There is nothing anyone wants more than a happy, calm house filled with prosperity and happiness, Vaastu science may be a way to achieve this balance. The fundamentals of Vaastu are based on the various energies, the solar and celestial included. Balancing these energies in accordance to spatial design, layout and in accordance with geometric directions create a harmony, that is the function of Vaastu. Well, Vaastu, often considered the science of architecture, has been employed through the ages in India.

There are so many realms that this can go onto that anyone can get overwhelmed. There are Vaastu experts that most people consult before a home purchase, or even for renovations. So what are the fundamentals of Vaastu for a home? These are some basic principles that can get you started with the ancient science of Vaastu.

The directions:

The four directions play a major role in Vaastu. Energies enter through the main door of the house primarily. So, an important factor for any home is the direction that it is facing. This directional facing is what determines the Vaastu for that property. Each of the four directions have their own unique set of features that are considered auspicious and different. Hence each of the directions, have different guides on what works for that particular direction. The internal placement of the rooms comes next.

Neutral means shades that are unexceptional, but when several neutrals are paired together in different textures, the result is anything but. The tones are ivory, taupe or shades or white and cream, these essential colors are key to a successful neutral color palette. Start with the lightest neutral tone on the ceilings and floors (white and off-white or creme) and then layer with a slightly deeper neutral for furniture(Beige or light olive green), then finish off with an even darker neutral (like light browns and tan) for the curtains or accessories like throw pillows and other esthetic additions.

The elements:

As per Vaastu, the universe is made of five elements – earth, water, fire, air, and space. These elements are referred to as:

Prithvi - Earth: Known as the element that provides grounding, stability, and patience. This element dominates the diagonal and center directions of every space.

Jal - Water: Understood to be the vital element of human sustenance, this element is associated with health and immunity. This element dominates the North and North East.

Agni - Fire: Represents confidence, wealth, energy, and success. This element dominated the south.

Vayu - Air: Represents happiness, fun, and communication. This element dominates the North West zone.

Akasha - Space: This is the representation of cognitive energy and mental space. Space is responsible for all kinds of social energy and dominates the central space.

Room placements:

Master Bedroom:

This is where you get your rest in for the night, a room to relax and unwind in so you can acquire energy to carry out another new day. It is crucial that this space is peaceful and calming. For this, place the master bedroom in the South West zone of the home. Make sure that the bed in the room is not placed beneath a beam of the slab. Also, the bed in any piece should not be falling into the door frame.

If the South West is unavailable, then a consultation should be considered to find the placement of the master bedroom.

Children’s room:

Since the main criteria for any child is growth, development and education, the placement of this room is very important. The most ideal place for a child's room is the North West. This zone encourages academics and education.

Avoid the south zone altogether, and avoid distraction inside the room such as a big mirror or a T.V.

Kitchen:

The kitchen is the heart of the house, this is where warm meals are cooked and offered for sustenance for the whole family. This room is connected to the element that it utilizes this element the most, fire. Since this is the star element, it is advised that the kitchen be located in the actual zone for the element itself, for the best result.

The kitchen should ideally be placed in the south zone, and particularly the South East. If that is not available then the west corner may be considered.

Living room:

The living room is yet another space of importance, this is where family and friends get together and spend quality time or socialize. The most suitable direction for the living room is the east of the North East direction, followed by the North East. This area should not have any doors connecting to the internal rooms should not align to the main door.

Guest room:

Since guests are considered to be ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, making their stay comfortable is also high up there in the priority list. So, if there is a spare bedroom, make sure the one in the South West direction is allocated to the guest.

Dining room:

The placement of the dining room should be in the west zone. Although most areas, such as the east, south or the north are fine, the South West zone should be avoided at all cost.

Bathroom:

The correct position of the bathroom is very crucial and if placed in the wrong direction can create negative energy. The zones for bathrooms are, South of South West, West of North West, and East of South East. Bathroom doors should be single framed and should remain closed.

Storeroom:

The storeroom is often used for extra items that we need for a later date. But the things that are old and no longer have a use are best to be given away or recycled. Since it's believed that old unused or unneeded items build negative energy overtime. The regular things like pantry storage and luggage and other items can be placed in the North East corner.

The science of Vaastu cannot be summed up in a few words or pages. It is a science that needs depth, learning and understanding. Applicability varies from house to house and even room-to-room. Hence, carrying out a Vaastu analysis with an expert would be the best approach for the correct energy alignment of any home. These basic guides are some things to help any homeowner or buyer understand some basics of Vaastu when looking at a house on the market, or even renting and buying.