The principles of Vastu Shastra offer a structured approach to aligning spatial energy with human well-being, prosperity, and harmony. A west-facing or west-extended plot is a specific case in Vastu that requires careful planning and remedial actions to ensure positive outcomes. This article explores the Vastu Shastra guidelines, corrections, and best practices for designing and living in a west-extended plot. The focus is on maintaining spatial balance, optimizing energy flow, and enhancing the overall vibrational quality of the living or commercial space.
Introduction
A west-facing or west-extended plot is often considered less favorable due to the direction of the sun's descent. However, with proper Vastu Shastra planning and remedial actions, a west-oriented property can be transformed into a harmonious and prosperous space. The principles of Vastu Shastra emphasize the importance of orientation, directional energies, and structural alignment in creating an environment that supports health, wealth, and peace.
The west direction in Vastu is associated with the deity Varun, representing water and the element of water. It is also linked with the element of earth in certain interpretations and the energy of the sun's descent. A west-extended plot may present challenges such as excessive heat during the afternoon and early evening, negative energy from external factors like T junctions or uneven slopes, and the risk of structural imbalances if not properly planned.
The following sections provide an in-depth look at the Vastu Shastra recommendations for west-facing or west-extended plots, including entry point placement, structural design, and remedial measures to correct potential defects.
Understanding the West Direction in Vastu Shastra
In Vastu Shastra, each cardinal direction is associated with specific elements, energies, and deities. The west direction is governed by Varun, the god of water and the cosmic ocean, and is also linked with the element of earth in certain interpretations. It is a direction of transition and transformation, as it marks the end of the day. The energy of the west is considered to be more static and heavy compared to the east, which is associated with the rising sun and new beginnings.
A west-extended plot may have an elongated shape with the longer side facing west. This can create an imbalance in the distribution of energy within the structure, potentially leading to issues such as restlessness, financial instability, or health problems. It is important to address these challenges through careful planning and Vastu-based corrections.
Key Considerations for West-Extended Plots
Plot Slope:
A plot with a slope towards the west is considered inauspicious in Vastu Shastra. This can lead to disputes with partners, financial instability, and a sense of insecurity. To counteract this, the slope should ideally be directed towards the northeast, which is associated with positive energy and growth. If a slope towards the west is unavoidable, it can be corrected using Vastu remedies such as borewells or underground water tanks in the northeast.Entry Point Placement:
The main entrance is the most critical element in any Vastu plan. For a west-facing house, the ideal location for the main entrance is in or around the center of the west direction. The auspicious placement of the entrance depends on the specific Pada (energy field) within the Vastu Purusha Mandala. Some of the recommended positions for the main door include:Sugreev (3rd Pada):
This is considered the best choice for the main entrance. It is ideal for traders and businessmen, bringing growth, prosperity, and educational benefits.Pushpdant (4th Pada):
This position is associated with the power of blessings and is beneficial for financial growth. It is also associated with the vehicle of Lord Kuber, the god of wealth.Varun (5th Pada):
This position is linked with the deity Varun and is beneficial for those seeking spiritual growth and cosmic understanding. However, it may lead to over-ambition if not carefully managed.
The following positions should be avoided for the main entrance:
- Pitra (South West):
This position is considered the worst for a main entrance. It can lead to instability, losses, and negative influences in the household.
Kitchen and Toilet Placement:
The kitchen should ideally be located in the southeast direction, which is governed by Agni, the god of fire. This placement supports healthy cooking and digestion. Toilets and septic tanks should be placed in the northeast or northwest to avoid negative energy buildup.Bedroom Placement:
Bedrooms in a west-facing house should be placed on the front side, away from the direct heat of the afternoon sun. This helps in maintaining a comfortable and restful environment. The southwest corner is considered the most stable and is ideal for the master bedroom.Roof and Balcony Design:
A roof that extends towards the west can create a sense of imbalance and may lead to issues related to security and health. To correct this, a Vastu copper arrow can be installed in the reverse direction under the roof. Balconies or terraces should be avoided in the west direction, as they can increase the negative effects of the afternoon heat and solar radiation.External Influences:
The surrounding environment plays a significant role in the overall energy of the property. A west-facing plot with a T junction on any side is considered a major Vastu defect. This can lead to conflicts, health issues, and financial instability. To correct this, Vastu partitions, brass strips, or wind chimes can be used to neutralize the negative effects.
Vastu Shastra Remedial Measures for West-Extended Plots
When a west-facing or west-extended plot has certain Vastu defects, there are specific remedial measures that can be applied to neutralize or correct the negative influences. These remedies are based on the principles of Vastu Shastra and are designed to restore balance and harmony to the space.
Brass Door Pyramid:
A brass door pyramid can be placed under the entrance plate to enhance the energy of the main entrance. This helps in attracting positive energy and creating a welcoming atmosphere.Shankha in the Northeast:
A right-hand shankha (conch shell) filled with water can be placed in the northeast corner of the house to enhance peaceful vibrations. This is particularly beneficial for west-facing homes, as it helps in balancing the heavy energy of the west.Purification with Mountain Salt:
The home can be purified once a week using mountain salt. This helps in removing negative energies and maintaining a fresh, energetic environment. The process should be done in the early morning hours to maximize its effectiveness.Brass Helix and Pyramid for T Junctions:
If the property has a T junction on the west side, a brass helix with a brass pyramid can be placed facing the junction. This helps in neutralizing the negative effects of the T junction and restoring balance to the space.Vastu Wind Chime for Missing or Extended West Zones:
A Vastu wind chime can be installed in the west window to correct issues related to a missing or extended west zone. This helps in restoring the balance of the wind element and creating a more harmonious environment.Copper Arrow for Roof Extensions:
A Vastu copper arrow can be installed in the reverse direction under the roof to correct the imbalance caused by an extended west-facing roof. This helps in redirecting the energy and restoring stability to the space.
Designing a West-Facing House According to Vastu Shastra
Designing a west-facing house according to Vastu Shastra requires a thorough understanding of the directional energies and the structural elements of the building. The following guidelines can help in creating a harmonious and prosperous living space:
Consult a Vastu Expert:
Before designing a Vastu plan for a west-facing house, it is essential to consult a qualified Vastu expert. The expert can analyze the astrological chart of the owner and provide personalized recommendations for the layout and design of the house.Use a Reliable Compass:
Accurate measurements of the plot and built-up structure are essential to avoid Vastu defects. A reliable compass should be used to identify the true geographical directions and ensure that the design is aligned with the Vastu principles.Avoid Major Vastu Defects:
Major Vastu defects such as T junctions, Veedhi Shoola (road ending), and uneven slopes should be avoided. If they are unavoidable, appropriate remedies should be applied to neutralize their negative effects.Balance the Elements:
The elements of water, fire, earth, and air should be balanced within the structure. For example, the kitchen should be in the southeast (fire), the northeast should have a borewell or water tank (water), and the southwest should be used for the master bedroom (earth). This helps in maintaining a balanced and harmonious environment.Optimize Natural Light and Ventilation:
A west-facing house tends to receive a lot of afternoon and evening sunlight, which can cause overheating and discomfort. To optimize natural light and ventilation, large windows should be placed on the east and north sides of the house. This helps in reducing the heat and creating a more comfortable living environment.Create a Sacred Space for Meditation and Prayer:
A dedicated space for meditation and prayer should be created in the northeast corner of the house. This helps in enhancing spiritual growth and maintaining a sense of peace and tranquility.
Conclusion
A west-facing or west-extended plot can be transformed into a harmonious and prosperous living space by following the principles of Vastu Shastra. The key to success lies in careful planning, accurate measurements, and the application of appropriate remedial measures. By aligning the structure with the natural energies of the environment, it is possible to create a space that supports health, wealth, and well-being.
The main entrance, kitchen, toilet, and bedroom placements are critical elements that should be carefully considered in the design. The surrounding environment also plays a significant role in the overall energy of the property, and any major Vastu defects such as T junctions or uneven slopes should be addressed with appropriate remedies.
Ultimately, a west-facing house can be just as auspicious and prosperous as any other orientation if it is designed and maintained according to the principles of Vastu Shastra. With the right planning and adjustments, a west-facing property can become a source of abundance, peace, and spiritual growth.