spaceclearing

Space clearing is the practice of reducing physical clutter and, in many traditions, clearing perceived energetic or emotional obstructions within a space. It is used in interior design and architecture to improve movement, light, acoustics, and a sense of calm, as well as in spiritual or holistic practices to promote well-being.

Practices commonly combine physical tasks—decluttering, cleaning, reorganization, rearranging furniture—with ritual or symbolic techniques such as opening windows to improve airflow, lighting candles, burning incense or sage, ringing bells or singing bowls, and setting intentions. The specific methods vary widely across cultures and practitioners.

Space clearing has roots in multiple traditions, notably feng shui and other East Asian approaches that emphasize qi, balance, and the flow of energy, and in Western contemporary or new age practices that frame clearing as removing energy blockages. In contemporary usage, it may be performed after events, moves, or periods of stress to signal a fresh start.

Proponents report benefits including a greater sense of order, improved mood, and a more usable space; critics note that claimed energetic effects lack robust scientific support and that perceived benefits may stem from placebo effects or cognitive reframing.