Space cleansing is the ritual of clearing the "energy debris" from your environment that has built up over time, and should be performed after each cleansing of your physical environment. The idea is to remove stale and negative energies that have accumulated, allowing for positive and healthy vibrations to fill your surroundings. Once you perform a space cleansing, the energy of the area lifts, brightens and circulates without restraint.

The necessity for space cleansing comes from the understanding that energy debris is a result of negative emotions, thoughts, occurrences, or stresses that you or your family has experienced in that space. In addition, feng shui suggests that the health, finances, success and happiness of the previous tenants can also affect you in the present. For example, if the previous inhabitants in your home have experienced a divorce, illness or financial loss, then those energy patterns become imprinted in your environment.

Whatever has transpired in your space is absorbed into every facet and object in your home, accumulating in corners and tucked away places. Have you ever walked into a room or building and immediately wanted to leave? If so, then you have most likely experienced trapped negative energy. On the other hand, you have probably visited places where you felt happy and completely at ease. If wonderful and good things happen in a space, and the space is regularly cleaned and cleared, chances are it will be somewhere you enjoy being.

When should you space cleanse?

The following are appropriate times to space cleanse:

• After you remove clutter and clean
• After an argument
• When you move into a new space, home or office
• When a roommate or companion moves out
• After an illness or death
• When you buy an antique or second-hand item
• Anytime you desire fresh energy for a new project
• Before implementing feng shui

Take action now: how to cleanse a space:

Contrary to what you might think, space cleansing is relatively easy. The following is a fun and simple space-cleansing process to perform on your home, office or even on a specific object:

• Prepare yourself by creating a strong mental intention to clear the space and to bring in vibrant, healthy energy.
• Ring a bell, or clap your hands, up and down in each corner and closet to stir up settled, stagnant energy.
• Burn sandalwood incense or dried sage to disintegrate and dissipate the negative energy in each room. Wave it counterclockwise in each corner, closet and cabinet. You may also let an incense stick burn in each room. Recite a mantra such as, "Thank you for the complete disintegration of all negative energies, thoughts and emotions from this room now".
• After cleansing, always open windows and doors to allow fresh energy to enter and an exit route for negative energy to leave.
• Light a scented candle to dedicate energy to your endeavors. Say your wish out loud. For example, "I am so grateful for all the love, harmony and healthy energy pouring into my home right now." Be creative and find words that have personal meaning to you.
• Finally, visualize radiant light filling the entire space, emanating positive energy and blessings to everyone who enters.

Space cleansing is a time honored and respected tradition, which can provide you with the peace of mind that you have seriously cut the cord from negative experiences. You will find as you integrate the practice of space cleansing into your life that you will be a happier and healthier person for it.