Vastu Shastra Basics for Your Home
Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and design, provides a framework for creating harmonious living spaces. While achieving full Vastu compliance may be challenging, you can start by addressing negative energies and correcting Vastu Doshas (flaws) in your home. By aligning your living space with the principles of Vastu, you can enhance the flow of positive energy, promoting health, prosperity, and well-being.
Understanding Vastu Shastra
Vastu Shastra is based on the interplay of the five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and space. These elements, influenced by natural forces such as the sun, wind, and moon, have a profound impact on our lives. By balancing these elements according to Vastu principles, you can harness their benefits and create a more harmonious living environment.
Significance of Eight Directions
Vastu Shastra emphasizes the importance of the eight directions in a home:
- North: Associated with wealth.
- South: Linked to dharma and moral values.
- East: Represents prosperity and success.
- West: Also related to prosperity and overall success.
- North-East: Ideal for spiritual growth and meditation.
- North-West: Beneficial for social interactions and relationships.
- South-East: Suitable for the kitchen and financial stability.
- South-West: Best for the master bedroom and stability.
Key Vastu Principles for Your Home
- Shape and Layout:
- Rooms should preferably be square or rectangular.
- Ensure rooms are airy, well-lit, and clean, including corners.
- Central Space:
- Keep the center of the house open and free of obstructions.
- Furniture and Stairs:
- Place heavy furniture in the South-West direction.
- If building a duplex, position stairs in the South-West.
- Water Elements:
- Avoid water features in the bedroom.
- Dining Area:
- Position the dining area near the kitchen, not near the main door.
- Mirror Placement:
- Avoid placing mirrors in the bedroom where they reflect the bed.
Auspicious Directions for Key Areas
- Kitchen: South-East or South. Keep the stove and sink separate.
- Bathroom: Avoid South-West. Use light colors and place mirrors wisely.
- Master Bedroom: South-West. Use soothing colors and solid wooden beds.
- Study Room: North-East, East, or West. Avoid hanging bookshelves.
Auspicious Directions as per Vastu Shastra
| Structural Positions | North | South | East | West | North East | North West | South East | South West |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen |  | | Avoid! | Best | ||||
| Staircase | | | Avoid! | | | Best | ||
| Toilet | | | | Avoid! | Best | | ||
| Boring or U-Ground Tank | | | Best | Avoid! | ||||
| Temple | | | | Best | | | ||
| Over Head Tank | | Best | | |||||
| Master Bedroom | | | | | Best | |||
| Kids Room | | | | | | |||
| Guest Room | | | | Best | | |||
| Living Room | | | | | Best | |
Gateway (Entrance) of the House
The entrance door is crucial in Vastu, as it sets the tone for energy flow into your home:
- Material: Use high-quality wooden doors, preferably teak.
- Light and Cleanliness: Keep the area around the main door well-lit and clean. Avoid clutter such as trash and shoes.
- Door Mechanism: Ensure the main door opens inward and regularly oil the hinges.
- Decor: Avoid dark or inauspicious colors. Consider adding auspicious elements like elegant nameplates.
Living Room
As a central space where family members gather, the living room should be designed to enhance positivity:
- Aquarium: Place it on the North or East wall.
- Decor: Use bright, vibrant colors like yellow, green, beige, or blue. Avoid clutter and maintain an open central space.
Kitchen
To ensure a Vastu-compliant kitchen:
- Sink and Stove: Keep them separate.
- Fridge Placement: Position it in the South-West corner.
- Avoid Sharing Walls: Ensure the kitchen doesn’t share a wall with the washroom.
Bedroom
Bedrooms should promote rest and relaxation:
- Master Bedroom: Place it in the South-West.
- Bed Orientation: Avoid sleeping with your head towards the North.
- Avoid Overhanging Beams: Use solid wooden beds.
Study Room
For optimal concentration and study:
- Table Placement: Position the study table in the North-East, East, or West.
- Shape and Orientation: Use a square or rectangular table and avoid facing a blank wall.
Conclusion
Even if your home is not entirely Vastu compliant, implementing these basic principles can help improve the energy flow and correct Vastu Doshas. By aligning your home with Vastu Shastra, you can create a more balanced and harmonious living environment, enhancing your overall well-being.
