Burning White Sage and Smudging for Beginners

If you are new to burning sage, there are some things you should know before you get started with your smudging ceremony. Not only will we cover the basics of smudging and how to burn sage, but we’ll also talk about sage benefits and ways to use white sage in your everyday life. Learn how to energetically cleanse any object or space using Sage. Grab your lighter and your favorite smudge stick, and let’s get started! 

About White Sage

Sage is a mild, slightly sweet herb with a calming, earthy aroma that has been burned for centuries for spiritual and ceremonial purposes. You can also burn white sage in your home or office to cleanse energy that may be residing there. 

Sage is often burned during cleansing and smudging rituals, but not all varieties are created equal. White sage is the best variety for these ceremonies. In addition to being less expensive than some other varieties, white sage has longer-lasting burn time and an earthier scent that stands up well against stronger burning herbs. If you’re going to be using sage regularly for cleansing or smudging ceremonies, it may be worth investing in a high-quality bundle of white sage. 

For thousands of years, white sage has been burned in ceremonial practices. Native Americans and indigenous peoples all over the world have used it for cleansing and healing. The smoke clears away negative energy and spirit entities that you don’t want around. Burning white sage purifies your home space, as well as cleanses any objects present that may be harboring bad energy. White sage benefits extend beyond cleansing; it’s also believed to protect against negative energies.

How to use Sage

White sage is an herb that can be burned (in a safe way) in order to cleanse an object or a space around you. Many people have also used it for healing purposes, purification and protection. Here’s what you need to know about white sage and how you can use it safely at home.

What is Smudging?

Smudging is a cleansing technique derived from Native American culture, which entails burning dry sage or other herbs to cleanse your home or space of negative energy. The smoke from smudging sticks carries these negative energies away while replacing them with positive ones. It’s said that a simple smudging ritual will leave your home feeling more open and peaceful. If you’re ready to give it a try, here’s what you need to know about how to burn sage safely.

Basic Smudging Instructions

Open windows and doors to allow smoke and energies to escape. Light the smudge stick and gently blow out the flame, allowing the smudge stick to smolder and smoke. Carry the smudge stick above a fireproof dish such as a smudge bowl or abalone shell to catch any falling ash. Move around your home or space in a clockwise direction. Internally or verbally state your intentions while fanning smoke throughout the space. Don’t forget hidden or dark spaces such as corners, basements, etc. You can also use the same technique for burning loose sage instead of using a smudge wand. 

Remember safety comes first. Be careful with bringing your smudge stick close to curtains, drapes, tapestries, furniture, etc. Also make sure the smudge stick is completely extinguished upon closing your ritual. 

Julys Moon offers many intention-based smudge kits that include everything you need for your next ritual. Whether your intention is to cleanse a new home, de-stress or attract love, we have a smudge kit for you. We also carry a variety of travel size smudging kits for cleansing on the go.