Vastu Shastra is one of the intricate sciences developed by ancient civilizations to achieve harmonious living by aligning habitats with divine energies. The definition of Vastu Shastra reveals it is the Indian science of architecture and arrangement that guides the spaces to enable prosperity and well-being passed through generations. In this blog, we shall learn what is Vastu Shastra, the origin of Vastu Shastra, the directions associated with it, and the importance as well as benefits of Vastu Shastra. 

So, let's begin!

What is Vastu Shastra?

Vastu Shastra is a Sanskrit term, where 'Vastu' means building or dwelling, and 'Shastra’ means knowledge or science. Clubbed together, it means the science of architecture that sketches policies for constructing spaces and structures to assure harmony and balance. As per the definition of Vastu Shastra, it is said that the direction and layout can impact the energies within a particular space, resulting in success and well-being of the natives living therein.

History of Vastu Shastra

The history of Vastu Shastra takes us back to the time of Vedas, the foundation of Hindu philosophy. The principles of construction and architecture mentioned in the four Vedas - the Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, & Atharvaveda, present a glance into the early stages of Vastu Shastra. The ancient texts help us refer to the systematic codification of Vastu Shastra, such as 'Manasara' and Mayamata, and the 'Arthashastra' by Chanakya. It is believed these texts were composed between the eighth and the twelfth centuries and disclose the principles of architectural design, temple construction, and town planning.

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Origin of Vastu Shastra

Vastu Shastra has been rooted deeply in the spiritual and cultural beliefs of India since ancient times. As per some opinions, the notion of the cosmic Vastu Purusha is central to science. According to mythology, Lord Brahma conquered and stapled down the demon Vastu Purusha, who wished for a boon to be the presiding god of all formats. As a result of this incident, the Vastu Purusha Mandala was formed, a symbolic manifestation of cosmic energies, each quadrant resembling distinct forces and deities. With the evolution of the knowledge of Vastu Shastra, its importance also grew, making it a vital part of architecture. Vastu considers designing palaces, temples, and even cities to guarantee prosperity, spiritual harmony, and the well-being of the community.

Five Elements of Vaastu Shastra 

Vastu Shastra consists of five elements, namely Earth (Bhumi), Water (Jala), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Space (Akasha). As these elements are building blocks of the universe, a balanced integration between them is essential for constructing a positive energy within a spot. The arrangement of these elements in relation to the directions associated helps bring positive and balanced vibrations. Let us have a look at what they are - 

Directions of Vaastu Shastra

To understand the aspects of directions in Vastu Shastra, let us learn in the table below the directions, in addition to the related elements, attributes, and functions influencing the well-being of the natives. 

Importance of Vastu Shastra

Vastu Shastra helps create an environment that enables the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of individuals by a holistic approach. Let us learn the importance of Vastu Shastra in detail - 

• Vastu Shastra aligns human habitats with natural elements and cosmic energies to facilitate a balance with nature.
• The flow of positive energy is ensured when the spaces are designed strategically, thus creating an atmosphere facilitative to well-being.
• Success and prosperity reach the spot where energies are optimized, which is yet another importance of Vastu Shastra. 
• You shall witness enabled clarity and reduced stress while you live in a Vastu-compliant environment, thus facilitating a focused and balanced lifestyle.
• A family experiences positive relationships and harmony when the rooms are placed, as per the guidelines mentioned in the origin of Vastu Shastra.
• As the positive energy flows in offices and workplaces due to the optimization as per Vastu principles, success and career growth are absolute.
• The spirit and health of the natives improve when they live in a house (especially kitchens and bedrooms) designed according to the Vastu principles.
• The proper placement of meditation and pooja rooms helps enhance the spiritual well-being of the natives.

Benefits of Vastu Shastra

Adopting Vastu Shastra can help one accumulate many benefits to natives. Let us have a look at some of these - 

• Living in a Vastu-compliant home improves the health and well-being of natives when there is optimal sunlight, ventilation, and spatial arrangements.
• The positive energies assembled by the strategic environment of spaces foster financial prosperity and stability.
• Be it an office or home, when built as per the Vaastu Shastra guidelines, a positive and harmonious environment is created, resulting in success and growth. 
• It helps create emotionally stable surroundings, ease stress, and boost mental well-being.
• Innovation and creativity get enhanced, thus presenting a productive setting for intellectual and artistic pursuits.
• Vastu Shastra proposes guidelines for protecting homes and offices from negative energies, constructing a protective guard against vicious forces.
• Experience an overall sense of balance as these principles ensure an optimal flow of positive energies.
• One of the benefits of Vastu Shastra is that a restful and calm environment is built, ensuring good health and sound sleep quality. 
• Vastu-compliant study or workspace structures improve focus and attention, helping their endeavors in academics and profession.

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Different Directions & Their Effects

We have learned the directions of Vaastu Shastra and the elements, attributes, and functions of each of them. Now let us know the impact each direction can have, as per Vastu Shastra, when aligned, as well as when not aligned properly.

How does Vastu Shastra Work?

Vastu Shastra works on the belief that the energies present in the universe impact human life. Aligning the design and arrangement of structures with these cosmic energies helps create balanced and harmonious surroundings. The energy channels enable a free flow of positive energy throughout the arrangement. The five elements build a synergistic balance and enrich the overall energy within the area. Vastu principles suggest the direction and placement of rooms and elements within a structure. Moreover, astrological considerations present a personalized approach that helps enhance the favorable impacts of heavenly bodies on one's life. Providing remedies and optimism is another function of Vastu Shastra, in which specific materials, geometrical figures, symbols, or colors help to offset any imbalances within a space.

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Vastu Shastra and Astrology

Though Vastu Shastra and astrology are sciences of different aspects, they share a mutual thread in stressing cosmic energies and their impact on human life. While the effect of celestial bodies on behavior, personality, and destiny is described as astrology, Vastu Shastra stresses the placement of physical spaces with celestial energies to build a harmonious environment. The Vastu advisors might also consider some astrological factors, such as the position of planets and stars, to give individual recommendations when required, thus fostering success, well-being, and overall experience of individuals.