Water is a fundamental element in Vastu Shastra, representing flow, prosperity, and the vital energy of life. The management of wastewater and drainage is as significant as the management of fresh water, as improper disposal can disrupt the subtle energy balance of a property. According to the provided guidelines, the direction of drainage outlets, the placement of pipes, and the slope of the land play a crucial role in maintaining positive vibrations within a home or commercial establishment. This article explores the specific Vastu recommendations for drainage systems, pipeline placement, and topographical corrections, drawing exclusively from established source materials.
The Importance of Water Flow in Vastu Shastra
In Vastu Shastra, the movement of water is closely linked to the flow of wealth and health. While fresh water brings life and positive energy, wastewater carries away used energy. Therefore, the exit points for this water must be carefully chosen to ensure that negativity is removed without affecting the inhabitants' prosperity.
The guidelines emphasize that the drainage system, including pipes from bathrooms and kitchens, should be designed to allow a smooth flow of waste water without stagnation. Stagnant water or obstructed drains are believed to create negative energy, while a well-maintained system supports a harmonious environment.
Ideal Directions for Drainage Outlets
Based on the source data, specific directions are designated for the outlets of drainage pipelines to ensure compliance with Vastu principles. These recommendations are derived from the traditional understanding of the directional energies associated with the cardinal directions.
Permitted Directions for Drainage
The following table summarizes the recommended and restricted directions for drainage outlets and pipelines:
| Element | Recommended Direction | Restricted Direction | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bathroom & Kitchen Outlets | East or North | South | Outlets should strictly avoid the South direction. |
| Toilet & Bathroom Pipes | West or North-West | - | Pipes should be diverted to these directions before the outlet. |
| Gutter in the Building | Any direction except South | South | The South direction is considered unsuitable for gutters. |
| Waste Water Movement | North, East, or North-East | South, West, South-West | Smooth flow is essential; avoid stagnation. |
Specific Guidelines for Bathrooms and Kitchens
- Bathroom Water Flow: The pipes of toilets and bathrooms should be diverted to the West or North-West directions, with the outlets positioned accordingly. The water outlets in bathrooms should ideally be in the Northeast, East, or North direction to allow efficient flow.
- Kitchen Water Flow: In the kitchen, the sink should be placed in the Northeast direction, and the water should flow towards the Northeast, North, or East. This aligns with the general rule that drainage pipelines for the kitchen should have an outlet in the East or North.
- Strict Avoidance of the South: The sources consistently warn against constructing drainage outlets in the South direction under any circumstances. If an outlet is accidentally placed in the South, it should be redirected to the East or North.
Managing Upper Storeys and Complex Drainage
For multi-story buildings, the placement of drainage pipes from upper floors requires special attention. The guidelines state that drainage pipes coming from upper storeys should not be located in the South-West corner of the building. If they are unavoidable in that location, it is critical that they do not leak. Leaking pipes in the South-West are considered detrimental to the stability and prosperity of the household.
Waste Water Movement Inside the Compound Wall
When considering the movement of wastewater inside the compound wall, the following practices are recommended to maintain positive energy flow: * Directional Preference: The drainage system should ideally be directed towards the North, East, or North-East. These directions are considered auspicious. * Avoid Crossings: Drainage lines should not cross each other or intersect with utility lines like water supply pipes or electrical cables. Such crossings are believed to create negative energy and disrupt the energy balance. * Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to prevent blockages and ensure the smooth flow of wastewater. Debris should be cleared to maintain positive energy. * Proper Disposal: Wastewater should be disposed of responsibly. Stagnant pools or ponds of wastewater within the compound should be avoided.
Topography, Slope, and Practical Corrections
The ideal plot for construction should be rectangular or square, aligned to cardinal directions, with proper grading. However, in many modern developments, especially in the USA, altering the topography to strictly comply with Vastu may not be feasible due to existing structures, local regulations, and Home Owners Association (HOA) rules.
Challenges in Existing Properties
For those purchasing existing homes, there are limited options to alter the sewage pipe direction or water outlets unless building from scratch. The source material notes that dumping dirt in the South-West corner or putting heavy stones in the South and West corners are practices some people use to correct slopes, but these are not always practical or scientifically validated solutions for every property.
Scientific Remedies and Consultation
When dealing with irregular topography or non-compliant slopes, the guidance suggests: * French Drains: These can be used to direct rainwater to the correct direction, provided it is done safely and in accordance with city guidelines. * Professional Advice: There is no single answer for plot slope correction. It varies by property based on existing conditions and neighboring topography. It is advisable to seek the scientific evaluation and services of an expert Vastu consultant who understands local building patterns.
Slope Directions
The source material references several keywords regarding slope directions, including: * North to South slope * West to East slope * East to West slope * Slope towards South (remedies needed) * North-West, Southeast, and South-West slope remedies
While the specific remedies for each slope are not detailed in the provided text, the general principle is that the land should ideally slope from South to North or from West to East, allowing water to flow out in the auspicious directions (North or East).
Additional Water Elements
Beyond drainage, the placement of other water elements is also governed by Vastu principles:
- Wells: Should be dug in the Northeast direction. If not feasible, the East is the next best option. Wells in the Southwest, Northwest, or Southeast are to be avoided as they may lead to financial losses and health issues.
- Overhead Water Tanks: Should be placed in the Southwest direction to ensure stability and prevent leakage of wealth. Placing them in the Northeast is highly inauspicious.
- Underground Water Tanks: Ideally located in the North or Northeast direction to harness positive energy and ensure a continuous flow of wealth.
Conclusion
Adhering to Vastu principles for drainage and water flow is a vital aspect of creating a harmonious living or working space. The core guidelines emphasize directing wastewater towards the North, East, or West, while strictly avoiding the South. Proper maintenance, avoiding crossings of pipelines, and ensuring a smooth flow without stagnation are essential for maintaining positive energy. While modern construction and existing properties may present challenges in fully complying with these ancient principles, practical solutions and professional consultation can help achieve a reasonable balance between traditional wisdom and contemporary living.