Vastu is a pseudoscience that’s been around for thousands of years. It holds that geometric lines are found in nature and on artificial structures called ‘chakras’, which take on either positive or negative effects depending on their position. In some cases, these lines can even be put into motion with the help of subtle changes to the house layout or furnishings. These concepts are popularly promoted in books, DVDs and even websites by a few.
However, there is no scientific evidence to validate any of its claims. Numerous such books and DVDs claim to be a guide to ancient Indian architecture and the architecture of other cultures. Most of them cite ancient texts where this elaborate geometry was discussed. Still, the only original text found by archaeologists or scholars is one study from the 9th century that mentioned the existence of a Vastu-like system.
Vastu Shastra
Vastu Shastra gives rules to build houses so that the inhabitants are safe, prosperous and healthy. There are two forms of Vastu-Purusha and graha vastu that help users create wealth, health, peace and prosperity.
All living beings have been developing their thoughts based on experiences they have had throughout their lives. The total of all your thoughts is known as your mind or subconsciousness.
Vastu East Facing House Plan-Ground Floor
The East Facing House Plan-Ground floor is shown below.
a) The vastu principles will be applied on three important planes — external, internal and spiritual (esoteric).
b) Entry point of east-facing house plan: A minimum door size of 2 feet wide (or 1.2 m) and a maximum height of 3 feet high (or 0.9 m). It will allow entry from any direction. Entry from North or South should occur at the covered porch so that no direct sun comes into the house interior through the doors until noon when daylight decreases in intensity; this will avoid unpleasant heat in summer and cold winds in winter, respectively.
c) The side walls are designed to have a maximum width of 10 feet (or 3 m), which allows maximum room for the passage of air into the house, and a minimum width of 6 feet (or 1.5 m) to allow efficient flow of air around the house. All windows should be open from the inside and outside to allow continuous fresh air to flow into the house.
d) The ground in front of and behind the house is designed to have a minimum width and depth of 24 feet (or 7.3 m) for entry by a two-wheeled vehicle. It will allow easy access to neighbours, doctors or temple-goers who may need assistance or medical attention at any time. The distance between houses above or below has to be at least 2 meters (or 6.5 ft). It allows for light and air to pass through the wide open spaces.
e) The ground in front of the house is designed to have a central water-catchment area, surrounded by a water-resistant hardscape and permeable grass or low shrubs. This design allows rainwater to seep into the ground instead of run-off, reducing flooding and erosion. The shrubs and grasses placed in this area will also reduce any impact of noise or vibration from traffic or other activities. The area adjacent to the house should have a minimum width and depth of 6 feet (or 1.5 m) for entry by a two-wheeled vehicle.
f) The minimum length of the wall separating the house from its neighbours is 1,000 mm (or 39 inches). It will prevent house vibrations from transmitting through neighbours’ walls, creating a discernible noise in their homes.
Conclusion:
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