How to Smudge

Supplies and Instructions to Purify Your Surroundings With White Sage

Learning how to smudge couldn't be easier. The first step is making sure you have all the supplies you need to purify your surroundings with white sage.

For a basic smudging ceremony, you'll need just a few things to get started. Thankfully, even if you don't have a new-age type store near you, you can purchase all these supplies easily on the Web. (Modern technology meets ancient tradition. How nice for us!)

SMUDGING SUPPLY LIST

(1) White Sage. This isn't the kind of sage you buy in a grocery store, but rather special white sage that has been specially processed for smudging. I generally prefer the loose variety, but some people prefer sage wands or bundles. This is where the sage has been bundled into a stick-like configuration (great for "waving" too!). And, for variety's sake, you can always look into specialty varieties, such as lavendar sage, which more of a floral scent than classic white sage.

(2) Natural Fireproof Container. The most common container for smudging is a flat, open shell. If you don't live near the beach, don't worry. These shells can be purchased from metaphysical supply stores, whether in person or on the Web.

(3) Lighter or Matches. I know this seems obvious, but you wouldn't believe how many times I've started the smudge preparations, only to realize I had no lighter or match handy. I can't imagine how to smudge without them, so it's good to keep a few on-hand if you think you'll be smudging often.

While learning how to smudge, you'll want to make sure you have the right supplies. The kind of sage I prefer, meaning the loose kind, is pictured up front in the clear baggies. But those sage wands (pictured behind) are also nice, especially for special occasions.

(4) Feather (Optional). Sometimes, people prefer to use feathers to "waft" the smoldering aroma throughout their surroundings. Generally, the feather should be about the size of an old-fashioned writing quill as opposed to normal (aka smaller) sized feather.

HOW TO SMUDGE

(1) Place sage in fireproof container. If it's your first time, you might want to start with a smaller amount of sage than normal, for safety's sake.

(2) Ignite Sage. Please be careful. It's not like igniting gasoline or anything, but any kind of fire can be dangerous. Make sure you're not near anything flammable, like curtains, cleaning supplies, or a red-hot first date. The sage should ignite briefly, perhaps flame for just a couple minutes, then simmer down to a smoky, smoldering glow.

(3) Waft the Smoke Over You and/or Your Surroundings. When I smudge, I'll often carry my shell, filled with the smoldering sage, around my surroundings, letting the smoke cleanse the entire area. If you do this, you might notice that there are spots where the smoke seems especially drawn to. If that's the case, it suggests there might be a pocket of negative energy in that particular spot, and the smudge is doing its job.

(4) Incantations (Optional). If you'd like, feel free to voice your cleansing desires while you're wafting the smoke. For example, you might say things like, "I ask all negativity to leave this place." Or, "I ask that these surroundings only be filled with positive, healthy energy."

(5) Dispose of Sage. As a general rule, you won't want to discard burned sage down the garbage disposal or in your trash. Fire hazard aside, it is best to dispose of your burned sage in a natural, respectful manner, returning it to the Earth. For example, after making absolutely sure the sage is no longer warm, I gently sprinkle the burned remnants into my flower or vegetable garden. It's smart and respectful of the healing energy.