Spring Renewal: A Guide to Spiritually Cleanse Your Space for Wellness

"Spring is far more than just a changing of seasons; it's a rebirth of the spirit." —Toni Sorenson

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Introduction: 

There is something about the warmth of spring filling the air and the days getting longer that inspires hope and the need for change. For many of us, it’s embracing the tradition of cleansing our space and a good old-fashioned spring cleaning—out with the old and in with the new. And while we're letting go of items that no longer serve us, I want to review some techniques to spiritually and energetically cleanse your space today. The space we exist in impacts our mental health and overall well-being. We welcome peace, clarity, and positive energy by spiritually cleansing our space. 

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‍Understanding Spiritual Cleansing:  

While Marie Kondo provides the mastering art of tidying up spaces, she also emphasizes the importance of spiritual cleansing rituals in her practice. Since the publication of Marie Kondo’s work, she has highlighted her philosophy in  The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, and “ she stresses the importance of maintaining pure energy within our spaces by removing stagnant air. Inspired by Japanese traditions, Marie incorporates purification rituals into her practice, such as respectfully greeting each space with mindfulness and reverence.” Spiritual cleansing releases negative energy and emotions in our spaces to restore balance and harmony. Research shows that burning sage or Palo Santo releases negative ions, which boost mood and create a positive atmosphere. The smoke emitted during this process contains negatively charged ions that bind with the positive ions in the air. These positive ions can include harmful elements such as viruses, mold spores, bacteria, and dust. The relationship between spiritual cleansing and mental wellness is deeply intertwined, as spiritual cleansing is a powerful tool for promoting mental wellness by clearing away the negative emotions that weigh in our minds and nurturing our spiritual health. 

Spiritual cleansing rituals across cultures reveal a universal yearning to stay connected with our cultural roots, implement ancestral wisdom, and continue to honor the past. In many collective communities around the world, a relationship between spirituality and wellness has been passed on from generation to generation, keeping us connected. It is the passing down of ancient wisdom, adapting to the present-day world while safeguarding cultural heritage. Mayo Clinic highlighted the following; “As part of their prayer and healing practices, Native American tribes practice spiritual cleansing and use Sage to connect with the sacred and maintain their sense of spirituality.” 

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Traditional Techniques: 

Here are some traditional methods for spiritual cleansing that you can try: 

Note: It is important to approach the act of spiritual cleansing with intention, reverence, and deep gratitude toward those who have been practicing it for generations

1. Sage Smudging: 

• To perform a respectful smudging ceremony, gather the following items: a container suitable for burning sage, a sage bundle, a fire source (candle, match), and, optionally, a fanning tool that can be used for later areas in the home. Please open windows to release negative energy. 
• Clarify your intention and recite a mantra: Before lighting the sage, take a moment to set your intention for the smudging ritual. Reflect on what you aim to purify or release from your space, and choose a mantra or prayer that resonates with this intention. While performing the smudging ceremony, repeat your mantra or prayer to enhance its impact.
• To begin smudging: To begin smudging, hold the Sage at a 45-degree angle and light it with a match or candle. Allow it to burn for approximately 30 seconds; this will leave only a few seconds before blowing out the flame. Behind glowing embers, you can observe the smoke rising as the cleansing process begins.
• Walk around your space: Take your time walking around your space, letting the smoke drift gently. Guide the smoke and any negative energy towards open windows or a door, allowing them to escape.
• Once complete, Ensure to extinguish your sage smudge stick by gently pressing the burning end into a fire-resistant container, sand, or dirt until the smoke fades away. 

2. Palo Santo:

Palo Santo, also referred to as "sacred" or "holy" wood, has been utilized in spiritual rituals and traditional medicine since the days of the Incan Empire. The practice of ceremonially burning Palo Santo dates back to ancient times. Today, it remains prevalent in Central and South America, as well as other Latinx communities, where it is employed to clear negative energy (known as "mala energia").  [Please follow instructions for sage cleansing]. 

• For other methods of cleansing, click here 

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Creating Your Inner Sanctuary:  

After purifying our space, let's talk about creating a cozy inner sanctuary that's genuinely yours. Your home should be a sanctuary of comfort and tranquility where you can escape the pressures of the outside world. Embrace the wisdom of Meik Wiking; he states: “ Hygge has been called everything from “the art of creating intimacy,” “coziness of the soul,” and “the absence of annoyance,” to “taking pleasure from the presence of soothing things,” “cozy togetherness,” and my personal favorite, “cocoa by candlelight.” Work towards welcoming coziness, embracing comfort, and transforming your space into a place of welcoming warmth.

Here are some tips to help you create your sacred space: 

• Declutter: Get rid of physical clutter so positive energy can flow freely.
•  Personalize: Surround yourself with items that bring you joy and comfort, such as photographs of loved ones, significant artwork, or plants.
•  Practice mindfulness: Take time daily to connect with your inner self through meditation, prayer, or deep breathing exercises.
•  Set intentions: Set goals for your space, whether for relaxation, creativity, or spiritual growth.

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Everyday Tips for Balance:

Maintaining balance and harmony in life can be achieved by incorporating spiritual 

• Begin your day with a grounding, meditation, or prayer to set a positive tone for the day ahead. For guided meditation from Sage Therapy, click here
• Take breaks throughout the day to step outside and connect with nature. The fresh air and sunshine can rejuvenate your spirit. Ground yourself and take in your surroundings. What do you see, what do you hear, and what do you notice about the world around you? 
• End the day with gratitude, reflecting on all the beautiful things that happened and releasing negative energy before bedtime. ‍

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Conclusion: 

In conclusion, we've explored the concept of spiritual cleansing, traditional techniques, and nurturing our inner sanctuaries. These practices deepen our connection between our physical spaces and inner selves, creating transformative havens of peace. As spring unfolds, let's prioritize wellness by transforming our spaces into sanctuaries. Let's release old energies, embrace new beginnings, and invite positivity to flourish.

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Resources: 

• The What and How of Mindfulness
• Konmari Purify Your Space
• The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living by Meik Wiking

References: 

• Spiritual Healing: What is it? Does it work and does it have a place in modern healthcare? 
• Medicinal smoke reduces airborne bacteria
• Explaining the Process of Spiritual healing of Critically-ill Patients: A Grounded Theory Study
• Creating Wellbeing Spaces to De-Stress and Keep You Well

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