7 Points How Vastu Shastra Works: Understanding Principles and Applications

Introduction

Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian science of architecture, aims to harmonize living and working spaces with natural forces to promote health, wealth, peace, and prosperity. Based on principles derived from natural laws, Vastu Shastra outlines guidelines for the orientation, design, and layout of structures to ensure a balanced flow of energy. This guide explains how Vastu Shastra works and the fundamental principles behind its application.

1. The Five Elements (Panchabhutas)

Vastu Shastra is based on the belief that the universe comprises five fundamental elements, known as the Panchabhutas. These elements are Earth (Bhumi), Water (Jala), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Space (Akasha). Each element is associated with specific directions and qualities:

• Earth (Bhumi): Represents stability and fertility, associated with the southwest direction.
• Water (Jala): Symbolizes purification and flow, associated with the northeast direction.
• Fire (Agni): Represents energy and transformation, associated with the southeast direction.
• Air (Vayu): Symbolizes movement and life force, associated with the northwest direction.
• Space (Akasha): Represents the infinite and all-encompassing, associated with the center of the structure.

How It Works:
Vastu principles aim to balance these five elements within a structure. For Example, placing water elements like fountains or water tanks in the northeast and maintaining a clear center (Brahmasthan) ensures a harmonious flow of energy, aligning the building with natural forces.

Example Application:
In a home, placing the kitchen in the southeast (fire element) helps channel the fire energy positively, promoting health and prosperity.

2. The Eight Cardinal Directions

Vastu Shastra divides space into eight cardinal directions, each governed by a specific deity and associated with different attributes:

• North (Kubera): Wealth and prosperity.
• Northeast (Ishanya): Spiritual growth and clarity.
• East (Indra): New beginnings and progress.
• Southeast (Agni): Energy and strength.
• South (Yama): Strength and discipline.
• Southwest (Nairutya): Stability and support.
• West (Varuna): Fulfillment and satisfaction.
• Northwest (Vayu): Movement and change.

How It Works:
By understanding the attributes of each direction, Vastu recommends specific placements and orientations for various rooms and objects within a building. For instance, the northeast direction, governed by Ishanya (god of wisdom), is considered ideal for a meditation or prayer room.

Example Application:
In an office, placing the reception area in the northeast ensures a welcoming and positive environment, attracting good fortune and opportunities.

3. The Importance of Directions and Orientation

The orientation of a building and its rooms plays a crucial role in Vastu Shastra. The direction a building faces determines how it interacts with the natural elements, particularly sunlight and wind.

How It Works:
Vastu emphasizes the importance of sunlight, especially the morning sun, which is considered beneficial for health and well-being. East-facing entrances are highly recommended as they allow maximum exposure to early morning sunlight, bringing positive energy into the space.

Example Application:
Designing a house with large windows facing east ensures ample sunlight, enhancing the flow of positive energy and promoting health and vitality.

4. The Concept of Energy Flow (Prana)

Vastu Shastra is deeply connected to the concept of Prana (life force or energy). The flow of Prana within a space is believed to influence the occupants' health, mood, and overall well-being.

How It Works:
Vastu guidelines are designed to ensure an unobstructed and balanced flow of Prana throughout a building. This involves the strategic placement of doors, windows, furniture, and other elements to allow energy to circulate freely, avoiding stagnation or negative energy accumulation.

Example Application:
Keeping the central part of a home (Brahmasthan) open and clutter-free is essential for a balanced energy flow, promoting harmony and well-being for the occupants.

5. Vastu for Different Rooms and Spaces

Vastu Shastra provides specific guidelines for each room or space within a building, ensuring optimal energy alignment:

• Living Room: Ideally placed in the northeast or north to promote social interactions and positivity.
• Kitchen: Should be in the southeast (fire element) to enhance health and prosperity.
• Bedroom: Best located in the southwest for stability and restful sleep.
• Bathroom: Should be in the northwest or west to minimize negative energy and maintain hygiene.

How It Works:
By following Vastu recommendations for each room, the energy flow within the entire building is harmonized, enhancing the well-being and prosperity of the occupants.

Example Application:
Positioning the master bedroom in the southwest corner of a house provides stability and promotes restful sleep, contributing to overall well-being.

6. Use of Colors and Materials

Colors and materials play a significant role in Vastu Shastra, as they are believed to influence the energy within a space. Each color and material is associated with a particular element and direction.

How It Works:
Vastu suggests using specific colors and materials based on the direction and purpose of a room. For Example, using light blue or green in the northeast (water element) enhances tranquility and spiritual growth.

Example Application:
Incorporating natural materials like wood and stone in the southwest (earth element) adds stability and grounding energy to a space, enhancing security and support.

7. Remedies and Corrections (Vastu Dosha Remedies)

If a building or space does not align with Vastu principles, certain remedies (Vastu Dosha remedies) can be applied to mitigate negative effects and enhance positive energy.

How It Works:
Remedies may include placing specific objects, such as mirrors, crystals, plants, or colors, in particular locations to counteract negative influences and restore balance.

Example Application:
Placing a mirror on the north wall can enhance wealth and opportunities by reflecting positive energy and expanding space.

Conclusion: How Vastu Works

Vastu Shastra works by aligning living and working spaces with natural forces and cosmic energies. It emphasizes the balance of elements, optimal orientation, and harmonious energy flow to create environments that support health, prosperity, and well-being. While the effectiveness of Vastu is debated, many people find comfort and perceived benefits in following its principles, believing it enhances their lives.