Understanding the ancient science of Vastu Shastra provides a framework for creating harmonious living and working environments. The principles of Vastu focus on the relationship between natural elements and spatial design, aiming to align energy flow for the well-being of occupants. While traditional Vastu often assumes specific plot orientations, adapting these principles to contemporary settings, such as homes and apartments in the United States, requires a practical and scientific approach. This article explores foundational Vastu concepts, practical remedies for existing spaces, and pathways for learning this traditional science.
Vastu Directions and Scientific Application
The foundation of Vastu Shastra lies in the significance of directions and their influence on energy flow. A basic understanding of directions is the foremost step for anyone seeking to apply Vastu principles. These directions are intrinsically linked to the natural elements—air, water, earth, fire, and space—and learning how these elements interact to create balanced energy is crucial. For those looking to build or renovate, achieving maximum Vastu compliance is most effectively accomplished through custom design on a suitable plot. However, for existing structures or apartments, a "Scientific Vastu" approach focuses on principles that are theoretically and practically proven to work based on science, past experiences, and probability derived from a broad client base.
Scientific Vastu is defined as a set of principles based on the Vastu Shastra treatise that applies to all buildings in specific regions, affecting occupants regardless of their faith. In the context of the USA, VastuTruth emphasizes that while 100% compliance is challenging with stock designs or pre-built homes, it is possible to follow Vastu principles to enhance comfort and experiences. This involves focusing on placement and energy balancing rather than structural changes. For instance, the orientation of rooms and the placement of key functional areas can be adjusted within the constraints of an existing layout to foster better energy circulation.
Practical Remedies for US Apartments
For individuals residing in apartments or homes with fixed layouts, Vastu offers numerous non-constructive remedies to balance energy. These universal remedies can be implemented regardless of directional alignments and are highly effective for harmonizing the living space.
Essential Items and Habits
Several items and daily habits can significantly impact the energy of a home. Himalayan salt lamps, placed in the northeast or north, and indoor water fountains, ideally in the northeast, are recommended for energy cleansing and flow. Crystals also play a specific role: citrine is associated with wealth, rose quartz promotes harmony, and clear quartz is used for general cleansing. The use of essential oils such as lavender, sandalwood, and sage can further purify the atmosphere. Conversely, it is advisable to avoid cactus or thorny plants inside the home.
Daily habits contribute substantially to maintaining positive Vastu. Keeping the home free of clutter, using natural scents, maintaining proper lighting, and removing broken items are fundamental practices. These habits ensure that the energy within the space remains active and positive.
Room-Specific Guidelines
A quick checklist can help residents align specific areas of their apartment with Vastu principles:
- Entrance: The entrance should be well-lit, adorned with plants, and kept clear of clutter. Darkness and clutter should be avoided.
- Living Room: Ideally, the living room should align with the East or North direction and should not block natural sunlight.
- Bedroom: When sleeping, the head should ideally face South or East. Mirrors should not face the bed.
- Kitchen: The kitchen should be activated in the Southeast fire zone. Black décor should be avoided in this area.
- Work Desk: The work desk should be positioned so that one faces North or East. Working on the bed should be avoided.
- Bathroom: Keeping rock salt in the bathroom, closing the bathroom door, and avoiding wet floors and darkness are recommended practices.
- Balcony: The balcony should be utilized for plants and airflow rather than for storage.
Balcony, Windows, and Natural Light
Maximizing natural light and air circulation is a key aspect of Vastu. Opening windows daily for 15 to 20 minutes is a best practice. Keeping plants such as money plant, basil, and bamboo in the balcony enhances vitality. Additionally, using wind chimes in the North or East can further improve energy flow within the home.
Learning Vastu Shastra
For those interested in deepening their knowledge, Vastu Shastra can be learned through structured resources and practical application. The journey typically begins with mastering the basics, including the importance of directions and their connection to natural elements. Following this, studying Vastu layouts and diagrams is a crucial step, as it provides the skills to assess different architectures and understand the optimal placement for rooms like bedrooms and bathrooms. For example, the southwest direction is considered the best location for a bedroom.
Educational Resources and Courses
Numerous resources are available for learning Vastu, including books, online courses, and YouTube channels. Books such as "The Miracles of Vastu Shastra" by Shanku Shiva Daas, "Vastu Shastra in Modern Context," and "Golden Rules of Vastu Shastra" are recommended for foundational knowledge.
Online platforms offer accessible ways to learn. For instance, GuruJee Gyan provides comprehensive Vastu Shastra courses that allow learners to study at their own pace, connecting them with a community of experts. AppliedVastu offers a free online course detailed through animations and hands-on examples, suitable for beginners. This course typically spans 18 hours and includes 13 lectures, with an assessment and a certificate upon completion. The instructors are noted as Astro-Vastu experts and civil engineers.
From Learning to Practice
Becoming a genuine Vastu expert requires more than theoretical knowledge; it necessitates practice. Individuals are encouraged to start by making small changes in their own homes, such as rearranging furniture. Practicing on others’ homes and sharing learnings can further solidify expertise. This practical application helps develop a sense of positive energies and can assist others in improving their living environments.
Conclusion
Vastu Shastra offers a comprehensive system for harmonizing living spaces through directional alignment, elemental balance, and intentional design. While full structural compliance may be ideal for new constructions, significant benefits can be achieved in existing homes and apartments through practical remedies and mindful adjustments. By integrating items like salt lamps and crystals, maintaining cleanliness and light, and aligning functional areas like work desks and beds according to Vastu principles, individuals can foster environments that support well-being and positivity. For those seeking deeper mastery, a variety of educational resources and structured courses are available to guide them from basic understanding to expert application, enabling them to transform their own lives and assist others in achieving spatial harmony.