Sage

Smudging with sage is a powerful practice to cleanse spaces, objects, and even your own energy field. Here’s a simple guide to help you use sage for smudging:

What You’ll Need:

  • A bundle of dried sage (white sage is commonly used, but other types can also be effective)
  • A fireproof bowl or shell (like an abalone shell)
  • A lighter or matches
  • A feather or fan (optional) for wafting the smoke

Steps:

  1. Set Your Intention:

    • Before you begin, take a moment to focus on why you are smudging. It might be to cleanse negative energy, to bring in positivity, or to purify a space or object. Hold this intention in your mind.

  2. Prepare Your Space:

    • Open a window or door in the area where you will be smudging. This allows the negative energy to leave as it is being cleared.

  3. Light the Sage:

    • Light the end of the sage bundle with a lighter or match. Allow it to catch fire briefly, then gently blow out the flame so that the sage smolders and produces smoke.

  4. Begin Smudging:

    • If Smudging Yourself or Others:
      • Starting at the feet, gently wave the smoke over your body, moving upward toward your head. You can use your hand or a feather to direct the smoke. Pay special attention to the areas around your heart, head, and hands.
    • If Smudging a Space:
      • Start at the entrance of the room. Move clockwise around the space, directing the smoke into corners, around doorways, and over windows. Continue around the entire space, visualizing the smoke clearing away any negativity.
    • If Smudging an Object:
      • Hold the object in the smoke, or if it’s too large, move the sage around the object while visualizing the cleansing of its energy.

  5. Finish the Smudging:

    • Once you’ve completed your smudging, extinguish the sage by pressing it into the fireproof bowl. Ensure it’s fully out, as sage can continue to smolder for a while. Some people prefer to let the sage burn out naturally if safe to do so.

  6. Express Gratitude:

    • Take a moment to express gratitude for the cleansing and the energy shift. Thank the sage, the elements, and any spiritual guides you may have called upon.

  7. Dispose of Ashes Properly:

    • You can return the ashes to the earth, or simply dispose of them with respect. Many people prefer to bury the ashes.

Additional Tips:

  • Frequency: You can smudge as often as you feel necessary—daily, weekly, or only when you feel the need to clear energy.
  • Ventilation: Always make sure the area is well-ventilated, especially if smudging indoors.
  • Safety: Never leave burning sage unattended.

This practice can be deeply personal, so feel free to adapt the steps to what feels right for you.

 

Proper care and storage of a dried sage bundle are essential to ensure it remains potent and usable for smudging. Here are some guidelines:

How to Care for a Dried Sage Bundle:

  1. Keep It Dry:

    • Moisture is the biggest enemy of dried sage. Always store your sage bundle in a dry place to prevent mold or mildew. Avoid placing it in areas with high humidity, like bathrooms.

  2. Handle with Care:

    • Dried sage is fragile, so handle the bundle gently to prevent it from falling apart. If pieces do break off, you can save them for future smudging sessions or create a loose sage mix for smaller smudging needs.

  3. Allow Proper Airflow:

    • While storing, make sure your sage bundle has some airflow to keep it from becoming too dry or brittle. This can be done by placing it in a breathable bag, like a cotton or linen pouch, rather than a plastic bag.

  4. Avoid Excessive Sunlight:

    • Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the sage to lose its potency and essential oils. Store it in a cool, dark place to preserve its natural properties.

How to Properly Store a Dried Sage Bundle:

  1. Choose the Right Container:

    • Store the bundle in a breathable, natural container like a cotton or muslin bag. If you prefer, you can also store it in a wooden box or on a shelf, as long as it is protected from moisture and excessive light.

  2. Separate from Strong Scents:

    • Keep your sage bundle away from strong-smelling substances, as dried sage can absorb other scents, which might affect its purity and effectiveness when burned.

  3. Label and Date:

    • If you have multiple bundles or types of sage, label them with the date of purchase or harvesting. While dried sage can last a long time, its potency may diminish after a year or two, so it’s good to keep track.

  4. Check Periodically:

    • Regularly inspect your sage bundle for any signs of mold, mildew, or excessive dryness. If you notice any issues, it may be time to replace the bundle.

  5. Use a Holder:

    • If you’re storing the sage bundle for short-term use, you can place it in an abalone shell or a fireproof dish on your altar or a dedicated space. This also makes it easily accessible when you’re ready to use it.

By taking these steps, your dried sage bundle will remain fresh, potent, and ready to use whenever you need to cleanse and purify your space or energy.