The Five Elements Through the Lens of Vastu

The Five Elements Through the Lens of Vastu

(In Light of Dr. Dev Swarup Shastri's Vision)
By: shivani Chauhan

The relationship between nature and man is deeply intrinsic and ancient. In Indian philosophy, the five elements—Earth (Prithvi), Water (Jal), Fire (Agni), Air (Vayu), and Space (Akash)—are considered the foundational forces of the universe. Balancing these ensures stability, health, prosperity, and energy in life.

Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian science, is based on the harmony of these five elements. Dr. Dev Swarup Shastri believes that Vastu is not merely about building construction, but a science that channels human life through elemental balance.

Earth Element (Prithvi) – The Foundation

This represents stability and foundation. It is the first step in construction. Dr. Shastri emphasizes evaluating the plot's direction, slope, soil type, and surrounding environment. Vastu recommends the northeast and east be lighter and the south and west heavier for optimal Earth element balance.

Water Element (Jal) – The Source of Life

Water must be located in the northeast (Ishaan corner). Proper water flow brings mental peace and financial prosperity. According to Dr. Shastri, wells, borewells, or fountains in this direction are auspicious. Improper placement can lead to mental instability and financial issues. Water drainage and storage must also follow Vastu guidelines.

Fire Element (Agni) – Energy and Transformation

Associated with the southeast, this element represents energy and transformation. Kitchens, electrical items, and fire sources should be here. Dr. Shastri notes that imbalance here can cause stress and accidents. Balanced fire energy leads to courage and decision-making power.

Air Element (Vayu) – Communication and Mental Harmony

Linked to the northwest (Vayavya corner), this direction should be open, ventilated, with windows for airflow. Obstruction here can cause suffocation and mental imbalance. Proper flow of air brings mental stability and movement from restlessness to peace.

Space Element (Akash) – Consciousness and Spiritual Growth

The most subtle element, connected with the Brahmasthan (central space of the house), governs thoughts and consciousness. According to Dr. Shastri, heavy structures, toilets, or stairs in this central zone disturb the flow of cosmic energy. Keeping this area clean and open fosters peace and spiritual awakening.

The Scientific-Spiritual Convergence

Dr. Shastri emphasizes that balancing the five elements is not just for removing Vastu defects but essential for achieving prosperity in all life areas. Small changes can harmonize these energies—like placing water symbols in the northeast, using red color in the southeast, keeping the center open, and enhancing ventilation in the northwest.

He strongly advocates that Vastu and science are not opposites but complements. For example, morning sunlight entering from the east provides not only energy but essential vitamin D—showing the beautiful synergy between biology and environmental science, already discovered by ancient Vastu.

Thus, Vastu is not merely a construction system but a scientific, spiritual, and holistic way of life. With the dedicated efforts of scholars like Dr. Dev Swarup Shastri, this ancient wisdom has found renewed relevance in the modern world.

When both our inner and outer worlds are aligned with the five elements, we achieve peace, vitality, and balance in life.

Let us not see Vastu as just an architectural art—it is India’s profound science to understand, enhance, and align life through the five elements.