Many people burn sage as a cleansing and purifying practice, helping to cleanse a space of negative energy. Some feel that sage helps them to feel grounded and more connected to the spiritual realm, while others feel that burning sage helps to reduce "bad vibes".
Even if you don't really believe in sage’s ability to cleanse a space of negative energy, I do think there is value in continuing historical traditions that connect us to the past.
People have burned sage and other herbs in many different cultures around the world for at least 4,000 years. Native Americans and other Indigenous Peoples have used burning sage to clear negative energy and restore harmony, and also as a sacred practice.
This is an interesting article by the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, The Sacred Art of Smudging, that also has information about burning different herbs:
"There are three primary herbs used in the Native American tradition for smudging: sage, cedar and sweetgrass.
Sage is used to dispel negative energy.
Cedar is used for an overall blessing or to cleanse where there has been illness.
Sweetgrass draws in positive energy"
We have all three of the above varieties at the store.
It’s recommended that non-native people call the practice of burning sage smoke cleansing rather than smudging, since the word "smudging" is associated with practices of the Native American people, though burning sage or other herbs has been used in many cultures, including the ancient Egyptians and Celts.
Burning sage or smoke cleansing seems like a nice thing to do to start the New Year on a positive note.
To light a stick of sage or other herbs, hold it at a 45 degree angle and light one end. Let the stick burn for roughly 30 seconds before gently blowing out. The sage bundle will continue to smolder similar to how an incense stick would. Many people use the same sage stick multiple times, though others recommend using a new stick if safe each time you do a purification ritual.
A small bowl of sand or dirt can help to extinguish a sage stick after a cleansing, but it should also extinguish itself after a time. You can also stamp the sage stick out in a ceramic bowl to extinguish it.
When cleansing a home, it should be done in a thoughtful, respectful, and meditative way, walking clockwise beginning at the front door around the indoor perimeter of the home, allowing the sage smoke to penetrate dark corners and closets.
Burning sage can be a nice way to begin the New Year in a positive way.
Stop by and see us at 7228 W. College Drive in Palos Heights.