In ancient India science, medicine, astrology, astronomy, mysticism, philosophy and spirituality lived in amiable juxtaposition, their boundaries overlapping and one enriching the other. Herein lies the truth and freshness that allows us more than 3000 years later to draw on its perspectives. Indian religion, Hinduism, culture and civilization are basically spiritual in nature. The principles of Vastu were formulated keeping in view, the cosmic influence of the Sun, its light and heat, the direction of the wind, the earth’s magnetic field and the influence of cosmos on our planet earth. Our ancient scriptures reveal that an exact and intimate knowledge of the manipulations of these energy fields to the desired intensity was known to our rishis. Hence in Vastushastra, selection of a site is an important factor since the plot represents a fixed form and it would radiate positive as well as negative energies depending upon its shape, proportion, direction and location of its openings etc. Astronomy is the foundation of astrology and they together with the calendar play an important role in different aspects of vastu shilpa, particularly in deciding the right time and day to commence the construction work.

The physical world, according to the principles of vastu comprises of five basic and essential elements known as Panchabhutas and they are :

1. Aakasha - Space, 2. Vaayu - Air, 3. Agni - Fire, 4. Jala -Water, 5. Bhumi - Earth.

The human body is also made up of these five elements, and again it is the very same elements that we see in building construction. The interplay of these forces sustains life and maintains a near equilibrium on this planet. Any imbalance in the interplay of these forces can result in chaos. An invisible equation operates, between the elements outside, the elements within the individual and his living place. While the first two are near constants, the third is a variable. Man can design buildings better, if he understands the effectiveness of these five natural forces. Generations after generations in India believe that the location, direction and composition of the buildings have a bearing on the health and happiness of the inmates. The Vastu influence of buildings on human beings is like the cosmic influence of the sun on our ecosystems. The Japanese art and Tibetan mandalas also reveal this knowledge.

There is one timeless way of building.
It is thousands of years old, and
the same today as it always has been."

—     Christopher Alexander  

All the planets in this Universe are moving on a fixed path due to some forces, which keeps them attracted to each other. The earth is one of the numerous planets in the Universe. As far as we know, life exists only on this planet of the solar system. The reason for this existence, which is quite obvious, is environment or we may call it Nature.

Nature plays a vital role in all life forms, men, plants and animals. Natural forces like wind, light, directions, gravitational forces, magnetic forces have effect on human body and material. It can be felt by all of us while climbing up a mountain, driving down the slope or cycling against the wind. Thousands of years ago, our old masters had understood the secret power of these forces, which moves in our surrounding.

In this vast space, we create a space of our own, according to our needs, whereas the nature has its own parameters in various fields. If this man-made environment is in accordance with the natural parameters and forces, we get the maximum benefits. If it is against natural forces, progress gets retarded. This principle is true for towns, colonies, buildings and houses in which we live and factories through which we earn.

Most of our buildings have been constructed under economical, structural and technological considerations. But human factor is of paramount importance in creating an individually suited, healthy and ecologically sound building environment.

‘Vastu’ is the science of building and essentially the art of balancing nature with man-made environment and correct placement of man in such a manner so as to get the maximum benefits of the energy emanated by natural and man-made environment.

Vastu can fruitfully be applied to the areas of our activities. We should initially concentrate on areas, which affect our life i.e. where we live and work.

We all care about our homes and spend time, effort and money, trying to make them more comfortable. For most of us it represents one of the biggest investment we ever make. Our home can damage our health, the air we breathe and the water we drink, without our even being aware of it.

Similarly, the places where we work environmental stresses contribute to overall load, preventing us to reach our full potential. Resisting these external forces becomes more important for growth and development.

We are enveloped by a series of environmental hazards in our day-to-day life, which leads us to irresistible, endless physical and mental disorders.

Harmony with the environment, peace for the spirit and health for the human being are the criteria for healthy homes. These have deep roots in the human experience and in traditions of home building according to the cultures across the world.

This book provides basic concepts of Vastu principles and deals with :

Location of land

Essential aspects of building

Interiors, room by room

Energy measurements and remedial measures

In today’s technological world, if man-made environment is not found in consonance with nature, it can be studied with the help of modern instruments and rectified with the ways and means available, without damaging the existing structure.

Need special help? consult the Vastu Experts at www.vastuworld.com