Harmonizing Holistically

Submitted in partial fulfillment of the

requirements of the degree of

Bachelor of Architecture
by

MAHADIK SHIVANI SURESH

2016PA0042

Guide:

Prof. MADHURIMA DAS

Pillai College of Architecture, New Panvel.

University of Mumbai
2020-2021

1
 Thesis Approval for B.Arch.

This dissertation titled Harmonizing Holistically

__________________________________________________

by MAHADIK SHIVANI SURESH

is approved for the degree of Bachelor of Architecture.

Examiners

1.---------------------------------------------

2.---------------------------------------------

Date:

Place:

2
 University of Mumbai

MAHATMA EDUCATION SOCIETY’S

PILLAI COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE

Dr. K. M. Vasudevan Pillais’ Campus, 10, Sector-16, New Panvel. – 410 206

Certificate

This is to certify that the project titled

“Harmonizing Holistically”
is the bona-fide work of

“MAHADIK SHIVANI SURESH” 2016PA0042

Of the Semester IX of
Pillai’s College of Architecture
and was carried out in the college under my guidance
during academic year 2020-21
Signature of Guide:

Name of Guide: MADHURIMA DAS

Dr. Sudnya Mahimkar

Principal
Date:

3
Declaration

I declare that this written submission represents my ideas in my own words

and where others' ideas or words have been included, I have adequately cited
and referenced the original sources. I also declare that I have adhered to all
principles of academic honesty and integrity and have not misrepresented
or fabricated or falsified any idea/data/fact/source in my submission. I have
read and know the meaning of plagiarism and I understand that any violation
of the above will be cause for disciplinary action by the Institute and can also
evoke penal action from the sources which have thus not been properly cited
or from whom proper permission has not been taken when needed.

-----------------------------------------
(Signature)

MAHADIK SHIVANI SURESH

2016PA0042

Date:

4
Acknowledgement

The work presented in this thesis would not have been possible without my close association
with many people. I take this opportunity to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to
all those who made this thesis possible.

Foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my Thesis Guide, Prof. Madhurima
Das for providing me with her invaluable knowledge during the course of this research. I also
thank her for the continuous support, patience, motivation and enthusiasm at the time of
research and writing of this thesis.

I Thank my Parents, family members, friends for their support, guidance, help all throughout
my learning.

Thank you All.

5
ABSTRACT

Today everyone wants happiness, but very few can understand that its experience is very
deeper and of a spiritual motive. But unfortunately, we think it's external. We engrossed by
influences of the material world in our lives, with little importance given to Inner/Mental well-
being which is the stronger base, required to achieve success or to fulfill our
responsibilities. Even though mental illness could be cured or treated, most of the people
tend to sweep their issues and suffer in silence. But when it comes to physical health
people are so conscious today about superfoods, keto diets, workouts, but when it comes to
mental wellbeing, the awareness isn’t there. But unfortunately, the support for people
suffering from mental health is very low, they are mostly termed crazy, mad, careless.
In India, we see a tremendous rise in mental health problems just like any other country,
despite getting a planned budget every year (which is never implemented to fullest). Today
if we see the preferences for this treatment it is more for complementary and alternative
medicines, where a considerable rise is seen for meditation, yoga, Ayurveda which are
some of the Indian Healing practices. Countries like the U.S have already started
investments in these practices, but Indians have yet to find its benefits and implement them.
The approach that this practice provides is holistic, where the entire body is one entity and
treated as a whole. Thus, this thesis aims to understand the significance, benefits of Indian
Healing Practices for treating mental health, and draw an architectural solution inspired by
its age-old system of practicing it in and around 5 elements of nature (Air, Water, Fire, Sky,
Earth).

6
| Contents
CHAPTER 1- Literature review......................................................................................... 16
( I ) MENTAL HEALTH ................................................................................................... 16
( A ) Stages in Mental health ....................................................................................... 16
( B ) Prevalence of mental disorders over other disorders .......................................... 17
( II ) Problem with current Medication Systems .............................................................. 20
( A ) Treatments .......................................................................................................... 20
( III ) Indian Healing Practices........................................................................................ 22
( IV ) Architectural Healing ............................................................................................. 29
( A ) Practice in Ancient India ...................................................................................... 29
CHAPTER 2- Architectural elements FOR MENTAL wellbeing ........................................ 32
( I ) 5 elemental approach to Mental wellbeing ............................................................... 32
( II ) In Ancient Indian Architecure .................................................................................. 33
( A ) FIRE .................................................................................................................... 33
( A ) AIR ...................................................................................................................... 35
( B ) EARTH ................................................................................................................ 37
( C ) WATER ............................................................................................................... 39
( D ) SPACE ................................................................................................................ 40
( III ) Current Trends around the Globe.......................................................................... 44
( A ) AIR ...................................................................................................................... 44
( B ) LIGHT.................................................................................................................. 46
( C ) WATER BODIES ................................................................................................. 51
( D ) EARTH ................................................................................................................ 52
( E ) SPACE ................................................................................................................ 54
CHAPTER 3- USER STUDY ............................................................................................ 57
( I ) INTRODUCTION...................................................................................................... 57
( II ) SURVEY METHODS .............................................................................................. 57

7
 ( III ) SURVEY RESULTS .............................................................................................. 57
( B ) SURVEY-A .......................................................................................................... 58
( A ) Work environments. ............................................................................................ 58
( C ) Indian Healing Practices (IHP). ........................................................................... 58
( D ) Comfortable environment. ................................................................................... 60
( E ) Programme period ............................................................................................... 60
( IV ) Survey B. ............................................................................................................... 61
( A ) Combination of Treatments for Mentally ill patient .............................................. 62
( B ) Activities they should indulge .............................................................................. 62
( C ) Architectural Spaces ........................................................................................... 62
( D ) Comfortable Surroundings .................................................................................. 63
( E ) Connection with people ....................................................................................... 63
( V ) SURVEY CONCLUSIONS ...................................................................................... 63
CHAPTER 4- CASE STUDIES ......................................................................................... 65
( I ) SHREYAS RETREAT, BENGALURU, INDIA ........................................................... 65
( A ) Site response ...................................................................................................... 66
( B ) Planning .............................................................................................................. 67
( C ) Interiors ............................................................................................................... 69
( D ) Technical aspects ............................................................................................... 70
( E ) Critical analysis ................................................................................................... 70
( F ) Inference –........................................................................................................... 71
( II ) QUIET HEALING, AUROVILLE, INDIA .................................................................. 72
( A ) Site response ...................................................................................................... 72
( B ) Planning .............................................................................................................. 74
( C ) Technical aspects ............................................................................................... 75
( D ) Critical analysis ................................................................................................... 76
( E ) Inference ............................................................................................................. 76
( III ) DHARAMSHALA YOGA RETREAT, HIMACHAL PRADESH ............................... 77

8
 ( A ) Site response ...................................................................................................... 78
( B ) Planning .............................................................................................................. 79
( C ) Interiors ............................................................................................................... 82
( D ) Critical analysis ................................................................................................... 83
( E ) Inference ............................................................................................................. 83
( IV ) ISHA YOGA CENTRE, TAMILNADU .................................................................... 84
( A ) Site response ...................................................................................................... 84
( B ) Planning .............................................................................................................. 85
( C ) Interiors || ............................................................................................................ 91
( D ) Critical analysis – ................................................................................................ 91
( E ) Inference – .......................................................................................................... 91
( V ) Comparative Analysis ............................................................................................. 93
( A ) MASSING - HORIZONTAL ................................................................................. 93
( B ) MASSING VERTICAL ......................................................................................... 94
( C ) GROUND COVER .............................................................................................. 95
( D ) BUILT MASS ....................................................................................................... 96
( E ) INCORPORATING NATURE .............................................................................. 97
( F ) INCORPORATING WATER BODY ..................................................................... 98
( G ) OPENINGS ......................................................................................................... 99
( H ) CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS ........................................................................ 100
CHAPTER 5- Area programe ......................................................................................... 101
CHAPTER 6- SITE IDENTIFICATION............................................................................ 104
( I ) PHYSCIAL SETTING ............................................................................................. 104
( II ) ALIBAG ................................................................................................................. 104
( III ) HEALING HUBS AROUND ALIBAG ................................................................... 104
( IV ) ALIBAG ENVIRONMENT .................................................................................... 105
( V ) SITES IDENTIFIED .............................................................................................. 106
( VI ) SITE SELECTION ............................................................................................... 106

9
 ( I ) LOCATION ............................................................................................................. 108
CHAPTER 7- SITE ANALYSIs ....................................................................................... 108
( II ) UTILITY ................................................................................................................ 109
( III ) CLIMATE ............................................................................................................. 110
( A ) SUNPATH ......................................................................................................... 110
( B ) WIND................................................................................................................. 110
( C ) TEMPERATURE AND PRECIPITATION .......................................................... 111
( D ) HUMIDITY ......................................................................................................... 112
( IV ) NEIGHBOURHOOD CONTEXT .......................................................................... 112
( V ) SITE AND ZONING .............................................................................................. 113
( A ) SITE BOUNDARIES DIMENSION .................................................................... 113
( B ) BUILDABLE AREA – ......................................................................................... 114
( C ) ACCESS TO SITE ............................................................................................ 114
( VI ) NATURAL FEATURES........................................................................................ 115
( A ) TOPOGRAPHY ................................................................................................. 115
( B ) VEGETATION ................................................................................................... 116
( VII ) CIRCULATION ................................................................................................... 118
( VIII ) SENSORY ........................................................................................................ 118
( A ) VIEWS............................................................................................................... 118
( B ) SOUNDS ........................................................................................................... 119
( C ) SMELLS ............................................................................................................ 120
CHAPTER 8- Bibliography ............................................................................................. 121

10
| Table of Figures
Figure 1 Stage focused in the research(Author) .................................................................. 16
Figure 2 Prevalence by mental and substance disorders , World,2017 ((IHME), 2018) ...... 17
Figure 3 Mental Health statistics India (TLLLF, 2018) ......................................................... 18
Figure 4 Mental Awarness in Major 8 cities in India (TLLLF, 2018) ..................................... 18
Figure 5 analysis on the statements based on attitude towards mental illness (TLLLF, 2018)
............................................................................................................................................ 19
Figure 6 10 most common cam therapies among adults 2007 (RichardL.Nahin,
PatriciaM.Barnes, & Bloom, 2007) ...................................................................................... 20
Figure 7 Perceptions on various CAM Figure 8 Recommendation for CAM
therapies among the study practices among doctor (Kong FH, 2013)
population. (Kong FH, 2013) ............................................................................................... 21
Figure 9 Change in the life orientation/attitude, self-perceptions, and yoga over time. (White,
2014) ................................................................................................................................... 24
Figure 10 Comparison of moods POMS (Profile of Mood States) for aerobics and yoga. ... 24
Figure 11 Use of Meditation among U.S adults- Marked 8%(18million) used meditation
(Services, 2015) .................................................................................................................. 26
Figure 12 Changes in trait brainwave power and coherence, state, and trait anxiety after
three-month transcendental meditation (TM) practice. (Tomljenović Helena , Begić Dražen ,
& Maštrović Zora., 2016) ..................................................................................................... 27
Figure 13 Compared to the no chanting resting state, religious chanting induced lower HRV
total power (TP), as well as lower power in the high frequency (HF) and very-low-frequency
(VLF) components of HRV (Gao, 2019) .............................................................................. 27
Figure 14 Chakras and their respective colors in Chromotherapy ....................................... 28
Figure 15 Hindu Temple and Human body (Sharmila, 2015) .............................................. 30
Figure 16 THE CONCEPT: - VASTUPURASHAMANDALA Figure 17 Panchmahabhootas
– The 5 Elements of VastuShastra ............................................................................ 31
Figure 18 Ajanta caves interiors .......................................................................................... 33
Figure 19 Hoysaleswara Temple of Shiva. Figure 20 Inner mantapa of the
Kasivisvesvara Temple at Lakkundi Looking through Mandapam towards entrance .......... 34
Figure 21 Plans of Brihadeshvara (Mukherji, 2001) ........................................................... 35
Figure 22 Khajuraho, Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh Figure 23
Somnathpur Temple ,Mysore .............................................................................................. 36
Figure 24 North East Wall Kedareshwara Temple Halebid Karnataka Figure
25 Jali window kopeshwar temple, Kolhapur, Maharashtra ................................................. 36
Figure 26 Reverberant sound fields with sound source in (a) Garbha-Griha and in (b)
Ardha-Mantapa. (Prasad & Rajavel, 2013).......................................................................... 38
Figure 27 Brihadisvara Temple , Tamil Nadu built with granite stone.................................. 39
Figure 28 Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, Madurai water tank .................................... 40
Figure 29 Use of Sacred geometry in the plan sections of Indian Temple Architecture,
based on the geometries of seven chakras. ........................................................................ 41

11
Figure 30 Plans halls from Mukhamandapa to Garbhagriha - a.Shrine alone, b.Shrine with
porch, c.Shrine with Antarala and porch, d.Sarvatobhadra shrine with four entrances
(Hardy, 2007) ...................................................................................................................... 42
Figure 31 : Evolution in the plan of projection around the halls according to Sacred
Geometry - a. Simple square plan, (b-e).Square plan with simple projections,(f-i).Staggered
square plan without recesses, (j-m).Staggered square plan with recesses, (n-o).Stepped
diamond plan, (p-q).Stellate plan with orthogonal central projection, (r-s).Special stellate
plans, (t-v).Uniform stellate plans based on rotated-square star. ........................................ 43
Figure 32 Fractal dimension of front elevation of Kandariya Mahadev Temple (Tanisha
Dutta & V. S. Adane, 2018) ................................................................................................. 43
Figure 33 Jharokhas , Courtyards , Wind Catchers, Jali were some of the Traditional
practices of passive colling techniques used for achieving passive cooling strategies........ 44
Figure 34 Shreyas Retreat,Banglore – Use of Brick Jaali to keep the areas cool ............... 45
Figure 35 Yoga Pavilion, Tulum – Open air Areas for Yoga Practice .................................. 45
Figure 36 Ashtanga Yoga Chile – Windows are placed around the building , at high and low
levels to avoid direct exposure to sunlight and allow natural cross ventilation. ................... 46
Figure 37 UNESCO Meditation Centre by Tadao Ando – By creating a transition from bright
area to dark interiors .......................................................................................................... 47
Figure 38 The Meditation Hall, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, New Delhi ..................................... 47
Figure 39 Shreyas Retreat, Bangalore ................................................................................ 48
Figure 40 Meditation Hall, Eastern China ............................................................................ 48
Figure 41 Semi open Group Yoga Areas, Shreyas Retreat ................................................ 49
Figure 42 The Sadhana Hall, Isha Yoga Centre .................................................................. 49
Figure 43 Strategies used to maintain optimum temperature inside .................................. 50
Figure 44 Section explaining the lighting techniques to create Meditative ambience .......... 50
Figure 45 Trails along the waterfront – A therapeutic Equipment ........................................ 51
Figure 46 Windhover Meditation Centre,California- Water Body at the south reflecting the
surrounding Trees , is used as tool for contemplation . ....................................................... 51
Figure 47 Vana Retreat,Deharadun – Use of water around meditative spaces create cool
environments ....................................................................................................................... 52
Figure 48 Use of Brick to built 21m Dia. Dhyanalinga Dome (A Multi-Religious Meditation
space) ................................................................................................................................. 52
Figure 49 Use of local Material Ratan for enclosure of Private Yoga Studios. .................... 53
Figure 50 Yoga and Spa Centre – Inner patios with Green Elements by creating cutouts .. 53
Figure 51 Windhover Meditation Centre,California- Walkway with seating area around the
Courtyard with existing trees . ............................................................................................. 54
Figure 52 Osho Meditation Hall,Pune – Pyramidal form used for meditation hall. .............. 55
Figure 53 Anand Villa ,Pune - meditation room with an Egyptian style pyramidal canopy, for
capturing cosmic energy. .................................................................................................... 55
Figure 54 Verite Meditation Hall , Auroville – Geometric plan ............................................. 56
Figure 55 – a) Work Environment b) Surroundings Disturbances in the working typologies
............................................................................................................................................ 58

12
Figure 56 – a) Yoga - Awareness about Indian Healing Practices b) Percentage of people
practicing yoga, or did once c)The sense of calmness, and clarity felt by users after
Meditation d)Percentage of users felt the Vibrations and wished to seat for longer time at
the place where chanting occurred...................................................................................... 59
Figure 57 a) Percentage of Respondents comfortable with Enclosure Spaces (spaces with
more privacy) b) Comfortable Colors................................................................................... 60
Figure 58 Time period preferable for refreshment in Nature. .............................................. 61
Figure 59 – a) Practice preferred and advised for mentally ill patient by doctors b) Results
observed in patients ............................................................................................................ 61
Figure 60 – a) Colors preferred for mentally ill patients b) Connections with people. ........ 62
Figure 61 – a) Volumes of spaces, which help in healing process b) Preference for Forms of
Space c) Relationships with surroundings.......................................................................... 63
Figure 62 Master Plan ......................................................................................................... 66
Figure 63 Sensitive approach to design .............................................................................. 66
Figure 64 Floor Plans a)Ground Floor plan; b)Upper floor plan .......................................... 67
Figure 65 - Sections through the built form showing various spaces for Healing practices . 68
Figure 66 Use of Wood and earthy materials in the interiors and play of light achieved in the
transition of spaces from Exterior to semi covered spaces ................................................. 68
Figure 67 Built form Development of Yoga area ................................................................. 69
Figure 68 Section at the sunken courtyard .......................................................................... 69
Figure 69 Play of natural light , brick jaali at one of the external facades ............................ 70
Figure 70 External Facade of the building ........................................................................... 71
Figure 71 Site plan .............................................................................................................. 72
Figure 72 Ground floor plan showing various spaces in the planning ................................. 73
Figure 73 Services .............................................................................................................. 73
Figure 74 Open spaces and linkage elements .................................................................... 74
Figure 75 Climate responsive built form .............................................................................. 75
Figure 76 View to the sea also the use of mosaic for the external cladding of dome is seen
............................................................................................................................................ 75
Figure 77 Use of earthy materials in the interiors and the exteriors .................................... 76
Figure 78 Integrated landscape with Rock garden .............................................................. 76
Figure 79 Level 1 Plan ........................................................................................................ 78
Figure 80 Level-2 Plan ........................................................................................................ 80
Figure 81 Section through the built form ............................................................................. 80
Figure 82 Yoga rooms ......................................................................................................... 81
Figure 83 Full height openings in the yoga rooms on east side .......................................... 82
Figure 84 Timber slatted walls ............................................................................................ 82
Figure 85 Solid local stone masonry on exterior walls ......................................................... 83
Figure 86 Pathways and courtyards around Existing Boulders ........................................... 83
Figure 87 Site plan at the Information Centre near the entrance ......................................... 84
Figure 88 Floor plan of the Centre....................................................................................... 85
Figure 89 Adiyogalayam...................................................................................................... 86

13
Figure 90 Entire campus planning with Residential and other facilities like atm's clinics ,
Toilets.................................................................................................................................. 86
Figure 91 Suryakunda ......................................................................................................... 87
Figure 92 Dhyanalingam ..................................................................................................... 88
Figure 93 Plan showing central Dhyanalingam dome ......................................................... 89
Figure 94 Form of Dhyana Linga Dome .............................................................................. 89
Figure 95 Sadhana Hall (Hall of prayers, chants, hymns) ................................................... 90
Figure 96 Use of granite and discarded rocks from the temple construction at the Reception
and Stays ............................................................................................................................ 91
Figure 97 Chandrakunda (Women's bath) Exterior facade.................................................. 92
Figure 98 Radisson Blu Resort & Spa,Varsoli Open pavillion around a water body
surrounded by amenities ................................................................................................... 104
Figure 99 Prakruti Resort ,Murud covered outdoor pavilions with adjacent swimming pool
for public and landscaped gardens with sparing seating arrangements for self-immersions
.......................................................................................................................................... 105
Figure 100 a) Maharashtra state with site location b) Route from Mumbai to Alibag......... 108
Figure 101 Khadtal Khadi branching out from Arabian sea, adjacent to site ..................... 108
Figure 102 Small protected area managed by Rotary Club ............................................... 109
Figure 103 Slope of the contours ...................................................................................... 109
Figure 104 Sunpath diagram for Mumbai (Tukiainen, n.d.) ............................................... 110
Figure 105 a)Wind rose diagram for Alibag b)Windspeed noted on 22 November 2020,at
4:55pm observed on the Windy mobile app (Meteoblue.com, n.d.) .................................. 110
Figure 106 Annual Temperature Chart (Meteoblue.com, n.d.) .......................................... 111
Figure 107 Temperature and Precipitation charts for Alibag (Meteoblue.com, n.d.) ......... 111
Figure 108 Annual Relative humidity chart for Alibag (weatherandclimate.com, 2009) ..... 112
Figure 109 Waterbody near the site .................................................................................. 112
Figure 110 Image captured from the site showing the bay adjacent to it, over which passes
a bridge ............................................................................................................................. 113
Figure 111 Site Dimesions ................................................................................................ 113
Figure 112 Access 1......................................................................................................... 114
Figure 113 Access 2.......................................................................................................... 114
Figure 114 Panoramic view from the site showing its topography ..................................... 115
Figure 115 a) Some parts of site dug in by locals for extracting mud b) Red soil ............. 115
Figure 116 Various trees on site ....................................................................................... 116
Figure 117 Existing trees marked on site .......................................................................... 117
Figure 118 a) and b) The site is covered the dried grass, and small shrubs ..................... 117
Figure 119 West Side - Green cover with a skyline of coconut trees along the sea shore 118
Figure 120 East Side - Green cover with a skyline of coconut trees along the sea shore . 119
Figure 121 North Side - Green cover with a skyline of coconut trees along the sea shore 119
Figure 122 a) Observation measured on Sound Meter app b) Decibel chart range .......... 120

14
15
CHAPTER 1- LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter highlights 3 major areas of concern in this research

1. Mental Health - Depression, Stress
2. Issues of current medication practices
3. Indian Healing Practices and their current scenarios around the globe
4. Architecture involved in current healing centers
The most acceptable definition of health is given by the WHO (1978): Health is the state of
complete physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being, and not merely an absence of
disease or infirmity (WHO, 1978). Health thus refers to the proper functioning of the body
and the mind, as well as, the capacity to participate in social activities, performing the roles

( I ) MENTAL HEALTH
and abiding by the moral 4 principles. It takes into consideration the nutritional status,
immunity from diseases, and better quality of social and family life. The concern is not with
cure i.e., treating and preventing organic malfunctioning, but with Healing the person, i.e.,
regenerating a sense of well-being and fitness to deal with one’s living conditions.

( A ) Stages in Mental health

Stage 1: Mild Symptoms and Warning Signs
Stage 2: Symptoms Increase in Frequency and Severity and Interfere with Life Activities
and Roles
Stage 3: Symptoms worsen with relapsing and recurring episodes accompanied by serious
disruptions in Life Activities and roles
Stage 4: Symptoms are persistent and severe and have jeopardized one’s life. (Care, 2015)

The Stage 1 is Stage Stage Satge Stage

to be focused 1 2 3 4
in this
research.
Figure 1 Stage focused in the research(Author)

The greatest power on earth is the magnificent power we all of us possess, the power is the
human brain and it’s the most complex object known to us in the entire cosmos. The

16
science rapidly charts the brain’s complex structures, discoveries revealed in the biology of
the functions of the brain, its coordination, and reflex actions and above all times at which it
fails to work. The human brain is thus an incredible art and a centered to mental health, its
improper functioning should be a priority, it should be separated from stigma and treated
with equal importance as other diseases of the body. We haven’t reached there yet, but the
change is underway.

( B ) Prevalence of mental disorders over other disorders

Mental disorders like Anxiety disorder, depression around the globe is near 4% prevalence
by mental and substance use disorder as compared to other disorders.

Figure 2 Prevalence by mental and substance disorders, World,2017 ((IHME), 2018)

[ 1 ] Current Statistics - India

The chart below details the statistics on Mental Health Illness in India, and how it varies
from different groups of people (the elderly, mother, corporate employees). As multiple
strata of our society suffer mental illness due to either lack of attention or covered by the
stigma associated with mental health.21.9% elderly,42.5% corporate employees,95%
millennials aged 18-34 suffer mental health illness. A study also found the reason for high-
level mental disorder said the experts, are societal pressures and a rising sense of
loneliness.

17
Figure 3 Mental Health statistics India (TLLLF, 2018)

Thus, India too is on the high risk of mental illness rise in the following years.

[ 2 ] Awareness in India
Unfortunately, Indians still need much research on the secrets already known to them, as
the amount of support the people suffering from mental illness get is very low. The chart
below is from TLLLF 2018-How India perceives mental illness (carried out in metro cities of
India).

Figure 4 Mental Awareness in Major 8 cities in India (TLLLF, 2018)

18
Figure 5 analysis on the statements based on attitude towards mental illness (TLLLF, 2018)

In a survey in India (2015-16) has shown that only 10 -12% of people suffering from
depression get treated in India (Survey, 2015-16).Thus, due to lack of awareness, disbelief
people in India do not pay much attention to its treatment, health care facilities.

[ 3 ] Most affected areas

The chart below shows the prevalence of mental disorders in Urban Metro, Urban-Non-
Metro, Rural due to various causes Alcohol, psychotic disorder, MDD (Major depressive
disorder), BPAD (Bipolar affective disorder), Neurosis. If we see total average mental
disorders, they are high in Urban Metro.

19
( II ) Problem with current Medication Systems

( A ) Treatments
[ 1 ] Around the Globe
The various treatments preferred Psychotherapy or counseling, Prescription medicine,
Support groups, Other therapies, ECT or other brain stimulation therapy, Eye Movement
Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Hospital, or residential treatment
program.
The prevalence of some of the Indian Healing Practices outside India, observed among the
adults in 2007, is shown below.

Figure 6 10 most common cam therapies among adults 2007 (RichardL.Nahin, PatriciaM.Barnes, & Bloom, 2007)

[ 2 ] In India
There exist various modes of treatment for mental illness in India, some of which are
National and some are community or state based. Some of them are quality improvement of
mental health programs, community‑based mental health programs, non‑specialist care
programs, mobile technology‑based mental health programs ways and many more. But
their use, efficiency extensively depends on the knowledge about their availability also their
promotion from allopathic doctors or any other medicinal practioners, as CAM
((Complementary and Alternative Medicine) may enhance the disease outcome if
appropriately used along with allopathic medicine (Tabish, 2008). In a survey where the
percentage of recommending or using CAM was found out, it showed that despite having
high awareness and welcoming attitudes, the use of CAM among allopathic doctors was at
low levels. They are less likely to seek CAM therapy or to recommend it to others (Kong FH,
2013).

20
Figure 7 Perceptions on various CAM Figure 8 Recommendation for CAM therapies among the study practices
among doctor (Kong FH, 2013) population. (Kong FH, 2013)

As the use of CAM or any Ancient Indian Healing practices is limited due to the causes
discussed earlier. A study on the use of Yoga practices in rural and urban areas highlights
that only 11.8% of the Indian Population practices Yoga. Thus, many opt for conventional
medicinal treatment in India.
Conventional medicine refers to the standard empirical evidence-based psychological and
pharmacological interventions to treat psychiatric disorders and related symptoms.
(Ibrahim, 2018)
When we attempt to treat our dis-ease through the administration of medication, we’re just
temporarily suppressing the symptoms. We’re not addressing the root cause of our dis-
ease, i.e., the energy imbalance. The medication causes further imbalances, disrupting the
body’s natural immune system, which is rarely given the opportunity to fulfill its role. (Kaur,
2016)
Thus, a holistic approach towards the treatment of mental illness is a need.

21
( III ) Indian Healing Practices

[ 1 ] Principles
When we attempt to treat our dis-ease through the administration of medication, we’re just
temporarily suppressing the symptoms. We’re not addressing the root cause of our dis-
ease, i.e., the energy imbalance. The medication causes further imbalances, disrupting the
body’s natural immune system (Kaur, 2016) , which is rarely given the opportunity to fulfill
its role.
Over a period of time, our initial dis-ease reappears with more serious symptoms. Our body,
once again, is attempting to correct the imbalances within to restore the healthy flow of
energies. Our new symptoms are diagnosed as a new dis-ease, stronger medication is
administered and the vicious cycle continues.
The human body operates in harmony with the energy system of the universe. It’s a
latticework of energies, vibrating at different frequencies, encompassing the physical,
mental, emotional and spiritual aspects. It has been perfectly created to function optimally,
provided we observe the laws of nature. Modern lifestyles can create havoc within our
energies and disrupt their healthy flow, resulting in congestion and blockages, leading to
dis-ease.
Re-connecting with the ancient Indian wisdom of energy Healing practices allows us to
empower our body’s innate capacity to self-heal, and return us to our natural state of
wholeness. The human body is a latticework of energies, vibrating at different frequencies,
encompassing the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects. It has been perfectly
created to function optimally, provided we observe the laws of nature.
Traditional energy healers of India had a wealth of knowledge on how to diagnose, treat,
and cure dis-ease by empowering the body’s innate capacity to self-heal, and through the
generations, much of this ancient wisdom has been kept alive.

[ 2 ] IT’S ORIGIN
The ancient Vedic texts proposed an essential unity of the mind and the body and
delineated theories and practices to deal with a large number of health-related problems.
(Psychology of Health and Well-Being: Some Emerging Perspectives Ajit K. Dalal)

[ 3 ] FORMS OF INDIAN HEALING PRACTICES

Various Forms of Indian Healing practices include-

a) Energy Healing- Self-Healing practices include

22
 (1) The mudras-The The holistic practice of balancing the vital energy throughout
the body by joining different combinations of the fingers and thumbs.
(2) Facial Acupressure-The holistic practice of balancing the energy throughout
the bodily systems by applying gentle pressure to specific points on the face
that correspond to the body’s organs and glands.
(3) Chanting- The holistic practice of repeating a mantra, for a short period, to
detach from the external world, bring our awareness to the present moment
and return to the essence of our being.
(4) Crystals - The practice of placing the Earth’s natural stones within the body’s
magnetic field to restore the flow of healthy positive energy within and around
the body by removing toxic negative energy.)

b) Yoga (Asanas, Pranayama) - The holistic practice of physical postures known as

asanas, each of which has specific physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits
to unite the body, mind, and soul. Yoga alleviates numerous health conditions by
restoring the healthy flow of our energies.

c) Meditation - The holistic practice of quietening the body and mind through awareness
to enter a state of deep tranquility, while being fully alert

d) Chromotherapy- The holistic practice of applying specific colors to parts of the body,
by various methods to heal energy imbalances.

e) Barefoot Walking-The holistic practice of walking on the natural earth, barefoot to

draw upon the powerful and unique energy source that lies within the earth.

f) Acupressure-This is the holistic practice of diagnosing and treating the root cause of
dis-ease, thereby curing dis-ease by applying intermittent pressure on specific areas
of the hands and feet, that correspond to specific organs, glands, nerves, bones,
tissues and so forth.

[ 4 ] Studies on Positive impact on Mental health

23
a ) Yoga
The 12-week yoga intervention was associated with greater improvements in mood and
anxiety than a metabolically matched walking exercise. This is the first study to demonstrate
that increased thalamic GABA levels are associated with improved mood and decreased
anxiety. It is also the first time that a behavioral intervention (i.e., yoga postures) has been
associated with a positive correlation between acute increases in thalamic GABA levels and
improvements in mood and anxiety scales. ( (Streeter CC, 2010)Yoga has been used to reduce
symptoms of depression, anxiety, and epilepsy. (Seizure, 2001)

Figure 9 Change in the life orientation/attitude, self-perceptions, and yoga over time. (White, 2014)

Figure 10 Comparison of moods POMS (Profile of Mood States) for aerobics and yoga.

24
b ) Yoga Mudras
A study was done to find out how a particular mudra can reduce stress levels. After 6 weeks
of daily practice, participants reported subjectively lower levels of perceived stress
(Perceived Stress Scale) and higher levels of general well-being (General Well-Being
Scale) compared to baseline. These results support the notion that Shambhavi Mahamudra
kriya may represent a natural treatment for stress reduction (Journal of Evidence-Based
Complementary & Alternative Medicine, Volume: 22 issue: 4,)

FIG- Shows effects of Bhramari (Shanmukhi Mudra) Pranayama after 3 months evaluation
of 13 patients. (TanejaMK, 2016)

c ) Meditation
• According to the National Health Interview Survey of the U.S, almost 18 million
people used meditation as a Complementary health approach.
• A literature review and scientific statement from the American Heart Association
suggest that evidence supports the use of Transcendental Meditation (TM) to lower blood
pressure.
• In a small, NCCIH (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)-
funded study, 54 adults with chronic insomnia learned mindfulness-based stress reduction
(MBSR), a form of MBSR specially adapted to deal with insomnia (mindfulness-based
therapy for insomnia, or MBTI), or a self-monitoring program. Both meditation-based
programs aided sleep, with MBTI providing a significantly greater reduction in insomnia
severity compared with MBSR. (Services, 2015)

25
Figure 11 Use of Meditation among U.S adults- Marked 8%(18million) used meditation (Services, 2015)

26
Figure 12 Changes in trait brainwave power and coherence, state, and trait anxiety after three-month transcendental
meditation (TM) practice. (Tomljenović Helena , Begić Dražen , & Maštrović Zora., 2016)

d ) Chanting

The neurophysiological correlates of religious chanting are likely different from those of
meditation and prayer, and would possibly induce distinctive psychotherapeutic effects.

Figure 13 Compared to the no chanting resting state, religious chanting induced lower HRV total power (TP), as well as
lower power in the high frequency (HF) and very-low-frequency (VLF) components of HRV (Gao, 2019)

27
e ) Chromotherapy
20th Century Scientific Emergence Ghadiali (1927) discovered the scientific principles that
explain why and how different color rays have various therapeutic effects on the body.
(Azeemi & Raza, 2005)
Red Root - chakra
Orange-Sacral chakra
Green-Heart chakra
Blue-Throat chakra
Indigo-Brow chakra
Violet Crown chakra
White-Perfect color blend

Figure 14 Chakras and their respective colors in Chromotherapy

The energy which is related to each of the seven spectrum colors of red, orange, yellow,
green, blue, indigo and violet, resonates with the energy of each of the seven main
chakras/energy centers of the body (healing). Balance of the energy in each of the body’s
chakras is very important for health and wellbeing. Color therapy can help to re-balance

28
 and/or stimulate these energies by applying the appropriate color to the body and therefore
re-balance our chakras.
Color is absorbed by the eyes, skin, skull our ‘magnetic energy field’ or aura and the energy
of color affects us on all levels, that is to say, physical, spiritual, and emotional. (UKEssays.,
November 2018).Every cell in the body needs light energy – thus color energy has
widespread effects on the whole body. There are many different ways of giving color,
including; Solarized Water, Lightboxes/lamps with color filters, color silks, and hands-on
Healing using color. (Centre)

( IV ) Architectural Healing

( A ) Practice in Ancient India

There has been ample number of evidences from our history about the practice of Yoga,
and other wellbeing practices from the Indus Valley Civilization. Various verses in Vedic
texts, ancient artifacts depicting the practice of yoga as far back as 2700 BC. The number
of seals and fossil remains of the Indus Valley Civilization with Yogic motifs and figures
performing Yoga Sadhana clearly establish the presence of Yoga in ancient India and the
Gurugram region, which was historically a part of the Sindhu-Saraswati belt. (Jain, 2019).
Yoga traditionally was practiced in retreat in nature, in the mountains and forests or by the
river banks and sea shores. Yoga students cultivated gardens, took care of cattle, and
learned how to live in the wild. This was an integral part of their training and allowed the
natural power of Yoga to grow within them as part of their daily lives. (Frawley, 2017).
The temples of Ancient India were essentially built for our short time wellbeing. It was only
later that the other temples came up because people started focusing on immediate
wellbeing. Using this science, they started creating various other forms, which they could
use to benefit themselves in so many different ways in terms of health, wealth, and
wellbeing. They created different types of energies and different kinds of deities. (Sadhguru,
2011).But as these temples were built for immediate wellbeing, their structure or geometry
could be applied to form to generate wellbeing energies for longer period and contribute to
their wellbeing immensely. Thus, to manifest the energies for wellbeing, we can create
forms which will induce energies for our wellbeing.
Indian Temples when analyzed from the perspective of their relationship with human body,
shows its conjunction of the macro and micro elements of architecture with human body.

29
 Figure 15 Hindu Temple and Human body (Sharmila, 2015)

The planning in the Hindu temples were based on the concept of VastuShastra , which is
based on the 5 Elements of Nature –
1. Earth

30
2. Water
3. Fire
4. Air
5. Space

Figure 16 THE CONCEPT: - VASTUPURASHAMANDALA Figure 17 Panchmahabhootas – The 5 Elements of

VastuShastra

Thus, the planning and structure of Indian Temples was based on 5 elemental approach. As
they give us comprehensive design approach for the creation of a Healthy Architectural
environment.
Various studies try to link 5 Elements approach to architectural Elements and varies
according to each person. A Bio Architecture Designer Juan Scholosser tries to derive
design elements for each of the 5 elements, by either directly introducing them or in other
form, some of them also creating certain environments using electronic devices.
This thesis would link the 5 elements of Nature to design elements in architecture for
creating an environment for wellness or wellbeing of Stressed and depressed people.

31
CHAPTER 2- ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS
FOR MENTAL WELLBEING

( I ) 5 elemental approach to Mental wellbeing

Elements Environment Association Association with architectural Elements

with good based on 5 senses (of human)
human health
Air Wind o Breath (Fresh) Touch/Feel • Natural Ventilation
• Pressure difference for
o Breeze efficient circulation which is
Sounds achieved by the built form
and orientation
o Fragrance
Fire Heat o Sunlight Touch/Feel- Comfortable temperature
Light (Solar achieved through passive
Radiations) design strategies like
verandahs, overhangs,
o Comfortable screening
Temperature

Water Freshness, o Soothing Touch/Feel- • Physical intervention with

purity Scenic views water
• Reverberation caused due
o Water Sounds to water in meditative
process
o Sensitive and • Areas overlooking the water
tranquil bodies
property
Earth The built - o Natural Touch/Feel- • Texture Natural Materials
Stability Material’s Touch • Using Climate Responsive
Firmness materials
Solidness o Nature’s Use of green elements (plants,
beauty trees)
See Views to Nature
o Nature’s Hear Birds Chirping
Sounds

Space Openness o Sense of Sight Direct and indirect exposure –

freedom, Courtyard, skylight,
o openness Fenestrations

Table 1 - Architectural Elements derived by 5 elemental approach

32
( II ) In Ancient Indian Architecure
Thus, we see here the design elements derived based on the 5 senses, which will help in
creating healthy architectural environments and contribute to mental wellbeing
Further we’ll study the architecure of Ancient India, and analyze the various ways or
methods to use of these elements with respective ideologies or philosophical concepts
pertaining to respective religions or Schools of Thoughts

In ancient Indian architecure apart from Temples (which were the source of immediate
wellbeing), caves were also a place preferred by great saints from Hindu and Buddhist
religion for mediation and other healing practices. Here we would look at both the
architecture analyze the elements derived in the Table 1 - Architectural Elements derived by
5 elemental approach.

( A ) FIRE

[ 1 ] Sunlight
As they are a sacred space to the facilitate the dialogue between man and God, and by
various techniques like light reflected from walls creating mystic feel, light filtering through
openings and windows, and some time used to focus particular area. Light symbolizes that
which is beyond our normal comprehension. The ancient Buddhist rock-cut cave and
monuments were built more like twilight spaces where the eye could gradually discern the
architecture inside the cave (Grover, 1980).They had no openings except one sun window
built over massive arch, it created soft luminous effect.

Figure 18 Ajanta caves interiors

Despite of having a greater importance to Sun, the source of all energy, the use of natural
light in temples is seen sparingly. The Hindu religious belief is that when man is in the

33
presence of the divine, there should be nothing to distract his eye and that God shall reveal
himself to his devotee gradually (Deva, 1995).In the Sanctum (a dark space), the lamps of
oil lit the interiors, which induces the mystic sense of the world and highlights the divine
spirit behind this world.

Figure 19 Hoysaleswara Temple of Shiva. Figure 20 Inner mantapa of the Kasivisvesvara Temple at Lakkundi
Looking through Mandapam towards entrance

The treatment of light ensures that by the time the pilgrim reaches the innermost chamber
(garbhagriha) his/her eyes slowly become accustomed to the darkness and his/her state of
mind befitting worship and is no longer plagued by worldly thoughts (Geva & Mukherj,
2007). As one passes through the colonnades, doorways, which symbolize the external
mystic world, and reaches the holy sanctum the devotee enters a self-realization place, and
realizes his relationship with the divine.

[ 2 ] Temperature control strategies

Various strategies are used to keep the interiors of the temple cool, in order to achieve the
focus of one’s mind in God. As the number of windows and openings gradually decreases
towards the Garbhagriha the reduced light quality contributes to thermal comfort of
devotees. In the Hot and humid climatic regions, the Hindu temples were designed to have
small openings, with thick walls to maintain a cool and dry atmosphere inside.

34
Figure 21 Plans of Brihadeshvara (Mukherji, 2001)

( A ) AIR

[ 3 ] Ventilation

Ventilation becomes a prime concern in these structures as the atmosphere inside the
temple is very dark thus not much windows are seen in the inner Santorum but some
openings around the Parikrama path of inner Santorum facilitate ventilation in these spaces.
The ventilation is done through the windows doors or Mandapa halls at the entrances. The
halls had projected porches on their walls, their use is functional, mainly for light and
ventilation.

35
Figure 22 Khajuraho, Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh Figure 23 Somnathpur Temple ,Mysore

Courtyards were an important design element to provide a continuous supply of fresh air
and light supply. The jaali feature on the inner Parikrama path, also provided a supply of
fresh air, and light. Essentially their thickness was kept high to ensure cool temperatures
inside.

Figure 24 North East Wall Kedareshwara Temple Halebid Karnataka Figure 25 Jali window kopeshwar
temple, Kolhapur, Maharashtra

36
 ( B ) EARTH
[ 1 ] Views to Nature
Many temples are located strategically away from populated cities like at some high
altitudes, near the sea shore, around forests, in distant or secluded scenes of nature and
which allows the positive thoughts or advices to sink into the mind in its finer moments or
when the soul is at leisure.

The 2 examples above are of the temples in Natural settings and their Philosophical
significance are explained by Aurobindo Ghosh in his Book ‘The Significance of Indian Art’.
He explains as not to detach the temple from its surroundings, but to see it in unity with the
sky and low-lying landscape or with the sky and hills around and feel the similarity in them
as the reality in Nature, the reality expressed in the work of art, the oneness to which this
nature aspires in her self-creation, and the oneness to which the soul of man uplifts itself in
his conscious spiritual upbuilding.

[ 2 ] Sound

The Vedic chants and prayers are recited and sacred instruments such as conch shells,
bells, and gongs are played in these Chambers. (Prasad & Rajavel, 2013).All together play
are very important role in healing, as many research studies have observed chanting of
various shloka or hymns helps in wellbeing.

37
Figure 26 Reverberant sound fields with sound source in (a) Garbha-Griha and in (b) Ardha-Mantapa. (Prasad & Rajavel,
2013)

The inner sanctum has only one door and no opening, this chamber is made up of highly
reflective, and has higher reverberation time. Further followed by Ardhamandapa which is
also made up of stones and is highly reflective. The sounds of conch shells, bells along with
main priest in garbha griha and the priests in Ardhamandapa are sounded profoundly in
Ardhamandapa. It is observed that both Garbha-Griha and Ardha-Mantapa significantly
contribute to the acoustical enhancement of the spiritual experience of the devotee (Prasad
& Rajavel, 2013)

[ 3 ] Material

Fractal materials are materials that are phase conjugate because they have been in most
cases produced by some type of natural processes (Schlosser, 2020).It is interesting to
know that atmosphere being positively charged and earth negatively, thus dielectric
materials exhibit same condition. Thus, the use of such materials or natural materials
should be used maximum in almost all the buildings today.

38
Figure 27 Brihadeshvara Temple, Tamil Nadu built with granite stone

Thus, we extensive use of stone, wood, brick for all kinds of Ancient Hindu Temples was
seen. The stone are chosen by their availability of stones according to region and its
climate, like the use of granite in south Indian temples, marble in west, sandstone in Central
and limestone in the Coastal regions. Also, the supple stone was use for deities, sculptures.

( C ) WATER
[ 1 ] Waterbodies in the premises
In ancient Hindu mythology (about 800 BCE) water is described as the foundation of the
whole world, the basis for life and the elixir of immortality. (SINGH, 1994). In curative terms
water is regarded as a healer. (SINGH, 1994).A deep in water before visiting any sacred
temple makes us more receptive to the vibrations of chants, hymns and other rituals as
well.

39
Figure 28 Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, Madurai water tank

Waterbodies around the temples are in the forms of step wells (baoris), trenches, wells as
well as manmade Water Bodies like ponds within temples. Vegetation along with
waterbodies were planned to improve the microclimate of temples inside. These designed
so that comfort levels are maintained in hot summer Water body in temple premises, keeps
the environment cool and improve the microclimatic conditions (Sarswat & Kamal, 2015).At
the Meenakshi temple water tank is surrounded by steps and pillared portico on 4 sides,
with a brass lamp in middle of tank, on its west is a doorway leading to the inner courtyard
of Meenakshi Shrine. Thus, providing cooling effect to the atmosphere, and providing
comfort to the devotees.

( D ) SPACE

[ 1 ] Sacred Geometry

"As the pigments are but the vehicle of painting, so is the building but the vehicle of
architecture, which is the thought behind form, embodied and realized for the purpose of its
manifestation and transmission. Architecture, then, interpenetrates building, not for
satisfaction of the simple needs of the body, but the complex ones of the intellect."
(Lethaby, 2005).

40
Figure 29 Use of Sacred geometry in the plan sections of Indian Temple Architecture, based on the geometries of seven
chakras.

A Hindu temple is a symbolic structure that represents certain fundamental concepts of

Hindu philosophy about the nature of cosmos, and the formal characteristics of the temple
are the outcome of this symbolic representation. (Trivedi, 1993).The planning of the temple
complexes were based on 7 Chakras System in Human body, where each chakra has
specific geometry and that gets reflected in the temple floor plans.

41
Figure 30 Plans halls from Mukhamandapa to Garbhagriha - a. Shrine alone, b. Shrine with porch, c. Shrine with Antarala
and porch, d. Sarvatobhadra shrine with four entrances (Hardy, 2007)

42
Figure 31 : Evolution in the plan of projection around the halls according to Sacred Geometry - a. Simple square plan, (b-
e). Square plan with simple projections, (f-i). Staggered square plan without recesses, (j-m). Staggered square plan with
recesses, (n-o). Stepped diamond plan, (p-q). Stellate plan with orthogonal central projection, (r-s). Special stellate plans,
(t-v). Uniform stellate plans based on rotated-square star.

Figure 32 Fractal dimension of front elevation of Kandariya Mahadev Temple (Tanisha Dutta & V. S. Adane, 2018)

43
 Thus, we see from Figure 30 , Figure 31 and Figure 32 how the planning of every part of
temple plan followed certain geometry, which is called the Sacred Geometry. The
fundamental designs of Indian temples involved the use of sacred geometry to create
harmonizing energies for everyone’s wellbeing. Through our ancient scriptures on
VastuShastra Square is the most scared geometry and an absolute geometry. Almost all
the temples were designed according the Vastupurusha Mandala. The Nagara Temple style
is characterized by Square Shikhara, rising above the cubical sanctuary.

( III ) Current Trends around the Globe

( A ) AIR
Planning for air ventilation has been a very crucial and important part. All the healing
practices require constant circulation of fresh air. As fresh air itself is a healer many times,
thus understanding its techniques become an important aspect in these designs.

Figure 33 Jharokhas, Courtyards, Wind Catchers, Jali were some of the Traditional practices of passive colling techniques
used for achieving passive cooling strategies.

44
Figure 34 Shreyas Courtyards, – Use of Brick Jaali to keep the areas cool

Figure 35 Yoga Pavilion, Tulum – Open air Areas for Yoga Practice

45
Figure 36 Ashtanga Yoga Chile – Windows are placed around the building, at high and low levels to avoid direct exposure
to sunlight and allow natural cross ventilation.

( B ) LIGHT

[ 1 ] Daylight
Sunlight is essential for our healthy mind and body. This play of light for good health and
activity is much needed in our designs. Its effect depends on its exposure duration,
intensity. For the purpose of wellbeing north and morning east light are preferred. But for
wellness its requirements differ according to the function
For Yoga and any other physical wellness activity – Optimum Daylight is required
For Meditation activity – Calm, dark spaces with sparing lights are required
The use of lighting in the interiors for the sense of wellbeing emerges back from the Ancient
Indian temple architecture where the transition of spaces from lightness and darkness,
which holds the idea of transformation of the unmanifestation to manifestation. These were
designed keeping in mind the sun’s orientation the temples were built for a short-term
wellbeing during those times to relief people from their stress, but if same principles applied
to bring in those architectural elements for healing can help people relieve their stress.
Meditation caves from the Buddhist period were dark completely for better focus of mind,
similarly many modern architects have used these concepts for wellbeing.

46
Figure 37 UNESCO Meditation Centre by Tadao Ando – By creating a transition from bright area to dark interiors

Figure 38 The Meditation Hall, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, New Delhi

In the Figure 38 The Meditation hall at Sri Aurobindo Ashram, it is inspired from the
Buddhist Chaitya hall. The very contrast of diffused lighting in the interior and warm lighting
in the exterior contributes in creating Meditative Environment. The various levels created
with the vaulted and pitched roof enhancing the calm experience. The light color of roof
reflecting the solar radiation, and east west side with lesser glazing with the double skin
Corners, Natural ventilation is achieved.

47
Figure 39 Shreyas Retreat, Bangalore

Figure 39 – Inclining the opening on eastern façade of the yoga area to bring in maximum
of morning sun inside the Yoga Hall

Figure 40 Meditation Hall, Eastern China

In Figure 40 the Meditation hall is enclosed by a double-layered cavity structure and from the
horizontal gaps between wooden louvers, the soft natural light is reflected by the water into the
main hall.

48
Figure 41 Semi open Group Yoga Areas, Shreyas Retreat

Figure 42 The Sadhana Hall, Isha Yoga Centre

Figure 42 - The empty space between 6 arches covered with copper-painted aluminum
shields, living the spaces for natural lighting and ventilation. Also, in this space any sound

49
was enhanced. For example, the Brahmadanda Swaroopa chanted by Brahmacharis kept
resounding in the vault like structure.

[ 2 ] Temperature - Comfort

Figure 43 Strategies used to maintain optimum temperature inside

Figure 44 Section explaining the lighting techniques to create Meditative ambience

To reduce mid – summer sun effects the were reduced by using fins to the east and west,
and opening on north and south side were maximized for minimal heat transfer.

50
 ( C ) WATER BODIES

[ 1 ] Therapeutic Element
A trail running along the waterfront features therapeutic equipment and offers patients the
opportunity to encourage the healing process by performing physical therapy on a variety of
different landscaped surfaces. Takes full advantage of waterfront views of the skyline.

Figure 45 Trails along the waterfront – A therapeutic Equipment

Figure 46 Windhover Meditation Centre, California- Water Body at the south reflecting the surrounding Trees, is used as
tool for contemplation.

51
[ 2 ] To achieve comfort

Figure 47 Vana Retreat, Deharadun – Use of water around meditative spaces create cool environments

( D ) EARTH
[ 1 ] Use of Local Natural materials
for Enclosures for partitions of 2 public yoga studios. All the elements used in this project
were natural and from local materials like Thai hardwood, Local Black slate, Bamboo and
Ratan (used majorly). Thus, gives the spaces a calmness quality in the interiors

Figure 48 Use of Brick to build 21m Dia. Dhyanalinga Dome (A Multi-Religious Meditation space)

52
Figure 49 Use of local Material Ratan for enclosure of Private Yoga Studios.

The primary aim being here to create a Centre connected with Nature (The Outside)
constantly, for this it has perforated the thick concrete slab to create many inner patios
which are further connected to different spaces.

[ 2 ] Connecting with Nature

Figure 50 Yoga and Spa Centre – Inner patios with Green Elements by creating cutouts

53
Figure 51 Windhover Meditation Centre, California- Walkway with seating area around the Courtyard with existing trees.

( E ) SPACE
[ 1 ] Sacred Geometry
Sacred geometry being the most fundamental part in design of Indian temples. Certain
geometry brings certain effects of healing harmonizing and rebalancing on all levels. These
geometries are also used in the Crystal Healing. It is the ancient science that explores the
Energy patterns that unify all beings. They connect us at various levels and specific
vibration, and using them in mediation or healing practices can bring s energetic shift in
consciousness. Also, meditation or healing practices on these scared geometry helps.

54
Figure 52 Osho Meditation Hall, Pune – Pyramidal form used for meditation hall.

Figure 53 Anand Villa, Pune - meditation room with an Egyptian style pyramidal canopy, for capturing cosmic energy.

55
 Figure 54 Verite Meditation Hall, Auroville – Geometric plan

Thus, through this research we establish a linkage of approaches of Indian Healing

Architecture and Current Global Healing architecure trends on the basis of basic concepts.

Ancient Indian Current Gobal

Healing Healing
Architecture architecture trends

5 Elemental
CONCEPTS Approach Natural approach

AN COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH AS A COMBINATION OF BOTH

56
CHAPTER 3- USER STUDY

( I ) INTRODUCTION
To understand the problems of mentally ill people (suffering from Stress, depression of any
type) and optimization of the surroundings based on Indian Healing Practices.
Although there is a substantial amount of literature on various types of Indian Healing
Practices (IHP), not much is known about its Phycological benefits and its concepts which
could be applied to environments we live in and especially for being Mentally healthy. The
survey presents results from a user study of their knowledge of our IHP, their experiences
of conceiving a space and relating them to concepts from IHP. The survey result highlights
the understanding of people about these concepts and deriving design Elements. They thus
guide the research from the perspective of user and ultimately contribute to design a more
connected, positive, healthy spaces necessary for overall wellness.

( II ) SURVEY METHODS
The survey is divided in two parts i.e., Survey-A and Survey -B. The main purpose of this
survey is to understand the psychology of people suffering from stress, depression, thus it
required to invite all the general public as in some or the other way everyone today is
suffering from mental stress, depression which if not addressed lead to severe mental
illness, this forms the SURVEY – A. The second survey, SURVEY-B is to understand,
mental illness from the perspective of doctors, psychiatrists, Yoga trainer, Meditation coach,
Energy Healers, as they are in practice, experience in these fields, thus providing a strong
base for research.

( III ) SURVEY RESULTS

[ 1 ] Respondents Background
14.5 % of the respondents described their fields as IT Proffesionals,20% Educators,7.3% as
Business Proffesionals,9.1% work in Governments and Civil services. Rest all belong to
Medical/Healthcare professional, Manufacturing Industry professionals, Marketing
Professionals. The geographical location of respondents was from Maharashtra.
More than 70 respondents in total were invited by email to participate in the web-based
survey. 55 respondents from general public completed the survey A and only 15 from the
survey B.

57
 ( B ) SURVEY-A
36.4 % respondents are in the age group of 45 to 54, 27.3 % were from the age group of 18
to 24 years, 16.4 % from 25 to 34 years age group and 12.7 % came from 35 to 44 years of
age group. The % of male to female is almost near to each other i.e., 43.6 % male and 56.4
% female.

( A ) Work environments.
An equal % of respondents stated that their workplace setting is quite peaceful and has a
moderate disturbances level.

a) b)

Figure 55 – a) Work Environment b) Surroundings Disturbances in the working typologies

The Typology of their workplaces –

Typologies range from the open plan spaces to the cellular spaces. Almost 32.1 % of
respondents work in open plan spaces, 20% in coworking spaces 17% in semi- cellular
spaces.
Upon asking if the surroundings were disturbing or not, 60% opine of they were not, but still
23% were not sure, and 16.4% affirm they were disturbing. Almost 90% of respondents
would like to have a short break in the nature to get refreshed, but 7% are still not sure
about it.

( C ) Indian Healing Practices (IHP).

94.5 % respondents are aware that, IHP can reduce their levels of stress, of which almost
60% practice them daily, and 30 % still don't.

58
a b c d

Figure 56 – a) Yoga - Awareness about Indian Healing Practices b) Percentage of people practicing yoga, or did once c)
The sense of calmness, and clarity felt by users after Meditation d) Percentage of users felt the Vibrations and wished to
seat for longer time at the place where chanting occurred

[ 1 ] Yoga
Respondents affirm to have practiced yoga once or are practicing it regularly. 37.5% opine
that their day was energetic after practicing yoga. For 29% of which, it was very energetic.
Thus, almost all who practice yoga themselves felt increased energy level, Positive mood
boosts. Yoga activates our whole mechanism of body and gets us fully charged mentally
and physically for the entire day.

[ 2 ] Meditation.
61.8 % of respondents did once meditation or are doing it regularly. 38.2 % don't even
practice meditation.
It brought Calmness to 70% of respondents. Clarity to 12.5%. But still 10.5% people felt
restless as they might not be regular in their practice. Meditation. Itself is a task. As it
requires you to control your mind, thoughts and regular practice will bring calmness,
Positivity in thoughts.

[ 3 ] Chanting.
Practicing chanting was a part of our Indian traditions and cultures for a long period of time
it was lost as time passed. The Respondents were asked if they had practiced chanting
once or visited a place where chanting took place. 60% had visited a place or they did chant
once in their lifetime. 62.3 % also stated that they resonated with those vibrations and
wished to sit for a longer time in that place.

59
[ 4 ] Energy Healing.
As India is a diverse country, some of the motivational factors which determine the choices
for healing practices are strong belief of the decision maker of family, its approachability,
social stigma associated with psychiatric consultations, the beliefs about causations of
mental illness, the lack of awareness among the common public and its deficiency in
existing mental health services. Together, makes it difficult for people, to even know about
this Healing Technique. Respondents were asked to rate their Knowledge about this
practice. 26.4% knew nothing about it. 13.2% knew about it sparingly and 10% did knew
about it. In order to feel the energy, first they need to believe in it. But 70% affirm that they
felt the energy, when around people with high energy levels, thus many of them believe in
it.

( D ) Comfortable environment.
Almost 95% state that Nature boosts their mood. 60% were comfortable with light shades
and 50% were comfortable in cool colors. The choice for organic and geometric forms of
space do not show much difference, and is almost of equal percent. 70% are comfortable in
the spaces having enclosures, thus they want more privacy areas. 67%. were comfortable
in daylight/ sunlight, and 47% Were Comfortable in soft lights.

a) b)

Figure 57 a) Percentage of Respondents comfortable with Enclosure Spaces (spaces with more privacy) b) Comfortable
Colors.

Almost. 94.4% were comfortable with spaces open to Sky, thus want more openness but
with natural elements like nature, sky, sunlight.

( E ) Programme period
The time period chosen by respondents for refreshment in the nature was 67.9% ranging
from 1 day to week,13% wished to be in nature for more than 1-month time. Also, the time

60
 period to keep practicing IHP for 1 week was almost 40%, and 25% wanted to practice
them for more than 2 months of time period.

Figure 58 Time period preferable for refreshment in Nature.

In this survey 73.3% respondents were from Medicinal treatment background,46-53% from
them also practiced Yoga, meditation,20% practiced Chantning,26.7% Energy Healing.

( IV ) Survey B.

a)

b)
Figure 59 – a) Practice preferred and advised for mentally ill patient by doctors b) Results observed in patients

61
 The age groups that use or practice these healing practices is, 86% from age group 26-49
years,73% from 50and above age group, only 46% between 14-25years.
92.9% state it reduced the levels of stress, depression in their patients, while 64% gained
more self-confidence.40% say these techniques helped almost 50-100% of their patients.
Many respondents in this survey stated, 5 Elements of Nature play a big role in the practice.
Everything around is Panchbhootatmik (made up of 5 elements of Nature), and thus food,
air, light has impact on mind i.e., Mental health.

( A ) Combination of Treatments for Mentally ill patient

Almost 70-90% suggest combination of Yoga and meditaion,33%also advice for Chanting
and 26% for Energy healing.

( B ) Activities they should indulge

To improve the mental health the patients should engage themselves in the activities like
Singing, Dancing, Painting, Reading, Listening to music.’

( C ) Architectural Spaces
53.3% state cool colors and 80% state light shades will help in the healing process. Almost
40-50% opine Open spaces and Semi-open spaces will help in the healing process.57.1%
choose organic form, and 35.7% choose Geometric form as spaces where healing will be
maximum.93.3% opt for Soft lights over the use of strong lights.

a) b)
Figure 60 – a) Colors preferred for mentally ill patients b) Connections with people.

62
 a) b) c)

Figure 61 – a) Volumes of spaces, which help in healing process b) Preference for Forms of Space c) Relationships with
surroundings.

( D ) Comfortable Surroundings
50% opine that these patients prefer privacy, while 35.7% opine they prefer exposure, and
still 14.2% opine that it varies individually.

( E ) Connection with people

57% say they prefer being around people, while 28.6% say they prefer being alone.
Also, in Ayurveda addresses mentally ill patient to be kept in a dark room, free from any
pointed or sharp objects.

( V ) SURVEY CONCLUSIONS

1. The age groups mentioned by doctors who practice these techniques more is 26-49
yrs. which is highest age groups in Survey - A, thus most of the data could be
compared and analyzed better.
2. From the people who practice any or all the IHP, they felt calm and brought clarity,
and on the same side SURVEY B also states reduced levels of stress, naturally
bringing more calmness.

63
3. The data in SURVEY B asks respondents about their knowledge and the percentage
of them practicing it. Shows most of them believe, but the percentage of practicing it
is not same. This happens due to effects of their surroundings, environments. Some
even loose belief in these practices, thus cause a termination or irregularity in their
practice. Thus, it is required to hold belief in them from start, otherwise it would not
heal them at a proper pace. Consultation Areas, Seminar halls, are some of the
design solution to keep their belief intact in these practices. Also, a guide or coach is
required to keep the person motivated thought the process, and necessary
arrangements for their guides should be a part of design.
4. Environments –
a. Colors – Survey A and Survey B both show a high percentage preference for
cool and light shades of colors.
b. Spaces –
i. Open and Semi-Open Spaces are preferred by Survey B, and same in
Survey A but to natural elements like sun, sky, earth, trees is preferred.
ii. Preference for organic is bit higher in than Geometric forms in Survey
B, and almost same in Survey A.
iii. Lights – Soft lights show 93% preference in Survey B. In Survey the
preference for Soft lights over Strong lights is preferred. Above all the
Natural Sunlight is also preferred in Survey A.
iv. Enclosures in space (spaces with more privacy) – Users in Survey A
were comfortable in Enclosure Spaces
5. Connection with people - 57% prefer being around people and 28.6% prefer being
alone in Survey B, also 50% prefer privacy in Survey A. Thus, a person to support,
guide is needed even if the spaces have Enclosures.
6. Activities they should indulge in are preferred and advised, mostly based on induvial
like listening to music, reading book, painting. But sometimes activities in groups also
help.
7. Panchmahabhutatmik (Everything made up of 5 Elements of Nature) approach is
accepted by almost all the respondents in Survey B. All and everything around work
on their principles, and if balanced properly induce sense of wellbeing. VastuShastra
applies these concepts for designing or locating things on site, and inside the
structure.
8. Ayurveda advices these users to be in dark rooms, free from sharp, pointed. This
practice will help them being focused, but not all areas should be dark, only specific
areas.
Thus, this survey has provided guidance on how spaces, environments, design
elements support the healing process, to ultimately create a healthier space, a space
that allows one to dive into their own being, and fosters positivity through design.

64
CHAPTER 4- CASE STUDIES

The case studies here are chosen to understand the architecture, planning and designs of
current centers or spaces where these healing practices are conducted along with other
Indian therapeutical practices for wellbeing. The understanding the use of various elements
derived from Table 1 in these designs which will bring synchronization between the study
and their applications.
Here 4 such places are studied and later a Comparative Analysis is presented which helps
to compare and see if their present state has some drawbacks which could be minimized in
the design further.
They are as follows –
( I ) SHREYAS RETREAT, BENGALURU, INDIA
( II ) QUIET HEALING, AUROVILLE, INDIA
( III ) DHARAMSHALA YOGA RETREAT, HIMACHAL PRADESH
( IV ) ISHA YOGA CENTRE, TAMILNADU

( I ) SHREYAS RETREAT, BENGALURU, INDIA

Intent – Programme Oriented – Yoga Centre

Source – Arch daily
Client – Shreyas yoga retreat / inner challenges pvt ltd
Architect – The Purple ink studio - Akshay Heranjal, Aditi Pai, Jaikumar
User – Open for all
Design Programme – Spa, Yoga, Massage rooms, Ayurvedic therapies
Site Area – 20000 ft²
Location – Bengaluru
Physical Nature – Flat

65
 ( A ) Site response

The site is surrounded with dense forest, and

varieties of flora and fauna are seen. The response to
these factors was to retain the trees and form
courtyards spaces for light and ventilation through the
spaces, to keep them fresh all the time. The Figure 63
shows a graphical representation of the sensitive
approach applied to design.

Figure 62 Master Plan

[ 1 ] Approach to design

Figure 63 Sensitive approach to design

66
 ( B ) Planning
The main block disappears into the earth and is half submerged to connect to the
isolating quality of the earth, with the light and air movement planned from a series of
sunken courts. (Archdaily, 2016) The approach to the main area slowly opens up a
plethora of spaces which are programmatically planned to suit the smooth spatial
transitions of the guests. (Archdaily, 2016)

a) b)
Figure 64 Floor Plans a) Ground Floor plan; b) Upper floor plan

Each block growing from the sunken gardens into the sky, often blending into a
series of greens, the organic approach seamlessly fuses the inherent sense of
lightness expected from a space so serene. The feel is further exaggerated on the
upper level, in the 2000 sqft meditation and yoga pavilion, with large openings on the
east, allowing natural sunlight to create a powerful setting for the yoga sessions at
sunrise. (Archdaily, 2016) The large pavilion opens up further to a series of private
Yoga and Meditation Spaces offering beautiful varied settings using the natural play
of light and shadows of the sun against the roof jaali’ s / screens. (Welch, 2020)

67
 Common Private Yoga
Yoga block block

Figure 65 - Sections through the built form showing various spaces for Healing practices

The landscape merges the geometry of network of the surrounding paths to form
break-away spaces for the guests to lounge. These buffer zones create smooth
transitions from the exterior, to semi covered spaces, and also offer a beautiful play
of light. (Archdaily, 2016)

Figure 66 Use of Wood and earthy materials in the interiors and play of light achieved in the transition of spaces from
Exterior to semi covered spaces

68
Figure 67 Built form Development of Yoga area

In the above figure Built form development of Yoga area – Inclining the opening on
eastern façade of the Yoga area, to bring in maximum of morning sun

Figure 68 Section at the sunken courtyard

In the above figure we see Sunken Courtyard to give light and ventilation to the
kitchen and Yoga hall below.

( C ) Interiors
The entire feel is organic with natural light washing the exposed walls and ceilings
with a spectacular play of light and shadows (Archdaily, 2016).The spaces are
further held together with a strong design language of Hand crafted jaali screens,
solid wood doors and openings which merge the interior and exteriors, quite literally.
(Archdaily, 2016)

69
Figure 69 Play of natural light, brick jaali at one of the external facades

( D ) Technical aspects
Materials used –
Saint-Gobain, Asian Paints, Natural Kota Stones

( E ) Critical analysis
Sunken rooms to make the structure not look imposing on site has many disadvantages
• Exploiting more earth
• Easy entry for rodents, and other insects
Instead, if the structure is made lighter so that it does not look like a huge volume

70
( F ) Inference –
• Use of brick jaali pattern instead of solid walls should be used, as it
provides ventilation as well as makes it aesthetic.
• The use of Organic materials like stone, marble, bricks, wood with exposed
walls gives an earthy feeling adds to feeling of transparency

Figure 70 External Facade of the building

71
( II ) QUIET HEALING, AUROVILLE, INDIA
Intent – Programme Oriented – Wellness Centre
Source – Official website – Quiet Healing Centre, Thesis Book- Meditation and Holistic
Living by Arpita Ganti 2017 and Thesis Book Centre for Tranquility 2016
Client – Maggi Lidchi Grassi
Architect – Architect Popo Pingel + Ar. Mona Doctor
User – Open for all
Design Programme – Spa, Yoga, Massage rooms, Ayurvedic therapies
Location – Chinna Mudaliyar Chavady, Auroville
Site Area – 866.1 sq.m.
Physical Nature – No contours, located on the banks of Bay of Bengal

(A) Site response

Figure 71 Site plan

72
 1. Security Cabin
2. Parking
3. Guests room
4. Reception
5. Healing circles
6. Staff rooms
7. Consultation
rooms
8. Water body

Figure 72 Ground floor plan showing various spaces in the planning

Figure 73 Services

73
One entry used by visitors and staff and other service vehicles
Vehicular circulation inside the site to restrict to reduce the noise level inside
building, also brings in the feel of tranquil while entering

(B) Planning
Spaces arranged on the hierarchy of privacy
levels
Services like kitchen, other storage on the rear
side
Therapy circles placed in front but direct entry
restricted

Figure 74 Open spaces and linkage elements

74
Figure 75 Climate responsive built form

Climatic principle for warm and humid climate –

Vents at upper levels of rooms, domes and fresh air flow directed through lower
windows, thus achieves efficient cross ventilation.

(C) Technical aspects

Use of local brick and lime mortar with lime concrete, bio concrete can be seen in Figure 76
and Figure 77.
The dome is cladded with broken mosaic to avoid water seepage and to avoid harsh
temperature inside

Figure 76 View to the sea also the use of mosaic for the external cladding of dome is seen

75
Figure 77 Use of earthy materials in the interiors and the exteriors

(D) Critical analysis

• Circulations are converging at the entry point
• Placement of Therapy circles arranged at the entrance could have been recessed to
avoid direct views from entrance

( E ) Inference
• Separation of areas as private and public is achieved well
• Well ventilation for therapy rooms achieved by their distant placements
• Use of Natural materials for building which are locally available.
• Placement of water body away from therapy rooms ensures less humidity
• Integrated landscape with rock garden
• Climate responsive built form

Figure 78 Integrated landscape with Rock garden

76
( III ) DHARAMSHALA YOGA RETREAT, HIMACHAL
PRADESH

Intent – Programme Oriented – Yoga Retreat and Wellness center

Source – Architecture brio
Client – Dharmashala Yoga retreat
Architect – The Architecture brio - Robert Verrijt , Shefali Balwani , Antonin Henrard ,
Shivani Mehta
User – Open for all
Design Programme – Yoga, Wellness and meditation retreat
Location – Himachal Pradesh
Site Area – 600 sq.m.
Physical Nature – Contoured

77
 (A) Site response
An incidental geological formation pushed up a section of the terraces in the shape of a
malformed asymmetrical three winged boomerang. The site slopes up towards the snow-
capped mountain ranges to the North. Furthermore, a tranquil stream flows just a short
distance away from site. (Architecturebrio, 2018)

Figure 79 Level 1 Plan

[ 1 ] Form
The ribbon like form of the building retains the trees and big boulders on site. Underneath,
above and between the ground plane and the roof, the yoga retreat both forms the
landscape and is a device to experience the landscape in diverse ways. (Architecturebrio,
2018)

[ 2 ] The Landscape
A series of winding paths across the site, eventually converges in a central garden. While
the three ‘wings’ of the boomerang move away from the central garden, the volumes
gradually grow to house additional program. (Architecturebrio, 2018)

78
[ 3 ] Water bodies network – creating serene trickling sounds
The landscape and rocky outcrop of the site continue into the shaded garden. A series of
stepping stones create slender pathways that cross a perennial stream and meander
between the life size boulders. The network of water bodies make for a serene trickling
sound as the water flows down the terraces. (Architecturebrio, 2018)

(B) Planning
The building volume is punctured with wedge like cut-outs to create light wells and large
openings to frame views. Courtyards, verandahs and light wells surround existing trees.

79
Figure 80 Level-2 Plan

[ 1 ] Curved Interiors
Curved interiors of the structure, the views from the openings in the semi-open garden are
moments of pause and quiet. Furthermore, the play of light and shadow on the curved walls
enhances this experience.

Figure 81 Section through the built form

80
[ 2 ] The Yoga Rooms
A flight of stairs from the central garden leads up to the yoga area. Here a large full height
window opens up the space to the view of the mountains. A curved plank finish exposed
concrete wall makes for a calm backdrop lit by a long slender skylight.

Figure 82 Yoga rooms

[ 3 ] Light
Fins along the skylight cast different shadows along the wall throughout the day. This
backdrop, with its beautiful natural light, makes for a tranquil and meditative atmosphere for
the yoga room. One side of the yoga room terminates in a small courtyard to walk out to.
The other side of the rooms leads via a series of steps to the roof garden.

81
 Figure 83 Full height openings in the yoga rooms on east side

A full height window opens the east side of the yoga room to the mountain range

[ 4 ] The Roof Garden

The roof is an extension to the interior yoga area, providing a large outdoor space for yoga
practice. It is also accessible through a ramp from the common living room wing of the
retreat, easily making it a secondary ground plane

( C ) Interiors
long narrow interior space is defined by the shape of the boomerang. It narrows and widens
to accommodate various program. A verandah as extension to the dining area provides a
transition from the interior space to the outdoor pool deck.

Figure 84 Timber slatted walls

82
While form finished exposed concrete ceilings lend a solid character to the spaces, a warm
timber flooring, and timber slatted walls make for an interesting interior material palette. The
exterior walls are made of meticulously crafted solid local stone masonry.

Figure 85 Solid local stone masonry on exterior walls

(D) Critical analysis

A strong possibility that the surrounding lands will have built structures in the near future. In
a scenario where views from spaces within the yoga retreat can be obstructed in the future.

( E ) Inference
• Terraced landscape that retains the beauty of contoured site
• Retaining already existing natural features like big boulders, trees
• Curved rock walls go in sync with surrounding beauty
• Courtyards, verandahs, light well facilitate efficient light and ventilation
• Use of locally available materials for exteriors and interiors

Figure 86 Pathways and courtyards around Existing Boulders

83
( IV ) ISHA YOGA CENTRE, TAMILNADU

Intent – Programme Oriented – Meditation Centre

Source – Isha yoga Centre Official website, Society Interiors, Architecure for divinity Isha
Foundation
Client – Shreyas yoga retreat / inner challenges pvt ltd
Architect – The Isha Yoga Centre, Velliangiri foothills, Coimbatore – Sadhguru with Isha
Design team
User – Open for all
Design Programme Yoga Meditation, Sound Meditation, Ayurvedic Treatments
Site – Thick forests, Nilgiri biospheres
Location – Velliangiri foothills, outskirts of Coimbatore, Tamilnadu
Area – 2,0463 sqm

(A) Site response

The site is amidst in the Nilgiri Hills which have an abundance of flora and fauna species.
The Centre doesn’t disturb this natural setting instead fosters a connection to the nature by
use of natural materials which do not harm the surroundings and are sustainable

Figure 87 Site plan at the Information Centre near the entrance

84
 (B) Planning

Figure 88 Floor plan of the Centre

85
 Figure 89 Adiyogalayam

Figure 90 Entire campus planning with Residential and other facilities like atm's clinics , Toilets

86
Teerthakundas
Teerthkundas – as part of tradition to get whole body cleansed and wet before
entering temple(a place for sound meditation), so that energy of the temple are easily
absorbed.
Suryakunda for Men and Chandrakund is for women

Figure 91 Suryakunda

87
[ 1 ] Dhyanalinga Dome
14ft high, pillarless,250,000 bricks structure
With 27 meditation cells on the side wall of dome,
Material – Bricks, granite stone, earth, concrete
Wall finish - Earth plaster
Flooring – Cuddapah black limestone, white limestone
Furniture – Wooden Tables for disables
Décor – lotus flowers in water filled vessels
Sounds – Dripping water on Linga, Ventilator machine, bell ring, music sounds
during Nada Aradhana

Figure 92 Dhyanalingam

88
Figure 93 Plan showing central Dhyanalingam dome

Figure 94 Form of Dhyana Linga Dome

89
[ 2 ] Sadhana Hall –
2 vaulted brick structure behind Dhyanalinga Temple, for residents’ guests and
volunteers to serve a space for morning Sadhana Practice. The empty space
between elements of 6 brick arches is covered with copper painted aluminum shield
for natural light and ventilation

Figure 95 Sadhana Hall (Hall of prayers, chants, hymns)

[ 3 ] Adiyogi Alayam –
We see in Figure 89 , the Metal frame and insulation sheets temporary structure,
where programs like Hath Yoga (21 weeks program), Samayam – 8-day silence

[ 4 ] Nalanda stay –
Spatial quality of cottages. Surrounded by garden, pond, green grounds, farms of
coconut trees. The material here is again brick masonary, granite tables, wooden
benches, chairs and beds of Wood and granite. These blocks have an opening from
top for ventilation.

90
 ( C ) Interiors ||
The visitor’s room finds an innovative use of leftover material. Thus, the flooring gets an
unintentional designer pattern. Discarded rocks from the temple construction line the base
of the wall adding to the cave like ambience. A use of earthy materials is made like granite,
bricks, stones etc. is seen often.

Figure 96 Use of granite and discarded rocks from the temple construction at the Reception and Stays

The hermitage-like look of the reception near the main entrance to Spanda hall is enhanced
by an artwork of a tree done with vegetable paints, granite temple pillars and the rough-
hewn rock at the threshold of the room.
Soaked, burnt brick are used for the Dhyanalinga dome

(D) Critical analysis –

The large span structures needed optimum light and ventilation

( E ) Inference –
• Centre is blended with the nature by use of natural materials also the geometry
• Making the day planned around the campus helps to control people gatherings at
these places
• Use of geometry that gives strength to structure itself, instead of use of curvy forms
and use of metal and concrete. they stand because of perfectness in geometry.
• Warm lighting to make the atmosphere calm and serene for wellness
• Elements like sculptures works like rangoli, paintings, bowls full of flower makes the
process blissful.

91
Figure 97 Chandrakunda (Women's bath) Exterior facade

92
( V ) Comparative Analysis
The comparative analysis presented here analyses the MASSING - HORIZONTAL ,
MASSING VERTICAL , BUILT MASS , GROUND COVER, INCORPORATING NATURE ,
INCORPORATING WATER BODY , OPENINGS , CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS used in
design these healing hubs of varying scales according to the population targeted.
( A ) MASSING - HORIZONTAL

Massage and Wash Areas Consultation, book

other functions (Shower, Changing store, Information
Yoga, Healing rooms) Centre.
areas Gymnasium Kitchen Reception and Lounge

Massage Rooms
located on west side
and Yoga rooms on
east side for maximum
sunlight, Bath and
wash areas located at
the Centre for ease of
N
access on ground floor

Spaces arranged on
the hierarchy of
privacy levels Services
like kitchen, other
storage on the rear
side Therapy circles
placed in front but
direct entry restricted

Spaces arranged on
Lower levels are based
on the surrounding
privacy levels (like
wash areas) as the
land is highly
contoured. Upper floors
have Yoga Rooms and
N
Guest rooms and some
Spaces arranged
without disturbing
natural surroundings.
The spaces comprise
of cottages, meditation
halls, Yoga halls. All
the paths diverge from 93
the main entry.
( B ) MASSING VERTICAL

Massage and Wash Areas Consultation, book

other functions (Shower, Changing store, Information
rooms) Centre.
Yoga, Kitchen and Staff Reception and Lounge
Gymnasium, Area

Yoga Rooms are of

varied types like Semi-
Covered, Private, Closed,
Open. Yoga Rooms are
kept on upper floors to
remain undisturbed from
the rest of public and
staff.
The Spaces are all on
Ground. The Healing
circles have vents at
the top, which also
serves as source of
light and other spaces
have vents at top for
easy flow of hot air
outside.
The Spaces are arranged
vertically to allow maximum
natural daylight and fresh air.
Upper floors have yoga and
guest’s room. Lower Floors also
have guests’ room and guest’s
bath

The Spaces are all on

ground. The Heights of
spaces like
Adiyogalayam,
Suryakund etc. are kept
high to facilitate
maximum flow of hot air
from vents at the top.
94
( C ) GROUND COVER

Site Area - 20,000 ft.sq.

The Built structure goes
at lower ground level
and Upper ground level.
Each block growing from
the sunken gardens into
the sky.

Site Area - 866.1 sq.m

30% of Site Area is
Covered by the built
structure. And the rest is
kept untouched which
comprise of all the
natural vegetation.

Ground Cover - 600

sq.m. The structure is
built into the rocky
terrain; thus, it merges
with the surroundings.

Total Site area - 2,0463

sqm.
. Only ¼ part of the site
is having built structure,
rest everything is kept
untouched.

95
( D ) BUILT MASS

The main block

disappears into the earth
and is half submerged to
the isolating quality of the
earth. Courtyards, the
buffer zones create
smooth transitions from
the exterior, to semi
covered spaces
Curvilinear therapy
rooms in the front with
internal corridors
facing open court.
Dispersed circular
rooms provide good
air flow throughout the
built form.

Designed as
conceptualized
as an extrusion
of this terraced
landscape. Thus,
giving a ribbon
like form to the
building.

All the structures

stand not only due to
the strength but
because of its perfect
geometry. ‘If the
geometry is not
proper, it would create
tension.’-Sadhguru

96
( E ) INCORPORATING NATURE

Existing trees have

been given site
sensitive approach.
Each block growing
from the sunken
gardens into the sky,
often blending into a
series of greens

Integrated
landscape with
rock garden.
Existing palms
and coconut trees
are kept
undisturbed.

In between the fields,

dense Himalayan cedar
trees. The ribbon like form
of the building retains the
trees and big boulders on
site. verandahs and light
wells surround existing
trees.

Amidst in the Nilgiri Hills it has abundance

of flora and fauna species. Grass lone,
jasmine vines, herbs, varieties of flowers,
coconut trees, bamboo grass, lily ponds are
some of plants of landscape. Other features
from landscape include Shady trees and a
vibrant pond with multi-colored fish aims at
soothing the fevered spirit

97
( F ) INCORPORATING WATER BODY

The Guest Lounge area opens up

to a Central Court with water body
on one side, and to a Sunken Court
on the other (Archdaily, 2016).
Private Consultation rooms are part
of the main spaces, but are silently
tucked away beside the water body.
(Archdaily, 2016)

Old tank used as a

space for
hydrotherapy. This
pond cools hot air
that enters the
multiuse hall.

Perineal streams of water meander

between the life size boulders, it is a
diversion from a perennial mountain
stream that flows. It branches out to create
natural ponds on different levels. The
network of water bodies make for a serene
trickling sound as the water flows down the
terraces. (Architecturebrio, 2018)

Theerthakund is a deep immersion pool

housing a live linga, enhancing one's spiritual
receptivity as well as overall health and
wellbeing (Center, n.d.) .A dip in its waters
serves as a preparatory tool to receive the
energies of the Dhyanalinga, before entering
the Yogic Temple. Also consists of many
waterbodies with lotus flowers.

98
( G ) OPENINGS

Large openings on the east,

allowing natural sunlight to
create a powerful setting.
Some large open spaces are
recessed with bamboo mats.
The structure’s porous cell
conceals a softer environment
inside.

East facing windows are

larger to get sea view, but
radiations are less due to
trees cover. Climatic design
strategies like vents at ceiling
level are applied. All the
linkages between spaces are
well lit and well shaded
Volume punctured with wedge
like cut-outs to create light wells.
To create a calm backdrop long
slender skylight are made. Fins
along the skylight cast different
shadows along the wall
throughout the day.

Theerthakundas receive
natural light and ventilation
from the large size vents
at the top. Adiyogalayam a
steel frame structure has
openings from truss.
Inside Dhyanalinga use of
soft artificial lights.

99
( H ) CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

Exposed walls and ceilings

washed with natural light
create an organic feel
(Archdaily, 2016).. Spa block
conceals the guests from the
outside with local exposed
brick jaali works as the shell.

Use of local brick, lime

mortar with lime concrete,
bio concrete. The dome is
cladded with broken mosaic
to avoid water seepage and
to avoid harsh temperature
inside

Warm timber flooring, and

timber slatted walls make for an
interesting interior the exterior
walls are made of meticulously
crafted solid local stone
masonry. (Architecturebrio,
2018)

Building Materials-Brick masonry,

and granite stone rubble masonry.
For wall finish white wash and
earth plaster is used. Flooring-
Limestone paving, cuddapah
black limestone. Roof-Metal
framed terracotta and metal
corrugated roofing sheet.

100
CHAPTER 5- AREA PROGRAME

Entrance –
Security Cabin – 5 sqm.
Store – 15 sqm.
Lobby and Reception - 40sqm
Waiting Lounge – 20sqm
Yoga
Group Yoga areas – 700sqm.
Private yoga areas –
• Each -130 sq.m
• Number of Private yoga areas – 5
• Total - 650 sqm
Changing Room – 10 sqm.
Lockers – 10sqm.
Store room – 10 sqm.
Toilets – 50sqm.
Mediation –
Group meditation areas – 500 sqm.
Private meditation areas –
• Each – 5sqm.
• Number of Private meditation areas – 20
• Total – 100sqm.
Chanting
Group Chanting areas – 500 sqm
Private chanting areas –
• Each – 5sqm.
• Number of Private meditation areas – 20
• Total – 100sqm.

101
Energy healing
Group Healing areas – 500 sqm
Private Healing areas –
• Each – 5sqm.
• Number of Private meditation areas – 20
• Total – 100sqm.
Chromotherapy
Chromotherapy area – 500
Crystal Healing
Crystal Healing area – 500
Acupressure Healing
Acupressure Healing areas –
Each – 200 sqm
Toilets – 4 sqm
Total acupressure healing blocks provided – 5
Total area for Acupressure Healing areas - 1020
Facilities –
Dormitory /Hermitages – 1000 sqm
Villa type / Cottages –
• Bathroom – 6sqm.
• Floor Area – 12sqm
• Patio – 10 sqm.
• Total Area of one cottage – 28sqm
• Number of cottages – 12
• Total area – 336 sqm
Conference room – 20sqm.
Admin Area – 25sqm.
Manager Cabin – 15sqm.
Janitor room – 5 sqm
Storage – 10 sqm.

102
Kitchen – 60 sqm.
Storage for Kitchen – 10 sqm.
Dining Area– 300 sqm.
Toilets – 100sqm.
Staff Toilets – 50sq.m
Guide, coach, trainer room – 40sqm.
Lockers – 10 sqm.
Parking – 600sqm.
Open Auditorium – 1000sqm.
Gallery – 150 sqm.
Art Studio – 50 sqm.
Library –200 sqm.
Singing Areas – 150 sqm.
Group Dancing Areas – 300 sqm
Total = 7051 sqm.
Circulation (20% of Building Total) – 1410 sqm.
Mechanical Electrical (6% of building) – 425
Total Area Required ~ 9000 sqm.

103
CHAPTER 6- SITE IDENTIFICATION

( I ) PHYSCIAL SETTING
The site had to be in a Natural setting, away from disturbances from main city. Locating the
site in the peripheral boundaries of Mumbai was suitable as it had Natural Surroundings
and yet the distance is not more than 3hrs from the City.

( II ) ALIBAG

Analyzing the strategical location of Alibag, it is near the Arabian sea thus providing ample
amount of fresh air needed for any patient to heal faster and it takes not more than 3hrs to
travel here.

( III ) HEALING HUBS AROUND ALIBAG

There are many resorts around Alibag providing some of them are Prakriti Resort, Murud
Janjira road, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Varsoli, Dew drop retreat which are providing spa,
massage facilities for city dweller to get refreshed. They are often programmed with other
facilities like Stays, Restaurants, clubs, and many other for specifically for the purpose of
recreation with families, friends and circles.

Figure 98 Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Varsoli Open pavilion around a water body surrounded by amenities

104
 These
Figure 99 other
Prakrutifacilities make
Resort, Murud the outdoor
covered area more chaotic
pavilions as the
with adjacent essence
swimming poolof
forcalm andlandscaped
public and serene
gardens with sparing seating arrangements for self-immersions
environment is lost. Though they are planned along the sea, and away from city the
architecture does not allows one to realize self. The use of only earthy material and
planning sheltered outdoor open spaces will not serve the only purpose for wellbeing. The
atmosphere, environment essential for these healing like the ones discussed in the
CHAPTER 2-( II ) and CHAPTER 2-( III ) 5 Elemental approach in designing such types of
places should be applied. Ancient architecture based on different philosophies from Hindu
Religion and temple architecture (a source of immediate wellbeing), allows one to take
journey towards Wellbeing.

( IV ) ALIBAG ENVIRONMENT

The main city of Alibag brings in more population, comprises of maximum tourists and
others are the proper residents of the city since a long time. The huge crowd during
seasons of festivals or new year of Tourists majorly from the Mumbai city, makes the city
unbreathable thus less enjoyable sometimes. Also, city vehicular pollution adds to the
decrease in quality of fresh sea breezes.
Research finds that spending time by the ocean is pretty good for your wellbeing (Heiser,
2018). In fact, according to an analysis of English census data published in the journal
Health Place, those who live by the coast report better physical and mental health than
those who don’t (Heiser, 2018).But unfortunately due to pollution in air lessens its purity.

105
( V ) SITES IDENTIFIED
Areas around the Alibag city like Akshi, Chaul, Korlai, Awas are comparatively much less
affected by this impurity, majorly less disturbed throughout the year. Thus, these regions
are suitable for Healing activities.
The sites chosen here are located a bit far from the main city, as the main city brings in
more population, pollution in air, and more disturbances. They are located in Navapada and
Akshi. The Akshi site is at 20 mins travelling from main city, and Navapada is 10mins.Two
sites from these is under the CRZ-III Category and the other in Green Zone-I Category.

( VI ) SITE SELECTION
The Site selection table on next page compares the three sites based on 3 major factors of
Natural Factors, Legal factors and Socio-Cultural Factors.

Refer Table 2 Site Selection Table on the next page.

106
 SITES
Selection
Elements
SITE A SITE B SITE C
(21,100 sqm.) (25,000 sqm.) (23,000 sqm.)
Sites
photos
from
Google
Earth Pro

Natural Factors
Land 1000m2 for every person for Spiritual and mediation Centre as per NBC 2016.Thus
Criteria is suitable for 20 users at one time.
Accessibilit The existing access is As it is adjacent to tar The road is earthen, and
y Earthen, but an access road, which is in good as it is situated away from
from the main tar road condition, access could be main road. But it is 5 to 7
could be provided. provided easily minutes walking from main
road.
Soil Red soil Some areas are marshy Red soil
and rest is all red soil
Drainage Is located on contoured The drainage slope is A contour towards north
land, thus same direction parallel to the adjacent east side noticed, thus
is could be used road. same direction is for
drainage.
Contours

Legal Factors
Present, Green Zone -Medical and CRZ-III- Hotels, CRZ-III -Hotels,
future health care facilities are accommodation facility for accommodation facility for
zoning permitted in this area tourists, and dispensaries tourists, and dispensaries
according to DCR. is permitted is permitted
Socio cultural, Economic Factors
Accessibilit A Clinic and a restaurant A Clinic and a restaurant A Clinic, restaurant is 5 to
y to are 8 to 10 mins from site, are 8 to 10 mins from site, 10 mins from site, and a
adjacent other facility like petrol other facility like petrol petrol pump at 15mins.
important pump, Hospital is located pump, Hospital is located
facility in 12 to 15 min in the in 12 to 15 min in the main
main city. city.
Cultural
Surrounded by vernacular style of village houses, also beach resorts are distant.
Factor
Table 2 Site Selection Table

The Site selection table summarizes that the most suitable site for the proposed project is
Site A, after analyzing the 3 major factors.

107
CHAPTER 7- SITE ANALYSIS

( I ) LOCATION

The site is located Navapada village near Alibag city of Maharashtra State in India. It comes
Chalamala Gram Panchayat, Thal Taluka Alibag. It takes is 10min and 3.8 km from Alibag
to reach here via Alibag-Revas Road. The average time to reach here from Mumbai is 2hrs
and 30 min that is 94.3 km via NH-66.The site is located at a little raised level from ground ,
and surrounded by various types of trees.

Mumbai
Maharashtra

Alibag
a) b)
Figure 100 a) Maharashtra state with site location b) Route from Mumbai to Alibag

Arabian
Sea

Khadtal Khadi

Figure 101 Khadtal Khadi branching out from Arabian sea, adjacent to site

108
 The site is located at close proximity to the sea, but not in the protected zones (according to
coastal regulation) approximately at 570 m from sea shore. Thus, not very close to sea and
a small stream of water breaks from the sea to form a a bay called Khadtal Khadi. It is
approximately 21,000 but it is a part of a larger piece of land which has variety of tree which
are to be protected and planted by the local Rotary Club.

Small
Protected
trees area

Figure 102 Small protected area managed by Rotary Club

( II ) UTILITY

This village receives Electricity from MSEB and water supply from MIDC,Alibag.
There is no specific drainage pattern observed. As the site is located at 20m above the sea
floor level thus, the drainage pattern will be along the slope of contour.

Figure 103 Slope of the contours

109
( III ) CLIMATE

( A ) SUNPATH

Figure 104 Sunpath diagram for Mumbai (Tukiainen, n.d.)

The Sunpath diagram is same as Mumbai region

( B ) WIND
Windrose diagram below for Alibag region shows that winds blow from SW Direction for
most hours of the year. A windspeed of 5km/hr is flowing for most part of the year.

a) b)

Figure 105 a) Wind rose diagram for Alibag b) Windspeed noted on 22 November 2020, at 4:55pm observed on the Windy
mobile app (Meteoblue.com, n.d.)

110
 ( C ) TEMPERATURE AND PRECIPITATION

Figure 106 Annual Temperature Chart (Meteoblue.com, n.d.)

The chart above shows that in the month of April and May the temperatures above 35 o C for
than 20days of these months. Averagely the temperatures are above 30o C for most of the
time of year.
The precipitation is high in the month of July and moderate in June and July. During
monsoon seasons the day temperatures drop to 27 o C and in winters it drops to minimum
17o C.

Figure 107 Temperature and Precipitation charts for Alibag (Meteoblue.com, n.d.)

111
 ( D ) HUMIDITY
Averagely July is the most humid month where humidity rises above 80%, and February is
the least humid month. The humidity in this region is averagely 75% thought the year, thus
remain humid for most part of the time.

Figure 108 Annual Relative humidity chart for Alibag (weatherandclimate.com, 2009)

( IV ) NEIGHBOURHOOD CONTEXT

The village adjacent to the site has some of the houses of vernacular type, else all are
concrete structure. It also has a natural pond on the West side which gives cooling effect to
its surrounding houses. The Bay reaches till the base slope of the site, with marshy area at
the base.

Waterbody

Figure 109 Waterbody near the site

112
 Figure 110 Image captured from the site showing the bay adjacent to it, over which passes a bridge

( V ) SITE AND ZONING

( A ) SITE BOUNDARIES DIMENSION

Figure 111 Site Dimensions

113
 ( B ) BUILDABLE AREA –
Exactly area is 21,481m
FSI – 1
Thus, the buildable area is also 21,481

( C ) ACCESS TO SITE
There are 2 access to the site, one from the village and other from the main road. The 1st
access is rough and earthy thus not much suitable for entry, whereas the second is a
possible access, which directly connects the road and site and is gradually sloped towards
the road. Thus, this access can be provided for visitors of the Centre and ramps will have to
made in the earth for physically challenged.

Figure 112 Access 1

Figure 113 Access 2

114
( VI ) NATURAL FEATURES
( A ) TOPOGRAPHY
The site is contoured towards the bay, and its surface is flat except minor uneven surfaces
at some parts. Apart from which currently it has large holes of mud, which are formed due
to its removal by the locals for various purposes but these could be filled up during
construction.

Figure 114 Panoramic view from the site showing its topography

a) b)
Figure 115 a) Some parts of site dug in by locals for extracting mud b) Red soil

115
 ( B ) VEGETATION

Figure 116 Various trees on site

The site has not much trees, but many tress exist around the site

116
Figure 117 Existing trees marked on site

a) b)
Figure 118 a) and b) The site is covered the dried grass, and small shrubs

117
( VII ) CIRCULATION

The site can be reached by Public transport of MSRTC Bus on the road adjacent to it.
Further Bamnoli bus stop on the Alibag-Rewas road facilitates one to go to the main Alibag
City, which has a Bus Depo.

( VIII ) SENSORY
( A ) VIEWS
The views from the site are as follows
• West side – Green cover with a skyline of coconut trees along the sea shore
• East Side – Small Forest cover
• North Side – The Bay with anchored boats
• South Side – Lesser large trees observed

Figure 119 West Side - Green cover with a skyline of coconut trees along the sea shore

118
 Figure 120 East Side - Green cover with a skyline of coconut trees along the sea shore

Figure 121 North Side - Green cover with a skyline of coconut trees along the sea shore

( B ) SOUNDS
Due to the dense cover of trees at a distance on all 3 side, naturally this area is a home to
variety birds. Woodpeckers, Cuckoos, sparrows are some of them found in large number
here. Observation noted on 22 November 2020, at 4:53pm, the figure below shows the
decibel range for sounds for a time interval of 30 seconds. The average decibel as noted on
a day is 54 dB and maximum 76 dB According to the decibel chart below sounds above 85
dB are harmful, thus this place is suitable for healing activities

119
a) b)
Figure 122 a) Observation measured on Sound Meter app b) Decibel chart range

( C ) SMELLS
No specific smells are noted though the bay is just adjacent to site but as the site is on a
height no pungent smells reach here.

120
CHAPTER 8- BIBLIOGRAPHY

(IHME), H. M. (2018). Global Burden of Disease Study. Global Burden of Disease

Collaborative Network.
Archdaily. (2016, September). Shreyas Retreat / The Purple Ink Studio.
Architecturebrio. (2018). Dharamshala Yoga retreat. Retrieved from architecturebrio:
http://architecturebrio.com/projects-item/dharamshala-yoga-retreat/
Author. (n.d.).
Azeemi, S. T., & Raza, S. M. (2005). A Critical Analysis of Chromotherapy and Its Scientific
Evolution.
Care, C. B. (2015, February 7). STAGES OF MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS.
Center, I. Y. (n.d.). Isha Yoga Center -360-degree Virtual Tour of Dhyanalinga | Isha
Foundation. Retrieved from ishafoundation: https://www.ishafoundation.org/Isha-
Yoga-Center/isha-yoga-center-360-degree-virtual-tour-of-dhyanalinga-isha-
foundation.isa
Centre, D. H. (n.d.). Color Therapy. Retrieved from
https://divineorderhealingcentre.com/color-therapy/
Deva. (1995). Krishna. Temples of India, VoLI. New Delhi: Aryan Books International.
Frawley, D. (2017). Yoga and the Environment. Retrieved from
https://livingwiseproject.com/2017/06/03/yoga-
environment/#:~:text=Yoga%20traditionally%20was%20practiced%20in,river%20ban
ks%20and%20sea%20shores.
Gao, J. L. (2019). The neurophysiological correlates of religious chanting. Retrieved from
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-40200-w
Geva, A., & Mukherj, A. (2007). A Study of Light/Darkness in Sacred Settings: Digital.
International journal of architectural computing.
Grover, S. (1980). The Architecture of India: Buddhist and Hindu. Ghaziabad, India:.
Hardy, A. (2007). The Temple Architecture of India (Great Britain: John. Great Britain: John
Wiley & sons. Ltd.
healing, C. t. (n.d.). Chakras.

121
Heiser, C. (2018). Better by Today - What the beach does to your brain. Retrieved from
NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/what-beach-does-your-brain-
ncna787231
Ibrahim, I. (2018). Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) as Treatments for
Psychiatric Disorders: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals. ResearchGate.
Jain, S. (2019). Rediscovering the ancient practice of Yoga for the future generations.
Retrieved from https://www.hindustantimes.com/gurgaon/rediscovering-the-ancient-
practice-of-yoga-for-the-future-generations/story-o0PncwghclDQToys0tkcCN.html
Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, Volume: 22 issue: 4,.
(n.d.). 788-797.
Kaur, V. (2016). ANCIENT INDIAN ENERGY HEALING: Practices for Physical, Mental and
Emotional Well-Being. TheMindfulword.
Kong FH, M. L. (2013). Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Complementary and Alternative
Medicine (CAM) among Medical Practitioners.
Lethaby, W. R. (2005). Architecture, Mysticism and Myth. Dover Publications 1891.
Meteoblue.com. (n.d.). Climate Alibag. Retrieved from
https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/historyclimate/climatemodelled/alibag_india_
1279027
Mukherji, A. (2001). The Holy Light:A Study of Natural Light in Hindu Temples in the
Southern Region of Tamilnadu.
Prasad, M., & Rajavel, B. (2013). ACOUSTICS OF CHANTS, CONCH-SHELLS, BELLS
AND GONGS IN HINDU WORSHIP SPACES.
RichardL.Nahin, PatriciaM.Barnes, & Bloom, B. (2007).
ComplementaryandAlternativeMedicineUseAmongAdultsandChildren:UnitedStates.
Sadhguru. (2011). Why Were Temples Built? Retrieved from
https://isha.sadhguru.org/in/en/wisdom/article/why-were-temples-built
Sarswat, G., & Kamal, M. A. (2015). Passive Cooling Through Natural Ventilation
Techniques in Green Buildings: Inspirations from the Past. Journal of Civil
Engineering and Environmental Technology.
Schlosser, J. (2020). THE 5 ELEMENTS IN BIO-ARCHITECTURE. Retrieved from
https://www.bioarc.co/blog/2020/5/12/the-5-elements-in-bio-architecture
Seizure, Y. N. (2001). Yoga for control of epilepsy.
Services, U. D. (2015). National Health Interview Survey. Retrieved from
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/meditation-in-depth

122
Sharmila. (2015). Hindu Temple and Human body. Retrieved from
https://www.kannadigaworld.com/news/culture/161163.html
SINGH, R. P. (1994). WATE R SYMBOLIS M AN D SACRE D LANDSCAP E I N
HINDUISM : A STUD Y O F BENARE S (VARANASI ).
Streeter CC, W. T. (2010). Effects of yoga versus walking on mood, anxiety, and brain
GABA levels: a randomized controlled MRS study.
Survey, N. M. (2015-16).
Tabish. (2008). Complementary and Alternative Healthcare: Is it Evidence-based?
International journal of health sciences.
TanejaMK. (2016). Bhramari (Shanmukhi Mudra) Pranayama in presbyacusis and
dementia. Indian J Otol.
Tanisha Dutta, & V. S. Adane. (2018). Shapes, Patterns and Meanings in Indian Temple
Architecture. American Journal of Civil Engineering and Architecture.
TLLLF, N. S. ( 2018). HOW INDIA PERCEIVES MENTAL HEALTH.
Tomljenović Helena , Begić Dražen , & Maštrović Zora. (2016). CHANGES IN TRAIT
BRAINWAVE POWER AND COHERENCE, STATE AND TRAIT ANXIETY AFTER
THREE-MONTH TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION (TM) PRACTICE. Psychiatria
Danubina, 2.
Trivedi, K. (1993). Hindu Temple: Models of a Fractal Universe. International Seminar on
Mayonic Science, (pp. 243-258). Madras.
Tukiainen, M. T. (n.d.). Bombay, India - Sunrise, sunset, dawn and dusk times for the whole
year - Gaisma. Retrieved from Gaisma:
https://www.gaisma.com/en/location/bombay.html
UKEssays. (November 2018). Color therapy in mental health and well being.
weatherandclimate.com. (2009). Average Humidity In Alibaug (Maharashtra). Retrieved
from https://weather-and-climate.com/average-monthly-Humidity-perc,alibaug-
maharashtra-in,India
Welch, A. (2020). e-architect. Retrieved from https://www.e-architect.com/india/shreyas-
retreat-bengaluru
White, B. &. (2014). The effects of yoga on incarcerated individuals' self-perception of life
orientation (optimism/pessimism), perceived stress, and self-efficacy. International
Journal of Yoga and Allie.
WHO. (1978). HEALTH.

123
124