With respect to our location in the universe, there is no north, south, east or west. There is the origin-center of the universe body and the ever expanding outer edges. The underlying geometry of a Vastu structure reflects this kind of center oriented paradigm. However, Vastu science gives recognition to “directional” existence within the context of an “embodied” form, the Earth or the human being, in relationship to the Solar core of our planetary system.

Vastu Science delineates 8 Yonis, directions or life-energy lines of orientation:

East - Dwajam (flag staff),
Southeast - Dhuumam (smoke),
South - Simham (lion),
Southwest – Swaanam (dog),
West – Vrushabham (bull),
Northwest – Kharam (ass),
North – Gajam (elephant),
Northeast – Kaakam (crow).

Within the built space, the eight directions are always expressed and honored by floor plan layouts.

Vastu buildings must be oriented such that they have an almost parallel relationship to the cardinal points of the compass: North, South, East, and West. Perfect alignment with the cardinal points of the compass is called Suddha Praachee. This perfect alignment is suitable for temples. Also, in Mansara and some Vastu Shastras, True East is suitable for occupants who seek liberation from earthly bonds. Final exact orientation for secular structures is rotated slightly from perfect alignment, either clockwise or counter clockwise, depending on the facing of the building. This deflected orientation counter clockwise (“Esa Prachee”) is used for occupants who prefer material prosperity and physical welfare.

No building should face the diagonal directions: Southeast, Southwest, Northwest, Northeast.

In a secular structure, the desired rotation (or deflection) from perfect alignment with the cardinal points is one to two degrees. In an east or west facing building, the prescribed rotation is counter clockwise one to two degrees. This deflection of East towards Northeast is called Esa Praachee. In a north or south facing building the prescribed rotation is clockwise one to two degrees. Rotations up to ten degrees are accepted, but not ideal. A simple way to understand the effect of misaligned rotation is to consider the example of adjusting a radio tuning dial. As we turn the knob on the radio away from the correct frequency position for a particular radio signal, the quality of the reception deteriorates and distorts. The same is true for alignment of buildings on the Earth. The more rotated a building is from the cardinal directions, the more distortion within the energy field of the structure.

Orientations rotated more than ten degrees toward the Southeast, Southwest, Northwest and Northeast are not recommended. Structures oriented in this diagonal relationship to the cardinal points of the compass could be subject to less life supporting Earthly energetic influences.

A living Vastu structure is laid out with respect to a Vastu Purusha Mandala (VPM). The VPM is a geometric pattern that is expressed in the three dimensions. The Earth is a living Vastu structure and, as such, is rooted in a VPM: the underlying geometry that gives rise to its form. This Earth VPM, the seed of which originates from the energetic fiery core of the planet, is expressed in orthogonal energy lines across the surface of the Earth. The lines are similar, in concept, to what we know as longitude and latitude lines. Vastu science refers to the longitudinal and latitudinal lines as Dirkha Rekha and Aksha Rekha respectively. Energy deep within the Earth is expressed on the surface of the planet fuming out along these lines. The Earth grid is also a receptor of Solar, Lunar and Stella radiation to nourish and energize the planet.

When we place a Vastu structure on the Earth, it is important that the VPM of the structure and the VPM of the Earth come into resonance. This is done by aligning the two geometries in a near parallel fashion. This alignment brings the structure into resonance with Earth and energy can flood into the structure. This is the reason Vastu architects will not allow a building to be rotated significantly out of alignment to the cardinal points of the compass.

Once the exact orientation of the site is clear, the “facing” direction of the building can be chosen. The facing of the building is determined by the location of the front of the structure and the main entry door.

The benefits that the structure can bring to the occupants are dependant on the orientation of the face of the building. Each facing, East, North, West and South, has a different and positive, influence. The general influences are: East facing – physical comfort and mental peace, North facing – wealth, West facing – material growth and prosperity, South facing – salvation, freedom from earthly worries. From this knowledge is it easy to understand that correct orientation of a structure begins with correct orientation of a town layout. It the town layout is badly oriented, there will be problems throughout the history of the settlement.

In general, it is best to choose an East, North or West facing orientation if the occupants are householders living normal lives in the world. A south facing house is better for individuals not interested in worldly affairs, but, more interested in a monastic way of life. For most people, the south facing structure is not recommended.