Over the last few decades, concerns regarding the environment have accelerated at an alarming pace. Environmental crises such as global warming, air pollution, urban sprawl, waste disposal, ozone layer depletion, water pollution, and climate change are catapulting our planet into the brink of disaster. As our actions have not been in favor of this beautiful planet, we have seen natural disasters striking at us with larger frequencies. One of the cataclysmic factors contributing to the urban sprawl.
Today, we see rampant and unbridled construction of residences and commercial spaces to accommodate the growing population and their capitalistic views. While we may not have an answer to the natural cataclysms, we all know that we can give a better planet to the future generation if we adopt a particular way of sustainable living. And the answer lies in our ancient roots – the indigenous science of Vastushastra.
Vastushastra is a first-of-its-kind ancient Indian edifice science, which has given deep thoughts to climatic balancing in the premises of residential as well as commercial utility. This has given rise to green buildings, which are nothing but principles and guidelines from Indian Vastushastra.
A courtyard in the middle: We are still able to witness such houses in rural India. These premises facilitate air and light from all sides. As a result, the energy pulse and vibrations in this kind of structures are at the peak and contribute to higher productivity (creativity and efficiency of the inhabitants). Old government offices and public utility buildings in cities such as Mumbai are still the most comfortable for its occupants.
Lowest height of the structures in the North-East: Vastushastra strongly recommends structures with low heights to be in the North-East and those with a tall height to be in the South-West. This ensures maximum exposure to natural light, which, in turn, contributes to energy conservation. This is despite the North and South solstices (uttarayan & dakshinayan)
Open spaces in the plot: Vastushastra suggests maximum open space in the North-East and minimum in the South-West. This ensures the overall good health of the residents.
Heavy structures in the South-West: All heavy and tall structures, including staircase and overhead water tanks should be planned in the South-West direction. Open spaces in the South-West could bring in negative energies, and the same should be blocked. All heavy and large expansive trees are strongly recommended towards the South-West corner of the plot.
Minimum windows and doors in South to West zone: It facilitates maximum spread and focus of ultraviolet rays that we get from the morning sun rays. These are beneficial for insecticidal and de-germinating effect.
Underground water storage in North-East zone: This ensures purification and protection from UV rays.
Placement of toilets: Toilets should ideally be built in the West of North-West and in the South of South-West directions. This is due to the high penetrability of infra-red rays coming from the setting sun. It also ensures that the premise is free from germs, ants and other insects that are originating from the toilet region. At the same time, the presence of air element helps to diffuse bad odour.
Storage: Due to the effect of infra-red rays and presence of air element, maximum storage of food grains and luggage plus stocking items of utility is advised to be store in the North-West zone.
Design of kitchen: There are certain tips in vastushastra for kitchen. The South-East corner represents the fire element. Hence, the presence of a kitchen is essential here. The Gas-stove should be placed in the South-East direction with a window on the East wall, and the cook is expected to face the East. The window here would help in bringing positive universal energies of East, which are received from Sahasrara or crown chakra of the human body. It helps to maintain physical and mental activeness of the cook. A window in the South or West enhances the flow of fresh air in the premises.
Vastushastra, the metaphysical edifice science of Indian origin, is a science of construction that synchronises the balance between human life and nature. The five basic elements (namely Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth), the eight directions (namely North, North-East, East, South-East, South, South-West, West, North-West), the electromagnetic and gravitational forces of the Earth, the cosmic energy emanating from the planets as well as the atmosphere and its influence on human life are all taken into consideration in the science of Vastushastra.
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Hello, I’m Liya, a passionate writer specializing in articles on sexuality and architectural design. My journey in the realm of writing began at rosevibrator.org, a leading company in the United States specializing in the sale of rose vibrator. During my time there, I gained invaluable experience, honing my skills in crafting engaging and informative content. Whether delving into the intricacies of human intimacy or exploring the innovative world of architectural design, I bring a unique perspective and a dedication to excellence in every piece I create. With a blend of creativity and expertise, I strive to deliver content that resonates with readers, sparking thought-provoking conversations and inspiring others to embrace the beauty of both the physical and conceptual realms.