In today’s fast-paced world, mental health has become one of the most pressing concerns for people of all ages. The hustle, digital distractions, and different pressures have marked their effects on our well-being and often leave us exhausted and overwhelmed. While at the forefront of mental health conversations, there has been therapy, meditation, and self-practices, here is another ancient practice that gives quite a different perspective: Vastu Shastra.
Vastu Shastra, often referred to as the “Indian Feng Shui,” is an age-old architectural science that aims to create balance between humans and their environment. It’s not just about the physical structure of a building, it’s also about the energy flow inside a space and how that may affect us mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
The Mind-Body-Space Connection
The spaces we inhabit have a direct effect on how we feel. Think about the last time you walked into a cluttered, dark room—did it make you feel anxious or unsettled? Now compare this with stepping into a well-lit, organized space that has fresh air. The difference is staggering. Vastu Shastra recognizes this connection and emphasizes the importance of living in spaces that align with the natural elements of the Earth: earth, water, fire, air, and space (or ether). These elements are said to influence our psyches and emotions.
A space or working zone compatible to these elements will automatically evoke feelings of peace and comfort. On the contrary, an imbalanced or “Vastu-deficient” space can give rise to restlessness, irritability, and even depression.
Vastu Tips to Maintain Mental Well-being
- Harmony of the Five Elements
In Vastu, each of the cardinal directions is linked with one of the five elements, and the balance of these directions is said to influence your emotional and mental stability. For instance, the northeast is a direction related to water, which in turn is linked with clarity and tranquility. To achieve and maintain optimal mental state, this area should be clean, free of clutter and if possible be an open space. Just having a small aquarium or a picture of water spring here could also bring in the same feeling in this area. - Declutter for Clarity
Clutter is not only an eyesore, but it’s a burden to the mind. As Vastu says, cluttered areas block the free flow of energy and make you feel stagnated. Regular cleaning your space, especially the area where you work or study, has a direct link with how clear and productive your mind will be. In fact, a clutter-free environment encourages a clutter-free mind for better focus and reduced stress. - Illumination and Ventilation
Natural light is essential for both physical and mental health. Vastu Shastra theory gives great importance to the sunlight entering the house through the East direction. The east direction is considered the direction of life-giving energy, and the early morning sun enhances your mood and mental clarity. Keep your east-facing windows open and unobstructed, allowing fresh air and natural light to fill your space. This will make you more energized and maybe even lighten up your mood. - Sleep and Peace of Mind
Restful sleep is vital for mental health, and Vastu has specific guidelines for the best placement of your bed to ensure good sleep quality. The south or southwest direction is great to sleep in because both are grounding energies, which stabilize your energy and pin your energy down. Sleeping with the head pointed in these directions can reduce restlessness, improve relaxation, and lead to deeper, more restorative sleep. - Soothing Colors
Colors have a strong impact on our emotions and states of mind. Vastu Shastra advises using soft, soothing shades in the area where you rest or meditate. Shades of blue and green are quite great for bedrooms or meditation rooms as they are soothing. Never use loud and energetic colors like bright red and neon colors inside a place where you wish to be at rest since such colors ignite irritation or overstimulation.
Creating a Mindful Space
While Vastu Shastra provides specific guidelines for arranging your home, it’s important to approach it with mindfulness and intention. The bottom line is, a house is the place you want to go to in order to feel safe, at ease and both physically and mentally well. Be it a small reading corner, a meditation space, or even an organized desk, your home should serve as a sanctuary for your mental health.
Every bit of the environment is intertwined with our psychological well-being, and Vastu Shastra teaches us that with even minor modifications in environment can result in major changes in your mood. So, the next time you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, take a look around. Maybe the answer lies not in what’s happening in your mind, but in the space that you’re in.