When In Doubt, Smudge It Out
Our bodies carry all of our stress and negativity. Stagnant or negative energy can have extremely detrimental effects on our mental and physical state. Cleansing with Sage and/or Palo Santo can help release negative vibes, clear the energy in our field, and help us start anew.
Before I get into detail about how to cleanse with Palo Santo or Sage, here is a little bit of background on both.
Palo Santo, also known as the “Holy Stick”, is a wild tree native to Central and South America. It has been used for centuries to repel negative energy and cleanse the energetic field. Palo Santo is rich in brain oxygenating terpenes such as Limonene and a-Terpineol, which have uplifting and positive effects on the mind and body.
Sage is a member of the mint family of plants and is revered for it medicinal and culinary uses. Burning sage to clear the energy of a room or of your own energetic field is often referred to as smudging, which is an ancient Native American ritual.
So, how do I cleanse? I get this question a lot. In my opinion, there is really no "wrong" way to cleanse with Palo Santo or Sage once you light it. Below I’ve detailed some simple steps you can follow to guide you through a cleansing ritual; however, I encourage you to listen to your body and soul and let them lead you.
CLEANSING RITUAL
- Clear your space of any clutter and open up windows to allow for clean air to enter.
- Light your Sage Wand or Palo Santo Stick on fire and use your hand to fan the smoke around you.
- Invite the sacred smoke around your body starting at your head and ending at your feet. Request that the energy surrounding you be cleansed of any heaviness or negativity. I like to recite the following, "Into this smoke I release all energies that do not serve me, all negativity that surrounds me and all fears that limit me."
- Once you’ve completed the cleansing, take a few moments to sit with your eyes closed. Thank yourself for taking time for this ritual.