How
can smudging be so powerful? The answer lies in the subatomic world of
subtle or spiritual energy. Homes and bodies are not just made of purely
physical matter; they also vibrate with quiet, invisible energy.
Cleansing a space or our bodies with techniques such as smudging clears
away all the emotional and psychic 'garbage' that may have gathered
over the years or even hundreds of years. it's like spiritual spring
cleaning.
The effects of smudging can be surprisingly swift and
dramatic. The rituals I will post in following lessons can help you
banish stress, attract love, sooth you, or give you energy.
They can bring your family closer together and let you adjust to
the healing seasonal rhythms of the year. Above all they can turn any
space, however humble, into a soothing sanctuary - a place of renewal
and happiness.
Lighting the Smudge Stick
It's
recommended to light your smudge stick with a candle, as the stick
sometimes takes a moment to fully light. Be sure to have something
below it to catch any embers or ash. Many people prefer a large
abalone shell set aside for just this purpose, but any fireproof
glass or ceramic will suffice.
Light the smudge stick, and once it's burning, gently blow it out. The stick will begin to smoke.
Smudge Yourself
To be most effective, you should always smudge yourself before moving on to smudge the home.
Allow
the smudge stick to smolder a moment. Gently fan the swirls of
smoke around your body from head to toe, envisioning the smoke bringing
waves of positive energy flowing over you. See it carrying away
any stress, anger, or other negativity, replacing it with a deep
contentment and calm. (Smudging yourself is also very effective
after illness, arguments, etc. to refresh and cleanse your
energy.)
Now you are ready to bless/smudge your home, space, or
others. We will focus here on smudging your home for house
blessing and energy clearing.
Smudge Your Home
Do one room at a time, generally starting at your front door. Gently fan
the smoke over each door, blessing all who enter and stating
that only positive, beautiful energy is allowed to enter. Do the
same for the windows, stating that all energy entering is
beautiful, full of light, healing, blessing, etc. Move through
your home room by room, smudging especially areas that may have
contained feelings of negativity. Pay attention to corners and
behind doors where energy can get "stuck". Continue throughout
your home, blessing each room, and allowing the smoke to carry
away any unhelpful energies.
It is helpful to speak your blessings
aloud, adding the energy and power of the spoke word to declare
and direct the energy. Use any words you like, as simple or
elaborate as you like.
Completion - Extinguishing the Smudge Stick
Once your home is smudged, express gratitude for the
effectiveness of your blessing, and gently extinguish the smudge
stick. One way is to dip the stick into moistened sand, or
simply dip the burning end of the stick into water to be sure
it's out. (Some people prefer to use a ritual bowl of blessed
water for this purpose.) Let your smudge stick dry thoroughly,
and store it in a special place for future use.
Smudge sticks are
simple yet very effective tools. I believe their unique
strength is derived from the fact that they embody all four of the
directions/energies combined:
- North - Earth: (the sage/herbs sprang from the earth)
- South - Fire (while burning)
- East - Air (while smoking)
- West - Water (while extinguishing)