Vaastu is Sanskrit for dwelling. Vaastu-Shastra are ancient texts (believed to be about 3000 years old) describing parameters which should be used to build all dwellings to ensure that inhabitants lead a happy and healthy life.

Vaastu - Shastra is science, with logical and rational explanations for its fundamentals. If the tenets are adhered to, it can benefit the inhabitant. If a structure is built entirely at variance with Vaastu, the user may suffer a number of problems. In between these two extremes, dwellings built in accordance with some Vaastu rules may be neutral - neither beneficial nor destructive. The characteristics of a building must therefore be studied to ascertain whether it is in harmony with its surroundings.

We are surrounded by energy fields of different types. Any open land and these forces move so that they are in equilibrium. When a structure is built, these forces are naturally affected. If the balance is maintained, the inhabitants live in harmony in their surroundings. However, if these forces are obstructed, the distorted energy field may even cause misfortune.

The Science of Vaastu-Shastra

The energy fields of the earth appear to flow from the north-east toward the south-west. Therefore, by maintaining a high potential between these directions, an increased flow of energy is created. This may be achieved by leaving the north-east as clear as possible, by choosing a site with the north-east corner lower than the rest or by the presence of water in the north-east corner. Similarly, the south-west corner should be built-up or at a higher altitude than the others.

If this positive direction of energy flow is maintained, the inhabitants of this dwelling will benefit. If, however, the direction of energy is reversed, the energy of that household is depleted. All the tenets of Vaastu-Shastra support the correct flow of this universal energy.

Construction and Design of the Dwelling

Kitchen

• The best position for the kitchen is in the south-east.

• The cook should face the east.

• The sink should be positioned in the north-east corner of the kitchen.

• The stove should be positioned in the south-east corner of the kitchen.

• Shelves for storage should be on the south and west walls.

Prayer Room

The prayer room should be in the east, but toward the north. If the north-east is covered, then it can be placed there. The person performing offering puja should face the west or the east.

Bedrooms

The master bedroom should be positioned in the south-west corner of the house. Beds should be placed in the south-west corner of the room. The sleepers should have their heads in the south and their feet pointing northward. Students may face west with their heads in the east.

Living Room

This can be accommodated in most directions. The centre of the house may be used.

Toilets / Bathrooms

Attached toilets in the south-west and west are permissible. The commode should face north-south.

Staircase

The rise of the staircase should be from east to west or north to south. A clockwise movement is beneficial.