The orientation of a home plays a significant role in Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and energy harmonization. A north-facing house is considered highly auspicious due to its association with positive energy, prosperity, and stability. However, to fully harness the benefits of such a property, it is essential to follow precise Vastu guidelines. This article explores the principles, ideal placements, and corrections for north-facing houses based on authentic Vastu sources, including insights from PruthaVastu and traditional Vastu texts. These principles are designed to support residential planning, commercial success, and personal well-being.
Understanding the North Direction in Vastu
In Vastu Shastra, the four cardinal directions—North, South, East, and West—each hold unique energies and symbolic associations. The North direction is governed by Kubera, the deity of wealth, and is linked to the water element. This direction is believed to bring financial stability and opportunities, especially when the house is designed and oriented with proper Vastu alignment.
For a north-facing house, the main entrance is a critical point of energy entry. According to multiple Vastu sources, the ideal placement for the main door is in the 3rd, 4th, or 8th pada of the North. This ensures smooth energy flow and supports prosperity. Additionally, it is important to avoid placing the main entrance in the 6th pada of Bhujag, as this may lead to health complications and energy imbalances.
Slope and Elevation
A key factor in the Vastu design of a north-facing house is the slope of the land. The slope should ideally be towards the North or East, meaning these sides should be lower than the South and West. This helps in directing the flow of positive energy and supports the overall well-being of the household. The boundary walls in the North and East should also be shorter in height compared to those in the South, South West, and West.
Open Spaces and Structural Placement
Vastu emphasizes the importance of open spaces in the North and North East areas of a north-facing house. These zones should remain unobstructed to allow the free flow of energy. The main building structure should be placed towards the South West side, ensuring that the North and North East remain open. This structural alignment is believed to attract positive energy and promote financial growth.
Room and Element Placement
Each room in a house should be placed according to its energy requirements and Vastu recommendations. Here are some key placements for a north-facing house:
- Kitchen: The kitchen is the energy center of the house and should ideally be placed in the South East, South, or North West. The South East is particularly beneficial as it is associated with the fire element and supports energy and vitality.
- Bathroom/Toilet: These should be placed in the South of South West or West of North West. Proper placement of these areas is crucial to avoid financial and health issues.
- Living Room: The Northeast corner is considered the most auspicious location for the living room. It should be kept spacious, bright, and well-ventilated to encourage social harmony and positive interactions.
- Puja Room: The Northeast is also the ideal location for the puja room. This space should be elevated, clean, and free from any adjacent bathroom or laundry walls to ensure a sacred and spiritually uplifting environment.
- Study Room: For optimal concentration and learning, the study room should be placed in the East or West. Placing images of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Saraswati in the Northeast of the study area is recommended to enhance wisdom and memory.
- Bedroom: The main bedroom is best placed in the West, South, or East. A wooden staircase is recommended if the internal staircase is towards the East. The headboard should ideally be placed against the South or West wall, with the head of the sleeper facing East or South.
- Staircase: Staircases should be placed in the South, West, or South West. Internal staircases should never be located in the center of the house (Brahmasthan). If the staircase is in the East, a wooden staircase is preferred over stone. Staircases should also avoid being directly in front of the main entrance and should never be placed in the Northeast corner.
- Guest Room: The Northwest is the ideal location for the guest room. This direction supports harmonious transitions and changes in life and ensures comfort for visitors.
- Balcony/Verandah: These should be placed in the Northeast direction. A well-designed balcony can attract positive energy and open up opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Vastu Corrections and Recommendations
When a north-facing house is not perfectly aligned with Vastu principles, certain corrections can be made to restore balance and enhance positive energy flow. These corrections include:
- Avoiding Red or Maroon Paint on the Main Entrance: The main door should not be painted in red or maroon shades. These colors are believed to disrupt the flow of positive energy.
- Using Mirrors Judiciously: Mirrors should be placed in the North zones but should be avoided in the South or South East. Mirrors in the South or South East are believed to create energy imbalances and financial challenges.
- Planting Money Plants or Tulsi: Planting a money plant in the North or North East is considered auspicious and is believed to bring new opportunities and prosperity. Similarly, a Tulsi plant in these areas helps in converting negative energy into positive energy.
- Avoiding a Garden in the North West: A garden in the North West zone is discouraged as it may lead to energy blockages and hinder the smooth flow of positive energy.
- Ensuring No Obstructions in Front of the House: The front of the house should remain unobstructed to allow the free flow of energy. Any obstructions may block the entry of positive energy and cause imbalance.
- Managing Wastewater Flow: The flow of wastewater should never be in a North to South direction. Proper drainage is essential to maintain the energy balance of the house.
Spiritual and Energetic Considerations
Vastu Shastra not only focuses on architectural alignment but also emphasizes spiritual well-being. In a north-facing house, placing a puja room in the Northeast or East is particularly beneficial for spiritual growth and inner peace. This sacred space should be kept clean and free from any negative influences, such as adjacent bathrooms or laundry areas.
For those seeking professional guidance, it is advisable to consult a qualified Vastu expert to ensure that the house is designed and aligned correctly. Vastu experts can provide personalized recommendations based on the specific layout, family needs, and individual energies.
Conclusion
A north-facing house offers numerous benefits, including financial prosperity, stability, and positive energy flow. However, to fully harness these benefits, it is essential to follow Vastu guidelines for room placement, structural alignment, and energy corrections. By adhering to these principles, homeowners can create a harmonious and auspicious living environment that supports personal growth, family well-being, and professional success. Whether you are planning to build a new home or are looking to optimize an existing property, Vastu Shastra offers valuable insights for achieving balance and harmony in your living space.