Well-being can be understood as a state of contentment and health, encompassing lifestyle choices that promote good health, prevent diseases, and maintain balance in body, mind, and spirit. It involves leading a productive and comfortable life and is often measured by one’s happiness or life satisfaction. While the pursuit of happiness is frequently mistaken for the pursuit of pleasure, well-being goes beyond living ‘the good life.’ It is about finding meaning, fulfilling our potential, and feeling that life is worthwhile (Eckersley, 2005). Well-being connects our inner self with our relationship to the outer world. Looking back through history, we can see that the concept of well-being was deeply embedded in many aspects of our cultural heritage.
Heritage encompasses both tangible and intangible attributes passed down from our ancestors. These attributes, enriched with values and wisdom, fostered a harmonious relationship between living organisms and their environment. In the past, the human relationship with the Earth and the universe was seen as inseparable from relationships with one’s family, village, and surroundings. This eco-centric philosophy emphasized a spiritual connection with nature and the universe, grounded in cosmic rhythms. One expression of this philosophy is the ancient Indian concept of Panchmahabhutas, which stresses the balance of five natural elements—ether, air, fire, water, and earth—in both our internal and external worlds. This balance is reflected in practices like Ayurveda, Yoga, Meditation, and Vaastu Shastra.
Ayurveda, a traditional system of diet and medicine, considers the multi-dimensional aspects of human existence—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—and aims to balance them. It organizes the five elements into three energies, or doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—which exist in all things (Dalal & Misra, 2006). Ayurveda also ties the body and mind to nature, particularly in its food systems, which unite diet with natural elements and spirituality (Bhat, n.d.). Similarly, yoga and meditation treat mental health issues like insomnia and depression through specific asanas, while meditation aids in aligning oneself with higher energies on the path to enlightenment and self-realization.
In architecture, Vaastu Shastra is one of the oldest design principles, incorporating the five natural elements into the planning of buildings. Rooted in the study of natural phenomena such as the sun’s movement, wind directions, soil types, and flora and fauna, Vaastu principles demonstrate how human settlements have historically responded to the natural world (Saran & Dr. Shirodkar, 2017). This connection between architecture and nature is evident in how elements like lakes, palaces, gardens, temples, and open spaces were designed in response to natural features like rivers, mountains, and soil types. This symbiosis forms the “Heritage Fabric” of a settlement, which captures the historical process of societal development, often guided by Vaastu principles.
These principles advocate that everything in the universe follows a rhythm and order. The thoughtful placement of activities in relation to cosmic influences brings prosperity and peace of mind. Vaastu design principles were used to create rhythmic modules that influenced the size, layout, and orientation of buildings based on the life goals of the occupants and their astrological signs. The buildings created using these principles fostered positive, harmonious environments for the occupants. Natural materials were vital to this process, enhancing the beneficial effects of the design.
The materials used in traditional construction, such as mud, brick, stone, wood, bamboo, and lime, were selected based on local ecosystems and climates. These materials were sustainable, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly. They were also recyclable, biodegradable, and generally non-toxic, contributing to healthy indoor air quality. For example, lime is permeable, allowing buildings to “breathe” and preventing moisture buildup. It also has antifungal, disinfectant properties and even a self-healing quality when exposed to water (Rangarajan, n.d.). These qualities, combined with its negative ion emission, benefit human health and counteract harmful ions from home electronics.
As time progressed, artisans explored the crafting potential of these materials, creating intricate works of art under the guidance of the Vishwakarma community. This craftsmanship generated employment while maintaining harmony with the environment (Ananth, 2018).
In addition to ecological well-being, heritage in India also emphasized social well-being, evident in the tangible and intangible aspects of cultural life. Festivals and rituals centered around nature created opportunities for social interaction, while architectural elements like welcoming gates, windows, and public chowks facilitated connection. Women shared their experiences while working on otlas, and men gathered at community spaces to discuss life’s challenges, fostering emotional and social support. Buildings and spaces were designed to be accessible, participatory, and supportive, ensuring individuals could thrive within their communities. This interdependence among individuals formed the backbone of social, economic, and psychological growth, as demonstrated by the dynamic architecture and cultural practices of the past.
The ancient Indian way of life, reflected in both tangible and intangible heritage, provided an ecological, social, and economic model that resonated with well-being.
To be continued…
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