The psychology of house cleaning brings us a feeling of accomplishment, emotional comfort, and uplifts our mind and spirit, especially after seeing the results. According to research, physical surroundings can affect our sleep, level of anxiety, and capability to focus.
Now is time too deep clean the energy of your home. This part is super easy. With all of the movement around the home and decluttering, you would have dredged up stale energy. Now it's time to smudge!
WHAT IS SMUDGING?
Burning sage is sometimes seen as a woo-woo practice or just a New Age fad.
But smoke smudging, the spiritual ritual of creating sacred smoke using herbs or medicinal plants to cleanse a person or space and to promote healing and wisdom, has deep roots in Indigenous cultures. The ancient tradition is heavily ingrained in some Native American societies but was also used by the ancient Egyptians, Romans and other early civilizations as well.
WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF SMUDGING?
Smudging may offer more benefits than you think. Science is slowly catching up to the spiritual, and studies show benefits ranging from reduced airborne bacteria, lower anxiety and stress, enhanced cognition and improved sleep and mood.
While cleansing with white sage is ideal for clearing the air on an energetic level, it also has a few other practical uses. It releases negative ions that fight against things like dust and pollution. Research has also shown that it can clear 94% of bacteria (for up to 24hrs) which is why it’s great to use when you’ve not been feeling well.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SMUDGE?
There are no set limit on how long to smudge or how often; it's up to your judgement.
Personally, I like to smudge after a house full of guests. Some, without intention, can leave some 'baggage' behind. I also find smudging quite personal. I prefer to smudge in a quiet empty house, (this way I can smudge in peace without those weird looks from my family)!
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR WHEN TO SMUDGE
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When moving into a new home.
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When you want to cleanse the energy from a particular room or object.
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When your mood or energy is low.
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When you need to ground and refocus your spiritual energy.
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When you have decluttered your space.
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After periods of stress or illness.
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After having company in your home.
WHAT DO I NEED TO SMUDGE?
Sage smudge Stick - We only use sustainable and ethically sourced Californian white sage.
Heat proof bowl - For safety and to catch falling embers.
Candle/Matches - You may need to relight the stage stick as you go to keep it smouldering.
Method to extinguish - Simply press the stick firmly into the fireproof container until it has been extinguished or use sand or earth. If you plan on re-lighting your sage stick, then never use water to extinguish it.
Use a fire proof dish to catch the ashes. Some believe that the ashes hold the negative feelings and thoughts. disposing of the ashes outdoors is perfect to make sure any negative vibes are out for good.
HOW DO I SMUDGE?
It's important to set an intention just before you start smudging. Try thinking about what you want to remove from your life as well as what you want to bring in.
1. Open the windows or doors so that the negative energy has someplace to go.
2. Ignite the tip of your sage stick and let it burn for a few seconds, then blow out the flame and allow it to smoulder and smoke, (make sure you have a heat proof dish handy).
3. Move calmly through your home, walking clockwise around the perimeter of each room waving the smudge stick intothose hidden corners and shadows where negativity loves to hide.
4. While you are moving through your home say an affirmation "Bless this home and all who enter, please cleanse this home of all stagnant and negative energy. Fill this home with light, love and positive energy".
5. Once finished, extinguish the sage stick and take a moment to thank yourself for clearing your homes energy.
