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Smudging with Sage: What is Smudging?



What is Smudging?

Smudging is a natural incense used as a form of blessing and invocation and has been used for centuries in different communities, most notably within Native American culture but you can find this process in all areas of the globe throughout time. It has been used in purifying or cleansing the soul of the negative thoughts and vibrations in a specific place. It’s also commonly been used to expel unwanted spirits. In Native American tradition, Sage, Cedar, Tobacco and sweetgrass are used during the ritual, although there are many different types of smudging sticks which we will discuss more below.


When do you smudge?

Smudging may be prominent when you’re moving into a new home, if you’ve had an argument with someone who you reside with, if you feel a negative energy building from a specific source such as a visitor or even if you can’t find any reason at all, but just feel the burden of the negativity around you. In other words, it’s a deep clean for your vibrational energies and your sacred space – your home.


What are the physical benefits?

Sage has antibacterial properties, It has been found that Sage can clear up to 94% of airborne bacteria, effectively disinfecting the air. The smoke from the smudge stick quickly hits brain and has efficient absorption to the blood stream. When burning Sage it releases negative ions, these can be particularly effective against positive ions that can cause respiratory agitations or allergies, for example; animal dander, dust and mould. This can temporarily help those who suffer from asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory issues, although it should be noted that the initial smoke from the smudging may cause irritation and so precautions should be taken until the smoke has cleared, the benefits will then be felt.


How do you smudge & what will I need?

We will run through some basics of smudging here, although there will be different steps based on personal preference, reason for smudging and type of ritual. If you decide to frequently smudge your home you may find you set your own pre and post smudging rituals. Typically set aside at least 15 – 20 minutes to complete, although this may take much longer if you are doing a larger space. Traditionally, you will need a smudging stick, an abalone shell, a feather (large enough to fan the smoke) and a lighter or match to light your smudging stick. Alternative to the abalone shell you can use a fireproof container – such as a bowl or plate and sand, to use as a method to extinguish the stick once done. Most people, dependant on reasoning for the smudge will quietly (or loudly!) repeat an affirmation or intention before smudging.

Such as:

- Please rid my home of negative energies that do not serve me.

- I live in harmony of mind, body and spirit

- I am grateful of health, abundance and happiness.

- I release all energies that do not serve me ( This is my favourite! )

- I release any worry from my body and home.


Use whatever mantra fits best with you and aligns with your intention. Allow your words and the sacred smoke to fill your space with positivity. Firstly, open a couple of windows then light your Smudging stick and let the flame take before blowing it out, at this point the stick should be smoking comfortably. Place the stick gently in your container or shell and use the feather to gently fan the smoke.


Wondering why we open windows?

It may seem strange since the smoke is so beneficial physically and spiritually, but this allows negative energy to leave the property. Without doing this, you may find little benefit from the smudging. Move around your home or room in a clockwise motion, starting from your front door. Ensure you are moving around the room at a steady pace, lightly fanning the smoke in all areas, including any small spaces that can collect negative energy such as corners, windows & behind doors. It’s also good to open cupboards, drawers and wardrobes as they can hold stagnant energy. It is common for the sage to go out if you are smudging for an extended time, if this is the case, then relight and wait for the flame to take before blowing this out and continuing on. If this is happening frequently, it may be that the stick was packed too tightly – simply loosen the string or ribbon its been wrapped with then lightly tap it against a table top if you continuously have this issue. When you have finished your smudging session, you can put the smudging stick out by pressing it against your container until it fully extinguishes or place in sand. This can now be reused for your next smudging session.


What smudging sticks should be used?

Below are description of a couple of the most common smudge sticks available, although there are many different types, each with their own strengths.


White Sage – The most popular and one of the easiest to obtain online. White sage can be used in preparation for events or prior to learning – such as seminars, university or exams. White Sage is predominantly used for releasing what is troubling the mind & for removing negative energy. It is also used for cleansing homes and sacred items. - Please be mindful that although white sage maybe readily available in your local metaphysical stores this product is endangered and there are some cultural implications, please do your research and make your own assessment prior to purchasing.


Desert Sage – Also known as blue sage or grandmother sage, its commonly used in ritual ceremonies, house cleansing, exorcisms or the removal of strong negative energy.


Palo Santo – Also known as Holy wood, is a little different to the other smudge sticks mentioned as it is a natural aromatic wood. Palo Santo has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes, and as a spiritual remedy for purifying and cleansing, as well as to get rid of evil spirits and misfortune. It can be used for deep emotional healing and trauma, relieving the symptoms of headaches, inflammation, emotional trauma, stress, colds and much more.


Mugwort – Also known as “Black Sage” or it latin name ‘Artemisia Vulgaris’. The herb helps to bring clarity, deepens intuitive abilities as well as removing negative energies.


We don’t currently stock our own smudging kits, but may look to in the future if the community show a need for easy access to sustainably sourced smudge sticks. Please let us know if you would like to share your own experiences, rituals and tips on successful smudging.



 


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