16 Directions of Vastu Shastra (Shodasha Disha)
In Vastu Shastra, energy flows through 16 directions, not just the main 4 or 8. Each direction is ruled by a specific deity, element, and energy, influencing different aspects of life such as health, wealth, relationships, and success.
Understanding these directions helps in proper space planning, remedies, and energy balancing.
Main Directions (Cardinal):
- North: This is connected with money and flow. It’s a great spot for your living room, study, or valuables. It also suits safe storage because it supports financial growth.
- North-East (Ishan Kona): Known for spiritual energy. This is the best area for a pooja room or meditation space. Keep it light and clean.
- East: Tied to health and fresh energy. It works well for your main entrance or large windows. If used right, it invites morning sunlight and supports good mental focus.
- South-East (Agni Kona): This is the fire corner. Place your kitchen here. Cooking while facing east is ideal. (As per Vastu Shastra, kitchen direction should be in the South-East zone.)
- South: Represents strength. Good for heavy items, storage, or placing a staircase. This direction should feel grounded and firm.
- South-West: This zone offers stability. Use it for the master bedroom. Sleep with your head towards the south or east. (Direction of bed according to Vastu: head facing south or east for sound sleep and stability.)
- West: Related to gains and outcomes. Dining rooms and kids’ bedrooms do well here. It’s also a good area for evening relaxation.
- North-West: This direction is linked with movement. Guest rooms, storerooms, or places with regular change work well here.
Sub-Directions (Intercardinal):
- North-North-East (NNE): An extension of the spiritual NE. Keep it open and clutter-free. No heavy storage here.
- East-North-East (ENE): Supports focus and calm. Ideal for study or reading areas.
- East-South-East (ESE): Where energy meets fire. Avoid using this zone for bedrooms. It can feel restless.
- South-South-East (SSE): Use this corner for electrical panels, inverters, or pantry space. It carries strong fire energy.
- South-South-West (SSW): Suits heavy storage or closed cabinets. Avoid placing water sources here.
- West-South-West (WSW): This area stays dry. Good for toilets or utility rooms. Just make sure the plumbing is sound.
- West-North-West (WNW): Best for laundry or a utility area. It can also serve as a low-use storage zone.
- North-North-West (NNW): Ideal for a guest bathroom or extra storage. Avoid placing bedrooms here.
2. Why Do Directions Matter in Vastu?
There is a huge importance of directions in Vastu. Each direction in Vastu carries a different kind of energy. When used correctly, these directions support better health, stronger focus, and emotional peace. They also help you avoid unnecessary stress or conflict in daily life and works closely with the five natural elements: earth, water, fire, air, and space. By placing the right activity in the right zone, you allow these elements to stay in balance.
3. How to Apply Vastu Directions to Different Areas of Your Home?
Follow the tips below to apply Vastu direction for home:
A) Bedroom
The south-west corner is the best choice for the master bedroom. It brings in stability, especially for the head of the family.
- Sleep with your head facing south or east. (Direction of bed according to Vastu: Head to south or east support better rest and emotional balance.
B) Kitchen
Place your kitchen in the south-east. It’s the natural zone of fire.
- Always cook facing east, if possible. (As per Vastu Shastra, kitchen direction should be in the South-East corner.
C) Temple/Pooja Room
The ideal spot is the northeast. This is the purest space in the home.
- Avoid placing it under a staircase or next to a bathroom. (Direction of temple in house: Always aim for the North-East for peace and clarity.
D) Toilets/Bathrooms
The North-West is a good choice. South-West can work too, but only if designed carefully.
- Always keep these areas clean and ventilated. Avoid placing them near the entrance or pooja room. You can look at some home design plans of Vastu Shastra for a better idea.
E) Study/Work Area
Best direction for the desk: East or North.
- Sit facing either of these directions to support focus.
- Avoid placing study or workstations in the south-west.
F) Living Room
The North or East sides of the house are perfect for your living room.
- These directions bring light and flow.
- Keep this area clutter-free and full of natural light.
Main 4 Directions
1. East (Purva)
- Lord: Indra
- Element: Air
- Represents: Growth, health, social recognition
- Best for: Living room, windows, main entrance
2. West (Paschim)
- Lord: Varuna
- Element: Water
- Represents: Stability, gains, fulfillment
- Best for: Dining area, study
3. North (Uttar)
- Lord: Kubera (God of Wealth)
- Element: Water
- Represents: Wealth, career, opportunities
- Best for: Office, locker, cash area
4. South (Dakshin)
- Lord: Yama
- Element: Fire
- Represents: Discipline, strength, fame
- Best for: Staircase, storage
Intercardinal (Corner) Directions
5. North-East (Ishan)
- Lord: Shiva
- Element: Water
- Represents: Wisdom, spirituality, clarity
- Best for: Temple, meditation, water source
6. South-East (Agni)
- Lord: Agni
- Element: Fire
- Represents: Energy, health, digestion
- Best for: Kitchen, electrical appliances
7. South-West (Nairutya)
- Lord: Nirriti
- Element: Earth
- Represents: Stability, relationships
- Best for: Master bedroom, heavy storage
8. North-West (Vayavya)
- Lord: Vayu
- Element: Air
- Represents: Movement, relationships, travel
- Best for: Guest room, ventilation
Sub-Directions (16-Direction System)
9. East-North-East (ENE)
- Energy: Intelligence, learning
- Best for: Study, creativity
10. North-North-East (NNE)
- Energy: Clarity, intuition
- Best for: Meditation, water elements
11. North-North-West (NNW)
- Energy: Support, networking
- Best for: Guest interactions
12. West-North-West (WNW)
- Energy: Gains, social influence
- Best for: Dining, meetings
13. West-South-West (WSW)
- Energy: Responsibility, endurance
- Best for: Storage, discipline
14. South-South-West (SSW)
- Energy: Strength, control
- Best for: Bedroom, safe
15. South-South-East (SSE)
- Energy: Passion, ambition
- Best for: Electrical items
16. East-South-East (ESE)
- Energy: Initiative, action
- Best for: Kitchen support areas
Conclusion
The 16 directions of Vastu Shastra form a precise energy map that governs every aspect of life. Proper use of these directions helps create a balanced, powerful, and harmonious living space.
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