Sacred Space Gifts

How To Smudge

Smudging or "smoking" is a form of purification among the Native Americans. Typically white sage is used, but oftentimes other herbs are used as well, such as sweatgrass and cedar. Many commercial smudge sticks come in a combination of wrapped herbs like sage/cedar together.

Once lit, the smoke from the smudge wand (or sage pieces if using a smudge pot), is used to cover the body or things (scared objects: pipes, feathers, flutes, dance regalia, etc.) needing cleansed and purified.

It is typical to use cupped hands to gather the smoke and then smooth it over the "etheric" body (the aura). Also, feather fans are used assist in the smoke being spread over entire body or object.

Smudge pots can be various items: clay pots, iron holders, or the most common abalone shells. Smudging is viewed as a form of prayer, a great connection to Spirit. Asking for a blessing or for protection.

It is also very typical to smudge a house or car. When negative things have happened it is a good way to "clean the slate" and give it a fresh clean feeling. It can be done after an argument and helps to dissipate the energy which allows us to start afresh.

You can use the following smudging ceremony or you may create a way that is right for you. No one way is right or wrong.

Place the abalone shell in front of you and thank it, aloud or silently for the life that created it and for helping you in this ceremony.

Place the herb(s) that you will be using in the shell, thanking each as you hold it. They have died so that you could have this smoke. That should not inspire guilt, but rather gratitude for the sacrifice. One day you will give your body for other beings of the Earth. Next, light the smudge mix. As you bring forth the flame, thank Father Sun, from where all fires arise, and also thank the spirit of Fire for coming to help you with this ceremony.

Make sure that some of each plant that you have put in the bowl gets lit. That way the smoke will contain all the energies you have chosen to work with. Fan the fire gently with your feather or hand until the herbs are burning enough to create sufficient smoke. Then use the feather to put out the fire, with one or two quick passes. If the smudge looks like it is going out, fan it until it is smoking again. If it does go out, it is fine to relight it.

Now, use the feather or your hand to bring the smoke over your head, down your chest, down each arm and over the hands. Now direct the smoke down your body, then each leg in turn, not forgetting to smudge under your feet. If smudging someone else, ask them to turn around and do the same down the back.

When done, direct smoke above you saying, "As above so below" then direct the smoke at the ground saying, "So below as above."

This process cleanses our hearts, minds and bodies and helps us to be grounded. While doing this, it is good to see the smoke carry away any cares or physical injuries.

You can now smudge any objects that you might want to by passing them through the smoke from the four directions, starting with the East.

Ask that the object be cleansed for your use or as a giveaway. If you are smudging with other people, smudge yourself first and then hold the shell by its edges for the others to smudge. You can also smudge a house or room that needs cleansing. Go around the room with the burning smudge, and using your feather, push any negative energies out through an open door or window. When you are done, let the ashes cool and give them back to the Earth with care.

The herbs are now joining the soil from which new life arises, so show respect for this part of the ceremony also, and empty the ashes thoughtfully, again thanking the herbs and the fire.