What is Smudging?
Smudging is an ancient practice that I have come to appreciate deeply. Used by various indigenous tribes around the world, it serves as a way to cleanse the energy field in both our surroundings and within ourselves. The smoke, combined with the consciousness of the plants, works together to purify negativity and clear energy fields. North American Natives, in particular, use different types of smudge as medicine to cleanse themselves before ceremonies, harvesting, hunting, or simply to purify the start of their day.
Does a Plant Hold Consciousness?
I believe that just as each person possesses unique gifts and vibrations, so does each plant. Every flower, tree, bud, and fungus holds varying degrees of consciousness and energy. It’s subtle yet accessible if we take the time to listen. If you’re curious about how science can record the vibrations of plants, I recommend exploring the work done in the intentional community of Damanhur.
What Herbs Are Used in Smudging?
Different tribes that maintain close relationships with the land have specific plant allies they use for smudging. Each tribe has its own unique smudge medicine. For example, some North American tribes utilize desert sage, Okanagan sage, white sage, sweetgrass, and black diamond willow fungus.
How Do I Harvest the Herbs?
In my experience, the Western world often approaches nature with a mindset of simply taking what we need. However, I’ve learned that there is an unseen law of reciprocity throughout the universe: when we give, we also receive. When I go out to harvest my medicine, I do so with intention—this is key to everything we do. I have been harvesting Okanagan sage from the same location for 15 years. I don’t just take the sage; I connect with the energy of Mother Earth and the consciousness of the sage plant by giving an offering and saying a prayer. I express that with each plant I harvest, it may be used for healing intentions. Each bundle is wrapped with this same healing intention. Sometimes, I sing while bundling them together; other times, I hold a vision of healing. Intentions.
How Do I Smudge?
The most important aspect of smudging is ensuring that my heart is open and that I’m not caught up in judgment or overthinking. Each thought we think is felt deeply; therefore, staying focused is crucial. If you’re new to smudging, I highly recommend tuning into your heart or reciting a mantra to help maintain your focus. There’s no definitive guide on “how to smudge,” but I suggest following the energy field moving through your body. It’s like tuning into a current—moving energy from top to bottom or from ground up as you fan the smoke around your body. You’ll feel how using a feather to move the smoke affects your energy field.
Connecting to Spirit
When I invoke gratitude during smudging, it opens my heart and connects me to the unseen energy of Creator or Great Spirit—the one who is known by many names. In this heart-centered space, there’s no fear or judgment—only acceptance. Love is another name for God. Preparing myself or my space with intention creates a sense of ceremony. When I connect to a higher purpose, it shifts how I perceive both the world and myself.
What Are the Benefits of Smudging?
There are numerous benefits that I’ve experienced through smudging:
- Purifies the person’s energy field
- Cleanses the energy of a room
- Brings forth a sense of clarity
- Invokes a connection with the Sacred
- Connects with the consciousness of the plant
- Calms the nervous system
- Cleans the air
- Helps to ground
I hope you will find time in your day to smudge your home, business, and vehicle. Embracing this practice can foster healing and connection in your life as it has in mine.
Written by Sequoia Henning
