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Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTION: How might Architecture help address the poor mental health of many students in India by looking to the historical tradition of an Ashram as a holistic space of self-reflection and healing?

ABSTRACT: Mental health is a growing issue worldwide, with India having the highest suicide rate within the South East Asia region. Mental health is seen as a stigma in India, which is one of the main reasons as to why this issue is not discussed openly. Students are taking their lives due to the overwhelming pressure and stress, caused by their studies and, unfortunately, family expectations. There is a serious lack of trained psychiatrists in India which makes the problem worse.

Practices such as meditation and yoga are holistic approaches which aid in reducing stress and anxiety. Ashrams, historic centres of spiritual practice in India, are proposed as an architectural model for the relief of mental health problems amongst Indian students.

Located in Mumbai city at The University of Mumbai, the project proposes a facility that will enable university students to practice yoga and meditation in a residential setting. The organisation of the spaces takes clues from the traditional Vastu Shastra layout which looks at the science of directions that combine the 5 elements of nature and balance them with man and material. This will look at how private, semi-private and public spaces, connectivity, light, and blue and green spaces (landscape and water) can enhance an individual’s mental health.