27
Meditation In a study reported on by the U.S. top rated journalist show 20/20 on the ABC national network in 2006, meditation turned out to be the most effective way to counteract stress on personal and professional levels. This finding is not surprising, given that the beneficial effects of meditation have been known for hundreds (perhaps thousands) of years in many cultures.
The practice of offering employees weekly sessions of guided meditation has been adopted by some corporations and feedback from the participants has been very positive. In fact, once introduced to this practice at work, many have continued to meditate (and reap the benefits) at home as well.
There are a number of meditation techniques available. Below I describe an effective yet fairly general technique that is widely accessible. As a beginner 2 0 t o 3 0 m i n u t es es o f s i m p l e , si si l e n t r e l a x a t i o n c a n d o w o n d e r s t o i n d u c e t h e b o d y i n t o a p a r a sy s y m p a t h e t i c m o d e ( Y i n ) a n d d i s en en g a g e f r o m t h e d a y ’ s a ct ct i v i t y .
Begin by sitting quietly, with eyes closed, in a softly-lit room. Often, after sitting down to relax, a multitude of thoughts will flood your mind, calling your attention away from this silent meditation. This is the “noise” of the stress releasing: It means you’re doing a good job! So, don’t become discouraged. The “noise” will continue for a little while longer (depending on how stressed you are), but eventually-- as your energy system returns to a state of balance-- your mind will calm down and the stream of distracting thoughts will slow down and eventually stop. You may also “fall asleep” while meditating, especially as a beginner. However, what you are experiencing is not real sleep, but rather a state of “unconsciousness” that is caused by the intense release of stress, requiring your your body to completely disengage from activity. Allow it to.
A d o p t i n g t h i s m e d i t a t i v e p r a ct c t i c e b ef e f o r e g o i n g t o s l ee ee p a t n i g h t w i l l g r e at at l y i m p r o v e t h e q u a li l i t y o f y o u r r e st s t , a s y o u ’ l l b e r e l e as as i n g a l a r g e a m o u n t o f s t r e s s b e f o r e g o i n g t o b e d r at a t h e r t h a n d u r i n g t h e n i g h t . Without meditation, the
only opportunity for the Yang-ness accumulated during the day to release may be during sleep. After a particularly Yang-dominated day you may notice this as a result
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --28
of tossing and turning while trying to fall asleep, or by waking up multiple times during the night.
S i m i l a r l y , a 1 0 t o 2 0 m i n u t e m e d i t a t i v e p r a c t i ce c e i n t h e m o r n i n g , after grooming
and eating breakfast but before leaving the house, c a n h e l p y o u c en en t e r y o u r s e l f a n d f o c u s o n t h e t a s k s o f t h e d a y . And, when facing a particularly difficult day,
taking a 10 minute break for a brief meditation session will help you release the tension and get back on track so that you don’t have to carry that burden for the rest of the day.
In the beginning the results may not be immediately obvious. But, if you give it a chance by practicing mediation daily for a week or two, you’ll see that the benefits are truly priceless.
Yoga, Tai Qi and Qi Gong These low-impact, stress-reducing, ancient exercises are ideal to calmly transition between the activity of the day and into a state of deep relaxation. Developed over centuries, they are designed to balance, calm, and revitalize. The repeated patterns of gentle movements release tension, increase circulation, and bring quiet to the nervous system. Some companies now offer their employees passes to local Yoga, Tai Qi, or Qi Gong centers as part of their benefit package.
Please note that some exercises are designed to activate the energy system and hence, are more suited for a morning practice to kick off the day rather than for afterhours relaxation. Discuss your goals with your instructor before beginning your practice, or, for a home practice, carefully read the instructions on the case of your DVD to make sure the routine is right for you.
Massage The benefits of Swedish and Shiatsu massages have not only been recognized for centuries, but have been widely analyzed and promoted by masters of healing, such as Deepak Chopra, Dr. Andrew Wail, and Dr. Christiane Northrup.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --29
Today, more and more companies are offering 15 minute chair massages (focusing on the neck, shoulders, and back), as a weekly treat to their employees during regular office hours. Others, like Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, and Microsoft, encourage their employees to have massages once a week as part of their wellness program. These c o m p a n y p o l i c i es es n o t o n l y h a v e r e s u l t e d i n i n c r e a s ed ed e m p l o y e e r e t e n t i o n r a t e s a n d d e c r e a s ed ed s i c k l e a v e , b u t a l s o h a v e i m p r o v e d t h e i r a p p l i c an an t p o o l s .
Sleep As mentioned earlier in this report n o t h i n g i s m o r e e f f e ct ct i v e f o r r e s t o r i n g g o o d h e a lt l t h a n d r e j u v e n a t i n g y o u r e n e r g y s y s t e m t h a n a g o o d n i g h t o f s o u n d s l ee ee p
(preferably, every night). If sleeping problems have become chronic and all else has failed, perhaps you should consider consulting a medical doctor or doctor of Traditional Chinese medicine. In my experience, acupuncture can be very effective for releasing stress and curing insomnia. In fact, many allopathic doctors now refer patients to acupuncturists to treat these aliments.
The ultimate goal of all the various relaxation techniques previously described in this chapter is to help you release the accumulated stress before going to sleep so that your sleep can be as restful and rejuvenating as possible. With this goal in mind, Fe n g Sh Sh u i c a n b e e x t r e m e l y u s e f u l t o c r e a t i n g a c o m f o r t a b l e a n d s a f e s l ee ee p i n g e n v i r o n m e n t . B u t t h i s i s a m a t t e r f o r a d i f f e r en e n t p l a ce ce a n d t i m e .
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --30
1)
Reduce the use of glaring florescent lighting to a minimum. Natural light and fresh air are always preferable. To reduce excessive exposure and “fish-bowleffect”, use window treatments.
2)
In locating a desk, whenever possible, always provide direct views to an entrance. Avoid placing an employee in a direct line with the door of an office or a cubicle.
3)
Colors like green, blue-green, and blue will do well. Avoid the extensive use of white on walls. Avoid patterns, especially multiple or clashing patterns of colors or textures.
4)
Plants and water in general will do well in highly stressful environments, as long as they don’t create more clutter (and more stress).
5)
De-clutter and organize desk and storage spaces – including digital - and create more storage space whenever necessary.
6)
Place desks in the “power position”, with the back to a solid wall rather than an open space. All desks should be “floating”, rather then facing the wall, when doing most of your work.
7)
In a cubicle, the main working surface should be positioned facing toward the hallway, separated with a medium-height partition.
8)
For the open plan, I suggest using medium height partition or bookshelves to reproduce the “power position” behind the employees’ back.
9)
Use advanced Feng Shui techniques to activate specific supportive directions based on date of birth or building orientation.
10)
To reduce stress and promote well-being, practice a moderate and balanced lifestyle. Remember: stress shouldn’t be an excuse for poor behavior inside, or outside, the office.
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --31
At the end of the day w e ar a r e w h a t w e d o m o r e t h a n w e t h i n k and, well… many of us feel that life is too short to spend it in an environment that doesn’t support our well-being or worse, creates toxicity in our lives in the form of unwanted and not needed stress that adversely effects our health so we end up inevitably taking it home, contaminating our personal and family lives with it.
In light of my studies, and both my professional and personal experiences, experiences, u s i n g Fe n g Sh S h u i t o c r e at a t e a b a l a n ce ce d w o r k i n g e n v i r o n m e n t i s t h e u l t i m a t e s o u n d business investm ent, for:
1)
The company will have a “leg up” on the competition in terms of being strategically supported in creating more wealth and productivity.
2)
The financial and functional benefits of having less used sick days and reduced employee turn-over results.
3)
The added benefits of creating higher employee morale, less arguments, and more cohesive teamwork-- as much between the employees as between the executives-- increases productivity and performance as well as overall corporate pride.
4)
And lastly, the lower stress level carried from work will extend to the employees personal and family life, begetting less stress at home and thus bouncing back as less stress returning back into the workplace.
I n l i g h t o f t h e se s e c on o n s i d e r a t i o n s , b u s i n e ss s s es e s ca ca n ’ t g o w r o n g : U t i l iz i z i n g Fe Fe n g Sh Sh u i t o c r e a t e a “ Z e en n W o r k p l a ce ce ” i s t h e u l t i m a t e w i n - w i n s ol ol u t i o n .
________________________________________________________________________ Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --32
SIMONA F. MAININI, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master D r . S i m o n a F. M a i n i n i is a Doctor in Architecture, Italian licensed architect, and a Feng Shui Master who uses Traditional Feng Shui to help others increase health, abundance and well being in their lives.
In 1997 she created Fe n g S h u i F o r A r c h i t e c t u r e , a f u l l - s c a l e Fe Fe n g S h u i c o n s u l t i n g f i r m that has been pioneering the field of Feng Shui application in the United States and Europe, helping hundreds of clients by providing thorough consultations. In particular, she has specialized in projects under design, new construction, and renovation. One of her latest largescale project dealt with the new Golden Monkey Exhibit at the Los Angeles Zoo, opening in 2008, which gained world-wide exposure for being the first animal enclosure designed with Feng Shui principals. D r . M ai ai n i n i h a s b e en en d u b b e d “ t h e e x p e r t ” i n t h e f i e l d o f Fe Fe n g Sh S h u i to hire when you’re looking for answers about Feng Shui. Some areas of interest include stress reduction in corporate offices, increasing business revenues, attaining personal and professional goals, improving teens study habits, health and wellness, home renovation, real estate development, animal habitats, interior design, garden design and many others. H e r c l i e n t s h a v e i n c l u d e d corporations, casinos, animal habitats, b usiness executives, homeowners, developers, diplomats, manufacturing plants, movie production companies, spiritual leaders, and celebrities. “By assisting them in correcting their "big" Feng Shui problems, we have helped them bring in the well being, financial prosperity, and success that they want and deserve.” D r . M a i n i n i t e a c h e s Fe n g S h u i F o r D e s i g n e r s a n d A r c h i t e c t s f o r t h e A r c h I D P r o g r a m a t U CL CL A E x t e n s i o n and is the a u t h o r o f Fe n g S h u i f o r A r c h i t e c t u r e . She is currently at work on her new book of which this report represents a preview. For more information, please visit w w w . f e n g s h u i a r c h . c o m or e-mail S i m o n a M @ s b c g l o b a l . n e t
Copyright
2 0 0 7 S i m o n a F. F. M a in in i n i , D r . A r c h .
Any publication must credit the author in such form: S i m o n a F . M a i n i n i , D r . A r c h . & F e n g S h u i M a s t e r - F EN EN G SH SH U I F OR OR A RC RCH I T EC ECT U RE RE B e v e r l y H ili l l s , CA - P h o n e ( 1 ) 3 1 0 8 6 0 8 9 8 9 - w w w . f en e n g s h u i a r c h . co co m
________________________________________________________________________
Simona F. Mainini, Dr. Arch. & Feng Shui Master ph. (1) 310.860.8989 - www.fengshuiarch.com www.fengshui arch.com
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WORKPLACE --33