Category: Vasthu Tips

Today, Malaysia will celebrate its 68th Independence Day, a moment of pride and joy for every citizen.

Flags will fly high, parades will march through the streets, and patriotic songs will stir our hearts.

Merdeka is a reminder of the sacrifices made by our forefathers and the resilience of a nation that has grown through trials and triumphs.

But beyond the political and historical significance of Merdeka, there is another dimension of independence that each of us should reflect on: the inner independence of our mind, heart, and spirit.

While the nation celebrates freedom from colonial rule, are we, as individuals, truly free within ourselves?

External independence allows a country to stand on its own, make its own decisions, and chart its destiny.

Internal independence allows a person to rise above limiting emotions, destructive habits, and mental bondage.

Without this inner liberation, no amount of external freedom can bring peace or fulfilment.

Too often, we live as captives of our own anger, greed, jealousy, fears, or ego.

These invisible chains weigh us down more heavily than any physical restraint.

True Merdeka comes when we free ourselves from these shackles and rediscover the joy of living with clarity and compassion.

Just as a nation must defend itself against threats to its sovereignty, we too must guard against the forces that rob us of inner freedom.

Resentment, hatred, and envy are like occupying forces in the mind. They dominate our thoughts and drain our energy.
Forgiveness is liberation, compassion restores peace, and gratitude sets the heart free.

When we rise above destructive emotions, we experience the sweetness of liberation in daily life.

We stop reacting blindly and begin responding with wisdom.

Many of us live under the subtle tyranny of habits and addictions. Whether it is excessive attachment to material possessions, overindulgence in technology, or a relentless pursuit of more money, these patterns silently enslave us.

Real freedom is not about doing whatever one pleases; it is about mastery over one’s desires and impulses.

A person who cannot control his habits is still a prisoner, no matter how free his country may be.

Liberation begins when we reclaim control over our choices and live with balance.

The sages and saints of every tradition have reminded us that the greatest form of freedom is self-knowledge, to know who we truly are beyond labels, race, religion, or status.

At the deepest level, we are not just bodies or roles but sparks of divine consciousness.

When we identify with this higher truth, we discover a freedom that cannot be taken away by circumstances.

Meditation, prayer, and mindfulness are pathways to this inner sovereignty. They free the restless mind from constant chatter and anchor us in peace.

As Malaysians, we take pride in our diversity. Yet, divisions of race, class, and creed can sometimes cloud our harmony.

To be truly free as a nation, we must liberate ourselves from prejudice and narrow thinking. Independence is not only about political boundaries but about transcending the boundaries we create within our hearts.

This reflection is also personal to me. When my daughter was born, I wanted her very name to embody the spirit of Malaysia. I named her Melizarani — a unique name that blends Malay, Chinese, and Indian tones.

For me, it was a small way of affirming that being Malaysian is about embracing unity in diversity and finding beauty in the harmony of differences.

When individuals free themselves from prejudice and see one another as part of one human family, the whole nation moves toward greater unity and strength.

This, too, is a form of independence, the freedom to love without barriers.

Independence does not mean license to act without regard for others. True freedom comes with responsibility.

Every choice we make has consequences, and maturity lies in using freedom to uplift rather than destroy.

When we live with love, respect, and responsibility, our independence becomes a force of healing in society.

How do we cultivate independence in daily life? It begins with small but consistent steps:

• Simplify life by letting go of unnecessary clutter.
• Cultivate gratitude for what we have.
• Speak words that heal instead of hurt.
• Practice forgiveness to release old burdens.
• Serve others selflessly, for service frees us from selfishness.

These practices gradually loosen the knots that bind us, leading to inner freedom.

As we wave our flags and sing “Merdeka,” let us also pause to ask ourselves: Am I truly free inside? Or am I still bound by fears, desires, and negativity?

National independence gave us the dignity to stand tall as Malaysians.

Personal independence will give us the strength to stand tall as human beings.

When both come together, external freedom and inner liberation, the nation will not only prosper but shine with wisdom and compassion.

This Merdeka, let us celebrate not only our country’s independence but also commit to our own journey of liberation.

Because the truest independence is not granted by governments or won on battlefields, it is discovered within the heart.

For me, Merdeka finds its fullest meaning when its people discover freedom within.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

When we search for a place to call home, our attention is usually drawn to location, price, accessibility, or the aesthetic appeal of the property.

Yet, in the ancient science of Vasthu Sastra, a deeper dimension is considered: the unseen flow of energies that surround us.

According to this timeless wisdom, the site of a home is not merely physical space but a living field of vibrations that can deeply shape the lives of those who dwell within it.

Two types of locations that Vasthu strongly discourages for residential living are houses near graveyards and properties adjoining or facing places of worship.

At first glance, this may seem puzzling after all, temples, churches, and mosques are revered spaces, while graveyards are simply part of life’s natural cycle.

However, the reasoning lies in understanding how different environments radiate different energies, and how continuous exposure to those vibrations can affect the subtle balance of our body, mind, and spirit.

Graveyards are sacred spaces meant for the departed. They carry the vibration of endings, detachment, and release from worldly life.

While this atmosphere is appropriate for remembrance and prayer, it is considered unfavourable for daily living.

Vasthu Sastra teaches that such spaces are filled with energies that can weigh heavily on the mind and emotions.

Residents of houses near cemeteries may experience restlessness, disturbed sleep, or unexplained anxiety.

The aura of sorrow and detachment can unconsciously influence one’s outlook on life, leading to reduced enthusiasm and vitality.

In ancient times, there was also a practical reason for this rule: graveyards were often viewed as sources of soil contamination or disease transmission, which posed real risks to nearby residents.

Furthermore, traditional belief holds that graveyards may attract restless or wandering souls. Even if invisible to the naked eye, their presence can disturb the harmony of a household. Families might notice increased quarrels, poor health, or financial stagnation without being able to attribute it to an obvious cause.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Vasthu also cautions against living too close to temples, churches, mosques, or other places of worship.

At first, this may seem counterintuitive. After all, aren’t these places the very embodiment of peace and divine blessings?

Indeed, holy sites are charged with very high levels of spiritual vibration. They are designed to uplift worshippers, calm the mind, and help people transcend worldly worries during prayer.

However, when such powerful energy becomes part of one’s everyday environment, it may create an imbalance.

A home is not only a place for prayer, it is also where children grow, families bond, and householders pursue careers, wealth, and worldly duties.

Continuous exposure to intense spiritual vibrations can unintentionally pull residents away from material responsibilities, creating a state of disinterest or detachment that is not ideal for family life.

Not long ago, I met a family who had bought a spacious, modern home at what appeared to be a bargain.

The only peculiarity was its proximity to an old cemetery in Kajang, which they dismissed as irrelevant.

Within a year of moving in, however, they began noticing strange patterns: their teenage son developed severe insomnia, the parents felt constantly fatigued, and small disputes flared up into heated arguments.

Despite consulting doctors and counsellors, there was no improvement. It was only when they sought Vasthu guidance that the connection became clear.

The heavy vibrations of the graveyard were subtly draining their energy.

On moving out, the family reported an immediate sense of relief, and their lives gradually returned to harmony.

This story is not meant to instil fear but to highlight how environments shape our lives in unseen ways.

What seems logical or affordable in material terms may have hidden energetic effects that only become apparent later.

Basically, Vasthu highlights the importance of harmony. Just as our bodies consist of the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—a home should also embody balance and neutrality in its surroundings.

It is important to remember that Vasthu does not discourage visiting temples, nor does it disrespect the sanctity of cemeteries.

Both have their rightful place in society. The principle reminds us that a home must be a neutral space, where worldly life and spiritual practice can coexist peacefully.

If someone already resides near such locations, remedies are suggested, such as creating a strong boundary wall, planting protective greenery, or performing a Vasthu yantra ceremony to stabilise energies.

These measures may help neutralise external influences and bring balance back to the dwelling, but there is no guarantee.

At its heart, Vasthu Sastra teaches us that the environment we live in is never neutral; it is constantly shaping our well-being, thoughts, and destiny.

A house is more than four walls; it is a living container of energy. Choosing the right location is as important as designing the interiors or arranging the furniture.

By avoiding sites near graveyards or places of worship, we are not rejecting the sacredness of these spaces.

Rather, we are recognising that each has its role and rhythm. Graveyards are for the departed. Temples and churches are for worship. Homes are for the living to nurture families, to pursue the nature of reality, and to grow in both worldly and spiritual ways.

When we align with these principles, our dwellings become more than shelter and they become sanctuaries that support our health, happiness, and prosperity.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

I am in Da Nang, Vietnam—one of my favourite sanctuaries of peace and spiritual calm.
Along its tranquil shoreline, it is a familiar sight to see locals and visitors alike lying in shallow sand pits, buried up to their necks, as gentle waves caress the shore nearby at sunrise.

Others scoop handfuls of moist sand from the shore and rub it over their bodies.

To an unaware observer, it might seem like a playful beach activity. However, it is a centuries-old healing practice that manifests in various forms across coastal societies, and Vasthu Sastra offers extensive insights into it.

Vasthu Sastra, the ancient Indian science of harmonious living, is founded on the principle of the five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and space.

The human body also embodies these five elements through the senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste, and maintaining their harmony is essential for good health and peace.

The beach is one of the few natural environments where all five elements are powerfully present in their purest form.

When someone buries themselves in beach sand, they are immersing the body directly in the earth element.

Warm sand acts like nature’s heated blanket. It holds the sun’s warmth and transfers it to the body, opening pores and stimulating blood circulation.

Vasthu texts describe the earth element as having the ability to absorb excess body heat, neutralise toxins, and stabilise disturbed energy flows in the body.

It is a form of grounding, reconnecting with the stabilising magnetic energy of the earth.

The healing is not just energetic but also physical.

Sand contains a rich mix of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which can be absorbed through the skin in trace amounts.

These minerals are known to ease muscle tension, soothe joint pain, and reduce inflammation.

People with arthritis or rheumatism often report relief after regular sand burial sessions, much like the mud therapies practised in naturopathy.

In Vasthu philosophy, the location of healing matters. When this therapy is performed near the shoreline, the water element enhances the benefits.

The salty moisture in the air, combined with the gentle massage of sand on the skin, creates a detoxifying effect of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

The salt in seawater also has antiseptic properties, helping to cleanse the skin and promote healing of minor wounds or irritations.

The fire element comes from the sun above. Sunlight is a natural source of Vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function.

In moderate doses, its warmth stimulates metabolism and strengthens the body’s natural defences.

The key is moderation and enjoying the sun’s healing heat without allowing it to dehydrate or burn the skin.

The air element at the beach is charged with ions, especially near crashing waves. Scientific studies suggest these particles can enhance mood, reduce stress hormones, and improve breathing. Vasthu sees this as an energising life force energy that refreshes the mind and uplifts the spirit.

Finally, the space element is experienced in the open horizon, where the mind can rest in a sense of vastness.

This openness is deeply therapeutic, helping to dissolve mental tension and emotional clutter.

Beach sand rubbing, where sand is used as a scrub over the body, also aligns with Vasthu’s view of removing stagnant or blocked energy.

As the grains massage the skin, they physically exfoliate dead cells while symbolically clearing away layers of emotional and energetic heaviness. It is a simple act of self-renewal.

From a holistic standpoint, these beach practices work because they combine all five elements in a single experience, creating a powerful balancing effect on the body, mind, and energy field.

This is why such rituals can be found in many coastal cultures.

However, Vasthu also offers a note of caution. Not everyone should engage in prolonged sand burial or intense sun exposure.

Those with heart conditions, severe skin sensitivities, or heat-related illnesses should avoid it. Always hydrate well before and after, and choose the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon rather than the harsh midday sun.

In a world where modern healing often comes in bottles and prescriptions, it is easy to forget that nature itself provides profound medicine.

The beach, with its sun-warmed sands, rolling waves, and open skies, offers a timeless therapy for those seeking to restore balance, release stress, and reconnect with the elemental forces that sustain life.

The next time you walk along a beach, remember: every grain of sand holds the earth’s ancient memory, and in its warmth lies a simple but powerful path to healing.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

 

The main door of a house holds powerful spiritual and energetic significance in the time-honoured tradition of Vasthu Sastra.

It is not just an entry point for people, but is considered the mouth of the home, the primary gateway through which subtle energy or life force enters.

Just as the mouth nourishes the body, the main entrance determines what kind of energy nourishes the space within.

The quality, strength, and direction of this incoming energy deeply influence every aspect of life for those who reside within, from health and harmony to wealth and spiritual well-being.

One of the foundational principles in Vasthu for determining the most auspicious position of the main entrance is the division of the front width of the house or plot into nine equal parts, known as Vasthu Padas.

The Padas (zones) are the basic unit of measurement for the floor plan of a building.

These nine divisions act like energy seats and each is ruled by a specific deity or cosmic force.

It is essentially a grid system that helps architects and designers assess spatial dynamics and energy flow.

This division system helps align the built environment with cosmic energies that flow through the cardinal directions.

What is vital is choosing an auspicious location based on the house orientation, which varies depending on the direction your house faces.

If your home faces east, divide the front wall from northeast to southeast into nine equal parts.

The best placements will be zones 4, 5, and 6, which are considered most auspicious. These zones align with the early morning sun’s energy, symbolising new beginnings, clarity, good health, and spiritual elevation.

Avoid zones 1, 2, 8, and 9, as they can invite obstacles, ill health, or financial setbacks.

In a north-facing house, divide the frontage from northeast to northwest into nine equal parts.

The ideal door zones are 4, 5, and 6, especially closer to the northeast.

These are linked to the deity of wealth and are known to attract prosperity, career growth, and opportunities.

The inauspicious placements will be padas 1, 2, 8, and 9, which may lead to mental unrest or miscommunication.

Though traditionally viewed with caution, south-facing homes can be harmonised with proper Vasthu guidance.

Divide the front width from southeast to southwest and the recommended door positions are zones 4, 5, and 6, ideally leaning slightly towards the southeast.

These zones radiate strength, courage, and material progress through disciplined effort.

To be avoided are zones 1, 2, 8, and 9, associated with tension, accidents, or legal troubles.

For homes facing the west, divide the front face from northwest to southwest into nine equal sections.

The auspicious zones, 4, 5, and 6, preferably towards the northwest, are considered beneficial.

They support networking, recognition, creativity, and spiritual progress.

The undesirable door zones are 1, 2, 8, and 9, often linked to delays, anxiety, or financial instability.

Across all orientations, the central three segments, 4, 5, and 6, are typically the most favourable.

These zones are linked to the Brahmasthan, the central energy core of the structure, representing the balance of the subtle energy.

Placing the main door in this central sector ensures a smooth inflow of harmonious vibrations, helping to balance both physical and subtle energies in the household.

However, Vasthu is not just about geometry or measurements.

In Vasthu, the main entrance is more than just an architectural feature; it is the karmic gateway through which not only people but also energies, situations, and opportunities that shape our lives pass.

When correctly placed, it invites abundance, serenity, and success. When misaligned, it may act like a leak, causing wealth to drain or conflicts to arise.

Even practical aspects matter, like the main door should always open inward to the right, never outward. This symbolises welcoming and retaining blessings.

The main door must be the largest in the house and made of wood, which is deeply connected to the element of earth and life itself.

It’s seen as a warm, organic, and stable material that promotes positive energy and a nurturing environment.

Avoid steel or security doors, which are cold, hard, and rigid materials that can create a tense and unwelcoming atmosphere.

Also, do not leave clutter, dustbins, or shoes directly in front of or behind the door, as these act as energy blockages.

Vasthu is based on energy alignment, and the idea is not just to build a beautiful home, but to create a space that welcomes positive vibrations and repels negative forces.

Even the height, width, and design of the door are specified: the main door should be larger than the other doors, open inward, and be free from obstructions.

It should not be creaky or broken, as it is the mouth of the house, the gateway to fortune, health, and peace.

By respecting the placement of the main door, you are not merely following a rule; you are aligning your life with cosmic intelligence.

You are saying “yes” to the divine flow that sustains peace, purpose, and prosperity.

So next time you walk through your front door, pause. Know that it is not just an opening in a wall, it is where your destiny begins to unfold.

 

 

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

In recent weeks, I have received questions from a distressed individual in Kuala Lumpur who believes that his home is haunted by a spirit that not only harasses his family but also appears to be stealing money.

While this may sound like a plot from a horror film, many across cultures and faiths have reported eerie disturbances, unexplained theft, or unseen forces affecting peace, health and prosperity in a home.

Whether one approaches such situations through a spiritual, psychological, or traditional lens, the truth remains: when a home feels uneasy or threatening, something must be done.

In Vasthu Sastra, the home is not just a shelter but a sacred space.

When that sanctity is compromised, steps must be taken to cleanse and protect it.

When strange happenings occur, such as items disappearing repeatedly (especially money), sudden aggressive behaviour among family members, a sense of being watched, or recurring nightmares, these could be signs of a negative presence.

Among the causes of this could be that some homes retain residual negativity from past traumas like death or prolonged suffering, which can attract dark forces.
Another could be a troubled land history, such as burial grounds or the site close to a forest, or it was used for illegal activities may create an unstable spiritual foundation.
Inherited antique items, spirit attachments, or unseen energy portals can also further disturb a home’s energetic harmony.

However, one must always examine all logical explanations first.

Could someone in the home be taking the money? Is stress or mental health a factor? Are electrical or structural faults causing disturbances?

Once natural causes are ruled out, psychic remedies can be considered seriously and respectfully.

The first and most important action is to cleanse the energy of the home, removing stagnant or dark vibrations.

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the entire space, especially forgotten corners, cupboards, and under furniture.

Then use traditional space-cleansing methods such as smudging with sage, frankincense, or camphor.

Light the incense or herbs, and walk clockwise through the house, allowing the smoke to reach every corner while chanting mantras or prayers relevant to your faith.

In Hindu tradition, chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra can be highly effective.

Next, placing sea salt in the corners of rooms and near thresholds can absorb negativity. Leave it for 48 hours, then sweep or vacuum it and dispose of it outside the home.

Ringing a bell, playing a conch or striking a Tibetan singing bowl in each room helps break up heavy, malevolent energy.

Once the negative energies are neutralised, a house blessing is essential to invite divine protection and raise the vibration of the home.

Regardless of faith, light a ghee or oil lamp daily at dawn and dusk in the altar of the house, the zone of divine energy. Offer flowers, incense, and prayers to your chosen deity or the universal force.

Once the house has been cleansed and blessed, protective symbols and rituals can be established to guard against future intrusions. Among them are:

• Hang seven green chillies and one lemon tied together at the main entrance. This traditional Indian practice is believed to ward off the evil eye and malevolent forces.
• Iron objects, such as a horseshoe or swastika, placed above the front door, are believed to repel ghosts and harmful spirits.
• Conduct the Vasthu Yantra ritual by burying protective yantras in the eight cardinal directions around the house to create an energetic shield against negative forces.
• Place spiritual symbols, such as a cross. Aum, Sudarshana Yantra, or images of fierce protective deities like Kali, at the main door of the house.
• Avoid keeping broken idols, cracked mirrors, or inherited antiques of unknown origin, as these may carry lingering energies from past owners.

After implementing these steps, observe the atmosphere over the next few weeks.

If peace returns, continue daily prayers or meditations to maintain the vibrational frequency of the home.

However, if disturbances persist, it may be necessary to call in a paranormal expert or healer experienced in clearing.

Not all unexplained events are ghostly, but when spiritual or energetic interference is suspected, it is vital to act with calm faith, reverence, and knowledge.

A house is more than bricks and walls, as it is a living space of energy.

Just as we protect our bodies with proper care and clothing, so too must we guard our homes with spiritual consciousness.

Ghosts, if they exist, often latch on to unresolved energy or trauma.

By bringing light, sound, prayer, and intention into the home, you are not just driving out darkness; you are transforming your space into a sanctuary.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

 

Cakes, candles, balloons, and parties commonly mark birthdays. While these joyful moments bring loved ones together, they often overshadow the hidden spiritual significance of this special day.

A birthday is far more than a ritual or social event; it is a sacred personal milestone that deserves reflection, reverence, and gratitude.

From ancient times, the day of one’s birth has been considered holy in nearly all cultures.

It marks the moment a soul enters this earthly realm with a unique karmic blueprint and divine timing.

Birthdays are energetic portals, powerful points in the calendar when cosmic energies align to support the soul’s journey.

In Vedic astrology and Vasthu Sastra, the weekday on which one is born carries specific vibrations.

Each day is ruled by a planet that imparts qualities to the individual.

Those born on Sunday, ruled by the sun, often possess charisma, a strong will, and a natural leadership quality.

Monday is ruled by the Moon, and those born on this day tend to be compassionate, imaginative, nurturing, and emotionally sensitive.

Tuesday, governed by Mars, tends to produce individuals who are naturally action-oriented, courageous, assertive, and competitive.

Wednesday falls under the influence of Mercury, making those born on this day typically articulate, intelligent, sociable, and skilled in communication and business.

Thursday is associated with Jupiter, the planet of wisdom, spirituality, and expansion. Individuals born on this day are often philosophical, generous, and optimistic, and are respected for their insightful nature.

Friday, ruled by Venus, brings charm, artistic flair, and a loving nature. Those born on this day tend to appreciate beauty, harmony, fashion, and the arts.

Saturn, the planet of discipline and karma, governs Saturday. People born on this day are usually serious, hardworking, patient, and introspective, often growing stronger through life’s challenges.

Understanding your birth day’s planetary influence can offer deep insights into your nature and life path.

Avoiding conflict, negative speech, or indulgence on this day is recommended, as the birthday mirrors and magnifies our intentions and emotions.

Your birthday is your personal New Year’s, a moment to pause and reflect on your journey. Many spiritual masters I have met advise spending at least part of your birthday in prayer or silence.

Lighting a lamp, meditating, or offering gratitude to the divine, your ancestors, and your parents can set a powerful tone for the year ahead.

Even the simple act of blowing out candles carries a meaning.

While it is a cherished tradition, some mystical teachings discourage it, suggesting instead the lighting of a lamp to keep the inner flame burning bright.

The flame symbolises consciousness, and the goal is to make that light grow with each passing year.

Ultimately, a birthday is a divine reminder: you came into this world with a purpose.

Another aspect often overlooked is the sharing of one’s age. Choosing not to reveal it freely is not about vanity, but spiritual discernment.

Each stage of life carries a unique vibration. When we casually share our age, we expose ourselves to subtle judgments or energetic interference from others who may not value the sacredness of life’s phases.

Even compliments related to age, like “You don’t look your age!”, can carry subtle layers of comparison that affect our aura.

The spiritual path teaches us to protect our life force from disturbances. In this context, discretion becomes a form of self-respect and energetic safeguarding.

Beyond how others perceive us, age can shape our self-perception. Fixating on numbers may lead us to unconsciously adopt societal expectations: what one should or shouldn’t be doing at 30, 50, 60, or 70.

These beliefs limit the boundless nature of the soul. The spirit does not wrinkle or retire; it only expands, deepens, and evolves.

In the early days, sages and royalty often guarded their details, including their birth dates and astrological charts, not out of superstition, but from a deep respect for the divine. What is private can also be powerful.

Another important fact is to avoid celebrating your birthday before the actual day, as it may disrupt the natural rhythm of divine timing.
Rituals like cake-cutting or prayers hold energetic significance and are most potent on the actual day of birth.
Premature celebration can dilute blessings and reflect an unconscious assumption that we’re promised time that hasn’t yet been lived.

Your age is more than just a number. It is a vibrational imprint of your soul’s passage.

This Wednesday, July 30, marks my birthday. While I won’t be revealing my age (some things are best kept sacred), I have chosen to honour the day quietly and reflectively.

As I will be travelling, I plan to spend time in prayer and gratitude at the historic St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Melbourne, built in 1853.

I can think of no better place than a house of worship to give thanks for the gift of life.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

Have you ever paused to consider why some elders advise against cutting your hair or nails on the day you were born? Or why certain traditions encourage the symbolic act of releasing a bird, setting a fish free, or planting a tree to mark your birthday?

These seemingly simple rituals rooted in Indian, Buddhist, and other Eastern spiritual traditions carry deep metaphysical meaning.

Far from being outdated superstitions, they reflect an ancient wisdom that recognises the energetic and karmic significance of one’s birth day.

These practices are not merely symbolic; they are intended to harmonise your energy field, invoke blessings, and offer acts of merit in honour of the life you’ve been given.

They are rooted in subtle metaphysical sciences, such as Vastu Shastra, Vedic astrology, and ancient nature-based wisdom.

All point to a central truth: your birthday is not just another day. It is a sacred energetic portal, your personal New Year.

On this day, the Sun returns to the exact position it occupied at your birth. This cosmic alignment intensifies your personal vibration, making any thought, word, or action intensely amplified, for better or worse.

Ancient cultures understood this, which is why they prescribed specific dos and don’ts for this auspicious time.

I was born on a Thursday, a day governed by Jupiter, the planet of wisdom, spirituality, and higher thought.

For decades, I have honoured this cosmic connection by refraining from cutting my hair and nails on any Thursday.

In subtle sciences, hair and nails are not considered dead tissue, as modern science asserts, but rather extensions of the body’s energy field, known as vital life force.

Trimming them on the day you were born, on any week, when your energy field is believed to be most potent, is said to disturb the natural flow of life force.

This may weaken your physical strength, reduce your magnetism, or even destabilise your emotional and financial well-being.

Each day of the week is ruled by a planet – Monday by the Moon, Tuesday by Mars, Wednesday by Mercury, and so on.

The day you were born carries that planet’s energetic imprint, forming part of your karmic signature.

Making bodily alterations on that same weekday is believed to disrupt your unique cosmic rhythm, subtly throwing you off balance.

Therefore, spiritual texts advise against cutting hair, shaving, or trimming nails on your birthday.

Your birthday is considered a private festival of the soul and refraining from certain grooming habits is one way to honour its sanctity.

In contrast to abstaining from certain acts, several traditions encourage compassionate, life-affirming gestures.

Among the most spiritually significant is the practice of releasing a bird or fish into its natural habitat on your birthday.

This act symbolises freedom from bondage. When you release a living being, you mirror the divine act of liberation.

You also send your heartfelt prayers into the universe, carried on the wings or fins of the freed soul.

It is believed that such a gesture can untie karmic knots and bring blessings in the form of health, longevity, inner peace, and protection from unseen harm.

Energetically, this deed lightens your aura, aligns you with the principle of non-violence, and raises your spiritual vibration.

However, it must be approached mindfully. Always ensure the birds or fish are sourced ethically and released into environments where they can survive and thrive.

Compassion, not convenience, must be the motive.

Another timeless practice is planting a tree on your birthday.

More than a symbolic act, it is a living offering to Mother Earth, an embodiment of gratitude and intention.

In Vedic and farming traditions, trees are revered as givers of life.

They offer shade, fruit, oxygen, and shelter without expectation. Planting one on your birthday is considered planting your karma into the soil of existence.

As the tree grows, it becomes a living manifestation of your blessings, anchoring you in the earth element and grounding your aspirations in fertile energy.

Your tree becomes a legacy, one that may long outlive you, silently serving future generations.

It’s easy to dismiss such traditions as relics of a bygone era in today’s modern era. But when we stop and look deeper, we find timeless wisdom encoded in them, guiding us to honour our bodies, align with celestial rhythms, and serve the greater good.

Your birthday is more than a cake and candles. It is a sacred cosmic checkpoint, an invitation to reset, renew, and realign.

So, the next time it arrives, consider planting a tree, releasing a soul, or simply sitting in silence with gratitude. The universe is listening more closely than you think.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

 

 

Over the years, I have shared numerous insights through this column on Vasthu Sastra, astrology, energy principles, and other ancient sciences.

Many readers have responded with gratitude and curiosity, but I have also encountered a fair share of criticism and even ridicule.

Some dismiss these subjects as delusions or attribute their effectiveness to a placebo.

I take no offence. I understand that these reactions often stem from a place of unfamiliarity, rather than malice.

However, I believe it’s time to gently raise a cautionary flag, especially for those who aggressively reject what they do not understand.

When one speaks lightly or disrespectfully about systems rooted in sacred traditions and spiritual wisdom, they are not merely disagreeing; they may be disturbing an energetic balance that can, unintentionally, affect them in return.

Ancient knowledge, whether found in Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, or indigenous belief systems, is not just a product of blind belief.

It is the culmination of centuries of observation, experience, and spiritual discipline.

It has guided people toward health, harmony, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the universe.

Whether one believes in the planetary influences described in Vedic astrology or the energy alignment principles of Vasthu Sastra, there’s no denying that these systems have helped millions navigate life with clarity and purpose.

Dismissing them as outdated or irrational without making any effort to study them is, frankly, unfair.

For instance, I have joined devotees’ journey to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in France, seeking healing, both physical and spiritual, through prayer, faith in the Virgin Mary’s intercession, and the believed miraculous qualities of the spring water.

Such expressions of devotion deserve our respect, regardless of the tradition from which they stem.

The world of energy, though invisible to the eye, is real, powerful, and constantly at play.

Our words, thoughts, and intentions carry vibrations.

When someone heaps mockery or curses upon a holy practice or trust system, especially one that has benefitted others, that negative energy does not dissipate into the air.

It lingers and often returns to the source. This is not a fallacy; it is the principle of energetic cause and effect.

Every action, including verbal and mental ones, creates a ripple in the universal field.

I have observed how some individuals who tease spiritual traditions later face unexpected disturbances, emotional, physical, or situational.

While I do not wish ill upon anyone, I do feel I have to point out that the laws of energy, like the laws of nature, operate whether or not we believe in them.

This does not mean we should accept every belief blindly.

Healthy scepticism has its place, and questioning is a sign of intelligence. However, there is a significant distinction between questioning and condemning.

Disagreeing is your right. Disrespecting is a choice and often a costly one.

I have always advocated that spirituality must never be forced upon anyone.

Each soul is on its own journey. Some may be drawn to temples and mantras, while others may find truth in silence and science. But all genuine paths, so long as they do not harm, deserve respect.

Our fast-paced world often worships logic and dismisses intuition. Yet, time and again, science finds itself circling back to truths that sages have spoken of for centuries.

Concepts such as energy fields, vibrational medicine, sound therapy, and mind-body healing have been studied in laboratories; however, they were part of holistic spiritual traditions long before the invention of the microscope or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

So, to those who find comfort and guidance in ancient teachings, I say: walk your path with confidence and humility.

You do not need to convince everyone. Truth, like light, speaks for itself. And to those who question or criticise: may I suggest a If something is not for you, move on. But do not laugh at what has meaning for others.

You may not realise the depth of what you are rejecting, or the energy you are stirring.

Let us create a culture of coexistence, where science and spirituality, tradition and innovation, can stand side by side and not as enemies, but as companions in our collective human quest for well-being and wisdom.

Ultimately, every person has the right to follow the practice or path that resonates with them. What we don’t have is the right to belittle what brings healing, insight, and peace to others. The world has enough division. Let us not add spiritual intolerance to the list.

As the ancient texts often remind us: Speak with care. Think with compassion and act with awareness.

What we send into the world is what we invite back into our lives.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

 Many Indian households remain silent from July 16 to August 15 every year regarding any auspicious events.

Weddings are postponed, housewarmings are avoided, and, if possible, childbirths are scheduled outside this time frame.

This is due to a long-standing fear surrounding the Aadi month, which is considered an inauspicious period.

As someone born on July 30, right at the peak of Aadi, I often wonder: What is so worrying about this time of year?

Aadi, the fourth month in the Indian almanac is empty of meaning.

It is deeply spiritual and vibrant with devotional observances.

It marks the beginning of the sun’s northward journey to the south, which the ancients saw as a period suited for spiritual reflection and inward focus.

It is the time when the divine feminine is especially venerated, through festivals such as the birthday of Goddess Andal (Aadi Pooram), a river blessing festival (Aadi Perukku), and for ancestral prayers (Aadi Amavasai).

Yet, a widespread belief persists that Aadi is a bad period, especially for significant life events.

This misconception runs so deep that I once witnessed a tragic consequence of it.

A close friend’s wife, heavily pregnant and just weeks away from full term, begged her doctor to induce early delivery to avoid having the child born in the Aadi month.

The doctor obliged. Tragically, the child was stillborn several hours later.

The couple was devastated. It was a painful reminder of how fear, not fate, can change lives forever.

Malaysian Gurukkal Sangam vice president Someshvarn Sivachariar said there is no scriptural basis for such dread.

“Ancient texts do not forbid ceremonies during Aadi. The practical roots of this caution likely lie in seasonal conditions.

“Aadi often coincided with the monsoon, making travel and large gatherings difficult and potentially hazardous.

“Over time, this practical restraint hardened into misconception,” said Someshvarn.

He highlighted the favourable dates in the coming Aadi month as July 16, 21, 23, 28, 30, 31, and August 1, 4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, and 15.

He agreed that temples and priests are often preoccupied during Aadi with intense daily rituals, special prayers, and community observances focused on worship, which draw many devotees and require elaborate spiritual preparations.

Because of this, he said, priests may be less available or hesitant to conduct worldly ceremonies like weddings, as their energy and attention are directed toward spiritual upliftment and devotional service during this sacred month.

From an astrological point of view, 7^th-generation astrologer Yuvaraj Sowma said not all days in Aadi are inauspicious.

He said that just like any month, it contains days of favourable and unfavourable planetary influences.

Yuvaraj said generalising the entire month as “bad” is inaccurate and dangerous when it affects decisions about life and death.

He explained that during this phase, the spiritual vibrations on Earth are more potent, making it a highly conducive time to connect with the divine.

“While weddings and primary worldly functions are generally avoided, this is not due to negative connotations.

“Instead, it reflects the traditional understanding that this month is better suited for spiritual pursuits rather than material beginnings”.

So why do we continue to fear it?

Perhaps because we have not stopped to question it, we have inherited beliefs without investigating their origins.

The true essence of Aadi is not misfortune; it is devotion, introspection, and connection with the divine. It is a sacred pause, not a sinister period.

Like myself, those born in Aadi are proof that this month is not cursed.

Many remarkable individuals have been born during the Aadi month and have gone on to lead purposeful lives.

Some of them are former U.S. President Barack Obama (August 4), South African freedom icon Nelson Mandela (July 18), former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (July 26), and actress Jennifer Lopez (July 24).

Their lives prove that Aadi is not a period of limitation, but one of latent potential and divine grace.

It is often said that spiritually evolved souls and impactful leaders are born during powerful cosmic alignments. Aadi is far from a time of misfortune and is one such holy window.

Instead of avoiding the month, we can honour its true purpose by deepening our spiritual practice, offering prayers to our ancestors, and aligning with the rhythm of the cosmos.

Let us reject fear-based choices and reclaim the truth about Aadi by approaching it with reverence rather than reluctance.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra

Some journeys begin not with a plan, but with a quiet yearning, a deep longing that only silence gives it shape.
For years, I had felt a pull toward Boudhanath Stupa, one of the world’s largest and most revered Buddhist stupas in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Recently, as if guided by grace, that unspoken desire found its way into reality.

This massive white dome, built in the 14th century, has silently watched pilgrims circumambulate with prayer beads in hand and hope in their hearts for centuries.

When I finally stood before the stupa, which is 36 meters tall and shaped like a mandala, symbolising the universe, the city’s clamour faded into the background.

The white dome represents the earth, the 13-tiered golden spire symbolises the 13 stages to enlightenment, and Buddha’s all-seeing eyes face in four directions, symbolising awareness and compassion.

Time itself slowed, as if honouring the sacredness of the moment. I had arrived with questions, yet I found a silent answer that spoke to the soul.
As if guided by a higher hand, Bhupendra Gautam, a soft-spoken, knowledgeable tour guide, approached me and offered to lead me on a spiritual walk around the stupa. It felt like divine timing.

I bowed reverently and began walking around the stupa clockwise, a spiritual act in Tibetan Buddhism towards awakening and spinning the prayer wheels.

With each step and turn of the wheel, I let the gentle rhythm draw me inward, into a space of quiet reflection.

For hundreds of devotees, walking around the stupa is not just a ritual but a communion with the divine, a silent prayer in motion, where the stupa becomes a living presence of Buddha’s mind.

According to Gautam, each step taken mindfully during the circumambulation of the Boudhanath Stupa is believed to purify negative karma.

The fragrance of incense curled through the air, mingling with the chants of monks and the fluttering of countless prayer flags, each colour carrying aspirations skyward.

The sight was sincerely humbling: elderly Tibetans bent with age offering full-body prostrations, tourists trying to soak in the ambience with quiet reverence, and local devotees making their daily rounds with casual grace.

I paused frequently, not out of exhaustion but out of worship. At one such moment, as the setting sun bathed the dome in a golden hue, I felt something shift within me.

Halfway through the kora (the sacred circumambulation) alongside fellow pilgrims, Gautam gently guided me to light a butter lamp.

“Let the energy of centuries of devotion surround you and remove your past,” he said, as the flame flickered to life.

It wasn’t dramatic or sudden, but subtle, I felt a peeling away of layers I didn’t know I carried.

In that space of stillness, I sensed some level of liberation, a letting go of burdens, expectations, and regrets.

Atop the stupa, the Buddha’s all-seeing eyes gazed out in every direction, calm, compassionate, and awake.

I felt seen, not judged, held, not hurried. In that holy stillness, I glimpsed a truth I had only read about: that enlightenment isn’t a distant summit to be reached, but a moment of pure presence, right here, right now.

I also stepped into the quiet embrace of the Guru Lhakhang Monastery, where the stillness seemed to hum with ancient spiritual energy. The air felt charged, like eras of devotion had left a divine imprint.

What moved me even more was learning that this solid and timeless stupa had once bowed under the weight of destruction.

The devastating 2015 earthquake in Nepal severely damaged its spire, cracking the crown that so many eyes had turned to in prayer.

But Buddhist monks, local artisans, and donors worldwide restored it with an extraordinary gesture of faith and community spirit.

Today, as it stands tall and radiant once more, the Boudhanath Stupa is not only a monument to devotion but a living symbol of resilience, reminding us that even when the ground shakes beneath us, the soul can rebuild itself, stronger and more luminous than before.

As I left the stupa grounds, I was no longer searching. I was content and in that gentle state of presence, I recognised the liberation I had unknowingly sought, a quiet homecoming to my inner stillness.

The Buddha Stupa offers more than architectural grandeur for those yearning for peace amid life’s relentless noise.

It is a sanctuary for the soul. Go not to find answers, but to listen. Because in that vast, echoing silence, the heart finally finds its voice.

 

Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at drtselvas@gmail.com. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra