Revitalize your home

For Katrina Holigores, creating harmony within oneself and one’s surroundings is essential for well-being.

Drawing from her background in energy healing and spirituality, she has made it her mission to help others find clarity, balance and peace. Through her practice and platform, Soul Spa PH, she has guided countless individuals to rediscover their inner light and reconnect with the energies around them.

In an interview on the DAILY TRIBUNE’S Pairfect, Holigores explains that our personal spaces and emotional states are deeply intertwined. A cluttered, chaotic environment can reflect and amplify inner stress, while a clear, intentional space fosters calm and balance. “Energy is everywhere,” she says. “If your space is filled with broken or unused items, it can weigh on you — just like how junk food affects your body. A cluttered home doesn’t feel restful; it reminds you of all the things you need to fix.”

Common space mistakes and how to fix them

According to Holigores, the most frequent mistake people do is holding onto broken, unused, or outdated items.

“Every time you come home and see a broken chair, a lamp that hasn’t worked in years, or a pile of clutter, it does something to you — even subconsciously. It makes your space feel heavy, and that affects your energy,” she said.

To help clear and revitalize spaces, she shared these practical tips:

Declutter regularly. Take time every year to clear out what you no longer need. Broken items, unused equipment, or outdated furniture should be repaired, donated, or thrown away.

Donate or recycle. For those looking to be sustainable, consider donating functional items to vocational schools, charities, or organizations that may need them. Research recycling centers for items like appliances or electronics.

Let in natural light. Ensure your space receives adequate sunlight. Natural light boosts energy and improves mood.

Clear physical and energetic junk. Beyond physical clutter, stagnant energy can build up in spaces. Open windows, smudge with sage or palo santo, or use crystals like black tourmaline or selenite to absorb negative energy.

Maintain your space. Address issues like peeling paint, broken doors, or cracks promptly. A well-maintained space fosters a sense of calm and control.

“Clearing space is like self-care for your home. It opens up room for the things you actually want in life,” she explains.

Clearing energy from yourself

Katrina emphasizes that personal energy also requires regular care and cleansing. “We often give so much to others that we’re left feeling drained and uninspired. It’s important to refill your well.”

Here are her tips for clearing and maintaining personal energy:

Practice gratitude. Begin with reflection. “Start by recognizing what you’re grateful for — your achievements, your progress, and the things that bring you joy. Gratitude shifts your focus and raises your vibration,” she advises.

Set boundaries. Protect your energy by saying no to things that exhaust or overwhelm you. Learn to prioritize yourself without guilt.

Ground yourself. Simple grounding techniques, such as walking barefoot on grass or meditating, help release stress and center your energy.

Energy cleansing rituals. Regularly cleanse your energy by taking salt baths, using essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus, or practicing breath work.

Create a daily ritual. Dedicate time for self-care, whether it’s journaling, yoga, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea.

The connection between energy and self-care

Holigores highlights that self-care and energy awareness are deeply connected. “When you take care of your energy, you show up better for your family, work and relationships. If you’re more at peace, you’ll naturally attract the same energy into your space and your life.”

The growing awareness of self-care among Filipinos reflects a positive shift, she notes. “People are beginning to realize that they need to live for themselves. It’s not selfish — it’s necessary. When you take time to nourish yourself, you have more to give to others.”

A reminder to love yourself

At the heart of Holigores’ work is a powerful reminder: treat yourself with the same love and compassion you offer others. “We often set aside our needs, but it’s important to care for yourself — body, mind, and spirit. That’s where healing starts.”

Whether clearing your home of clutter or nourishing your energy with gratitude and grounding, Holigores’ advice is clear: self-care is a gift, and by embracing it, you allow more light, love and flow into your life.