The kitchen is considered a vital space within any home, serving as the center for nourishment and energy generation. According to Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural science, the kitchen is primarily governed by the fire element (Agni), represented by the stove, oven, and other cooking appliances. However, it also heavily involves the water element (Jal), which is present in sinks, water filters, and refrigerators. The harmonious integration of these two powerful and often opposing elements is essential for creating a balanced environment that supports the health, wealth, and overall well-being of the residents. The placement of water, particularly drinking water, plays a significant role in maintaining this equilibrium and ensuring the flow of positive energy.
Understanding the Water Element in the Kitchen
In Vastu Shastra, the five fundamental elements—Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space—have a profound influence on different areas of life and the home. The water element (Jal) is associated with emotions, purity, wealth, and smooth flow. Within the kitchen, the water element is connected to the sink, water pipes, water filters, refrigerators, and any water storage vessels. Maintaining a proper balance between the fire and water elements is crucial. An imbalance, particularly concerning water, can affect prosperity in terms of both wealth and health. The sink and taps symbolize flowing water, and their correct placement is vital for positive energy flow.
Ideal Placement of Drinking Water
The placement of drinking water in the kitchen is a specific and important aspect of Vastu compliance. According to established guidelines, drinking water, which includes water bottles, R/O purifiers, and other water-related vessels, should be placed in the northeast corner of the kitchen. This direction aligns perfectly with the water element and is believed to ensure a balanced and harmonious environment. If the northeast corner of the kitchen is unavailable, the east corner can serve as an alternative placement for drinking water and utensil appliances. Keeping water bottles and earthen pots in the northeast direction is considered auspicious.
Placement of Kitchen Sink and Water Drain
The kitchen sink, wash basins, washing machine, water pipes, and the kitchen drain should be positioned in the north or northeast direction of the kitchen. This placement is recommended to maintain the crucial balance between the fire and water elements. Specifically, the sink should be placed in the north-east zone. Ensuring the sink is in close proximity to the drinking water area adds to convenience and energetic alignment. It is also noted that the sink direction should be North-East, with a few inches of space kept away from the wall.
Balancing Fire and Water: Stove and Sink Separation
The most critical aspect of kitchen Vastu is the separation of the fire element (stove) and the water element (sink). The stove should always be placed in the Southeast corner of the kitchen, which is the ideal spot for the fire element. The person using the stove should consistently face east while cooking, as this is regarded as an auspicious direction for health and positivity.
Conversely, the sink should be located in the Northeast direction of the kitchen. It is of paramount importance that the stove (fire) and the sink (water) are never placed directly next to each other or directly opposite each other. A minimum distance of 2-3 feet is required between them. If this distance cannot be achieved, a non-combustible material, such as a stone slab or a sturdy wooden partition, should be used to act as a buffer. This separation prevents the conflicting elements from clashing and disrupting the energy flow.
Other Kitchen Vastu Guidelines for Water Elements
Beyond the placement of drinking water and the sink, other Vastu principles relate to the water element. The refrigerator, which stores food and water, is also associated with the water element. It is ideally placed in the Southwest, South, West, or Northwest directions of the kitchen. Some guidelines also state the fridge can be in the north, southwest, or southeast. However, it is explicitly stated that one should avoid placing the fridge in the northeast direction.
Proper ventilation is also key to managing the energy in the kitchen. Windows should be placed in the East or West direction to facilitate the flow of fresh air and optimistic energy. An exhaust fan strategically placed in the east direction helps to expel any negative energy and release negativity.
Corrections for Existing Kitchens
Implementing Vastu principles in an existing kitchen without major renovations is achievable through practical adjustments. For kitchens where the placement of water elements is not ideal, one can use remedies such as: - Color Adjustments: Repainting walls or adding vibrant decor elements in appropriate colors like yellow, orange, red, brown, or rose pink can enhance positive energy. - Rearrangement: Adjusting the placement of appliances, storage units, and furniture can help align the space better with Vastu principles. - Lighting and Decluttering: Ensuring adequate natural light, proper ventilation, and regularly decluttering the kitchen to maintain a clean and organized space are effective ways to improve energy flow.
General Do’s and Don’ts for Kitchen Vastu
To ensure the kitchen remains a source of positive energy, the following guidelines should be considered.
Do’s
- Place the kitchen in the east, southeast, or northwest part of the house.
- Position the platform in the east and southeast corners, with the hob in the southeast corner.
- Position the sink in the northeast section and keep drinking water there.
- Ensure windows or ventilation are on the east or west wall.
- Place the dining table in the west or northwest of the modular kitchen.
- Arrange the pantry in the south or west for easy access during meal preparation.
- Place electronic appliances like the toaster, oven, and mixer grinder near the south wall.
- Place the gas cylinder in the southeast corner.
- Always clean the kitchen and utensils before sleeping.
Don’ts
- Avoid placing the kitchen in the northeast corner to prevent mental suffering and financial losses.
- Avoid placing the kitchen in the southwest corner, as this can lead to family discord.
- Avoid the north direction for the kitchen to prevent excessive expenses.
- Do not place the kitchen directly above or below the pooja room, toilets, or bedrooms.
- Avoid placing the main door on the south wall.
- Do not face the south while cooking to avoid health and financial problems.
- Avoid black flooring and walls.
- Do not place the stove directly in front of the entrance door.
- Avoid placing the kitchen above, below, or next to a toilet or bathroom, as this can lead to negative energy and health issues.
Conclusion
Adhering to Vastu Shastra principles for the kitchen, particularly regarding the placement and balance of water elements, is essential for creating a harmonious and healthy home. The careful placement of drinking water in the northeast, the sink in the north or northeast, and the stove in the southeast, while ensuring a proper buffer between them, forms the foundation of a Vastu-compliant kitchen. By following these guidelines, residents can ensure their kitchen remains a vibrant source of positive energy, contributing to the overall well-being, prosperity, and harmony of the entire family.