Incense burning — **The Ultimate**
**Guide To**
**Space**
**Clearing**

By Lia Menna Gross

This post contains affiliate links.

Space clearings have been used for centuries in various cultures around the globe. Each one has its own unique spin.

The Indigenous Peoples of the Americas have traditionally used sacred herbs, such as white sage or palo santo, to perform smoke cleansing ceremonies. These ceremonies are done to cleanse spaces, land, people and even food. But it is also utilized as a healing ritual, bringing holistic benefits to mind, body and spirit.

The use of white sage outside of Indigenous ceremonies has become more popularized in recent years leading to cultural appropriation and illegal harvesting. This article from Atlas Obsura provides more insight.

In Chinese culture, incense is burned as a part of Taoist, Buddhist and Shinto rituals for emotional wellbeing, purification of a space, protection and a means of welcoming in the gods. These practices date back thousands of years. Incense is burned during meditations and chanting as well as for general aromatherapy.

The Low Down on Space Clearings

Space clearing is essential in cleansing and revitalizing the ch’i (energy) of our surroundings. Feng Shui works to harmonize and balance the ch’i of our physical environment whether that’s your home or business. Regular space clearings are a great way to “unstick” stuck energy and shift the ch’i of your space (it keeps everything flowing and moving!). It’s also a beautiful form of holistic healing.

When to Perform a Space Clearing

After an illness.
After an argument.
Once you’ve decluttered your space.
When moving into a new space.
After deep cleaning.
When you’re feeling emotionally down.
Before and after having a large party or gathering.
When things just feel “off”.

What Will I Need?

There are so many tools that can be used for your space clearing. What’s essential is that you pick one that resonates with you. Some optional tools for your space clearing:

Incense. Opt for a sustainably sourced, non-toxic incense stick. Here’s a great palo santo option. Use a fireproof bowl to catch any ashes. Note: It’s not recommended to burn incense with children or pets present.
Aromatherapy sprays. Try to find one without harsh chemical additives. My favorite find is Edens Garden. Their diffuser is stylish and works like a charm. My go-to scents are clary sage and lavender essential oils blended together. These oils are considered safe for children 2 and up according to Edens Garden. Or visit The Feng Shui Shop to give yourself an intentional ch’i reset with my Feng Shui Crystal Bracelet & Aromatherapy Spray Duo!
Sound. You may use actual instruments like bells, gongs or singing bowls. My gong is my absolute favorite tool to work with! Find yours here. If you don’t have any, simply play soothing music throughout your home for a calming vibe.

Cleanse Yourself First

It’s important to cleanse yourself before (and after!) performing your Feng Shui space clearing.

3 Simple Steps to Perform Your Space Clearing

Step 1. Open the windows

Crack open the windows, even an inch, so that the air can circulate throughout your space.

Step 2. Set Your Intention

Set the intention that this process is removing any negative ch’i.

Step 3. Begin Using Your Chosen Tool

Begin at the front of your home and work your way through. Allow the smoke or sound to waft through your space. Remember to visualizing any negative ch’i leaving your space.

Enjoy the positive shift in your home!

Happy Decluttering, y’all!