Do you partake in smudging? What is smudging you ask? Smudging is an ancient ritual that involves burning sacred plants. Two of the most commonly used plants in smudging are Sage and Palo Santo.
Sage and Palo Santo
Sage is a sacred herb that can be purifying and helps fight off infections and bacteria and viruses. Sage can be beneficial for allergies and can help with stress, helps to improve your mood and can aid with sleeping. Sage is known for being used to combat negative energies. Palo Santo is a tree that grows on the coast of South America and when translated it means, “holy wood”. Both Sage and Palo Santo are known for their cleansing and healing powers. Palo Santo is often used for curing physical ailments such as headaches and the common cold. It is also used to aid in emotional alignment when experiencing stress, anxiety or depression. White Sage is said to be “stronger” than Palo Santo as it removes all energy from a space for a full cleanse whereas Palo Santo is used primarily for removing negative energy.
How to Incorporate Smudging Rituals into Your Life
People often engage in smudging rituals if they are moving into a new home or preparing for new endeavors. It is often utilized after negative events or experiencing negative energy, whatever that means for you. Maybe you got into an argument with someone or got some really bad news, this is a way to rebalance your environment. After a major negative event such as a breakup, divorce or job loss a spiritual cleanse can help clear a path for positive energy to enter your life. Many people have incorporated smudging as a regular ritual as part of their self-care routine. This is a way to keep your chakras aligned. Chakras are the seven centers of spiritual power within the human body. When burning Sage many people “sage” their body by holding the sage near and around their body, over their head, etc, to absorb the cleansing properties. You may also want to walk around in the various rooms of your home and allow the Sage to permeate through the different areas of your home or whatever space you are smudging.
My Smudging Routine
I have recently started this ritual and find it to be very soothing and relaxing. I believe this can be easily incorporated into your self-care plan. This can be used as a method of relaxation and a way to renew your energy. Please be sure the area where you are smudging is well ventilated. You may need to open the windows to ensure good circulation throughout your home. I like to listen to music while smudging which further relaxes me and rejuvenates my mind. You might want to also light some candles or whatever else helps you to relax. Some people like to journal or utilize their creative energy as part of their smudging ritual. I have found smudging to be very therapeutic. I feel there have been physical and emotional benefits for me. After smudging I feel refreshed and my sinuses seem clearer. It is definitely a worthy addition to any holistic self-care plan. We must remember to take time to care for ourselves. We only get one life, we must live it to the fullest.
If you want to try smudging you can order a smudging kit from Amazon. See the link below:
