Water, one of the five essential elements in Vastu Shastra, holds significant importance as a source of life with profound impact on the environment and human well-being. The correct placement and flow of water can enhance positivity and prosperity in a household, while improper management may lead to negative effects. This article explores the principles of water element placement in Vastu Shastra, with particular focus on considerations when ponds or other water bodies are located in the Northwest direction, along with appropriate remedial measures.
The Significance of Water in Vastu Shastra
In Vastu Shastra, water is recognized as one of the five fundamental elements that constitute the universe. It is believed to be a source of life and has a profound impact on the environment and human well-being. The correct placement and flow of water can enhance positivity and prosperity in a household, while improper management can lead to negative effects. Water bodies near houses or business premises are considered beneficial as they keep energy circulating and prevent stagnation.
The North direction in Vastu is particularly significant as it is governed by the water element and associated with wealth and prosperity, ruled by Lord Kubera, the deity of wealth. The Northeast direction, known as 'Ishanya,' is considered sacred and is governed by Lord Shiva. Proper alignment of water elements with these directions is believed to enhance positive energy in a living space, leading to the well-being of its occupants.
Ideal Directions for Water Bodies According to Vastu
According to Vastu Shastra principles, the North and Northeast directions are considered most auspicious for the flow and placement of water elements. These directions are believed to bring wealth, health, and prosperity to the occupants. Water bodies or sources of water such as wells, ponds, tanks, and fountains should ideally be located in these favorable directions.
The significance of proper water placement extends to various water features: - Ponds and fountains should be placed in the north or northeast direction - Swimming pools should ideally be located in the northeast or east direction, with north as an acceptable alternative - Wells and borewells should be dug in the northeast direction, with east as the next best option - Overhead water tanks should be placed in the southwest direction - Underground water tanks should ideally be in the north or northeast direction - Rainwater harvesting systems should be positioned in the northeast
Conversely, certain directions should be avoided for water elements: - Southwest direction for most water sources (except overhead tanks) - Southeast direction for wells and borewells - Northwest direction for certain water elements according to some sources
Northwest Direction for Water Elements: Vastu Perspective
The Northwest direction presents specific considerations in Vastu Shastra when it comes to water elements. According to some guidelines, water elements placed in the Northwest direction may require careful evaluation and potential remedial measures.
Source [4] indicates that starting from North of Northwest (18 degrees from N-S axis) up to Northeast, water element is permissible as per Vastu guidelines. Even towards East, water element can be placed safely without negative effects. However, when the water element encounters conflicting energies, such as the fiery hue of red representing the fire element on the North wall, an imbalance arises. The water's essence becomes vaporized, losing its inherent strength and vitality, which diminishes the benefits associated with the North direction.
Source [2] specifically states that waterwalls on the South, Southwest, West, or Northwest sides of the house or building are most likely in wrong locations and would require remedial measures, including possible removal of the water element from these non-compliant spots.
When a pond or other water body is located in the Northwest direction, several potential concerns may arise according to traditional Vastu principles:
- Northwest is associated with air element, and combining it with water may create elemental imbalance
- Water in Northwest may affect financial stability and interpersonal relationships
- Proper flow direction may be disrupted, potentially leading to stagnation of energy
- The Northwest placement might interfere with the natural flow of positive energy from Northeast to Southwest
However, it's important to note that Vastu Shastra acknowledges that many questions do not have stock answers or solutions, and the exact location of water elements may need to be evaluated based on actual implementation and overall building layout.
Types of Water Elements and Their Vastu Guidelines
Different types of water elements carry specific Vastu guidelines for optimal placement and energy flow:
Ponds and Fountains
Ponds and fountains enhance aesthetic appeal while symbolizing the flow of positive energy and wealth into the house. According to Vastu, these should be placed in the north or northeast direction. Flowing water in these areas is believed to activate positive energy currents that promote prosperity and abundance.
Swimming Pools
Swimming pools should ideally be located in the northeast or east direction. If these are not feasible, the north direction is also acceptable. The placement of swimming pools in the south, west, or southwest is generally avoided as it may lead to adverse effects on health and finances. When purchasing a house with an existing swimming pool, potential buyers should verify its location and consider consultation with a Vastu expert if it's positioned in a non-compliant direction.
Wells and Borewells
Wells and borewells should be dug in the northeast direction. If this is not feasible, the east direction is the next best option. Placement should avoid the southwest, northwest, or southeast directions, as these may lead to financial losses and health issues.
Water Tanks
Overhead water tanks should be placed in the southwest direction, which ensures stability and prevents leakage of wealth. Placing them in the northeast is considered highly inauspicious and can lead to financial difficulties and health problems. Underground water tanks should ideally be in the north or northeast direction to harness positive energy and ensure a continuous flow of wealth and prosperity.
Aquariums
Aquariums are considered powerful Vastu instruments that attract wealth, prosperity, and good luck. The movement of fish in water signifies the flow of energy. Adorning the wealth area of the living room or office with an aquarium can activate financial opportunities and bring prosperity. When placed correctly, aquariums can counteract negative energies in certain directions.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting systems should ideally be positioned in the northeast direction. This placement not only aids in water conservation but also enhances the positive energy flow in the house, aligning with the natural principles of Vastu Shastra.
Remedial Measures for Northwest Water Elements
When water elements are located in the Northwest direction or other non-compliant locations, various remedial measures can be implemented to mitigate potential negative effects:
Energy Redirection Techniques
Placing a mirror facing the water source can help redirect the flow of energy according to Vastu principles. This technique aims to harmonize the energy currents and prevent stagnation that might occur due to improper placement.
Vastu Pyramids and Crystals
Installing Vastu pyramids or crystals near water elements in non-compliant directions can help neutralize negative energy. These objects are believed to transform and balance the energy field, creating a more harmonious environment.
Color Corrections
As mentioned in Source [4], when the water element encounters conflicting energies such as the fiery hue of red (representing the fire element), an imbalance occurs. The water's essence becomes vaporized, losing its inherent strength. To restore harmony, walls in the North direction should be painted with colors that symbolize the water element, such as soothing shades of blue or calming hues reminiscent of water.
Structural Adjustments
For significant Vastu defects, structural changes might be necessary. This could include relocating water features, changing the flow direction of water, or creating barriers that redirect energy currents in a more favorable manner.
Professional Consultation
For substantial water element placement issues, consultation with a qualified Vastu expert is advisable. These professionals can provide personalized solutions and suggest appropriate remedies based on the specific layout and energy patterns of the property.
Other Water Element Considerations
Various water features carry specific Vastu recommendations: - Water fountains placed in the wealth area or near the entrance can invoke abundance and good fortune - Tabletop waterfalls placed on desks, tabletops, or shelves denote financial gains and accomplishment - Rivers and streams associated with constant flow of opportunities are marked by features that promote career growth and business success
Practical Applications and Considerations
When dealing with existing water elements in the Northwest direction or other non-compliant locations, property owners should consider several practical approaches:
Evaluation of Current Placement
First, assess the exact location of water elements relative to the property's layout. Determine if the water feature is in the Northwest proper or in the North-Northwest zone (within 18 degrees of the North-South axis), which according to some guidelines may be permissible for water elements.
Observation of Effects
Observe any patterns or challenges experienced in the household or business that might relate to water element placement. These could include financial fluctuations, health concerns, relationship dynamics, or general energy levels in the space.
Implementation of Minor Corrections
Start with minor remedial measures such as color adjustments, mirrors, or small Vastu corrections before considering more substantial changes. These simple interventions can sometimes bring about significant improvements in energy flow.
Professional Assessment
For complex situations or when minor corrections don't yield desired results, consult with a qualified Vastu expert. They can provide a comprehensive analysis of the property's energy patterns and recommend appropriate remedies.
Monitoring Results
After implementing corrections, monitor changes in the environment and occupant experiences. Vastu adjustments often require time to manifest their full effects, and observation can help determine if additional measures are needed.
Conclusion
Proper placement and management of water elements according to Vastu Shastra principles can significantly enhance the positive energy flow in residential and commercial spaces. While the North and Northeast directions are generally considered most auspicious for water features, the Northwest direction requires careful consideration and may necessitate remedial measures.
The key to successful Vastu implementation lies in understanding the elemental associations and energy dynamics of different directions. When water elements are placed in non-compliant locations such as Northwest, various corrective measures can help restore balance and harmony. These include energy redirection techniques, Vastu pyramids and crystals, color corrections, and professional consultation.
Ultimately, Vastu Shastra offers a holistic approach to creating living and working spaces that support physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. By respecting the natural principles of energy flow and elemental balance, property owners can create environments that promote prosperity, health, and positive relationships.
For significant Vastu defects related to water elements, particularly when structural changes are involved, seeking guidance from a qualified Vastu consultant is recommended. Their expertise can provide personalized solutions that align with both traditional Vastu principles and the practical needs of modern living spaces.