Homes that use nature's energy

Some homes use nature's own energy in clever ways. In some places of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Ladakh, people keep their cattle on the ground floor of the house, while the family lives on the floor above. The heat from the animals helps keep the rooms warm in winter. This is a clever way to stay warm in cold places without using extra firewood or electricity.

Traditional houses in India had small windows and thick walls. This kept the house cool in summer and warm in winter.

Your book also tells us about Vaastu Shastra, which it describes as the ancient Indian system of design and architecture (the planning of buildings). The book says it guides where rooms, doors and windows are placed, to make the best use of natural energy like sunlight, wind and heat. Open spaces like courtyards, and well-placed openings, help homes stay bright and airy and use less energy in different seasons.