Vastu Shastra places a lot of importance on the factor of water and its integration into the living space. Water features bring harmony, prosperity, and positive energies into a home or workplace if placed properly in Vastu. In Vastu, water is related to the northeast, ruled by the water god Soma.
This direction is thus deemed most auspicious for placing fountains, aquariums, or even small ponds. The flow of water in this direction is believed to bring in wealth and sharpen mental clarity and, for this reason also, promote spiritual growth. On the other hand, the shape and material of the water features play a huge role in Vastu.
According to Vastu, circular or oval shapes are the only ones preferred since they stand for the cyclical nature of life and thus promote smooth energy flow. Materials like copper, brass, or natural stone are recommended since they conduct and amplify positive energies. Fountains are especially indicated for Vastu purposes because they have the energies of two elements: water and air.
This helps to create a lively energy flow. A fountain in the northeast corner of a garden or in the house near the entrance brings good fortune and repels negative energies if water flows towards the centre of the house, thereby signifying an inflow of abundance. Aquariums are another very popular water feature in Vastu.
Not only do they enhance the beauty of a space, but they also depict life and motion. According to Vastu, aquariums should be placed either in the north or east directions in living rooms or offices. Even the number of fishes is important; multiples of nine are considered auspicious.
While water features are considered mainly helpful, Vastu warns against some placements. Water features in the southwest should be avoided at all costs. Water here is believed to cause an imbalance and can bring losses in business.
It is also important to maintain water features properly. If the water becomes stagnant or dirty, it could prove to be quite detrimental by blocking the flow of positive energies, so cleaning regularly and making sure that there is a circulation of the water is a very viable Vastu practice. The same goes for those who cannot have huge water features; at least small elements would help in harnessing the positive effects attributed to water—for instance, a bowl of water with floating flowers on its surface.
Although scientific proof for the results of Vastu remains scant, it is usually observed to bring a feel of equilibrium and wellness through the induction of those ancient design principles into their living spaces. Like every philosophy of design, water principles in Vastu can be modified and assimilated to suit individual taste and modernity..
