The selection of a new residence is a significant milestone, representing not only a financial investment but also a commitment to a lifestyle that influences well-being and prosperity. Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture, offers profound insights into creating living spaces that resonate with natural energies and cosmic harmony. When applied to the purchase of a flat or apartment, these principles guide prospective homeowners toward environments that foster health, happiness, and success. The core philosophy of Vastu Shastra for flats and apartments is centered on the optimization of engineering, acoustics, optics, and spiritual concepts to ensure a balanced flow of energy.
According to established guidelines, apartments and plots that adhere to Vastu principles provide their occupants with greater wealth, health, and prosperity. This ancient science encourages tranquility and inner peace, promoting harmonious relationships among residents. By aligning the structural design with the "God of Eight Directions," individuals can attract positive energy and improve their overall quality of life. The following comprehensive guide details essential Vastu considerations for purchasing a new flat, ensuring that the chosen property is ideal for you and your family.
The Foundation: Plot Direction and Shape
The initial assessment of a potential property begins with the plot itself. Vastu Shastra places immense importance on the orientation and geometry of the land upon which a structure is built. These foundational elements set the stage for the energy dynamics within the home.
Direction of the Plot The orientation of the flat is a primary determinant of its energetic influence. According to Vastu advice for a happy home, certain directions have a beneficial effect, while others may harbor negative energies. - Favorable Directions: East and north-facing plots are considered highly suitable for flat construction. These directions allow for the influx of positive solar and lunar energies, which are essential for vitality and mental clarity. - Unfavorable Directions: It is advisable to avoid flats that face the west or south. These orientations are traditionally associated with challenges and may disrupt the flow of harmonious energy within the living space.
Shape of the Plot The geometric shape of the plot is equally significant. A plot that is square or rectangular, facing squarely in the four cardinal directions, is considered ideal. - Ideal Ratios: The length and breadth of the building should adhere to specific ratios as per Vastu Shastra for flats and apartments. The ideal ratios are 1:1, 1:1.5, or, at most, 1:2. - Shapes to Avoid: Irregular shapes, such as triangular, oval, or circular plots, should be avoided. These irregularities can create imbalances in energy flow. The ideal plot is one that is square in shape and possesses four corners, symbolizing stability and completeness.
Shape of the Building or Structure When evaluating the building's form, Vastu principles distinguish between two significant shapes that indicate the general wealth and well-being of the occupants. - Gaumukhi Shape: This shape is broad at the back and narrow at the entrance. It is thought to be ideal for plots intended for residential use, as it resembles the face of a cow, symbolizing nourishment and auspiciousness. - Shumukhi Shape: Conversely, a shape that is narrow at the back and broad at the entrance (Shumukhi) is generally considered inauspicious for residential properties and should be avoided.
Strategic Placement of Rooms and Elements
Once the external structure is evaluated, the internal layout becomes the focus. The placement of specific rooms and elements within the flat dictates the movement and quality of energy, directly impacting the lives of the residents.
The Main Door and Entrance The main door acts as the gateway for energy to enter the home. Its location and orientation are critical. - Preferred Locations: The main door should ideally be located in the north, east, or northeast directions of the flat. An entrance facing east or northeast is believed to bring good fortune and positivity. - Directions to Avoid: Facing the main door towards the west or south is considered unlucky and may lead to obstacles and negative influences. - Surroundings: It is crucial to ensure that no obstructions, such as walls or other structures, are facing the southwest or south directly in front of the main entrance, as this can block positive energy.
Kitchen Placement The kitchen is the center of nourishment and must be placed in a zone that supports health and abundance. - Ideal Orientation: The kitchen should be located in the southeast corner of the flat. When cooking, the person should face east. This alignment is considered highly auspicious and is believed to promote physical well-being and prosperity.
Bedroom Positioning The bedroom serves as a sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. Its placement is vital for ensuring peace and stability. - Optimal Location: The southwest corner of the flat is the ideal location for the bedroom. This positioning encourages relaxation and winding down at the end of the day, making the flat a tranquil place to live. - Sleeping Direction: While in the bedroom, it is important to avoid sleeping with the head facing north. This direction is associated with negativity and can disrupt sleep patterns and health.
Bathroom and Toilet Arrangement Bathrooms and toilets are areas that expel waste and must be carefully positioned to prevent the draining of positive energy. - Suitable Zones: These facilities should be located in the southeast or northwest corners of the apartment. - Proximity Restrictions: Bathrooms should not be located directly next to the kitchen or the Pooja room (prayer room). Such proximity can contaminate the sacred and nourishing energies of these vital spaces.
Windows and Ventilation Natural light and fresh air are essential components of a Vastu-compliant home. They bring the energy of the sun and the cosmos into the living space. - Orientation: Windows and balconies should ideally face north or east. This allows for the entry of morning sunlight, which is considered a source of positivity and is believed to offer numerous health benefits. - Ventilation: Ensuring ample airflow is crucial. A flat that allows fresh air and sunlight to permeate the interior creates a vibrant and healthy atmosphere.
Doors and Windows Count The number of doors and windows in the flat also holds significance in Vastu Shastra. - Numerical Harmony: It is suggested that there should be an equal number of doors and windows on each floor. - Avoiding Zeros: The total count of doors and windows should not end in a zero. For example, having 10 or 20 doors and windows is not recommended. This principle is intended to maintain a continuous and balanced flow of energy.
Holistic Considerations and Remedial Measures
Beyond the structural and internal layout, a holistic approach to Vastu involves assessing the broader environment and performing rituals to cleanse and energize the space.
Evaluating the Surroundings The energy of a flat is not isolated; it is influenced by its immediate environment. - External Influences: It is important to evaluate the surroundings for any negative energy influences. This includes checking for tall buildings, obstructions, or sources of pollution in the vicinity. - Serene Environment: A serene and open environment enhances the overall Vastu energy of the property. A flat located in a peaceful neighborhood is more conducive to positive living.
Vastu of Common Areas In an apartment complex, common areas such as corridors, staircases, and elevators also contribute to the collective energy. - Shared Spaces: Assessing the Vastu of these common areas is important. Peaceful and well-lit common spaces contribute to a positive living experience for all residents. - Pooja Rooms: If there are common Pooja rooms or spaces, their placement and energy should also be considered.
Consulting a Vastu Expert While these guidelines provide a strong foundation, every property has unique characteristics. - Professional Guidance: If there is any uncertainty regarding the Vastu compliance of a flat, it is highly recommended to seek guidance from a qualified Vastu expert. Professional insight can provide valuable clarification and help in making an informed decision.
Performing a Vastu Puja Before moving into a new flat, performing a Vastu puja or ritual is a vital step. - Cleansing the Space: This practice is intended to cleanse the space of any residual negative energies and to invite positive vibrations. - Inviting Peace: A Vastu puja creates a peaceful and auspicious atmosphere for you and your family to begin your new chapter of life.
Common Vastu Mistakes to Avoid
In addition to following the "do's," being aware of the "don'ts" is equally crucial for ensuring a harmonious home.
- Avoid Cluttered Entrances: A cluttered or congested entrance obstructs the flow of energy into the home. The entrance should be clean, well-lit, and welcoming.
- Avoid Irregular Shapes: As mentioned earlier, plots and buildings with irregular shapes (triangular, circular, oval) should be strictly avoided as they create energetic imbalances.
- Avoid South or West Facing Entrances: These orientations are traditionally linked to negative outcomes and should be avoided whenever possible.
- Avoid Kitchen in the North or East: Placing a kitchen in the north or east is not recommended, as the fire element (Agni) in these directions can conflict with the natural energies.
- Avoid Bedrooms in the East or North: While these directions are good for other rooms, bedrooms in the northeast or east are generally not advised as they can lead to health issues and mental stress.
- Avoid Toilets in the Northeast: The northeast corner is the most sacred zone, often called the "Ishan Kona." Placing a toilet here is a major Vastu defect that can lead to severe financial and health problems.
- Avoid Beams Over Beds or Desks: Exposed beams in the ceiling, particularly over beds or study desks, create immense pressure and stress. These should be covered or rectified.
- Avoid Separate Floors for Single Families: In a single flat, having the living area on one floor and the bedroom on another is generally not recommended, as it can disrupt the unity of the household energy.
- Avoid Staircases in the Center: A staircase located in the center of the house (Brahmasthan) is a significant Vastu defect and should be avoided.
Benefits of a Vastu-Compliant Flat
Adhering to Vastu principles when purchasing a flat offers numerous tangible and intangible benefits that enhance the quality of life for its occupants.
- Improved Energy: A Vastu-maintained house experiences improved energy. The members of the house receive good energy from the sun, the moon, the cosmos, and the earth, leading to a better balance between the physical and subtle bodies.
- Happy Souls: When a house is Vastu compliant, it helps the residents feel relaxed and at peace in their home. This tranquility reduces stress and promotes emotional well-being.
- Customized Service: Even if one purchases an already constructed house, it is often possible to make specific changes to correct its Vastu. This flexibility allows individuals to harmonize their living space.
- Better Relationships: A Vastu-compliant house helps to declutter issues in relationships among family members. By balancing energies, it fosters understanding and harmony within the household.
- Building Trust: Strong, harmonious relationships naturally build strong trust between you and your family members, creating a supportive and loving home environment.
Conclusion
The process of buying a new flat is a journey that blends practical considerations with the ancient wisdom of Vastu Shastra. By carefully evaluating the plot's direction and shape, the building's structure, and the internal placement of key elements like the kitchen, bedroom, and entrance, prospective homeowners can select a space that supports their health, wealth, and happiness. It is important to remember that while these guidelines provide a framework, consulting a qualified Vastu expert can offer personalized insights for any unique challenges a property may present. Performing a Vastu puja before moving in further sanctifies the space, inviting positive energy and setting the stage for a prosperous and harmonious life in your new home.