Vastu Shastra is an ancient system for construction. The word comes from Vaasa, meaning “habitat or dwelling”. Vastu guides the choice of a site fit for construction, ground preparation, designs, layouts and measurements.
Where Vastu comes from
The Vastu system of architecture originated in ancient India and dates back to around the 5th century AD, when guidelines were laid down for the construction of cities, places of worship, houses and other structures.
The first treatise on Vastu is the “Bhrugu Samhita”, written by one of the most knowledgeable and respected ancient seers, “Varahamihira”.
The five elements of Vastu
Vastu places emphasis on architecture that uses the five basic elements in a proper and proportional way, so that the human body is in harmony with nature and peace and prosperity are bestowed upon us. In ancient times, all the elements were used optimally to build comfortable, ideal homes.
- Spaceethereal
- Airatmosphere
- Firesun
- Earth
- Water
All the elements exist in nature in certain set proportions, so they were optimised in similar proportions for human use. For example, excessive water can cause floods, and excessive sun rays or ultraviolet rays can cause heat and fire.
Hence the impact of wind velocity, the magnetic field, the gravitational field, the intensity of the sun’s rays and the volume of rainfall were all used constructively for human benefit.
The Vastu Purusha Mandala
Vastu designs are based on spatial geometric symmetry, which is purely mathematical in calculation. They use set proportional relationships between squares and diagonals to find the sensitive points where the concentrated energy of all five elements resides.
Ideally these points should be left vacant, with nothing built on them, so that energy flows freely. This mathematical design is known as the “Vastu Purusha Mandala”.
The eight directions in Vastu
Vastu works on the principle of space distribution and the alignment of directions. There are eight basic directions, plus one in the centre, one upward direction and one downward direction. Vastu guides the type of work to be carried out in each direction to get the best result.
The ideal layout of a house, aligned with the suitable direction, is:
North
Keep this area open with minimal construction. Slopes, elevation and vaults are ideally suited to this direction.
Northeast
IshanAn outside street here is good, as it symbolises open space. This area is suited to worship and meditation.
East
Use this direction for the entrance to the house, the living room and the study.
Southeast
AgneyaAll fire-related work, the kitchen, the barbecue and electrical equipment are good in this direction.
South
This part of the house should be closed or blocked with walls. It can be used for water tanks and heavy machinery.
Southwest
NairutyaUse this direction for valuables and the master bedroom.
West
Staircases, bins, bathrooms and toilets are ideal in this direction.
Northwest
VayavyaChildren’s bedrooms, the dining hall and the study room are beneficial in this direction.
Centre
BrahmasthanThis is the sacred Brahmasthan area. It should be left vacant, with provision for the free flow of air. Nothing should be built in this part of the house.
Want Vastu guidance for your home or business?
Dr Gyan Sharma has over 40 years of experience in Vastu and Vedic astrology. Consultations are available remotely and onsite across London and the UK.