There’s something deeply comforting about the ritual of smudging—a simple yet powerful practice for clearing energy, inviting clarity, and creating sacred space. Whether you're preparing for a yoga class, holding space in a Reiki session, or just wanting to shift the energy in your home, smudging offers a gentle way to reset and reconnect.

What Is Smudging?

Smudging is the act of burning specific herbs or resins to cleanse and purify a space, object, or person. This practice has been used across many cultures as a sacred way to clear energy and invite in peace, intention, and alignment. While white sage and palo santo are perhaps the most widely recognized, there are many beautiful plant allies that can be used—each with their own energetic signature.

When and Why to Smudge

You might feel called to smudge when:

• The energy in your space feels heavy, stagnant, or off
  
• You’re preparing for meditation, yoga, or a healing session
  
• You’ve just moved into a new space or completed a deep clearing
  
• After an argument or emotional experience
  
• You want to cleanse your personal energy or sacred objects
  
• You’re beginning a new chapter or intention (new moon, birthday, seasonal shift)
  

Smudging isn’t just about removing what’s no longer needed—it’s about making room for what wants to arrive.

How I Smudge

My personal smudging ritual is simple and intentional. I usually use white sage or palo santo, depending on the moment and what I’m called toward. I light the bundle or stick and let it smolder, placing it in an abalone shell to safely catch any sparks or ash. I use a feather to gently waft the smoke, guiding it around myself, my space, or any tools I’m working with.

Before I begin, I take a moment to set an intention. Sometimes it’s as simple as:
"Let this space be cleared and protected. Let only love remain."

I move slowly and mindfully, often opening a window or door to give the energy somewhere to go. Once I’m done, I thank the plant spirit for its support and extinguish the embers.

Tips for Your Own Practice

• Start with intention—this is truly what gives the ritual its power.
  
• Be mindful of smoke sensitivity—if smoke isn’t an option, try using a smudge spray made with essential oils, or clear with sound, breath, or Reiki.
  
• Ethical sourcing matters—choose sustainably harvested sage and palo santo or grow your own herbs like rosemary, lavender, or mugwort.
  
• Less is more—you don’t need thick clouds of smoke; a gentle wisp is often enough.
  

Make It Your Own

Smudging doesn’t have to be elaborate. What matters most is that it feels authentic to you. Whether it’s part of your morning routine or a special ritual for big moments, smudging offers a moment of stillness and sacred reconnection.