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By picturing Vaastupurusha lying facedown in this classic position, as shown in figure 1, and applying traditional Indian ayurvedic knowledge about different parts of the body, we can begin to see the proper roles for various sections of a house or plot. Vaastupurusha is understood to be lying facedown facing northeast, the direction of wisdom and spirituality. That puts his right side to the East and South (representing dakshina) and his left side to the North (representing uttara) and West. In Ayurveda the right side of the body represents masculine qualities, so when the life force is moving in the right side (pingala), one is more active, critical, judgmental, and analytical. The left side of the body represents feminine qualities, so when the life force moves in that side (ida), one's intuitive and compassionate nature dominates.
The Brihat Samhita describes a square or rectangular plot of land as ideal for the construction of a dwelling because Vaastupurusha's entire body fits within it, as in figure 1. If the square is incomplete-thus cutting off some part of Vaastupurusha-the inhabitants will suffer dire consequences. If Vaastupurusha has no right arm, they will be a loss of money and food. If his head is absent, the owner will suffer losses of virtue and prosperity. If his feet are missing, the male head of the family will become weak and the women will be troubled. On the other hand, if Vaastupurusha is endowed with all his limbs in fine shape, the inhabitants of the house will be famous and prosperous. |