“Getting Rid Of” Is Not Clearing

Do objects have bad juju?

You know, like the beautiful heirloom ring that doesn’t feel quite right? That antique mask you got really cheap at the consignment shop that smells funny?  The 16th century Chinese chest you saw at the museum that made you feel dizzy?

If so, what is the best way to clear these things?

Perhaps this reply to a question I received recently will help.

Question

This is probably an odd question for you, but I need some sound advice in removing a suspected bad luck item.

I was given an African Fertility Figure from a relative many years ago, and over the years, I have come to feel that it has certain on/off characteristic when touched by the same person or a pass along ability when touched by others.

At first I mused it was related to fertility or virility and I thought lightly of such a piece and it’s original intended symbolism. After all, I have seen these same types of figures in stores like Pier One and I know they have probably been cranked out to sell to the masses.

This one however may not be of that variety. It came from a family that knew and collected authentic African Art. Weather real or imagined, I feel it may have a deeper and darker negative effect for those who touch it.

I would like to get rid of it. Throw it out, burn it. But the gnawing possibility of an on/off function stumps me.

How can I get rid of this and be done with it safely? It seems silly, but for some reason I feel compelled to be careful in how I dispose of this piece.

Thanks.

My Reply

First let me just say thank you for the consideration behind your question.  If everyone on the planet thought about the impact that certain objects might have on other people and spaces before releasing them into the world (or acquiring them), I daresay there would be no “bad juju” to even talk about. 😉

That said, I know the impulse to “get rid of, throw it out, burn it” very well. When we humans are confronted with a situation that scares us, or presses our buttons, or doesn’t feel very good, the natural reaction is to go into fight and flight.

Not good or bad. It’s just that the stress response, once unleashed, simply makes clearing much harder, if not impossible. Being attached to a particular outcome, or being attached to the belief that there is something “bad” that needs getting rid of, does not restore balance or bring about lasting change either.

Which is why I recommend trying a different approach: a clearing practice that is designed to calm the fearful mind and reduce the disturbing effects of any thing or issue that plagues you – be it an object like your African fertility figure, a funky corner of the closet, or a challenging relationship that rattles your cage.

You can start right now with this blog post I wrote a while back aptly entitled “A Simple Clearing Practice You Can Do (Right Now).”

Or you can reach for my book Your Spacious Self, which offers many opportunities to cultivate a clear home and a spacious life (one baby step at a time).

I hope this helps.

Happy clearing!

Stephanie