Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian architectural system that provides guidelines for design and spatial arrangement to harmonize energy flow within a structure. The Snake Plant, scientifically known as Sansevieria trifasciata, has gained widespread popularity in modern homes for its aesthetic appeal and its reputed ability to promote health and prosperity. The placement of this common houseplant, often called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is considered significant in Vastu for maximizing its positive influence. Understanding the specific directional and spatial rules is important for integrating this plant into your living or working space.
The Positive Vastu Properties of the Snake Plant
The Snake Plant is highly regarded in Vastu for its ability to influence the surrounding atmosphere positively. Its upright, sword-like leaves represent strength and protective energy, helping to ward off negative vibrations and neutralize negative energies within the home.
It is also recognized for its air-purifying qualities, which align with the Vastu principle of promoting a healthy environment. The plant absorbs common household toxins, enhancing indoor air quality. Furthermore, unlike many other plants, the Snake Plant releases oxygen even at night, which is beneficial for promoting better rest and vitality. These characteristics contribute to the occupants’ well-being, stress reduction, and overall harmony.
Ideal Directional Placement
The strategic positioning of the Snake Plant focuses on aligning its energy with specific directional elements for optimal results. The South, Southeast, and East directions are considered the most favorable spots for this plant, enhancing the flow of positive energy related to growth, success, and stability.
The Southeast corner (Agneya Sthana) is associated with the fire element and is believed to attract financial success and wealth. The South direction promotes stability and strength, supporting the inhabitants’ overall health and well-being. The East direction is linked to positive energy and is a recommended spot to enhance peace and positivity within the home.
Placement Rules for Specific Areas
Applying directional guidance to specific functional areas allows the Snake Plant to target different aspects of life, such as productivity and rest. In the living room, placing the plant in the Southeast or South corners helps create a harmonious environment where family members gather. The plant’s presence near the main entrance or foyer is recommended to act as a protective barrier, preventing negative energy from entering the home.
For an office or study area, the Southeast corner is recommended, as the plant’s presence enhances focus, concentration, and productivity. Its air-purifying qualities near electronic devices are also valued, helping to create a more peaceful workspace. If placing a Snake Plant in a bedroom, the Southwest corner is preferred, as it is associated with stability and contributes to better health and restful sleep. Avoid positioning the plant directly in front of the bed to prevent interference with rest.
Areas to Strictly Avoid
Vastu Shastra outlines specific directions and locations where placing the Snake Plant can be detrimental to the flow of energy. The North and Northeast directions are considered inauspicious for this plant and should be strictly avoided.
Inauspicious Directions
The Northeast corner (Ishanya Sthana) is a sacred area associated with spiritual energy, and placing the sharp, upright leaves of the Snake Plant here conflicts with the area’s energies. Placing the plant in the North direction is discouraged, as it can hinder the positive energies intended for wealth and career growth.
Unsuitable Locations
Specific areas within the home are not suitable for the Snake Plant, regardless of the direction. The plant should not be kept in the bathroom, as Vastu suggests that such placement can neutralize the plant’s positive effects. It is also advised to avoid placing the Snake Plant directly next to any other plants on a tabletop, as this can create an imbalance in the energy exchange. Positioning the plant under beams or near staircases is also considered a prohibition, as these placements hinder the natural flow of energy within the structure.