A Cleansing Ritual for the Lunar New Year

This Lunar New Year, starting on January 29, will be one of transformation and growth—at least, according to Chinese Astrology. This year will be the Year of the Wood Snake. Snakes, which shed their skins, symbolize transformation. The element of wood, like trees, symbolizes growth.

If you haven’t yet stepped into the higher self you resolved to be on December 31, the Lunar New Year is your fresh start and new beginning. So, to set yourself up for positive change and a personal evolution, try this cleansing ritual by a Feng Shui expert and reiki master, Michelle Lee:

Step 1: Clean Your Space

Marie Kondo your closets, garage, computers, and phones. It’s about letting go of what no longer serves you so you can bring new abundance, opportunities, and connections into your new year.

Step 2: Cleanse with Salt Water

The first elemental cleansing is water. Sprinkle sea water or your own saline mixture around your space. This act is a physical and symbolic washing away of any lingering negativity or stagnant energy.

Step 3: Smudge Your Space

The second elemental cleansing is air. Smudge your space using incense, or whichever herb/ wood you use in your own practices. As the smoke wafts through your home, imagine it taking away all the old energy and bringing in new breath.

Step 4: Decorate with Red and Emerald Green

Red decorations symbolize luck, joy, and prosperity. Red flowers, lights, lanterns, and decorations will make your space festive and align with tradition.

For 2025, adding a touch of emerald green, the color of nature, harmony, and growth will be aligned to the time: It’s the color the Chinese associate with the wood element, the main element of this year.

Happy Lunar New Year! 🐍🌿✨