VASTU LIVING
CELEBRATING THE SOUL AT WORK
These days it seems that spirituality is seldom honored in the workplace. In fact, for many of us, work has become so dehumanized that we don’t even regard our workplace as a part of ourselves.
Constantly feeling the need to “achieve” at all costs and ignoring whatever pleasures we might derive from work strips us of our sense of self. However, by applying and incorporating some important “Vastu Living” principles into our work life we can reclaim our identify and acknowledge the soul in the workplace.
Vastu Living at Work
Vastu living is the first modern adaptation of an ancient discipline from India that incorporates design, as well as architecture. Connected to yoga and ayurveda (Indian alternative medicine), Vastu living is aimed at the modern Western way of life.
By applying a few of the principles that form the foundation of Vastu living, we can regain our essence of self and create a home for the soul within the workplace.
How we regard our workplace and how we think about our work are the two most important steps in practising Vastu living. First, we mustn’t view our workplace as a temporary space. It belongs to us, and we must learn to treat it with care.
The second step is learning how to work for our own satisfaction. As soon as this transition is set in motion and we start working for ourselves, our work becomes pleasurable – and we also become better at it.
Celebrating our interconnections
Vastu living invites us to express our connection to all that exists by bringing nature into our workplace. Incorporating such things as fresh or dried flowers, wooden boxes or a jute rug can be surprisingly comforting for the soul. If privy to a little sunlight or adequate overhead lighting, we can introduce beautiful plants into our work setting – even the act of caring for them will generate favorable therapeutic effects.
Creating a serene space
To encourage inner peace, we can create a zone of tranquility. This area should be so appealing that we can look at it and clear our heads whenever needed. Even if we work in the tiniest of spaces, we can devote a small portion of it to a zen-like arrangement that generates calmness, such as a vase containing floating flowers or candles, or a terra cotta dish filled with sand and seashells. According to Vastu living, if we place this arrangement in the northest, the gateway of the gods, we benefit from positive energy; in the east, we are the recipients of enlightenment, and in the north, we receive spiritual wealth. Also, Vastu living recommends that we indulge in tranquility breaks by focusing on our breathing for five minutes.
Honoring our essence
When we allow our space to be inspired by Vastu living, we reduce stress and create a welcoming atmosphere and mood. The space is inviting and familiar because it represents who we are. It circulates positive energy, which in turn reinvigorates us and allows us to focus on work.
5 Vastu Decor Items for Positive Energy
1. To invite prosperity and blessings into your office space, place a Buddha figurine near the entrance. If you want to keep positive energy in your space, Vastu living recommends placing an elephant figurine near the entrance, as elephants are regarded as protectors of your space. They also symbolize power, integrity and strength. Placing the figurine on your desk will increase concentration and help with stress.
2. Vastu living is all about balancing energy. Seeing that the main entrance is where good luck enters, make sure it is aesthetically pleasing. This allows for a better flow of energy. A small aquarium or fountain are both good options.
3. Placing a mirror in your office brings abundance and also stimulates energy flow.
4. You can magnify the positive benefits of Vastu living by using essential oils. Frankincense and Spikenard can help you connect with your inner self. Essential oils such as Myrrh and Peppermint can help you focus.
5. Incorporate paintings into your office space. Paintings such as running horses, flowing water scenes, natural sceneries and butterflies attract positivity, wellness and wealth.
If we can accept the idea that it’s important to find pleasure in the work that we are doing now, this practice will enhance our sense of satisfaction and serenity. And it’s within these moments of serenity that we’re reminded that our work does not define us – it is a key part of us all, but it’s not all of us. What is of most importance is our distinct being, a perfect part of this magnificent universe.