San Francisco set for feng shui law

It was once the home of free love, but San Francisco could soon become the city of positive energy, if a feng shui-enthusiast politician gets his way.

Chinese immigrant Leland Y Yee has proposed a new law which would mean planners have to consider a building’s energy flows as much as its plumbing and electrics.

The 4,000-year-old Chinese art aims to channel positive energy, known as chi, leaving the occupier in a state of harmony.

Buildings, and the objects within them must, be positioned correctly to channel the energy properly.

Mr Yee’s proposal would mean that the California Building Standards Commission would have to adopt standards that would aid feng shui.

The motion must pass the committee stage before progressing to the full Assembly for approval.

“The structure of a building can affect a person’s mood which can influence a person’s behaviour, which, in turn, can determine the success of a person’s personal and professional relationships,” the proposal states.

The ancient art is already popular in California, where developers often consult with feng shui experts.

“The concept of feng shui is a simple one – to improve your life by improving your relationship to the environment around you,” said Mr Yee, who is also a child psychologist.

“Feng shui is an earth science that examines mathematics, physics, geology, astronomy, and architecture, among other sciences.”

Mr Yee, who left China at the age of three, added: “It employs the concepts of balance and harmony, and incorporates natural elements to enhance health, wellbeing and prosperity.”