An Introduction to Vastu Shastra: History and ..
Nov 21 - 2024
Have you ever walked into an office and felt like magic and everything felt in its place? Or perhaps you got that creepy feeling for no apparent reason? Well, the answer might well lie within an ancient Indian science: Vastu Shastra. It literally means "Yoga of Design" and brings about poise in energies in a space for the greatest well-being and prosperity. So let's dive into how you can apply Vastu principles in your office space to boost productivity and prosperity with fun and practicality.
The Basic Premises of Vastu Shastra
Vastu Shastra literally means "Science of Architecture." It is a system used in traditional Indian architecture to show that buildings must blend with nature. It expresses the idea that there is an interaction between the physical environment and the building and room structure because all these influence different areas of life. The concepts of Vastu have five elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space. Each element relates to certain directions and thus may affect various aspects of life, ranging from health to money.
Why Vastu in Office Spaces?
Vastu in office spaces is not really about superstition or old wives' tales. Just think of it as the ancient predecessor of modern interior design principles. This is for the creation of an environment that helps in your work and reduces stress, inviting positive energies. After all, a workspace that is in harmony affects your mood, productivity, and even success in business tremendously.
Location and Office Building
Choosing the Right Plot and Building: According to Vastu, the location of your office can set the stage for success. The plot should be in either a rectangular or square shape and face towards the north, east, or northeast. As explained above, these are directions that attract lots of positive energy and prosperity.
Reception Area: First impressions matter! The reception area is a place where the clientele and visitors get the first feel of the business. Keep the reception desk in the northeast direction and make sure that it should face the entrance door. A clean, bright and endearing reception area with neat decoration can create a good impression.
Workstations and Seating Plan
Direction of Desk: The staff members of the office should face the north or east sides while working. It is considered to be a very good direction that creates the feeling of concentration and productivity.
Manager's Cabin: The cabin of a manager or CEO should be basically located at the southwest portion. Place the desk in such a way that while sitting the person faces north, symbolizing growth and prosperity.
Seating Arrangements: Avoid seating any employee directly under a beam or exactly facing a wall. If it is unavoidable, try to use a false ceiling or some beautiful picture to reduce its ill effect.
Harmony of Elements: Bring Nature Indoors
Earth: It can be represented by plants, earth colors or other natural materials like wood that can help to ground the energy in your office. The auspicious plants that benefit the quality of air include money plants, bamboo, and jade.
Water: They can be installed in the northeast direction in the form of small fountains or aquariums, symbolizing that money keeps flowing and also creating a soothing effect with their sound.
Agni: Good and proper lighting is essential. Ensure good lighting in the office and more in the southeast. You can light up with candles or lamps to bring in warmth and energy.
Vayu: The space must have good ventilation. Open windows in the north and east directions for excellent air circulation and free flow of air with positive energies as one desires.
Aakash: The center of the workplace or the Brahmasthan should always be kept open and clutter-free as it is like the heart of the premise, and the energy keeps moving freely.
Colors and Décor:
Colors play a significant role in our mood and productivity. Vastu Shastra suggests that certain colors enhance different areas of the office.
North: Green and blue colors will be most appropriate for the north. These colors represent growth and serenity.
East: Light shades of yellow and orange colors provide an energized effect on the health and vitality aspect related to the east direction.
South: Shades of red and pink in the south direction can invoke strength and passion.
West: Creativity and Success: White or light gray colors can stimulate creativity and success in the West.
Introduce them with wall color, furniture, or even art to bring harmony to the energies in your office.
The Power of Symbols and Art
In addition, play with symbols and art that reflect positive energy to enhance the power of Vastu. Some ideas include:
Motivational Quotes: Displaying motivational quotes or affirmations gives impetus or motivation to employees.
Nature Art: Photographs or paintings depicting natural landscapes, flowing water or serene environments can create feelings of calmness and balance.
Mirrors: Place mirrors to expand spaces and create a reflection of light. Having a mirror either in the north or east can create an illusion of opening up an office space and also make it inviting.
Decluttering and Organization
The work environment must always be clutter-free so that more can be done with a clear and alert mind. Here are some Vastu tips on decluttering and organizing your office:
Desk Organization: Maintain a clean and neat desk. Place trays or organizers for papers, pens, and other stationery. An uncluttered desk reflects clarity in thoughts and also enhances efficiency in work.
Storage Arrangements: Place all units or storage cabinets always in the Southwest or Northwest. This can bring about a balance between storage space and work area.
Electronic Gadgets: An individual should face the southeast direction and place all the electronic gadgets like a computer, printer, and telephone on this side as it has a fire element.
Waste Disposal: The place for keeping trash cans and shredders in the southwestern direction and far away from the main functioning areas so that premises remain neat and clean.
The Role of Lighting
One important factor that makes up a lively and productive office is lighting. As per Vastu, the best form of light enters from nature. Here's how to use lighting to your advantage at the workplace:
Natural Light: Use all windows; let as much natural light into the office as possible, especially from the north and the east sides.
Artificial Lighting: To obtain an atmosphere, apply a balance of ambient, task, and accent lighting. All levels must have light, and areas with work or points of attraction must be well-lighted.
Avoid Harsh Lighting: Avoid very bright or faint lighting, which can lead to straining and is uncomfortable. Soft, diffused lighting brings a more pleasant and comfortable atmosphere.
Furniture and Fixtures
The proper furniture and fixtures can affect the energy inflow and hence overall productivity. Here are some Vastu tips concerning the same:
Shape of furniture: Desks and tables should preferably be rectangular or square shape. The irregular shapes disturb the normal flow of energy.
Material: It should be made of fine and solid material that can last long. Wood furniture is regarded as the most desirable form of furniture since wood is representative of the wood element and gives a feeling of warmth to any space.
Ergonomics: Chairs and desks with an ergonomic design will allow for comfort and support. One is comfortable when sitting well, and this equates to the ability to focus and be productive.
Arrangement: Allow furniture to be organized in such a way that it creates enough space to move around freely without blocking any passageways. It is the way through which smooth energy is ensured not to be stagnant.
Creating a Balanced Environment
An office balance does not solely depend on Vastu; it also includes the creation of a space where workers feel motivated, comfortable, and valued. Here are more tips on how to do so:
Breakout areas: Create an area in which employees can sit comfortably and take breaks. Add some comfortable seating, plants, and soothing colors.
Meeting Rooms: There are meeting halls that must be well-lit, fully ventilated, and provided with all facilities. The rooms should sit in the Northwest direction of the building to enhance good communication and collaboration between the business associates.
Personalization: Allow employees to have a personalized touch on workspaces by keeping those things that would inspire or motivate them. This can increase their attachment to the space and raise their morale.
Flexibility: Create a flexible workspace that assists in various ways of working, from standing desks to quiet zones and collaborative areas.
How Vastu is Embraced for a Prosperous Office
Bring the principles of Vastu into your office space, and you get an ambiance that is in harmony and productive. While it appears to be an ancient practice, the underlying concepts come very much in tune with modern design and ergonomics. If there is a focus on layout, elements, color, and organizational pattern, then transform your office into a hub of good well-being, creativity, and success.
While the following tips can get you started, consulting a Vastu expert will give you specific and personalized recommendations regarding your requirements and environment. Contact us today for more personalized insights (Link)
The bottom line is to have a positive setup that's balanced so people can work in an environment that allows for thriving. Whether you are going to set up a brand new office or redo one that already exists, you may like to keep the following Vastu tips in your plans to ensure prosperity and productivity. And most importantly, do enjoy the process! After all, a happy office is a productive office.