Last night, I heard footsteps on the landing. You were asleep next to me, but I was awake.
It was dark, but the bedroom door opened, and so I assumed that Ben had woken up and came in for a cuddle. Eventually I could see him, just standing at the end of the bed, his outline just visible against the glow from the streetlight.
I called his name and told him to come in bed and cuddle me, but he just stood there. Then he touched my foot on top of the cover. I turned on the light. There was no one there.
After a night of heavy sleep, this is what my wife told me one morning. She was sure that our son had woken in the night, and come into our bedroom as he often did. Certain that it had been him and that she had not dreamt it, we were both left a little disturbed.
Strange things have happened in the house before, but my wife was also expecting our second son, and the potential for a presence being in the house made me uncomfortable.
So, I looked at ways to cleanse energy, and potentially calm and heal whatever was in our family home. That’s when I came across smudge sticks.
What are Smudge Sticks?
Smudging has been used for centuries by various cultures around the world, and involves burning herbs and using the smoke to cleanse and purify spaces, objects, and people.
A smudge stick is a bundle of dried herbs bound together. When burned, the fragrant smoke is said to cleanse and purify the space. The herbs used in smudge sticks vary depending on the tradition and purpose of the smudging, but sage, cedar, sweetgrass, lavender, and mugwort are commonly used.
Native Americans have used sage or other sacred herbs to purify a person or space before a ceremony or prayer. In other cultures, smudging is used to ward off evil spirits or negative energy.
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5 benefits and uses of smudge sticks
- Cleansing negative energy: The smoke from smudge sticks is believed to clear negative energy and purify spaces, objects, and people.
- Creating calm and focus. Smudging with rosemary or peppermint can enhance mental clarity and focus. The scent of the burning herbs can have a calming and grounding effect, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
- Connecting to spirits: Smudging is often used in Native American and other indigenous cultures as a form of prayer, connecting with the spirit world and inviting positive energy.
- Healing: The smoke is thought to have therapeutic properties, and is used to cleanse and heal the mind, body, and spirit.
- Decoration: Smudge sticks make a beautiful and unique addition to any home, adding a touch of natural beauty and fragrance.
How to use smudge sticks
Using a smudge stick is simple. First, light the tip of the smudge stick until it begins to smoke. Then, gently blow out the flame, allowing the smoke to waft through the air.
You can use a feather or your hand to direct the smoke. When finished, put the fire out pressing it into a fireproof container or sand.
Different Smudge Sticks and Their Uses
There are several different types of smudge sticks, each with their own unique properties and uses. Sage smudge sticks are commonly used for spiritual cleansing and purification, while sweetgrass smudge sticks are often used for attracting positive energy and blessings. Lavender smudge sticks are used for relaxation and calming, and cedar smudge sticks are used for purification and healing.
Burning cedar is a traditional practice used by many indigenous cultures, including Native American tribes. Cedar smudge sticks are used for cleansing and purifying spaces, objects, and people. Burning cedar is believed to clear negative energy and promote positivity and healing.
Smudge sticks are increasingly popular
Today, smudge sticks are used by many people for a variety of purposes. Some use them for spiritual or energetic cleansing, while others use them for aromatherapy or simply to enjoy the pleasant scent.
Many people use them to cleanse their homes or workspaces of negative energy, or to create a calming atmosphere. They are also commonly used in spas and other wellness settings.
Smudge sticks are often used in rituals or ceremonies, such as weddings, funerals, or other significant life events. They are also used by people who practice meditation or yoga, as the smoke is believed to help clear the mind and create a peaceful atmosphere.
The popular game, Phasmophobia, allows players to purchase smudge sticks to help temporarily cleanse a room of paranormal activity.
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Where can I get smudge sticks near me?
Smudge sticks can be found in many health food stores, metaphysical shops, and online retailers. You can make your own, but there are some great places on the net to buy, like:
When you’re ready to smudge, light the tip of the smudge stick until it starts to smoke, blow out the flame, and allow the smoke to cleanse and purify your space, object, or yourself.
I also decided to light some white candles in the landing of our house, and hang bundles of herbs over our main doors to the house.
I’m happy to say, that we haven’t had any more strange nightly occurrences since we used the smudge sticks!
Happy smudging folks.
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