According to the principles of Vastu architectural constructions are, as stated earlier, living organisms and they behave like human beings. Like the living beings, they vibrate and pulsate; they breathe. For such breathing structures, the central space serves as the lungs.
The central space should be set aside or left free for the confluence of cosmic and elemental energies. It should be free of structural elements and it is meant to effect breathing power to the enclosed space. It is considered lo be the spiritual centre and when it is maintained in perfect order and harmony, those dwelling in it could experience well-being and sweetness. The central space could be used as a hall or open courtyard meant for celebrations and weddings. It is prohibited for daily household activities. The daily activities, such as bathing, eating, sleeping and others are restricted to the rings known as Manusya-pada and Paisaca-pada. No construction is laid down either in Brahma-pada or in Daiva-pada.
Rules related to the plinth (upana and Adhisthana) are also to be essentially followed. The height of the plinth should be determined based on the height of the whole structure, which height is ascertained from the width of the building. For the building which is akin to the human form. Upana, the lower level of the basement and Adhisthana, the upper level serve as the footrest and foot respectively.
The height of the plinth should be proportionate to the height of the columns or to the height of the walls. A high plinth not only presents goods elevation but it makes the verandahs useable when the rain falls. The secondary plinths not only cover the building, but it covers the yards all around or the `bdhyangand. This remedies a great deal, the trouble from insects and creeping abominations that are abundant in a climate like that of India.
More importantly it has been said in Vastu that the rules governing the central space and the plinth should be meticulously observed in the case of multi-storied buildings.
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