Water is the essence of life and a fundamental element in Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture and spatial energy. It symbolizes purity, flow, and abundance, holding immense significance in creating harmonious and prosperous living spaces. The presence of water bodies, whether natural or artificial, is believed to have a profound impact on the energy flow within a property, influencing the well-being, financial stability, and overall success of its occupants. By understanding and applying Vastu principles related to water, individuals can create an environment that nurtures physical, mental, and spiritual health while attracting positive opportunities.
The core philosophy of Vastu is rooted in the interconnectedness of humans and nature. An energy-efficient environment attracts positive opportunities and benefits. Water, being one of the strongest elements, gives life to our planet. Its cooling effect is welcomed by our bodies and minds. Flowing water can ease tensions and allow the vibrations of the life force to enter us and nourish our aura. When properly applied, the water element can make a world of difference. Conversely, water installed in the wrong direction might have a reverse effect on the inhabitants. Vastu suggests that water is particularly beneficial for properties that face east, north, and northeast directions. Many of the world's economically prosperous cities are located close to water bodies, highlighting the auspicious nature of this element.
Types of Water Bodies and Their Symbolism in Vastu
Vastu Shastra incorporates various types of water bodies to harness their unique energies. Understanding the symbolism associated with each type is crucial for creating a balanced and prosperous environment.
- Lakes and Ponds: Natural lakes and ponds are considered highly auspicious in Vastu. They symbolize abundance, wealth, and opportunities. Placing a lake or pond in the northeast area of a property or garden is believed to attract positive energies and enhance financial prospects.
- Rivers and Streams: Flowing rivers and streams represent the constant flow of opportunities and abundance. They are associated with career growth, business success, and the accumulation of wealth. Having a stream-like feature in a workspace can mark a constant flow of opportunities and plenty.
- Water Fountains: Fountains create new energy flow in any environment. Placing water fountains in the wealth area or near the entrance of a home can enhance the flow of positive energy, create a soothing ambiance, and invoke abundance and good fortune. A well-placed fountain can have a beneficial impact on any space.
- Aquariums: Aquariums are a powerful Vastu instrument that attracts wealth, prosperity, and good luck. They are a combination of water and living energy that stimulates the flow of new energy. The movement of fish in the water signifies the flow of energy. Adorning the wealth area of a living room or office with an aquarium can activate financial opportunities and bring prosperity. Fish tanks are known for bringing good luck, fortune, and a stream of wealth to the occupants, which is why they are often found in corporate houses, hotels, and restaurants.
- Tabletop Waterfalls: These smaller water features can be placed on desks, tabletops, or shelves. They denote financial gains, plenty, and accomplishment. Incorporating a tabletop waterfall in a workspace can enhance productivity, attract financial opportunities, and create a harmonious and balanced environment.
- Art Representing Water: Even art that represents water can be included as a water element. There are simple ways to use the water element of Vastu Shastra theory to create balance, harmony, and prosperity in your surroundings.
Optimal Placement of Water Elements
The placement of water bodies is a critical aspect of Vastu Shastra. A shape and placement of the body of water are very important. The best place according to Vastu shastra is in the northeast zone. It should not be on the edge of the northeast axis. The northeast or north direction is considered ideal for water-related installations, as it facilitates a harmonious energy flow. Water bodies near the house or business premises are considered good placement as they keep the energy circulating and prevent its stagnancy.
For indoor installations, the wealth area of the living room or study is a suitable location for water features to attract wealth and abundance. Placing an aquarium with healthy fish in the southeastern corner is also recommended for further benefits. Fountains placed at the front door can also deflect negative energy from entering the home.
Directions to Avoid for Water Installations
Certain directions are considered inauspicious for water bodies and should be avoided to prevent negative consequences.
- Southeast Area: This area corresponds to the fire element. Placing a water body in the southeast should be avoided, as water puts out the fire, which can have a dampening effect on finances. It is also considered a source of conflict among partners and between management and employees in business locations.
- Middle of the Site: The presence of a water body in the middle of the site is considered highly inauspicious. As per Vastu, it sows seeds for self-destruction.
Considerations Regarding Size and Maintenance
The size of a water body in relation to the premises is an important principle. The body of water should not be too huge compared to the actual premises, as it can energetically dominate the site and weaken the occupant’s growth. The size of a water body has an effect on its owner’s prosperity. For larger properties like industries, a larger underground water tank is believed to create additional prosperity for the company.
Regular maintenance is essential for water elements to function optimally. It is important to keep water pipes and ventilation in working condition, as they are also channels for wealth flow. When cleaning water elements, it is advisable to avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can disrupt the delicate balance of energies. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the positive energy flow.
Integrating Water Elements with Other Vastu Principles
To harmonize energies, Vastu suggests incorporating grounding elements to balance the fluidity of water. These can include indoor plants, natural stones, or wooden furniture. These elements help create a sense of stability and rootedness, complementing the dynamic nature of water.
The presence of a water body near a home is considered auspicious and symbolizes a continuous flow of positive energy and prosperity. If there is a natural water body nearby, incorporating it into daily routines can be beneficial.
Practical Applications for Different Spaces
The application of water elements can be tailored to different environments, whether residential or commercial.
- Homes: In a home, water elements can be used to create a tranquil and balanced atmosphere. Placing a small fountain in the northeast or an aquarium in the living room can promote well-being and attract abundance. Avoiding water elements in the bedroom is recommended, as the constant flow of water can disrupt sleep.
- Offices and Workspaces: In a professional setting, water features like tabletop waterfalls or aquariums can enhance productivity, attract financial opportunities, and foster a harmonious work environment. A stream-like feature can symbolize a constant flow of business and career growth.
- Industries: For industrial settings, an underground water tank is a practical application that is believed to contribute to the company's prosperity.
The Holistic Impact of Water Elements
By incorporating Vastu practices with a focus on water elements, one can create a living or working space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also promotes well-being and prosperity. Your home is a reflection of your inner world, and by harmonizing your surroundings, you invite positivity, abundance, and tranquility into your life. The key takeaways emphasize harmonizing your living space, amplifying energy with water, and maximizing prosperity and abundance through strategic placement.
Conclusion
The strategic integration of water elements according to Vastu Shastra principles offers a powerful method for harmonizing living and working environments. From natural lakes and rivers to indoor fountains and aquariums, each type of water body carries unique energies that can influence wealth, success, and overall well-being. The northeast direction emerges as the most auspicious location for water installations, while the southeast and the center of the site are areas to be avoided. The size of the water feature relative to the property and its regular maintenance are crucial for maintaining a positive flow of energy. By balancing the fluidity of water with grounding earth elements, a stable and prosperous environment can be cultivated. Ultimately, these practices aim to align our spaces with the natural forces of the universe, fostering a sense of tranquility, balance, and abundance.