How to “Sage” or “Smudge” an area
~ Written by SuZen
Sage has been used for thousands of years in many cultures. From healing properties to culinary delights to clearing energies, sage is a very versatile herb.
If you’ve never used sage to clear out energies in a space this will explain it very easily so you can do this anytime.
The first thing to keep in mind is fire/smoke safety. Be sure you have something like a fire proof plate or abalone shell to collect any ashes that may fall while smudging your area. Collect this, a means for lighting (lighter or matches) and the sage itself is all you need. You may wish to also have water or a fire extinguisher nearby. (If you are somewhere where smoke is not safe or allowed you can also use a sage spray). You can also have a small fan or feather to spread the smoke as well.
To begin, open up a window or door in your house. This is necessary for an exit for the smoke and any negative energies to leave.
Take a few deep breaths before you begin to clear your own energy and set your intentions. You may intend to clear energies, you may have a reason for this clearing or it could be general in nature.
Start by lighting the end of the sage bundle. Allow the fire to burn for a minute or so then it should either go out on its own or you can carefully blow the flame out yourself. You should now be holding a smoking bundle. Begin at one end of the room and slowly wave the wand around as you walk around. Invite any negative energies to leave and invite positive energies to enter or stay. You may also wish to release any stagnant energies as well. Thank all of the energies for moving. Let anything negative know it is not welcomed in this space. Today or in the future. Continue moving about the space until all areas, especially in corners, have been covered with smoke. Use your hand or your fan or feather to wave the smoke about. End at the open window or door as it exits your space. Allow the smoke to exit before you close back up the door or window.
You can now thank all of the energies for leaving this space. Be sure the sage smoke/fire is completely out and then you can put your items away for future use.
Your space is now cleared. You have now been cleansed as well. You and your space should feel lighter and clearer.