In this episode of “5 Minutes,” Dr. Robert Svoboda explores the traditional principles of Vastu Shastra and how they guide the arrangement of space to support balance and the flow of life force.

Vastu Shastra is sometimes described as the Indian Feng Shui. Indeed, both are concerned with understanding space and how to make the best use of it. Vastu Shastra is very closely related to Jyotisha. In a way, Jyotisha analyzes reality through time, while Vastu analyzes reality through space. As we know, time and space are ultimately one reality.

Vastu Shastra was originally derived from Sthapatya Veda, the Upa Veda concerned with determining how to lay out sacrificial areas. Although it was originally intended for this ritual purpose, its principles have been extended to include residences, places of business, and many other kinds of spaces. In fact, the city of Jaipur is laid out according to a Vastu grid.

Vastu focuses on direction, the influences of the planets and various deities associated with those directions, and how they interact with one another. It also considers which activities are most appropriate in particular directions.

When creating a layout, whether for a city, a house, or even a single room, one of the most important principles in Vastu is that the central part of the space, known as the Brahmasthana, should be left open. This allows for the proper circulation of prana throughout the space.

Along the boundaries of that space, there should also be sufficient openings to allow prana, the vayu, or life force, to circulate freely so that stagnation does not develop.

Vastu is not only about arranging physical space. It is about arranging space in a way that supports prana, the life force within us. The spaces we occupy should actively support us rather than drain our energy, as certain arrangements of homes, workplaces, and other environments can do.

Ultimately, Vastu Shastra is about bringing life into space. My hope is that everyone will pay a little attention to the spaces in which they live and receive the benefit of doing so.