Smudging is an ancient practice used to clear stagnant or negative energies from a space. Research has also shown the practice to physically clean pathogens from a space as well. "Research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology entitled Medicinal Smokes in 2006 found that burning smudge sticks has the ability to cleanse the surrounding air of harmful bacteria. (...) A very large list of pathogenic bacteria was shown to be absent in an open room after a remarkable 30 days following treatment, leading the authors to conclude, “We have demonstrated that by using medicinal smoke it is possible to completely eliminate diverse plant and human pathogenic bacteria of the air within confined space.”
While the physical benefits have been touted by cultures for years, the mental/emotional "clearing" can often be of even greater benefit. Using the practice of smudging to establish a ritual of positivity & mindfulness in the home can be an amazing tool when life feels stressful & in need of a general revamp. Connecting a physical yoga practice (asana), a breathing practice ( pranayama) AND mindful rituals can have an serious impact o both mental and physical health! So what are you waiting for!
Ingredients:
25-30g Dry White Sage ( including stems)
2 Twigs Dry Lavender
Various Dry Rose petals
About 3 feet of natural twine (something burn friendly)
Various other dry flowers for color (optional)
Instructions:
Split your Sage into two piles. The first having the thickest part of the stem. Starting with the thickest stem, start to collect the sage leaves & 1 of the lavender twigs pinching the bunch at the bottom to hold it together. Once the bundle reaches about 1.5 inches thick, start to wrap the bottom with your twine to secure a "handle" of sorts. Start adding leaves, rose petals & lavender, moving upward wrapping the twine upward to secure as you go. Once the bundle is of its desired thickness secure the twine. The top of the twine should be about 1/2 inch - 1 inch from the top of the herbs to allow for burning.
Suggested Smudging Ritual:
1) Prepare your Intention: Take a few moments to establish your intention for the smudging. Sitting for a short breathe practice (2-3 minutes) or meditation can help cleanse your energy and settle the mind. Remember, your are clearing bad energy but will replace it with whatever you are emitting at the time. Don't swap negative energy for more negative energy!
2) Prepare the Space: I find that smudging a CLEAN room always feels much better. Clutter can often be a source of stress so clean up a little to get your space in prime energetic condition.
3) Perform your Smudging: Light the end of the stick & waft the smoke/incense around the spaces in need of clearing. Using a feather (optional) to spread the smoke is common. Keep in mind, that this is an ancient ritual and deserves the respect as such. Do your best to keep your intentions focused and mindful of your actions and thoughts during the smudging.
4) Establish a Closing Ritual: Find a special closing ritual that is unique to you! Closing with another short mediation, yoga practice, or simply a few minutes of quiet each time will close out your ritual in a mindful way that fits with your practice.
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