To Smudge, Or Not to Smudge

Smudging is a hot trend right now. If you’re not familiar, smudging is the practice of casting out stagnant energy or evil spirits (typically) using the smoke from a lit bundle of dried sage. But it’s catching some heat metaphorically too. 

See, smudging as it has become popularized is most closely related to Native American shamanism. And within the last ten years, the practice has been heavily usurped by boutiques and new-age practitioners who add their spin on it, including tucking crystals into the bundles. Cute, but they don't burn! There is a ton of information on the web about the cultural appropriation of smudging and that white sage, in particular, is an endangered plant. But it got me thinking, are Native Americans the only ones who used smudging? The answer, of course, is no. But with a twist! 

While Commercialized smudging is most closely linked to Native Americans, the practice of using smoke to clear space can be traced to nearly every historical tribe and religion. And while White Sage is considered a sacred plant to Native Americans, other tribes and faiths used sacred plants indigenous to their home country. For example, throughout the Middle Ages, Europeans used Juniper to ward off evil and disease. The ancient Celts used a practice called Saining. Similar to smudging, Saining can include burning herbs in combination with spoken prayers or poetry. Still, it may also include making the sign of the cross or using blessed (holy) water, practices we most closely relate to a religious ceremony. In some cultures, bonfires provide mass cleansing for the entire community. Believe me; this rabbit hole is neverending. 

After all of that, you might be wondering if it's still okay to do it. I gave it some consideration about a year ago and decided that I do not promote the act of commercial smudging or smudging products to cleanse or bless a home. Instead, I suggest finding a more personal technique. For instance, I have attended both Christian and Jewish house blessing ceremonies where I and a few friends and family prayed to protect the home and family. I have also quietly prayed over my own home and office, offering intentions for the highest good of the universe. I'm a fan of using incense, scented candles, and essential oils to release any stagnant energy around my home. In the office, I have used a lavender “smudge” spray made of essential oils, which I find calming and usually draws compliments from coworkers. And some of my friends have invoked the protection of a specific saint or deity using strategically hung ribbons or tokens. All of which I find effective in bringing peace to occupants. 

Ultimately, it doesn't matter what you do; infusing your space with positive energy starts with living authentically and setting good intentions, and probably regular vacuuming. 😉