Introduction to Vastu Shastra
In simple terms Vastu Shastra is translated into the “Science of Buildings” as “Shastra” gives the meaning “Science” and “Vastu” gives the meaning for “All places of dwelling”. Vastu can be summed up into four different types of categories.
- Bhoomi translates into earth & site which is the principal dwelling place of which everything else rests upon.
- Prasada translates as the structures on earth.
- Yanna translates as movable types of objects such as Cars or any other types of moving vechicles.
- Sayana translates into furniture.
The principles of these categories suggests that Vastu extends from location of the building, site planning, the type of orientation, positioning of the rooms and the proportional relationships between the different parts of the building and also the contents inside of the buildings, contents such as furniture.
What is Vastu Shastra?
You may be wondering what Vastu Shastra is all about? Well it is the ancient indian vedic building science that lays down and represents the core guidelines on the construction of buildings in order to ensure harmony is in place with the natural environment by keeping a flow of cosmic energy through and also around them. By doing that it in turn promotes the well being, prosperity & peace of an inhabitant.
According to the wonderful Vastu science when a building or buildings are in exact tune with the cosmic principles they start to become part of the structure of the universe which in turn vibrates the harmony within it. Those positive types of vibrations are believed to engage in a strong positive effect on to the inhabitants. Common sense also tells us that a well designed house that is hygienic, comfortable, easy to move around in becomes a pleasure to live in. The inhabitants will tend to be very happy and content in that type of house but if a house that is designed poorly it will often become unaesthetic and uncomfortable to live in which in turn creates irritation on the mind and soul of the inhabitants.
Is Vastu Shastra similar to Feng Shui?
Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui are both practiced to remove any obstructions for the flow of positive energy with the energy creating the harmony of the environment. The difference between the two is that Feng Shui is based on regional concerns however Vastu is different. Feng Shui does not accept on having a entrance of the home in the north direction where as Vastu is different because it considers the north and east directions as ideal for having the entrance of the home. With Feng Shui the location and design is based on the LE-SHU grid of 9 squares whereas Vastu Shastra the location of each rooms are all designated in the Vastu Purush Mandal. With those differences comes the differences in their practice.
Feng Shui & Vastu have both gained huge popularity in the last 20 years with Feng Shui being a way to regain our sense of balance in everyday hectic, stressful life and Vastu is often recognised for its eco conscious appeal but both technique’s regardless of whichever is chosen brings huge prosperity & peace in to our lives.
Other Common Links of Vastu Shastra & Feng Shui
Both do share some core design approaches
- Keeping Clear of Clutter – Physically de cluttering a inhabitants home helps clear the mind fo any toxic thoughts which
makes a person more receptive for contemplation thus receiving more positive energy. - Colors – Decorate your home with colours that please you and positive energy will start to flow from yourself to your abode.
- Light – The type or choice of lighting sets a strong tone for a room. Insuring that the home is flooded with an early morning light helps to awaken the mind with a gentle reminder of the possibilities that lay ahead. Lowering the lighting and it will help trigger the days ritual of relaxation. For people that enter your home a low light will tend to give a perception of intrigue but a bright light will bring a sign of welcome.
- Nature- Regardless of whether your home is in the city or the country side, any plant life and other natural elements will help form a great connection towards the wonderful nature of the outdoors. High tech life may be constantly rising but the spirit can only be best nurtured by mother nature itself which is why it is important to follow the key principles set by Vastu Shastra.
