To Smudge or Not to Smudge

I choose to smudge—with fragrant sage.  In fact, for many years, I’ve smudged (purified) to release negativity that can collect, float, and linger at home.  

Last week, a large circle of work colleagues collected in a parkette to partake in a smudging ceremony.  Simple, informative and inspiring, it was an opportunity to embrace positivity and give thanks.  The heady scent of burning sage, which has been described as an “acrid tang”, “the arrival of autumn” or “a burning campfire” wafted through the cool, misty spring afternoon to soothe and uplift. 

Burning sage (or a mixture of herbs) serves to heal, filter, cleanse space and/or emotions, and provide clarity.  Use it as a wand or loosely (in an abalone shell is preferred) to smudge a “sacred space” (room, home, office, even body).  Part of this ritual is to walk in a circular fashion and, if desired, softly and succinctly state something affirmative.

Smudging requires respect and a knowledge of how to handle herbs based on traditional Native American practices.  This post is the briefest of brief introductions.  At your Internet fingertips is a plethora of information.   Explore.  Learn.  Then, decide for yourself whether to smudge or not to smudge.

miigwech