Hi Emily H., As a non-practicing Hindu -- I still have a belief in this type of ritual. Many Hindu ceremonies involve lighting a small lamp (diya) or incense stick and saying a prayer. Many of these cleansing ceremonies you've asked about evolved from these Hindu puja ceremonies which are done to bless a new home, at the birth of a child, at the beginning of a new stage of life, etc. -- and many Hindus do a brief puja daily (like saying prayers before you eat, or go to bed as an example). I say if this type of ceremony makes your home feel blessed and feel more yours, you should do it regardless of what others may think of these rituals. Wish you well.
Q
