Smudging: Are you doing it wrong?
5 tips on improving your space and energy cleansing.
Burning sage — also known as smudging — is an ancient spiritual ritual.
Smudging has been well established as a Native American cultural or tribal practice, although it isn’t practiced by all groups.
We have the traditions of many Native American peoples to thank for its use. This includes the Lakota, Chumash, Cahuilla, among others.
Many other cultures around the world share similar rituals.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of burning sage and how you can use it to improve your overall well-being.
Tip #1 - Create a way for energy to flow
Open all doors and windows of the designated space. Ensure the area is clean and well-ventilated in order to allow the negative energy and smoke to escape.
It's important to first smudge your self prior to smudging another object, space, or person
Tip #2 - Lighting your smudge stick
Light the tip of your smudge stick nd allow it burn - approximately 3-10 seconds for Whit Sage, and up to 60 seconds for Palo Santo. Blow out the flame, allowing it to smolder and smoke.
Tip #3 - Energy flow
Move the smudge stick around, allowing the smoke to fill the space or of object of focus. Allow the scent to bring peace, calmess, and clarity throughout your ritual
Tip #3 - Energy flow
Move the smudge stick around, allowing the smoke to fill the space or of object of focus. Allow the scent to bring peace, calmess, and clarity throughout your ritual
Tip #4 - Clarify your intentions
As you perform the cleansing ritual, repeat your intentions out loud or in your own mind, staying focused on the movement of the smoke and welcoming the shift of energy.
Tip #5 - Finish with gratitude
When you're finished, place the smudge stick on a fire proof dish and allow it to cease smoking on its own. Raise your vibration to a feeling of gratitude, for the negative energy being expelled, and positive energy flowing through your mind and space.
The Bottom Line
Burning sage has many benefits as a spiritual practice. Keep in mind: Burning sage is a sacred religious practice in some Native American cultures. Treat the ritual with respect.
