Vastu -- Common Questions & Answers

Q: What is Vastu?
A: Vastu is a science that provides a set of principles for the construction, layout and interior design of houses, temples and even whole cities. Vastu works to establish harmony between body, mind and universe by creating living spaces that are similarly attuned with the cosmic balance and are orientated according to the movement of the sun and moon, the electromagnetic field of the earth, the five elements and the astrological influence of the planets.

When alignment is achieved, the living space echoes the basic structure of the universe, and prana (the energy sustaining all living beings) flows freely through the living space, bringing health, happiness, peace and well-being to its inhabitants.

Vastu originated over 5,000 years ago from the ancient sacred Hindu texts known collectively as the Vedas.

Q: Why practice Vastu?
A: If the five elements (earth, water, fire, air and space) are balanced and any obstructions to life-supporting energy are removed you will receive the maximum life enhancing energy and support of nature, which will assist you in unfolding your full potential. You will have more opportunities and your thinking will be clear to act on them in the proper time.
Vastu also provides us with information on which areas of the living space have the largest potential for our daily activities. For example, the north-east is most auspicious for meditation, south-east for cooking, and south-west for sleeping etc.

Q: What is the difference between Vastu and Feng Shui?
A: Vastu, a universal science, is the origin of Feng Shui. Whilst there are still some similarities, sadly many of the fundamental principles are missing in modern day Feng Shui practice. These anomalies are due to both a deviation from the original texts as well as cultural and climatic adjustments relevant only to China . In addition to the energy-flow focus of Feng Shui, Vastu also incorporates the deeper karmic level of the relationship between the house and its inhabitants, essential for a complete and true assessment.

Q: When is it a good time to have a Vastu consultation?
A: Ideally we should have a Vastu consultation done when planning a house. As in most cases this is not possible, generally people use Vastu when choosing an existing house, apartment or office or designing its interior. Vastu can also be utilised for any existing structure or when you are faced with problems at home or work.

Q: When will I start to notice the benefits of Vastu?
A: When the elements are balanced in your environment, opportunities will come. It is up to you to utilize these opportunities. You may notice some improvements right away; others may take up to a year.

Q: What are the basic principles of Vastu?
A: Everything that exists in the universe, including our bodies, is made of five elements. These five elements are earth (geomagnetic energy), water (gravitational energy), fire (solar energy), air (wind energy) and space (cosmic radiation). These forces have a powerful influence on us, as well as the environment. Vastu is the science of arranging our man-made environments so that we are in alignment with these forces of nature. If we are not aligned with solar and geomagnetic forces we may experience illness, misfortune and struggle. It is as if we are attempting to swim against the current of a river.
The east is the source of solar, ultra-violet rays, and the north is the source of magnetic energy. We benefit by keeping our environment open to these life supporting energies. The harmful infrared rays, which come from the south, and the destructive gamma rays, coming from the west, cause disruption within the environment and our bodies. Using the principles of Vastu, we protect ourselves from these rays.
Each of these elements is associated with a particular direction: water in the northeast, fire in the southeast, earth in the southwest, air in the northwest and space in the centre. By balancing these elements in their proper proportions, we will gain the benefits of health, happiness and prosperity.



Q: Are the principles of Vastu applicable in different geographical areas around the world?
A: Even where there is a limited amount of sunshine, the answer is yes. The basic principles of balancing the five elements apply throughout the world. By using the principles of this science, buildings can be designed to harmonize with the different climatic conditions of each region.



Q: Can the ills of society (poverty, crime, sickness) be blamed on an unbalanced environment and surroundings?
A: No doubt. The ills of society are worse in congested cities that lack natural light and fresh air. About 80% of the negative influences in our lives are generated by an imbalanced home and work environments.



Q: Is it possible to achieve perfect balance?
A: It is very difficult to achieve perfect balance; however it is said that if your merits are more than your demerits, you have achieved good Vastu.



Q: Can I benefit from using Vastu without demolishing my home and starting over?
A: Yes. These are a few very easy adjustments you can make. You can sleep in the southwest area of your house with your head to the south. You ca n p lace heavier furniture to the south and west. Keep the centre, north and east areas of your home open and free of clutter. You can also place a fountain in the northeast and a light in the southeast. Just using these basic suggestions can have positive benefits in your life.


Q: What is the scientific basis for having a plot slope down to the north and the east?
A: A lower level in the northeast allows the positive magnetic energy coming from the north and the positive solar energy (ultraviolet rays) coming from the east to enter your property and house. This downward slope to the northeast allows water to flow there and absorb the positive energies. Then this positive magnetic energy can flow unobstructed to the southwest where it is deposited. The higher level in the south and west protects you from harmful gamma and infrared rays.