How do I use smudge sticks correctly?

This is a question we are asked A LOT! How to use a smudge stick, the differences between smudge sticks, where to keep them, the list goes on. I’m going to try my best to cover everything without going on for too long!

What is a smudge stick?

There are various different types available, we stock Palo Santo, Desert Sage and White Sage smudge sticks.

Palo Santo, White Sage, Desert Sage

Palo Santo is Spanish and translates to ‘holy wood’, this is wood taken from a type of tree native to South America.

Desert Sage is from a purple flowering plant found in the deserts of western north America.

White Sage is a herb from a plant found primarily in Mexico and California

Each is dried to be used a smudge stick, with the herb-based ones bundled together with string.

What is a smudge stick for?

A smudge stick is used for cleansing, this practice can be traced back thousands of years through many different cultures. It is believed that using a smudge stick can purify energy by cleansing & removing negative energy. This can be used to cleanse a space, yourself or objects including crystals, removing any stagnant or unwanted energies allowing it to be released & flow freely.

How to use a smudge stick?

I know some may think you just light the smudge stick & waft it around but this is not the case, the practice must be respected and done properly to work. Here’s our step by step guide -

Prepare Your Space - Open a window or door to allow negative energy to escape and to ensure the smoke can exit the space safely.

Abalone Shell for smudge stick

Set an intention - Before you begin, set a clear intention for what you want to achieve through smudging, whether it's clearing negative energy, creating peace, or blessing a space.

Light the smudge stick - Use a match or lighter to ignite the tip of the smudge stick. Let it burn for a few seconds and then blow it out to allow it to smoulder and produce smoke.

Hold a fireproof container - Use a ceramic bowl, abalone shell, or any heat-resistant container to catch any falling ash or embers.

Direct the smoke - Use your hand or a feather to waft the smoke around the space, object, or person you wish to cleanse, while setting a clear intention for the smudging process.

Different variations

Smudging a Space - Start at the entrance of the room or space and move clockwise, directing the smoke into every corner, doorway, and window. Pay special attention to corners, which tend to accumulate stagnant energy.

White Sage over Abalone Bowl

Smudging Yourself - To cleanse yourself, start by holding the smudge stick in one hand and use your other hand (or a feather) to waft the smoke over your body. Begin at your feet and work your way up to your head, focusing on areas where you may feel blocked or tense.

Smudging Objects - To purify specific items (like crystals, furniture, or tools), hold the object in the smoke or wave the smudge stick around it. Let the smoke envelop the item and visualize it being cleared of any unwanted energy.

Give thanks - Once you have finished smudging, respect the process and express gratitude for the cleansing and the protection it offers. This can be a simple thank you or a more formal prayer, depending on your practice.

Extinguish properly - To safely extinguish the smudge stick, press the burning end into sand, soil, or a fireproof surface until the embers are completely out. Avoid running it under water, as this can damage the smudge stick and make it harder to reuse.

Always remember never leave a smudge stick unattended while it is burning and make sure the smudge stick is completely out before leaving it. Always keep a heatproof container nearby to catch ash or embers.

I hope this helps & answers any questions you may have had!

Take Care,

Lapid Art