Vaastu
Vaastu, also known as Vaastu Shastra, is an ancient Indian system of architecture and
design that aims to harmonize buildings with nature and promote the well-being of the
occupants. Following the principles of Vaastu can create a positive and balanced
environment.
According to Vaastu, various elements such as direction, layout, room placement, and
materials used in construction can impact the energy flow within spaces. The principles
of Vaastu consider factors like the site's location, the orientation of the building,
the placement of rooms, and the arrangement of furniture and objects within the space.
While Vaastu Shastra is commonly associated with designing and constructing residential
buildings, these principles are also applied in commercial real estate settings such as
offices, retail spaces, and other commercial properties. People often consider Vaastu
guidelines to promote harmony, productivity, and workplace success when designing or
setting up commercial spaces. Many businesses and individuals believe that aligning with
Vaastu principles can enhance productivity, financial success, and overall well-being.
Basic Principle of Vaastu
Vaastu Shastra's basic principles aim to create a
harmonious and balanced environment that promotes positivity, prosperity, and
well-being. Here are some of the fundamental principles
- Site Selection: Vaastu can be a tool for
In Vaastu, selecting an appropriate site is crucial, and practitioners consider
factors such as the plot's shape, slope, soil quality, and surrounding environment.
Generally, they prefer square or rectangular plots with regular shapes.
- Orientation:
The orientation of the building plays a significant role in Vaastu. Aligning the
building with the cardinal directions (North, East, South, West) is believed to
bring positive energy.
- Room Placement:In Vaastu, specific guidelines are followed for
different rooms. For instance, practitioners often place the kitchen in the
southeast corner, while they ideally locate the main bedroom in the southwest
direction. They consider each room's purpose and function, including the five
elements and corresponding directions.
- Energy Flow:Vaastu promotes the unimpeded flow of energy throughout
the building. The arrangement of furniture, objects, and architectural features is
considered to avoid blockages or obstructions. Clutter-free environments are
encouraged.
- Space Planning:
The efficient utilization of space is essential in Vaastu. Balancing the placement
of rooms and ensuring the free flow of energy throughout the building is emphasized.
Design considerations include proper ventilation, natural light, and open spaces.
-
Elements & Materials: Vaastu recommends the use of natural and
harmonious materials. Materials like wood, stone, and earthy colors are preferred.
Additionally, incorporating water, fire, air, and space elements in fountains,
fireplaces, ventilation systems, and open spaces is believed to enhance positive
energy.
5 Elements of Vaastu
Vaastu Shastra is based on the concept of five elements, referred to as the Panchabhutas.
These elements are:
-
Earth (Prithvi):Represents stability, strength, and nourishment. It
is associated with the southwest direction and is often related to the foundation
and stability of a building.
-
Water (Jal):Represents cleansing, purity, and vitality. Proper
water placements are significant in Vaastu, such as having a water source or water
bodies in the northeast direction.
-
Fire (Agni):Represents energy, transformation, and warmth. The
ideal placement of fire elements, such as fireplaces or stoves, is often in the
southeast direction.
-
Air (Vayu):Represents movement, freshness, and ventilation. The
placement of windows and ventilation systems to allow the free flow of air is
considered necessary in Vaastu.
-
Space (Akasha):Represents openness, expansiveness, and cosmic
energy. The concept of space includes the building's overall layout, dimensions, and
structure.
These elements influence the energy flow and balance in a space, and adhering to their
proper placement and arrangement is considered necessary in Vaastu Shastra.
Benefits of Vaastu
Following Vaastu Shastra principles can bring several benefits to individuals and spaces.
Some of the claimed benefits of Vaastu include:
Positive Energy:
Vaastu aims to create a harmonious and balanced environment that promotes positive energy
flow and enhances the overall well-being and happiness of the occupants.
Financial Prosperity:
Vaastu is often associated with attracting financial success and abundance. Proper
placement of certain elements, such as the main entrance or the location of the
financial area, is believed to stimulate wealth creation and prosperity.
Improved Relationships:
Vaastu can influence the energy flow within a space, and aligning with the principles can
help improve relationships among family members, friends, and colleagues. A harmonious
and balanced environment promotes better communication and understanding.
Health and Well-being:
Vaastu principles incorporate elements like proper ventilation, natural light, and open
spaces. It promotes a healthy and conducive living or working environment.
Enhanced Productivity:
Vaastu principles can be applied to workspaces to create a positive and energizing
environment. This improves productivity, creativity, and focus among individuals.
Protection from Negativity:
Vaastu uses specific materials, colors, and elements to protect against negative
vibrations or energies. It shields individuals and spaces from negative influences and
promotes a sense of security.
Who should go for Vaastu
People or organizations who believe in the principles of Vaastu Shastra follow it to
create living or working spaces that they perceive as harmonious and balanced. While it
is a matter of personal choice, here are some instances where individuals or
organizations may consider Vaastu:
Residential properties:
Homeowners looking to build or renovate their homes and want to incorporate cultural
beliefs and traditional practices into their living spaces may opt for Vaastu. They may
seek to create a positive and balanced environment for themselves and their families.
Commercial real estate:
Business owners, entrepreneurs, or organizations looking to set up offices, retail
spaces, or other commercial establishments may consider Vaastu principles. They may
believe aligning with Vaastu can create a conducive environment that enhances
productivity, financial success, and overall well-being.
Religious or spiritual establishments:
Temples, ashrams, meditation centres, or other spiritual organizations may incorporate
Vaastu principles in their construction and layout. They may aim to create a sacred and
energetically balanced space for worship and spiritual activities.
Remedies for Vaastu
Vaastu Shastra offers various remedies or corrections to
mitigate any imbalances or negative energies in a space. Here are some common remedies
in Vaastu:
- Use of Colors: The atmosphere of different rooms can be influenced
by choosing colors, as each color holds its unique energies. For example, painting
the walls in soothing colors like light blue or green in the northeast direction can
promote calmness and positivity.
- Placement of Plants:
Indoor plants are considered auspicious in Vaastu as they bring positive energy and
help purify the air. Positioning money plants, bamboo, or peace lilies in suitable
spots can enhance vitality and foster harmony.
- Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces:Strategically placing mirrors in
the house can help expand spaces or redirect energies. Mirrors can rectify Vaastu
defects or enhance positive energy flow in certain areas.
- Feng Shui Elements:Incorporating elements of Feng Shui, another
ancient practice, can be considered in Vaastu remedies. These include wind chimes,
aquariums, or plants like lucky bamboo, which attract positive energy and
prosperity.
- Use of Crystals:Crystals have healing properties. They can be
placed in specific locations to enhance positive energy flow or counteract negative
energies. Clear quartz, amethyst, and rose quartz are popular in Vaastu practices.
Remedies for Residential properties in Vaastu
Here are some common Vaastu remedies
for residential properties:
- Main Entrance: Ensure the house's main entrance is well-maintained, clean, and
clutter-free. It should be well-lit and inviting. Placing a threshold or a
doormat at the entrance is believed to prevent the outflow of positive energy.
- Kitchen: The kitchen is associated with prosperity in Vaastu. Having the kitchen
in the southeast direction of the house is advised. Keep the cooking stove in
the southeast corner and ensure it is not directly in line with the main
entrance or opposite the bedroom. Maintain cleanliness and proper ventilation in
the kitchen.
- Bedroom: The main bedroom is essential for rest and rejuvenation. It should be
in the southwest direction of the house. Place the bed so the head is towards
the south or east while sleeping.
- Bathroom and Toilet: Bathrooms and toilets should ideally be located in the
northwest or southeast corners of the house. Ensure proper sanitation,
cleanliness, and good ventilation in these areas.
- Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces: Placing mirrors strategically within the house
can help reflect and enhance positive energies. Mirrors can also correct Vaastu
defects, such as reflecting an obstructed view or blocked spaces.
- Use of Colors: Colors can influence the energy flow within a space. Soothing and
pleasant colors in the home are advisable. Each room may have its recommended
color schemes based on Vaastu principles.
- Balancing Elements: Balancing the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and
space) within the house is considered necessary in Vaastu. You can accomplish
this by including elements like indoor plants to represent the earth, adding
water features for water, ensuring proper lighting and using candles to
symbolize fire, strategically placing windows to facilitate air circulation, and
maintaining a clutter-free environment for space
It is essential to consult with a recognized Vaastu expert or professional for
personalized remedies and advice specific to your residential property.
Remedies for Commercial Real Estate in Vaastu
Here are some common Vaastu remedies for commercial real estate:
- Main Entrance: The main entrance of the commercial building should
be well-
maintained, clean, and clutter-free. It should have proper lighting
and be easily visible. Placing a threshold or a doormat at the entrance is believed
to prevent the outflow of positive energy.
- Reception Area: The reception area is often visitors' first point
of contact. It is advisable to have the reception area near the entrance, preferably
in the northeast or east direction. Ensure it is well-lit, clean, and welcoming,
with proper seating arrangements.
- Office Placement: The location of different offices or departments
within the commercial space is essential. For example, the administrative or the
CEO's office should be located in the southwest direction, while the marketing or
sales department can be in the northwest direction. Each office should have proper
lighting, ventilation, and comfortable seating arrangements.
- Conference Room: The conference room is where meaningful business
discussions and meetings occur. It is recommended that the conference room be in the
northeast direction of the building. Ensure it is spacious, well-lit, and
rectangular or square if possible.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation throughout the
commercial space. Good air circulation promotes positive energy flow and
productivity. Incorporate windows or use air conditioning systems that allow fresh
air to circulate.
- Employee Workstations: Employees should provide a comfortable and
productive environment. Having workstations facing the east or north is beneficial
and can enhance focus and productivity.
It is essential to consult with a recognized Vaastu expert or professional for
personalized remedies and advice specific to your commercial real estate.
Remedies for Religious or Spiritual establishments in Vaastu
Vaastu principles are important to create a positive and sacred environment
regarding religious or spiritual establishments. Here are some common Vaastu remedies
for such establishments:
- Main Entrance: The main entrance of religious or spiritual
establishments should be grand, inviting, and well-maintained. It should face east
or northeast to attract positive energy. Decorate the entrance with auspicious
symbols or religious motifs.
- Prayer or Meditation Hall: rayer halls or meditation spaces should
be clean, peaceful, and well-ventilated. It is advisable to have the prayer hall in
the northeast or east direction. Keep the space clutter-free and provide comfortable
seating arrangements.
- Placement of Deities: The altar or sanctum where deities are placed
should face northeast. The statues or idols should also face east or west so
worshippers can see clearly. Ensure that the deities are placed at an appropriate
height and kept clean.
- Pooja Room or Sacred Area: Create a designated pooja room or sacred
area for devotees to perform religious rituals or ceremonies. This space should be
in the northeast or east direction. Please keep it clean, well-organized, and free
from unwanted items or clutter.
- Lighting: Lighting plays a significant role in religious
establishments. Natural light is considered auspicious, so maximize the use of
windows or skylights to allow sunlight to enter the space. Artificial lighting
should be soft and create a serene ambiance.
- Water Features: Water features like fountains or small ponds can be
placed in the northeast direction, symbolizing purification and positive energy.
Ensure the water is clean and flowing.
Every religious establishment may have unique beliefs and practices, so it is essential
to consult with the respective religious leaders or experts who can provide guidance
specific to the traditions and customs followed. Working with a recognized Vaastu expert
or professional who can understand the particular requirements and provide personalized
remedies based on Vaastu principles is advisable.
Why is Vaastu Shastra good for a house
Many people find Vaastu Shastra suitable for their homes because it strives to create a
living environment that is harmonious and balanced, potentially benefiting the
well-being of the residents. Here are some reasons why Vaastu Shastra is considered
beneficial for a house:
- Positive Energy: Vaastu Shastra focuses on optimizing positive
energy flow, also known as "prana" or life force energy, within a house. Aligning
the orientation, layout, and placement of rooms aims to enhance positive energy flow
throughout the house and create a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere that promotes
overall well-being.
- Health and Well-being: Vaastu principles promote the use of natural
light, proper
ventilation, and adequate space planning, which have a positive
impact on physical and mental health. According to Vaastu guidelines, a
well-designed house may offer a conducive environment for relaxation, rejuvenation,
and overall health.
- Harmony and Balance: Vaastu Shastra emphasizes the balance of the
five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space) within a house. When harmoniously
balanced, these elements promote tranquillity, harmony, and a sense of balance among
the occupants.
- Prosperity and Financial Well-being: According to Vaastu, a house
designed according to
its principles can support and attract positive energy,
leading to financial prosperity. Proper placement of the house's main entrance,
bedroom, and financial area stimulates wealth creation and financial well-being.
- Improved Relationships: Vaastu considers the flow of energy within
a house and how it may influence interpersonal relationships. A well-designed house
based on Vaastu principles may help improve communication, harmony, and
understanding among family members, fostering strong and positive relationships.
- Peaceful and Calming Environment: Vaastu Shastra emphasizes the
importance of a peaceful and calming environment in a house. It creates a serene
atmosphere that
supports relaxation and inner peace by incorporating proper ventilation,
natural
materials, and appropriate room placements.
What happens if Vaastu shastra is not correct?
According to believers of Vaastu Shastra, if there are significant Vaastu defects
in a house, they are believed to have specific potential adverse effects. Here are some
common beliefs regarding the consequences of incorrect Vaastu:
- Health Issues: Incorrect Vaastu is often associated with potential
health problems. Living in a house with significant Vaastu defects can lead to
physical and mental health issues.
- Imbalance and Disharmony: Incorrect Vaastu results in an imbalance
of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space) within the house. This
imbalance disrupts positive energy flow, leading to disharmony and a general feeling
of unease among the occupants.
- Relationship Struggles: Incorrect Vaastu can impact personal
relationships. Negative energy resulting from Vaastu defects may lead to increased
conflicts, misunderstandings, and strain on interpersonal relationships within the
household.
- Financial Obstacles: Incorrect Vaastu obstructs financial growth
and prosperity. Negative energy flows resulting from Vaastu defects may hinder
financial opportunities, progress, and wealth accumulation.
- Lack of Mental Peace: Incorrect Vaastu is often associated with a
lack of mental peace and overall well-being. The disruption of positive energy flow
contributes to feelings of stress, restlessness, and anxiety among the occupants.
What are the symptoms of Vaastu-shastra Doshas?
In Vaastu Shastra, doshas are imbalances or defects in the energy flow within a space.
Here are some commonly mentioned symptoms or signs that are considered indicators of
Vaastu doshas:
- Health Issues: Vaastu doshas have an impact on physical health. Some
common
symptoms include frequent illnesses, chronic health conditions, lack of
energy, fatigue, or difficulty recovering from diseases.
- Financial Problems: Imbalances in Vaastu are associated with financial difficulties
or obstacles. Individuals may experience financial losses, business failures,
unexpected expense burdens, or struggles attracting wealth and prosperity.
- Relationship Struggles: Vaastu doshas can affect relationships among family members
or occupants. Symptoms of relationship struggles may include frequent conflicts,
misunderstandings, lack of harmony, strained communication, or lack of emotional
bonding.
- Sleep Disturbances: People living in spaces with Vaastu doshas may
experience
disrupted or restless sleep, manifesting as insomnia, frequent
nightmares, or difficulty experiencing deep and rejuvenating sleep.
- Lack of Concentration and Productivity: Imbalances in Vaastu energies can impact
concentration, focus, and productivity. Individuals may experience mental
sluggishness,or need help completing tasks efficiently.
- Overall Sense of Discomfort: Vaastu doshas can create a general feeling of unease or
discomfort within a space. Individuals may experience restlessness, anxiety, a sense
of negativity, or a lack of overall well-being when spending time in areas affected
by doshas.
FAQs about Vaastu
Here are some frequently asked questions about Vaastu:
- What is Vaastu Shastra?
Vaastu Shastra is an ancient Indian
science of architecture and construction that focuses on creating harmonious living
and working spaces by aligning them with natural elements and cosmic energies.
- Can Vaastu Shastra be applied to all types of building?
Vaastu
Shastra principles find application in various buildings, ranging from
residentialand commercial to religious structures.
- Can Vaastu Shastra improve financial stability?
Aligning the
building with auspicious directions and elements can positively influence financial
stability and prosperity.
- Can Vaastu Shastra be applied to existing building?
Yes,
Vaastu principles can be applied to existing buildings by rearranging furniture,
using color therapy, and incorporating Vaastu-friendly décor.
- What are some common Vaastu remedies for resolving
imbalances?
Install mirrors to redirect energy flow, use specific
colors to balance elements, add plants for purification, and use gemstones or
yantras to energize spaces.