Fish aquariums hold a significant place in Vastu Shastra, regarded as powerful tools for energy correction and enhancement. As per the principles outlined in established guidelines, fish tanks are considered highly auspicious and are utilized to rectify major Vastu defects within a residential or commercial space. The fundamental logic behind this practice is that everything possesses a certain level of energy, and locating items correctly makes that energy beneficial for the inhabitants. An incorrectly located fish tank, conversely, may invite medical troubles. The movement of water and fish within the tank is believed to generate and enhance positive energy, attracting prosperity, wealth, and happiness. This aligns with Chinese Feng Shui principles, which also connect the flow of energy, or Chi, with the presence of flowing fish, suggesting that such an arrangement leads to higher prosperity and better health.
Beyond the energetic benefits, fish aquariums are also linked to Hindu lore and mythology. Lord Vishnu’s first avatar was a fish, establishing them as sacred beings with a greater ability to consume negative energies. Furthermore, the act of feeding fish is perceived as a good deed that adds to an individual's pot of good karma, promising sound health and prosperous life. Observing fish in an aquarium is also noted as a therapeutic activity; it aids in dealing with high blood pressure and increases the release of serotonin in the brain, promoting peace of mind. Research suggests that staring at a fish tank can help heal high blood pressure and nervousness, and children suffering from anxiety may experience faster recovery by observing an aquarium for prolonged periods. Additionally, the natural death of a fish in an aquarium is symbolically linked to the resolution of a problem, as they are believed to absorb toxic energies, thereby shielding the home from negative vibrations.
Directional Placement for Maximum Benefit
The placement of a fish aquarium is paramount in Vastu Shastra. The wrong placement can negate the benefits, while the correct placement can infuse an optimistic vibe in the surroundings. According to Vastu Shastra, the ideal location for an aquarium in the living room is the southeast direction. This direction is associated with the element of fire and can be balanced by the water element of the tank. Alternatively, if one wishes to place an aquarium in any other room, the north direction is considered auspicious. For commercial spaces or offices, the aquarium can be kept in the reception area facing the north or east direction. Some guidelines also suggest that fish tanks should be ideally kept in balconies or halls facing the southwest, though this seems to contradict other directives regarding the southeast and north directions. It is essential to note that the documentation provides conflicting details regarding the placement of aquariums in the southwest direction versus the north or southeast. To err on the side of caution and prioritize widely accepted principles, the north and southeast directions are recommended. The aquarium should be placed where people can see it frequently to maximize the flow of positive energy.
Prohibitions and Avoidances
There are strict prohibitions regarding where a fish tank should not be placed to avoid generating negative impacts. These "don'ts" are crucial for maintaining harmony and health within the household: - Bedroom: Never place an aquarium in the bedroom, as this may create sleeping complications for the inhabitants. - Kitchen: Avoid placing an aquarium in the kitchen, as it may generate health complications in the family. - Under Staircases: Do not place a fish tank under a staircase, as this is believed to hinder the positive flow of energy. - Direct Sunlight: Do not keep a fish tank under direct sunlight, as this can affect the water temperature and the health of the fish. - Broken or Dirty Tanks: Replace a tank if it is broken or dirty, as it may not reap any benefits and could harbor negative energy. - Clutter: Do not clutter the tank with a lot of items. A clean and organized tank is essential for positive energy flow.
Selecting the Right Fish and Maintenance
The type of fish chosen and the maintenance of the aquarium are vital for sustaining positive energy. According to Vastu, Thursday is the most auspicious day to buy aquarium fish, believed to attract prosperity and good fortune. The movement of the fish generates positive energy, so selecting lively, colorful fish is recommended to bring energy and vibrance to the space.
Auspicious Fish Varieties
Specific types of fish are believed to attract good luck, wealth, and positive vibes: - Arowana or Dragon Fish: Considered a holy fish with a long life (10 to 20 years). Its vibrant color (golden, red, green) attracts prosperity. - Goldfish: An iconic fish that brings good fortune and positive energy. It comes in various colors and has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. It is ideal for beginners. - Blackmoor: This fish absorbs bad energy and protects the home. It is available in black and lives for 10 to 15 years. - Butterfly Koi: This fish brings peace, wealth, and success. It features red, yellow, and white colors and has a long lifespan of 25 to 30 years. - Flower Horn Fish: Known for their striking red color, they attract good fortune and strengthen relationships. They live for 10 to 12 years. - Guppy Fish: Ideal for small aquariums, these red fish maintain good energy flow. Their lifespan is approximately 2 years. - Cory Catfish: Bottom dwellers that help clean the tank and boost positive vibrations. They come in black, white, and brown.
Maintenance Guidelines
Proper care ensures the aquarium remains a source of positive energy rather than stagnation: - Water Changes: Always change the water once a month. - Cleanliness: Remove algae buildup and keep the tank clean. Regularly monitor fish health and promptly remove any dead fish. - Filtration: Install and maintain filters and aeration systems. - Temperature: Keep a stable and suitable water temperature for the fish. - Feeding: Do not overfeed the fish to stop water contamination. - Accessories: Check and clean tank accessories regularly. Avoid broken or chipped accessories. - Lighting: Restrict lighting to 10 hours a day; fish need darkness to rest.
Decor and Aesthetics
The aquarium should be blended with the home design, such as on a dining table, study table, or as a wall tank. To enhance the Vastu compliance: - Gravel: Use blue gravel in the north zone and green gravel in the east or southeast zones. - Plants: Add live Vastu plants like Java moss and ferns. - Decor: Add stones, pebbles, and figurines, but avoid clutter. Use plastic decor; avoid copper coins. Do not use seashells or corals in freshwater tanks.
Conclusion
In summary, a Vastu-compliant fish tank serves as a multifaceted tool for harmonizing the living or working environment. It acts as a beautiful decorative piece that spreads liveliness, a protective shield against evil eyes and negative vibrations, and a medium for accumulating good karma through the act of feeding. The therapeutic benefits of observing fish are well-documented, contributing to mental peace and physical health. By adhering to the specific directional guidelines—primarily the southeast or north—and strictly avoiding prohibited areas like the bedroom and kitchen, one can harness the auspicious power of the aquarium. Selecting the right type of fish, such as Arowana or Goldfish, and maintaining the tank with diligence ensures the continuous flow of positive energy, or Chi, leading to prosperity, wealth, and happiness for the inhabitants.