Cleansing/Clearing Guidelines

Cleansing is the systematic removal of negative or unwanted energies from the body's systems and subtle energy fields.

Clearing is the same as cleansing but is the generally used term when talking about Reiki and other healing modalities.

Both terms may be used interchangeably.

Cleansing/clearing can be done in a variety of ways:

• via intention
• in a ritual setting
• with light
• with color
• with sound
• through visualization
• via Reiki (or other healing)
• using the earth or trees
• using water (or saltwater)
• with herbs (like green tea)
• with stones
• guided meditations (written or recorded)
• breath work/pranayama
• a combination of the above

How you cleanse comes down to a matter of personal preference. The best plan of action is to try one method steadily over a set period of time. (This will depend on the frequency of your cleansings.) At first you may notice a little to no difference. Your level of energetic awareness may cause you not to be aware of the subtle changes in your energy field. However, an easy way to gauge whether there is a difference is to pay attention to your mood on a day-to-day basis. Do you notice any changes? Are you happier than usual, or less stressed? If over a reasonable period of time, you do not notice a difference, feel the same, or feel worse you may need to A) cleanse more frequently or B) try another technique. In the case of needing to cleanse more frequently. You may notice a "slight" change or one that seems temporary. In the latter case there will be no impact at all. You may also choose to cleanse in a different manner out of preference or necessity (eg. you cannot burn incense in your apartment). Be aware that you will be starting from scratch and will have to reassess.

Building your cleansing schedule is perhaps even more important than choosing how you will cleanse. Even a great method done sporadically or infrequently may not yield much in results. (However, every little bit does help!) Some suggestions for a cleansing schedule:

• monthly - 1x a month (you may pick a special day or date like the first Sunday or the 10th)
• bi-monthly - 2x month (this may be every 2 weeks or timed with the Full and New Moons)
• weekly - (you may choose a certain day of the week)
• daily - (any time of the day, consistently)

It is important that you initially choose a time that works for you, so you can do this exercise at the same time each time. In the case of emergencies and scheduling changes, remake your schedule to fit the changes as soon as possible (if this will likely be a regular change). If is is a one time event, merely do your cleansing as soon as possible.

Bottom line, cleansing is about intention. Sometimes this intention is connected with a certain action and therefore that action takes on the meaning of "cleansing" to you. There is no absolute right or wrong - you should do what works for you!

June 11, 2009
Naware
~ Spiritual Healer ~
Reverend, Reiki Master Teacher