How to Use a Smudge Stick

Smudging actively changes and cleanses negative energy to create a natural and positive, healing energy and can be used to enhance the positive energies in your environment. Smudge sticks are often used in Native American and Celtic traditions, but can be used personally in your home as well.

Instructions

1. Light the smudge stick so that it smolders. You do not want an open flame. Some people smudge using only their hands, while others use feathers to help push the smoke and wash a room, object or body. It is common to use a shell or clay bowl to catch the ashes.

2. Smudge anything and everything that wants or needs it. You can smudge your own body, your home and your personal possessions. If willing, you can smudge the people that live with you, or even your pets.

3. Keep a regular smudging schedule to keep your energy clean and pure. Some people like to use a smudge stick before and after a deep house cleaning. Use the smudge stick before to help rid the home of unwanted energy along with the dust and dirt, and afterwards to attract and fill the home with positive healing energy.

4. Focus your energy and your thoughts on the task at hand. Ask for the negative energy to leave and for the positive healing energy to enter. Because the materials of your smudge stick are gifts from the Earth, always ask permission before burning, and give thanks after smudging.

5. Burn a smudge stick before a ritual, ceremony or prayer to prepare and open your body's energy field and help you focus your spiritual energy for divine interpretation.

6. Cleanse your body's energy when you are ill, depressed or without energy. Smudging can help you remove negative energy and emotions that are bringing you down, and can help you improve your state of being by stimulating positive energy.

7. Leave a window or door open when smudging a house to allow the negative energy to leave easily.