Vaastu/Indian Feng Shui
"Vaastu" comes from the Sanskrit root 'Vasu' (Earth), it has been given the name Vaastu Sastram also known as Silpa Sastram. There are about 500 Vastu Sastras in India, but those written by the 18 Maharshees are the most respected. These 18 sages are Bhrugu, Atri, Vasishta, Vishwakarma, Maya, Naarada, Nagnajit, Vishalaaksha, Purandara, Brahma, Kumaara, Nandeeshwara, Sounaka, Garga, Vasudeva, Aniruddha, Sukra, and Bruhaspati.
Vaastu sastra acknowledges the Earth and everything on it as a silpa (sculpture). Similar to a silpa, all structures on earth are given particular measurements and positions for optimal results given its function (Samudrika sastram). Vaastu sastra is composed of rules for these measurements and positions. There are three different types of Vaastu: Gruha Vastu (how to build houses), Devalaya Vaastu (how to build Temples), Bhavana Vaastu (how to build Kingdoms / Castles / Forts). Gruha Vaastu, the most commonly used bracnch, is made of Desha (place), Kala (time), and Vaiparitya (surrounding elements). It personalizes the perfect home for each individual. The sastra takes into account objects such as roads, neighborhood, the house itself - pool, garage, doors, bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchen....to obtain the perfect patham (energy flow) for a happy, prosperous and comfortable life. Vaastu sastra also provides solutions to increase positive energy in buildings that are built improperly.
Just as an individual needs a healthy body to lead a good life, the body itself needs a healthy home. Following Vastu Sastram aids you in your efforts to obtain a healthy and peaceful life.