Vastu – Energy Management

Vastuvid & Jyotishi Jayesh Pandya

vastu for home plan

What is Vastu?

Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian science of architecture and design that focuses on the harmony between human life and the natural environment. It is the art and science of creating spaces that promote positive energy, health, success, and prosperity. Derived from the Sanskrit words “Vastu” (meaning structure or dwelling) and “Shastra” (meaning knowledge or science), Vastu principles are based on aligning the elements of nature earth, water, fire, air, and space with human life.

In essence, Vastu is about creating spaces that are in tune with the natural energies of the environment to foster a sense of well-being and balance.

History of Vastu

The origins of Vastu Shastra date back thousands of years to ancient Indian texts and scriptures, particularly the Vedas—the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. The principles of Vastu are first mentioned in the Rig Veda, and over time, detailed descriptions of architectural planning and the placement of elements emerged in texts like:

The other important books of Vedic Vastu include Vishwakarma Prakash, Samrangan Sutradhar, Mayamattam, Aprajait Pruthha etc. In ancient times, Vastu was considered a sacred science, linked to cosmic and spiritual energies. Structures like temples, homes, and palaces were meticulously designed according to Vastu principles, ensuring alignment with celestial bodies, the sun, and the wind, as well as promoting peace and prosperity in the lives of the inhabitants.

History of Vastu

Why is Vastu Required?

Balance and Harmony

Vastu helps create balanced environments by considering the natural elements and energy flows within a space. A well-balanced space fosters mental peace, physical health, and emotional well-being.

Energy Alignment

Vastu takes into account how different directions (North, South, East, West) interact with the natural forces (sunlight, wind, magnetic fields). Proper alignment optimizes energy flow, promoting good fortune and prosperity.

Improved Quality of Life

Following Vastu principles can help remove obstacles, reduce stress, and enhance happiness, health, and success in both personal and professional spheres.

Preventing Negative Energy

Spaces that are not designed according to Vastu may result in stagnation of energy, leading to financial struggles, poor health, and other negative outcomes. Vastu remedies correct these imbalances.

Vastu Purush: The Divine Being of Vastu Shastra

In Vastu Shastra, the concept of Vastu Purush holds a central place. It is a symbolic representation of the spirit or energy that governs the land or the environment where a building or structure is situated. Understanding Vastu Purush is fundamental to understanding how Vastu works in creating harmonious and prosperous spaces.

Who is Vastu Purush?

Vastu Purush is considered the deity or the “spirit of the land” who resides in every plot or property. The term “Vastu” means space or structure, and “Purush” means person or energy. The Vastu Purush represents the essence of the plot and its energy, overseeing the flow of positive or negative energy that will influence the inhabitants.

Mythological Origin of Vastu Purush

Vastu Purush is considered the deity or the “spirit of the land” who resides in every plot or property. The term “Vastu” means space or structure, and “Purush” means person or energy. The Vastu Purush represents the essence of the plot and its energy, overseeing the flow of positive or negative energy that will influence the inhabitants.

The Cosmic Struggle

Once, there was a battle between the gods and the demons. The gods, seeking to create a peaceful and prosperous universe, invoked the power of Brahma, the creator of the world.

Capture by the Gods

In this cosmic battle, Vastu Purush, a divine being, was created by Brahma to help maintain harmony and order on the Earth. Vastu Purush was said to be a gigantic figure, whose body covered the land.

Improved Quality of Life

As Vastu Purush grew, he became so large that he began to disturb the cosmic balance. The gods, in an effort to keep him under control, pinned him down to the Earth using the divine powers of Indra and other celestial beings.

Vastu Purush's Position

As Vastu Purush was pinned to the Earth, his body formed the Vastu Purush Mandala (the energy grid of the land). His head is said to be in the northeast (Ishan), the most auspicious zone for spiritual energy, while his feet are in the southwest (Nairutya), the area of stability.

The Vastu Purush Mandala is a 9×9 grid (81 squares) in which the body of Vastu Purush is symbolically mapped to represent the different directions and zones within a building or plot.

The Vastu Purush Mandala

The Vastu Purush Mandala is a key element in Vastu Shastra. It is a symbolic map or diagram that outlines the layout of a space based on the energy and direction associated with the Vastu Purush’s body. The 81-square grid (9×9) is used to determine how the different areas of the space will impact the residents, depending on their positioning relative to the Vastu Purush’s body.
Head (Northeast)

The head of Vastu Purush lies in the northeast direction (Ishan), which is considered the most auspicious and spiritually beneficial area of a space. This direction is linked to knowledge, wisdom, and prosperity. It is ideal for prayer rooms, temples, or meditation areas.

Hands (East and West)

The east and west areas represent the arms of Vastu Purush, which are associated with communication, intellect, and relationships. These areas should ideally be kept open and free of clutter to promote healthy interactions and flow of energy.

Legs (Southwest)

The southwest direction (Nairutya) represents the feet of Vastu Purush. This is a direction that signifies stability, support, and grounding. It is the best area for placing the master bedroom or for foundational structures, as it is believed to provide strength and security to the residents.

Central Area (Brahmasthan)

The central zone (Brahmasthan) of the Vastu Purush Mandala is where the energy flow of the entire structure converges. It is the heart of the space, and it must be kept clean, open, and clutter-free to ensure that positive energy circulates properly throughout the property.

Importance of Vastu Purush in Building Design

In Vastu Shastra, the layout of a building or plot is designed to respect and align with the flow of energy represented by Vastu Purush. The physical orientation, as well as the positioning of rooms and spaces, should align with the directions and energies associated with the body of Vastu Purush to create a harmonious environment.

  • Proper Placement of Rooms: Rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms should be strategically placed according to the Vastu Purush Mandala to ensure that the energy flow is optimized. For example:

    • Kitchens: Should ideally be in the southeast (Agni zone), as this is the direction associated with Fire, representing energy, heat, and vitality.
    • Master Bedrooms: Should be placed in the southwest (Nairutya), which provides stability and strength for the head of the household.
    • Living Rooms: Should ideally be in the north or east, ensuring good communication and social energy.

  • Energy Flow: The layout should respect the flow of energy as symbolized by Vastu Purush’s body. For instance, doors and windows should be placed where they allow smooth movement of energy, and walls should be positioned in a way that avoids blocking or obstructing this flow.

Advantages of Vastu

Health Benefits :
Vastu encourages the correct positioning of rooms, entrances, and elements, which can lead to a reduction in physical and mental stress, ensuring better health and vitality for the occupants.
Financial Growth :
A Vastu-compliant home or workspace can bring prosperity. It ensures that wealth and resources flow smoothly, reducing blockages that might result in financial setbacks.
Peace and Happiness :
A well-balanced Vastu layout enhances the flow of positive energy, bringing peace, joy, and harmony to the residents. It encourages better relationships and reduces conflicts.
Increased Productivity :
Vastu helps in creating environments that enhance concentration, creativity, and overall productivity. Offices and workplaces designed according to Vastu principles can significantly improve efficiency and morale.
Spiritual Well-Being :
Aligning with nature’s elements helps in fostering a deeper spiritual connection. Vastu helps individuals feel more grounded and in tune with their surroundings, encouraging a sense of calm and spiritual growth.
Environmental Harmony :
Vastu promotes an eco-friendly approach to construction and design, emphasizing the use of natural materials, proper ventilation, and sustainable practices. This aligns the living or working space with the Earth’s natural rhythms.

In Conclusion:

While modern architecture and technology have made great strides, the wisdom of Vastu Shastra remains timeless. It provides an ancient yet highly relevant approach to designing spaces that nurture our well-being and align us with the positive forces of nature. Whether it’s for your home, office, or factory, applying Vastu principles can have far-reaching benefits in improving the quality of life, health, and success.
Importance of Energy Assessment and Management in Vastu

In Vastu Shastra, energy plays a crucial role in shaping the life experience of individuals. Just as the energy of a person influences their surroundings, the energy of a space deeply affects the people living or working within it. The purpose of Energy Assessment in Vastu is to evaluate how well a space interacts with the natural elements and the cosmic forces surrounding it. This assessment helps ensure that the energy flows smoothly, positively, and harmoniously throughout the environment

  1. Identify Energy Blockages: A poorly designed space can have stagnant or negative energy, which can lead to problems like health issues, financial difficulties, or emotional stress. Energy assessment helps identify where blockages or imbalances exist.
  2. Optimize Energy Flow: By analyzing a space’s layout, design, and orientation, energy can be directed in ways that benefit the inhabitants, ensuring the flow is continuous and beneficial.
  3. Enhance Positive Energies: The goal is to maximize the positive energy (Prana or Chi) and eliminate or neutralize the negative energies (like Vata or Dosh) that can cause problems in your life.
  4. Promote Well-Being: Proper energy management ensures that the physical and emotional needs of the residents are met, creating an environment conducive to peace, success, and health.

The Five Elements in Vastu

In Vastu Shastra, the Five Elements—known as Pancha Mahabhutas—are central to both the design and energy of a space. These elements are:

  1. Space (Akasha)
    Space is the most subtle element and represents expansiveness and freedom. It governs the center of a building. Balanced space energy ensures harmony, tranquility, and spiritual growth. It allows all other energies to flow freely and unimpeded.
  2. Air (Vayu)
    Air represents movement, communication, and intellect. It governs the west and northwest directions. Air energy enhances creativity, communication, and freedom. It can also affect mental clarity and decision-making.
  3. Fire (Agni)
    Fire symbolizes energy, light, power, and transformation. It is governed by the southeast direction. Fire energy promotes vitality, growth, and passion. When in harmony, it stimulates success, wealth, and physical strength.
  4. Water (Jal)
    Water is associated with flow, emotion, and fluidity. It is linked to the north and northeast directions. Water energy governs abundance, prosperity, and creativity. When water is well-managed, it can bring wealth and emotional stability.
  5. Earth (Prithvi)
    Earth represents stability, support, and grounding. It is the foundation for all life. In Vastu, it relates to the southwest direction (and the overall foundation of a building). When balanced, Earth energy brings security, health, and prosperity.

In conclusion, energy assessment and management in Vastu ensures that the five elements are in proper balance, creating a space that promotes harmony, health, and success. By aligning these elements correctly, you can enhance your life’s overall well-being, growth, and happiness.

Elements Theory of Vastu Shastra

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