Article originally posted by Architectural Digest
New year, new you—so does the adage go. But what about your home? This year, infuse your space with healing energy that will give off good vibes year around. It’s easy to roll your eyes at the unsightly piles in your closet or complain about that old ottoman that reminds you of an ex. Now is the perfect time to build a solid foundation for interior design that makes you feel good. It’s time to clear out anything that is dragging you down—both physically and mentally.
Before you get started on a design rehab, also think about the folks you’ll invite over. “People make the place, so be sure to surround yourself with the ones that make you feel good,” says Victoria Ninette of Victoria Ninette Interior Design in Long Island. “You can be in the most stunning beautiful space, but if you’re surrounded by people that don’t make you feel good, then it doesn’t really matter where you are or what you’re doing.”
Company aside, healing experts emphasize that cleansing the energy in your home can make you feel safer and more ready to embrace day-to-day challenges. “Start by taking some time to reflect,” recommends Lindsey Banis, a healing specialist at Miraval Arizona, a wellness resort in Tucson. “Perhaps ponder, wonder, ask yourself what each room in your home means to you, what type of energy do you want each room to hold that best serves you and your family.” Even if you’re skeptical of crystals, it might be worth trying them out. You don’t have to be obvious about it or build some sort of shrine, but something like rose quartz bookends can be incorporated into your home office design. Or create a calming space in your entryway. “If you don’t know where to start, or the thought of doing everything at once seems overwhelming, think about the place you spend the most time [in],” Ninette recommends. “What’s one thing you can do to make it feel better?” Here, six lessons from experts and designers on how to bring healing energy into your interiors
1. Invite a soft glow

Photo: Courtesy of Victoria Ninette
When it comes to refreshing design, Ninette notes on the importance of making intentional choices. She points out that light can help recalibrate the energy in your home. To embrace natural light but also soften its glow, consider sheer curtains. Candles and dimmable chandeliers further add to the serenity of the space.
2. Cleanse the bathroom
You know how to clean your bathroom, but what about how to cleanse it? Banis recommends a clear quartz or a rose quartz crystal for the bathroom to enrich self-care. Amethyst is also said to give the space a “clearing energy,” she notes. The key to utilizing crystals is to place them with intention. Perhaps place a crystal cluster near the bathtub and, as you take a nightly soak, keep a self-care in mantra at the top of mind. “The intention acts as ‘instructions’ for how your crystals’ energy will navigate in your space,” Banis says. “The intention is the most important part of the crystal practice. This can be as simple as a one-word intention or a fully articulated sentence”
3. Declutter the office space

Photo: Chad Mellon
“How you care for your space directly impacts your energy,” Ninette says. “For example, if you work from home and the office is a mess, you might feel like your thoughts are a mess.” She recommends taking the time at the end of the day to put everything back in its place so you can start anew and set yourself up for success the following day. Knowing that your work space is a clean slate is guaranteed to make you feel good. If you plan to add crystals to this space, Banis recommends tigereye and schungite for focus and concentration.