Vastu Shastra is an ancient architectural science that emphasizes the importance of balancing human habitats with natural energies. The principles of Vastu suggest that every room, wall, and door in a house has a specific purpose and direction that contributes to the overall well-being of its inhabitants. Among the various areas of the home, the placement and orientation of the toilet and commode are particularly critical. The toilet is associated with the disposal of waste and negativity; therefore, its placement must be handled with care to prevent the accumulation of negative energy, which can lead to health issues, financial instability, and family discord. According to Vastu principles, respecting these guidelines can result in a home that feels harmonious and supports the health and prosperity of the family.
The core objective of Vastu for toilets is to ensure that waste and negative energy are effectively flushed out of the home without affecting the positive zones. The direction one faces while using the commode, the location of the toilet within the house, and the internal arrangement all play significant roles in maintaining the energetic balance. Ignoring these principles is believed to invite sickness, sadness, and loss, whereas adhering to them promotes a better living experience.
Ideal Directions for Commode Usage and Placement
The direction an individual faces while using the commode is a fundamental aspect of Vastu compliance. It is recommended to face either the North or South direction while sitting on the commode. These directions are considered favorable as they help push negative energy out of the house and align with the body's energy fields. Facing East or West during toilet use is generally discouraged; East is considered a holy direction associated with prayer and sunrise, while West is linked to growth. Disturbing these directions with waste disposal is considered inauspicious and can lead to disturbances in mental peace and financial stability.
Regarding the placement of the toilet room itself, the Northwest corner (Vayavya) is considered the most suitable location for a toilet. The Northwest direction aids the body in letting go of bad energy and is ideal for waste disposal. If the Northwest corner is not available, the Southeast corner (Agneya) is an acceptable alternative, particularly for busy households. However, care must be taken to ensure that the toilet in the Southeast is not placed near the kitchen, as this combination can ruin the positive energies of both spaces.
Conversely, certain zones must be strictly avoided for toilet placement. The Northeast corner (Ishanya) is the spot of gods, wisdom, and positive energy; placing a toilet here is strictly prohibited as it can lead to brain fog, poor thinking, major health problems, and money loss. Similarly, the center of the house, known as the Brahmasthan, is the heart of the home and must never contain a toilet. A toilet in the Brahmasthan is considered pointless and highly detrimental to the well-being of the residents. The Southwest corner (Nairutya) is also generally avoided for toilet placement as it can disturb sleep and cause health issues.
Internal Arrangement and Vastu Remedies
Once the correct location is determined, the internal arrangement of the toilet and bathroom further refines the energy flow. The commode should ideally be placed against the South or North West wall. Aligning it to the North-South axis is even better. The wash basin and mirror are best placed on the North or East walls, while the bathing or shower area is ideal in the North East or East. Storage cupboards should be placed on the Western walls. Regarding utilities, the geyser and electrical fittings are ideally located in the South East or South zones.
For those unable to change the physical structure, Vastu offers several remedies to correct energy imbalances. If a toilet is located in the East, using Green Vastu Tape around the seat can help mitigate the negative effects. Keeping a bowl of sea salt or installing a Vastu pyramid are also effective remedies. For a Southwest-facing toilet, placing holy symbols or lighting fragrant candles can improve energy and create a sacred atmosphere. Additionally, maintaining a closed bathroom door prevents negative energy from spreading into the bedroom. Placing a small plant or a Himalayan salt lamp near the bathroom entrance can help absorb negative energy.
Dos and Don'ts for Maintaining Vastu Compliance
To maintain a harmonious flow of energy, specific daily practices and maintenance are recommended. The flow of water in the bathroom should ideally be from South to North or West to East. It is crucial to fix any leaking taps immediately, as leaks are associated with financial loss in Vastu. The bucket should never be kept empty; it should either be filled with water or turned upside down when not in use. Raising the commode slightly higher than the floor level of other rooms, providing a small window above the commode, and using a wooden door rather than a metal one are additional measures to enhance positive energy.
Strict avoidance of certain practices is equally important. One must never place the toilet room next to the pooja room (prayer room). Shelves or storage should not be placed directly above the commode. The bathroom floor should ideally slope towards the North or East to facilitate proper drainage. Using blue buckets and mugs in the bathroom is suggested to attract good vibes. Mirrors should be mounted on the East or South walls.
It is important to note that while general Vastu tips are widely available, blindly following them without considering the specific layout of a home can sometimes be counterproductive. For complex situations or existing structures that cannot be altered, consulting a qualified Vastu expert is advisable to receive tailored guidance.
Conclusion
Adhering to Vastu principles for commode placement and toilet direction is not merely about superstition; it is about creating a living space that supports the natural flow of energy. By facing North or South while using the commode, placing the toilet in the Northwest or Southeast zones, and avoiding the Northeast and center of the house, residents can significantly reduce negative influences. Internal arrangement, such as proper placement of the commode, wash basin, and storage, combined with simple remedies like salt bowls, pyramids, and specific colors, can further harmonize the space. Maintaining cleanliness, fixing leaks, and following the recommended dos and don'ts ensures that the home remains a sanctuary of positive energy, health, and prosperity.