Vaastu Philosophies:

Vaastu Shastra is an integral part of Vedic culture and philosophy. The five elements of nature, namely: earth (stability), water (purity); fire (energy and power); air (pervasiveness) and space (creativity and dynamism), are co-related with everything that goes on in the Universe.

The relationship between Vaastu and Astrology
Vaastu and astrology have both originated from the Vedas, and are inter-dependent on each other. In fact, both are derived from each other and complement each other as well. Vaastu Shastra, while trying to find out muhurta (auspicious moments) depends on astrology to find out the right time. An astrologer, while performing yagnas, must depend on Vaastu to get an idea of the location. While both the sciences are independent and complete in themselves, a joint study helps for a better understanding.

The Vaastu Philosophies are:
Jivatman: Some locations are sacred in their very character. In such places, the building also imbibes power, which can bestow siddhi or spiritual powers to the occupants. The physical abode is the resting place for the body, psyche, spirit of the individual and the smaller unit of a family or group. This is the shape wherein the jivatman of the individual can achieve spiritual harmony and contentment, during their sojourn in earthly life.

Panchabhoota: In an act of creation, the objects formed become subservient to the cosmic order of Panchabhoota. In other words, the five elements, namely space, air, fire, water and earth play a subtle part in the emanated form and each has its location and role, meaning and power.
Dvaitam/ Advaitam: To achieve the sublimation of the jivatman with paramatman, two paths have been recommended, one known as Dvaitam and the other as Advaitam. In the field of architecture, the philosophies of Dvaitam and Advaitam have had great impact, particularly in the realm of religious buildings. All temple precincts are built around the concept of form and space, which articulate the Search for the Divine either within the self or outside of the self.

Purusha: Vaastu Purusha is the body on which every aspect of human activity is carried out. Whether we build a house or playground, we place it upon the sacred body of the cosmic, in order for it to reside with us. The manifestation of energy in the universe of reality, or prapancha is the movement of purusha/prakriti.

Shivam/Shakti: This movement from stillness and bliss into manifestation is the secret of creation. The still centre is known as Shivam, and the energy which is the energy of creation is Shakti, the former the male principle and the latter the female.

In the Indian tradition the male/female is inextricably linked as the Ardhanareeshwara (half male and half female) and the Srivatsam (the mole) on the body of Vishnu. (The feminine principle exists in the form of a mole on the body of the male).

Triguna: Each physical form is perceived as a composition of three: Gunas or characteristics known as Satvika, Rajasa, Tamasa. When one of these Gunas is predominant, then the nature of the material objects takes on the dominant character.

In Vaastu, the three Gunas are characterised by the three shapes of a circle, octagon and square respectively. The energy contained within the square and rectangle is the most stable, restful and in equilibrium. This is considered suitable for residences and places of learning. The energy contained in a polygon is a suitable centre of energetic activities, such as offices. The energy contained in the circle is very high, and is suitable for entertainment centres, amphitheatres, council chambers, and sometimes for religious centres such as prayer halls and temples.

Karma Bandhanam: It is the confinement of each individual to repeated births as a consequence of action accrued in each birth. The delusion of a trouble-free existence must be effaced, so that the spirit can accept and live through the travails and the highs and the lows with equanimity and grace.