Vastu shastra is not only a spiritual system but also a scientific design system that evolved in India between 6,000 and 3,000 BC. Vastu means energy, and Vaastu is the matter created when that energy takes form including the space that fills the form. Vastu tools and devices can affect the flow and function of energy and spaces. Vastu philosophy is similar to feng shui. It's a science based on the theory of five elements and 10 directions; the eight compass directions plus the directions of heaven and earth.
Vastu Elements, Directions, and Devices
Vastu works to achieve harmony within your environment by employing devices to assist the natural elements and energies. The following are the five elements of Vastu:
- Earth
- Sky (Space)
- Fire
- Water
- Air
When all of these elements come together, it creates a harmonic balance of electric magnetic energy. This energy is believed to bring positive results such as good health, great wealth, and long-lasting prosperity.
Three Design Principles of Vastu
The design aspect of Vastu is based on three simple design principles. By keeping these in the forefront of planning, you can be assured of a good Vastu design.
- Bhogadyam - Design must be useful and an easy to implement
- Sukha Darsham - Must be aesthetically pleasing
- Ramya - Creates a sense of pleasure and well being for those who dwell within
Vastu and Feng Shui
Vastu and feng shui are both based on the five elements of nature and their energies. Vastu utilizes more mathematics in its principles than feng shui. This architectural science focuses on directions, solar energies, and cosmic energies. For example, a home should be sited to an orientation that will reap the maximum benefits of solar energy and cosmic influences. In Vastu, the Northeast corner of a building serves as the receiver of cosmic energy, meaning the energy the earth receives from planets instead of the sun.
Like feng shui, Vastu can help you reap the benefits of a positive energy flow throughout your home and avoid the negative effects of improper placement as well as natural interferences with the energy of your surroundings.
Vastu Energy Devices
There are several devices available to you in order to determine, create, and capitalize on Vastu principles. Many of these devices are called energy diverging because of their function in your home. The three of the most popular Vastu energy devices are:
- Pyramid
- Plate
- Compass
Vastu Use of Pyramids as Energy Devices
The use of pyramids to energize buildings is a common practice in Vastu. The energy collects in the upper portion go of the pyramid (conical point). As this energy builds at the top, it begins to seep down the sides and eventually fills the entire structure. It's believed that the pyramid's energy generates from the pyramid's four sides and can even penetrate underneath the ground. You can use any size of a pyramid you want.
Personal Uses of Vastu Pyramids
Pyramid energy systems are used not only in architecture but also to treat human diseases. Water kept in a pyramid is said to have restorative digestive powers as well as healing properties when used on wounds and cuts.
Pyramid Architectural Uses
Because the energy of a pyramid is so powerful and effective, they can be placed in a home without the need of an analysis. The best location for one is in the center of your home. If you're concentrating on a specific room in your home, then you'll want to locate your pyramid in the middle of the room. Some materials for specific uses are:
- Wood - Cure depression
- Marble - Aid digestion
- Crystal - Remove negative energy
Using a Vastu Compass
Using a compass can help you obtain good health, prosperity, and happiness. A compass can verify that you've placed your home and other objects in the most advantageous positions. Most Vastu compasses come in a kit that includes eight charts which can be use in any room and any dwelling or business.
The Eight Charts
The eight charts address different aspects of your life:
- Residence
- Living Room
- Bedroom
- Kitchen
- Shop
- Office
- Factory
- Dispensary
Using a Vastu Compass and Chart
Once you've selected the chart you wish to use and the room you want to address, you'll want to place the chart and compass either on the floor, table, or some other level surface. When the compass stops moving and is pointing north, shift the chart beneath the compass so the red line (north) matches north on the chart.
Vastu Energy Plates
Energy plates come in various colors with an array of symbols specific to the need and purpose. Plates are often placed in one corner of a room. The rooms used in your home are typically the living room and bedrooms. Areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry room, etc. are not considered important enough for energizing separately since they fall into the overall pyramid energy grid created using only the main rooms of your home.
A cement layer is traditionally placed over the plates before the tile or wood flooring is laid. By positioning these with one to a room, you can create a pyramid energy field.
Another common use is for martial health and bliss. Hang the plate in the bedroom facing the foot of the bed. Specific purposes have special symbols that can be found on the individual plates.
Using Vastu in Daily Life
You can incorporate an energy device Vastu as a design element to enrich your life.
