The sage’s comeback is here. Unbeknownst to new sage users, burning sage, also known as smudging, is one of the oldest and purest methods of cleansing a space or a person. It is also used to get rid of unwanted spirits. Burning sage dates back to prehistoric times and has been documented to have been used in every part of the world by our ancestors.
Since September is all about refocusing your energies, use this time to cleanse them using sage.
The Magic of Sage Smoke
Before you think mystical and anything else, there is science behind sage smoke. Simply put, its smoke removes airborne bacteria, which in turn provides rapid delivery to the brain and efficient absorption to the body.
Based on scientific studies, sage can clear up to 94% of bacteria in the air in the space and disinfect the air. This happens because the sage then burns, releasing negative ions—which is the reason behind that elevated mood you get after a smudge.
Sage Your Space & Get Rid of Negative Energies
Dredging sage in the space to remove negative energies does not take much time. Be sure to open a door or window before turning it on. Also, it is best to have an intention or mantra ready.
Take a moment before lighting the sage to determine exactly what it is that you want to clear or release from yourself or the space. When you have this figured out, decide on a mantra that you can repeat while speeding through the space.
Now, it’s time to light up! When it is already lit, hold it at an angle of 45 degrees and let it burn for 20 seconds. Slowly extinguish the flame until you see an orange ember on one end, and this is when you notice smoke. When smoke is present, move slowly around the space and let the smoke billow around. You can guide her to the open windows or doors so she can escape together with the negativity.
When smudging the space, pay close attention to mirrors, corners, hallways, and doors. You can also smudge phones and laptops.
Extinguish the sage safely by pressing the burning tip firmly into the dirt or sand until the smoke is no longer present. Make sure it doesn’t get wet because it will destroy the tip of the stick and make it harder to light next time.
Ready to clear those energies and bring in new ones? Start smudging!
