Hinduism never ceases to amaze us. It is complete in itself, always giving, always guiding and always taking us a step closer to the truth. Everyday something new is revealed, and sometimes, small gifts are even placed on our doorsteps, waiting to be discovered and opened.
One such example is Vastu Shastra. Vastu Shastra is the ancient Indian science of architecture rooted within the Vedas, which governs the design and construction of manmade structures. The word ‘vastu’ in Sanskrit means ‘dwelling’, referring to buildings, and ‘shastra’ means ‘guideline’. Vastu, being three-fold in nature, pertains to the physical, psychological and spiritual order of the built environment, which is in consonance with the cosmic energies. It is the study of planetary influences on buildings such as homes, and their dwellers. It provides guidance on proper design and construction methods to bring forth maximum benefits such as peace, happiness, health and prosperity, as it ensures that the dwelling is in total alignment with the cosmic field.
Have you ever wondered why our elders always insisted that your head must face east while sleeping, or you must never cook facing south? These are not superstitions, as some may wish to believe; they are, in fact, based on the truth, embedded in science and spirituality.
This divine knowledge of the cosmic mind was obtained by the sages during deep states of meditation and passed on to the ancient Indian architects through word of mouth and handwritten monographs. Although this science appears to have been lost, it is being rediscovered by the western world.
According to Vastu Shastra , the five elements of nature, earth, fire, water, air and ether or space, govern the principles of creation. These forces act for or against each other to create harmony and disharmony. As we know, everything on earth, in some form or other, is energy and is influenced by the nine planets; each of these planets guards a particular direction. So our dwellings are therefore under the influence of the five elements.
We will delve more into the basic Vastu principles in next month’s article and reveal case studies of its tremendous benefits, all thanks to our ancestors. Jai Swaha Maataa!
By Lydia Singh
BSc. Eng., PMP, LFA
