Smudge This
Harnessing the elements of earth, air, fire and water cleanses negative energy!
Smudging is a symbolic exercise common to feng shui practice, many Native American Indians, Métis (First Nation Indians) traditions, energy modalities and alternative holistic healing practices.
Smudging may be practiced differently and may have different meanings to different people. This scared and ancient practice has been used in almost all cultures and religions all over the world.
There are many herbs you can use to smudge, commonly used is white sage, you can now usually find it at most health food stores.
You can smudge your home and space getting all corners and opening windows and doors to release all the negative energy to flow out, again set your intentions. I personally like to say a little prayer, and do this every new and full moon, to welcome in the phases of the moons energy, you can also do as needed.
You can cleanse your body of negative vibes starting at your feet and going up the center of your body all the way up to your head.
Smudging is an ancient and sacred ceremony, best performed with full awareness, intention and in a slow, mindful manner.
Use an abalone shell as a smudging bowl, it represents the water element in smudging rituals as it catches the hot embers from the herb which represent fire. The herbs or wood itself represent the earth element, while the smoke represents air, all of which help to bring balance, cleanse and purify your space.
A recent study supports and validates ancient knowledge and practices, it showed that sage smoke carried to areas of you home can eliminate certain airborne bacteria’s.
Moving into a new home, office or even getting a new car? Recently I discovered a fun and amazing idea to discover bad vibes is by placing lemons around your home or place to detect negative energy, if the lemon quickly prunes or becomes discolored, pay more attention cleansing this area.
If you are an Empath, Lightworker, Healer, Therapist or have a stressful job you should be routinely smudging your space and self.
Of the many herbs you can use, I often use Palo Santo, Sage, Lavender. I feel that Sweetgrass is a nice way to complete your smudge once rid of the negative energy, as it welcomes in positive energy into your freshly cleaned space.
Common Practice:
Open windows throughout, light the end of your herb. Let your herb catch fire, then blow it out. Move clockwise around your space, and to the 4 corners. With intentions to clear and clean, ridding of negative energy. You may say "I clean this space" x3, or a prayer. A feather and abalone shell have been commonly used for centuries, the abalone is durable and flame resistance and can be used with a stand to protect surfaces while smudging. Extinguish in sand or allow to burn out safely in a fire resistant or ceramic or clay pot. Dont ford get to smudge yourself, with a sweep along your vertical body, (energy centers).
Below are examples of a few common herbs and some of their healing properties:
Sage (there are many types) - to clear out negative energy, raises vibration, protects, calms and has a healing antibiotic agent
Cedar - attracts the good stuff, rids the bad, promotes forgiveness and balances emotions
Sweet grass - invites the good vibes and seals with protection, a great end to your smudge
Santo Palo - to purify, heal, attract positivity, love and good fortune
Lavender - for pure relaxation, happiness, wisdom, peace of mind and restfulness
Cinnamon - increases vibration and healing
Bay leaves - just look in your kitchen cabinet for this cleansing herb! It increases psychic abilities, helps relieve anxiety, boost immune system and bring good fortune
Eucalyptus - for healing, protection, balance and purification
Rosemary - for healing, protection, purification, love, strength, memory, stress relief, and mental clarity
Myrrh - for healing, wisdom, ancestry, emotional balance and attraction
Rosemary - to bring happiness, love, memory, passion, bless weddings with fidelity, honesty, longevity, wisdom
Aspen - for protection and anxiety
Warning:
Although most any herb or flower can be used to smudge, it’s important to research the herb, flower or plant before burning
Research has found that those who regularly smudge, experience positive pulmonary, neurological and dermatological benefits.
However some herbs may emit odors that can provoke allergies, asthma or illness.
Don't like the smoke? You can use oils, sprays and even a rattle to clear an area.
Be safe and responsible, always remember when you're done smudging your space make sure the herb is safely out. Some do so in a bowl of sand.
