20 February 2023
Types of Smudge Sticks and How to Use Them
Are you curious about the ancient practice of smudging? For centuries, various cultures have used smudge sticks for their spiritual and energetic benefits. These bundles of dried herbs, leaves and flowers are ignited and used to cleanse and purify the energy of objects and spaces. It’s like waving a magic wand, except instead of spells, you get to banish negative energy and fill your space with good vibes!
As someone who practises spirituality and meditation, I use smudge sticks as a part of my daily rituals to deepen my connection with the divine and to create a sacred space for myself. I’ve mentioned in a previous blog how I use a smudge stick during my candle-gazing rituals, as they help guide me to a more transcendental state of mind for meditation.
But that’s not all that smudge sticks can be used for! The possibilities are endless, from enhancing uplifting or peaceful energy, to cleansing spaces and raising vibrations. If you’re still curious to explore the vast potential of smudge sticks, then read on for more!
Cleansed and Protected
Smudge sticks are an ancient and powerful tool used for a variety of purposes, but none quite as popular as cleansing and protection. When it comes to selecting a herb for this purpose, Sage reigns supreme. With a wide range of variations including Desert Sage, Cedar Sage, and the ever-popular White Sage, this herb has been revered by Indigenous tribes as a vital component of their spiritual ceremonies. And for good reason! Its potent aroma is known to repel negative energy and attract positivity, making it an essential addition to any sacred space.
But Sage isn’t your only choice when it comes to cleansing and protection – Juniper and Dragon’s Blood smudge sticks are also just as effective! Juniper is thought to have incredible protection qualities, with its smoke creating a barrier between yourself and negative forces. Dragon’s blood smudge sticks, made from the resin of Dragon trees, can help in strengthening your aura.
To harness the powerful energy of these smudge sticks, I carefully light the end of the bundle and allow the fragrant smoke to permeate every corner of the space. I focus my intention on releasing any negative energy and welcoming in cleansing and protective energies to fill the space. I allow the sweet fragrance to envelope me, and take a deep breath, allowing myself to be fully present in the moment.
Raising Frequency
I often use Palo Santo as a smudge stick to raise my vibration and rid myself of negative energy. It’s said to have a high frequency, promote positivity and help with grounding. Palo Santo is native to South America and has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes in shamanic rituals. They share the belief that when the smoke of Palo Santo wood comes into contact with our personal energy field, the tree spirit within the wood eliminates negative thoughts and events, repels malevolent spirits, assisting in restoring a sense of harmony and equilibrium.
When I use Palo Santo as a smudge stick, it guides me into a state of transcendence that’s perfect for my meditation practice. As I light the stick, I envision my energy elevating while my spirit becomes more grounded in the present moment. The high frequency and positive energy of Palo Santo helps me feel more centred and connected to myself and the world around me.
Uplifting
When I’m looking to bring in new and uplifting energy, I turn to lemongrass as a smudge stick. Its refreshing and citrusy aroma is believed to enhance mental clarity and promote positive energy. Using lemongrass in my smudging rituals helps me clear out any negative energy and fill my space with a renewed sense of optimism and positivity.
To incorporate lemongrass into my smudging ritual, I light the end of the bundle and let the fragrant smoke waft throughout the entire space. As the smoke rises, I envision a renewed sense of energy and optimism permeating the atmosphere, uplifting my mood and bringing a fresh perspective to my day.
Calming
Lavender is a herb I use for my smudge sticks when I want to bring forth a calming energy. It has a soothing scent that can promote relaxation and peace. We’re all aware of how potent lavender is for aiding a good night’s sleep, hence its popular use in room sprays and essential oils. However, burning a bundle of dried lavender is a far better natural alternative, as it eliminates the harsh chemicals that are often added into synthetic products.
When I want to invoke calming energy, I light the end of the bundle and let the smoke spread throughout the space, making sure to reach every corner. As part of my nightly rituals, I visualise peaceful and calming energy entering into my space to aid a restful and restorative night’s sleep.
Loving
If you’re seeking to tap into the love frequency, using a rose smudge stick is a perfect avenue to take. It has a sweet and floral scent that can promote self-love, romantic love and friendship. Roses have been a timeless symbol of love, and are closely associated with goddesses’ such as Aphrodite and Venus. When used in a smudge stick, they can be a magical tonic for your heart chakra, allowing you to receive and give love unconditionally.
When I want a boost of self-love, I light the end of the bundle and let the smoke spread throughout the space around me. As the smoke rises, I visualise love and positive energy filling my heart chakra and the space around me.
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Smudge sticks can be a powerful tool for spiritual and energetic practices, helping to deepen your connection with yourself and the universe. I encourage you to experiment with different smudge sticks and find the ones that resonate with you the most. Remember to always set an intention when using smudge sticks and visualise the energy you want to bring into your space, be it a sense of love, tranquillity or to raise your vibrations.