Setting up a business or an entrepreneurial venture is often the fulfilment of one's career ambitions. This symbolises your confidence in your abilities to go independent, manage vendors and employees, and open up a customer-facing business. However, there is much more to opening a shop than managing the merchandise. The elements and energetic vibrations of the store deeply impact the minds of the employees and those who shop here. It is thus a good idea to follow these Vastu practices in your new shop to optimise the positivity of the ambience and prosperity of your business.
- Pick the right design - The design of your shop, store, or showroom has a great deal of influence on the energies that your business attracts. According to Vastu Shastra, the ideal shape for a shop is square or rectangular. If you have an unevenly shaped space, you may want to use partitions or ply boards to give the space an even look. The ideal direction for the entrance of your store is the northeast or the east. Keep the entrance open and free from any blockages like poles or beams.
- Managing the environment – The environment around the shop is also very important, according to Vastu Shastra. Any open drains or stagnant water around the shop or showroom blocks the flow of money and opportunity. Sand these or cover them up to attract more customers to your store. If your shop is spread across several stories, placing the staircase in the south or southwest is a good idea. The staircase should have an odd number of steps and should not be painted red or black in colour.
- Prayer and worship area – The east or the northeast are the best directions for placing the mandir in the shop. It is a good idea to start the work day by lighting a small diya or oil lamp and praying for divine grace.
- Mirror placement in shops – Mirror placements enhance the energy of the objects they reflect. Vastu recommends the placement of mirrors in front of cash counters and registers for a steady flow of wealth. Consumer behaviour experts also endorse this particular Vastu tip. Strategic placement of mirrors, particularly in shops and boutiques selling apparel and beauty products, prompts the customers to buy more.
- Cleaning and maintenance – Clutter is one of the major factors that block the flow of energy. Keeping your shop or showroom dust free and organised will help attract new customers and create a positive impression in their minds. Vastu Shastra also encourages daily cleaning and mopping the floors and surfaces before opening up to customers. Oil and creaky hinges of entrance doors or trial room doors. Replace any lights that may be broken or fused. Any damaged pipes and lines will attract negative energy into your business.
- Prepping the storage area – Reserve a separate storage area for products that are not on display or for raw materials. Storing unsold inventory on the bottom shelves of your store or in cabinets under the display area blocks circulation and keeps the business from prospering. The best direction for the storage area is the southwest corner of your shop or store. Like the rest of the shop, this area, too requires regular maintenance and cleaning.
- Music and more – While Vastu for shops has more to do with directional design and placement, placing some plants in the shop and playing soft, melodious music is a good practice. Vastu is the practice of balancing elements and energies in your home and workspace. Any electronic displays, computers, and televisions are best placed in the southeast corner of the showroom or boutique. Similarly, placing a small water fountain or a water wall in the northeastern corner of the shop is a great way of attracting success.
Vastu for shops
Vastu does not only deal with the direction and design of your shop. It also recommends that your shop colour be light and pleasing to the senses. Cream, light yellow, or even a mild orange are all considered auspicious colours. You must research Vastu recommendations depending on the merchandise you stock. For example, Ayurvedic and natural remedies are best stored in the north and eastern direction of your shop, while placing allopathic remedies in the south and medical equipment in the west is considered ideal. Consulting an expert is a good idea if you are unclear about Vastu recommendations.
Our scriptures teach us that diligence and industry set us on the path to greatness. "Udyogam Purusha Lakshanam" refers to the inherent desire to succeed in business endeavours. The practice of Vastu shastra and following these simple practices can greatly attract enthusiasm, wealth, and abundance.