Feng Shui Research: Advancing an Ancient Discipline with Science
The ancient Chinese practice of feng shui, which harmonises individuals with their environments, is gaining renewed academic attention. Contemporary feng shui researchers, including Jan Cisek, are increasingly exploring feng shui’s principles through scientific methodologies, progressing this art and philosophy into a more evidence-based discipline. In his lecture, “Feng Shui Research: Advancing an Ancient Discipline with Science,” Cisek highlights the interdisciplinary studies, particularly within environmental psychology, that are reshaping feng shui to meet the demands of modern living. This new evidence-based approach bridges traditional wisdom with contemporary scientific inquiry, reinforcing feng shui’s relevance in today’s urban and architectural practices.
21 September 2024, Zoom, 13:15 FREE – watch this presentation below
If you want to participate in Jan’s PhD feng shui research click here
Agenda for the presentation
- Differences and similarities between feng shui and environmental sciences
- Volume of studies and the first PhD in 1976
- Meta studies
- Practical application from studies
- My PhD research in feng shui If you want to participate in Jan’s PhD feng shui research click here
- Q&A
Watch this presentation below
Feng Shui and Environmental Sciences: Converging Pathways
Feng shui and environmental sciences share a mutual objective: the optimisation of environments to enhance well-being. However, while feng shui is rooted in Eastern philosophy, focusing on qi (energy flow) and symbolic elements such as Yin and Yang, the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water), and cosmological framework (Heaven, Human, Earth), environmental sciences rely on empirical data, examining factors like lighting, air quality, and ergonomics among other aspects of environmental features. Both disciplines, despite their different methodologies, converge in their commitment to creating environments that promote health and comfort. Cisek’s research offers a pivotal contribution by demonstrating how feng shui’s intuitive and symbolic framework can complement the empirical, data-driven approach of environmental sciences, thus enhancing the efficacy of both disciplines in designing healthier and more productive environments for working and living.
Evolution of Feng Shui Studies
Research into feng shui has notably expanded since the first PhD in the subject was awarded in 1976. This growing body of literature spans fields from architecture and urban planning to environmental psychology. Meta-analyses have emerged as crucial tools, synthesising data across numerous studies to offer a broader understanding of feng shui’s efficacy. Cisek’s thesis claims that the strategic placement of furniture and natural elements measurably reduces stress, enhances mood, and improves cognitive function.
Feng Shui is Not Science (yet)
Despite its increasing popularity and integration into areas such as environmental psychology and biophilic design, feng shui cannot be accurately described as a science from a mainstream scientific perspective. The term ‘science’ remains highly problematic and inaccurate when applied to feng shui due to the lack of a robust ontological and epistemological framework to substantiate it as a formal scientific discipline. While there are overlaps with scientifically supported fields like biophilia, borrowing elements from these areas does not elevate feng shui to the level of science. For instance, biophilia is a well-established theory backed by rigorous empirical research, but its conceptual relationship to feng shui cannot be used as direct evidence of feng shui’s efficacy without more thorough investigation. Therefore, feng shui, while valuable in its cultural and philosophical contexts, does not currently meet the criteria required to be recognised as a science. Read why feng shui is not science
Practical, Evidence-based Applications of Feng Shui
Feng shui principles are increasingly applied in modern urban and interior design. Singapore’s urban planners, for instance, have integrated feng shui into the city’s layout, ensuring a harmonious flow of energy. Similarly, contemporary architects now incorporate feng shui into home and office designs, aligning buildings with auspicious directions and optimising internal layouts to promote productivity and well-being. Cisek’s research emphasises the seamless integration of feng shui within modern architectural practices, not only for personal well-being but also for improving business outcomes.
During the presentation, Jan Cisek will delve into practical applications of feng shui that are supported by evidence-based research, offering attendees a more grounded and scientifically informed understanding of the discipline. By drawing on studies from environmental psychology, biophilic design, and other related fields, Jan will illustrate how feng shui principles can be effectively applied in both home and workplace environments. This approach ensures that participants can have greater confidence in the efficacy of these applications, knowing they are grounded in research that demonstrates measurable impacts on well-being, productivity, and overall harmony in various settings. Whether you are looking to enhance the energy flow in your living space or optimise your office for better performance, these evidence-backed strategies will provide you with practical tools that can be adapted to different contexts and needs. Read: Is feng shui a science?
Cisek’s PhD Research: Feng Shui in Scientific Contexts
Cisek’s PhD research pioneers the validation of traditional feng shui principles through scientific methods, particularly within environmental psychology. His work focuses on how spatial arrangements affect psychological and emotional well-being, using quantitative measures like psychophysiological responses to assess feng shui’s impact. For instance, his studies explore the neuropsychological effects of design elements such as the placement of furniture substantiating feng shui’s practical benefits beyond its symbolic roots.
If you want to participate in Jan’s PhD feng shui research click here
Conclusion: A Scientific Evolution of Feng Shui
Jan Cisek’s research underscores the transformation of feng shui from an ancient tradition into a scientifically grounded discipline. By merging ancient wisdom with modern scientific methodologies, Cisek advances feng shui into an evidence-based practice with measurable benefits for personal, transpersonal and environmental well-being. His work not only revitalises feng shui’s role in modern architecture and urban planning but also establishes its relevance in enhancing health and productivity across various environments.
21 September 2024, Zoom, 13:15 FREE
If you want to participate in Jan’s PhD feng shui research click here