Vastu Shastra Basics
Vastu Shastra Basics, an ancient Indian architectural and design system, holds that the physical layout and arrangement of buildings can significantly impact the well-being and prosperity of its inhabitants. It combines principles of architecture, astrology, astronomy, and metaphysics to guide building design and construction. Vastu Shastra encompasses fundamental principles and guidelines that aim to create harmonious living spaces in alignment with the natural energies of the universe.
Orientation and Direction
One of the primary considerations in Basic Vastu Shastra is building orientation and direction. Each cardinal direction—north, south, east, and west—holds significant importance. Specific elements, deities, and energies are associated with each direction. The ideal orientation is to have the main entrance facing east, as it brings positive energy and light into the building. Let’s explore the significance of each direction.
North Direction
The north direction is associated with the deity Kubera, which represents wealth and prosperity. It is considered auspicious to have open spaces or water bodies in the north to enhance positive energies related to financial abundance.
East Direction
The east direction is associated with the deity Surya (the Sun) and symbolizes vitality and enlightenment. Having the main entrance facing east allows morning sunlight to enter the building, creating a positive and energetic environment.
West Direction
The West is traditionally associated with the deity Varuna, who represents water and is associated with emotional stability. However, it is generally considered less favorable for the main entrance.
South Direction
The south direction is associated with Yama, who represents discipline and introspection. While the main entrance in the south is generally discouraged, other rooms like bedrooms or offices can be located in the southern part of the building.
The Five Elements
Vastu Shastra revolves around the concept of the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—which are believed to exist in varying proportions in different directions and influence energy flow. In basic of vastu Balancing these elements is crucial to creating a harmonious environment. Here’s how each element is associated with specific directions:
Earth (Prithvi)
The earth element is associated with stability, strength, and nourishment. It is predominant in the southwest direction, and locating heavy structures or foundational elements in this area is believed to provide stability to the building.
Water (Jal)
Water is associated with purity, rejuvenation, and wealth. Placing water bodies or fountains in the north or east is believed to enhance positive energies and attract abundance.
Fire (Agni)
Fire symbolizes energy, transformation, and passion. It is associated with the southeast direction, making it an ideal location for the kitchen, where fire is naturally present.
Air (Vayu)
The air element represents movement, communication, and freshness. The northeast direction is associated with this element, and having open spaces or windows in this area allows for positive energy inflow.
Space (Akasha)
The space element represents openness, expansion, and connectivity. The central part of the building, known as Brahmasthan, is associated with this element. Keeping this area open or occupied by a puja room or courtyard promotes positive energies.
Design principles
Basic Vastu Shastra provides guidelines for the layout and design of rooms, corridors, and other architectural elements within a building. Adhering to these principles creates a balanced and harmonious living environment. Consider the following design principles of basic vastu:
Proportions and Shape
Rooms should have proportionate dimensions and regular shapes without irregular corners. This promotes balance and harmony within the space.
Brahmasthan
The central part of the building, the Brahmasthan, is sacred. It is advised to keep this area open or utilize it for a puja room or courtyard, allowing positive energy to flow freely.
Zones and Functions
Vastu Shastra divides a building into different zones based on their functions. Each zone has specific characteristics and should be utilized accordingly to maximize positive energy. For example,
- North-east: Associated with knowledge and learning, making it ideal for a study room or library.
- South-east: Connected to the fire, making it suitable for the kitchen.
- North-west: Associated with air and social interactions, making it suitable for guest rooms or living rooms.
Staircases and elevators
Staircases and elevators should be placed in the south, west, or southwest parts of the building, as these areas are suitable for vertical movement. However, the exact placement may depend on specific factors, such as the building’s shape and individual horoscopes.
Room placements
Vastu Shastra provides recommendations for the placement of different rooms within a building. These guidelines are based on the energies associated with each direction and the intended purpose of the room. Consider the following room placements:
Bedroom
The bedroom is best located southwest. This placement promotes rest, relaxation, and security.
Living room
The living room is ideally placed in the north or east direction to facilitate social interactions and positivity. It should be well-lit and spacious to create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
Kitchen
The southeast direction is considered favorable for the kitchen, as it is associated with the fire element. The kitchen placement in this direction is believed to enhance positive energies related to nourishment and health.
Bathrooms and toilets
Bathrooms and toilets should be placed in the north-west or south-east corners of the building. It is critical to ensure proper plumbing and sanitation to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Colors and materials
Basic Vastu Shastra suggests using appropriate colors and materials in interior design to enhance energy flow. Colors are associated with specific emotions and energies. Consider the following color associations:
- Blue: Symbolizes tranquility, peace, and spiritual well-being.
- Green: Represents harmony, growth, and freshness.
- Yellow: Stimulates intellectual activities and creativity.
- Red: Enhances energy, passion, and vitality.
The choice of materials, such as wood, stone, and metal, is also influenced by their elemental properties and impact on building energy. For instance, wood is associated with growth and stability, while metal is linked to strength and clarity.
Energy Flow and Clutter
Vastu Shastra emphasizes maintaining a smooth flow of energy, known as prana, within a building. Clutter and obstructions in the form of furniture or objects can disrupt energy flow and create negative vibes. To promote positive energy:
- Keep the space clean, organized, and free of unnecessary items.
- Ensure proper ventilation and natural light to allow positive energy to circulate freely.
- Avoid stagnant or dirty water, as it creates negative energy.
Open spaces, such as courtyards or gardens, can also channel positive energy throughout the building.
Remedies and corrections
Vastu Shastra offers remedies and corrections for existing buildings that violate its principles. These remedies involve specific rituals, rearrangements, or modifications to balance the energies. Some common remedies include:
- Mirrors strategically redirect energy.
- Using specific colors or symbols in interior design.
- Performing rituals like Vastu puja or havan to cleanse and energize the space.
These remedies aim to rectify Vastu-related imbalances and create a more harmonious living environment.
External factors
Vastu Shastra also considers external factors that influence building energy. The surrounding environment, including the land, slopes, water bodies, and neighboring structures, can impact energy flow. Considerations for external factors include:
- Selecting a plot of land with favorable characteristics, such as a regular shape and a gentle slope.
- Avoid plots with obstructions, such as large trees or buildings casting shadows on the property.
Individual factors
Vastu Shastra recognizes that each individual is unique, and their specific needs and characteristics should be considered while applying its principles. Factors like birth date, zodiac sign, and astrological influences are considered to create personalized Vastu recommendations. By aligning the building’s energies with the individual’s birth chart, a more favorable and harmonious living environment can be created.
Conclusion
While Vastu Shastra has rich historical and cultural significance, it is essential to approach it with an open mind. It is essential to consider it as one of many factors in creating a comfortable and functional living space. Modern architectural practices and personal preferences should also be taken into account to strike a balance between tradition and contemporary lifestyle requirements. By incorporating Vastu Shastra basics, individuals can create living spaces that promote positive energy, well-being, and prosperity.
