Salvia Apiana commonly known as White Sage, is a herb originating from South America and has been a part of ancient spiritual rituals for thousands of years. Since being adapted by other cultures around the world, we are now able to appreciate and incorporate the use of White sage into our own lives and spiritual regimes. The term Sage derives from the Latin “Salvia” meaning ‘To be well and healthy’.
The ritual of burning sage is known as ‘Smudging’ and is one of the oldest and purest methods of cleansing a person, space or item. It is essential to use high quality, ethically gathered Sage. The intention and cultivation of the sage matters just as much as buying organic foods and it is important to support and show respect to the native users who harvest the sacred plant.
The use of White Sage has many benefits but is most commonly smudged to dispel and unburden people of unwanted energies, instead promoting healing and wisdom. By smudging sage, you are purifying the air of all energies allowing you to prepare and set new intentions.
Other known benefits include:
- Supporting the body’s natural immune defences
- The ability to empower specific objects
- Reducing air bacteria
- Reducing stress, anxiety and depression
- Enhances your relaxation and self-care regime
- Strengthens intuition
- Improves sleep quality
- Insect repellent
- Natural therapeutic incense
You should consider smudging to acknowledge significant changes, a new home, office or family member. There are no specific rules around smudging, however it is key to set an intention and plan your ritual making it more meaningful.
Smudging Tips when Clearing a Space:
- Plan your ritual by setting an intention or a meaningful prayer. Such as “Into this smoke I release all energies that no longer serve me, all negativity that surrounds me and all fears that limit me.”
- Prepare your area by opening windows and doors, this will allow any unwanted energies to depart your space.
- It is advised to use an appropriate dish or plate to place your sage once burnt. Collecting any fallen ash. Be sure to keep the sage away from any flammable materials and children.
- Hold the sage, and light from the bottom using a matchstick. Let it burn for a few seconds before waving over carefully with a feather or hand, allowing the flame to be put out.
- You’re now ready to begin, gently let the smoke fill the room as you walk from corner to corner, concentrating on any gate way areas.
- Repeat your prayer or intention as you reconnect with your mind body and spirit.
- Once you have smudged your desired space place the sage on your plate, where it will naturally come to an end and can be re used on other occasions following the same steps.