What is cultural smudging? Smudging is a cultural ceremony practised by a wide variety of Indigenous peoples in Canada and other parts of the world. Although practices differ, smudging is used for medicinal and practical purposes as well as for spiritual ceremonies.
Is it disrespectful to burn sage? Because of all that complicated history of sage burning, when non-Native people use white sage to “smudge” their homes or other spaces, it infringes upon the cultural importance and authenticity of the ritual and prayer — simply, it’s cultural appropriation.
Can you smudge if not indigenous? Smudging and Sacred Medicines
We personally love to share these benefits with those who seek to listen carefully and learn consciously. As long as you’re respectful, we firmly believe that smudging and use of other sacred medicines is perfectly acceptable for those who do not come from Indigenous culture.
Is it cultural appropriation to use sage? If you’re not a member of an Indigenous community, purchasing white sage, Palo Santo, or other sacred herbs and quickly Googling “how to smudge” will not make you qualified to do so. This is cultural appropriation, and it’s harmful to Native communities.
What is cultural smudging? – Additional Questions
Is it OK to use white sage?
White prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana) is both antimicrobial and antibacterial . White sage (Salvia apiana) is also antimicrobial. And both have been shown to repel insects. Beliefs that burning sage clears out spiritual impurities, pathogens, and even insects have been fundamental to the practice of smudging.
What can I use instead of sage and Palo Santo?
Another great way to smudge yourself without using Palo Santo or Sage is the use of an oil diffuser. You can also use an oil burner, so together with your resin incense, you can alternate them with just the use of one utensil.
Oil Diffuser
- Cypress.
- Myrrh.
- Juniper Berry.
- Virginian Cedarwood.
What cultures use sage?
While sage is commonly associated with smudging and several Native American, First Nations, Inuit or Métis cultures may use forms of sage that are local to their region, the use of sage is neither universal, nor as widespread as many believe.
Who can use sage?
“Non-Indigenous people are so freely able to use sage, and they’re doing it in their homes, and they need to put it into perspective,” says Millar. “At one point in history, me just doing a smudge, I would go to jail or have my kids taken, essentially.
Is it OK to burn blue sage?
Blue Sage’s soothing, relaxing smell can be used to aid meditation, or burned simply for enjoyment.
How do I get rid of white sage respectfully?
You should not throw sage away in the trash can. The best way to dispose of it is to wait for it to stop burning and then burying it outside to seal any negative energy outside that was removed while smudging.
Does smudging sage expire?
Do dried sage leaves ever spoil? No, commercially packaged dried sage leaves do not spoil, but they will start to lose potency over time and not flavor food as intended – the storage time shown is for best quality only.
When should you smudge?
A smudging ritual can be done annually, once a season, or more often. It’s especially powerful to perform a space clearing as part of the cleaning process when you first move into a new home.
What to do after smudging?
After clearing and cleansing, extinguish your sage stick by gently pressing it into the abalone shell or a clay dish, glass bowl or ashtray. You can also allow it to burn out on its own.
Which direction do you smudge?
When you reach a window or door, waft the smoke into all four corners, beginning at the bottom left and moving in a clockwise direction. Open cabinets and closets and waft inside. The last room you smudge should be the one with the front door.
What prayer do you say when smudging?
A Smudging Prayer
May your hands be cleansed, that they create beautiful things. May your feet be cleansed, that they might take you where you most need to be. May your heart be cleansed, that you might hear its messages clearly. May your throat be cleansed, that you might speak rightly when words are needed.
How often should you smudge?
“You can light one leaf, because a smudge stick will smoke a lot.” Both experts recommend burning sage regularly, even after you’ve finished moving, to purify the air and keep balance. “I recommend cleansing the space by smudging any time you do a seasonal cleaning, three times a year at a minimum,” said Meder.
Can you smudge a person?
The flames are then gently blown out and the smoke, which heals the mind, heart and body, is wafted over the person, either by hand or with an eagle feather. The person being smudged pulls the smoke to them and gently inhales the smoke.
Can I burn sage around my dog?
When all is said and done, sage is beneficial for dogs. However, when smudging, you might want to keep the smoke away from your pup. In other words, it is only safe to burn sage around your dog in an open area that is well ventilated. And simply use some common sense while at it.
What does burning sage in your house do?
Native Americans and other indigenous peoples have burned sage for centuries as part of a spiritual ritual to cleanse a person or space, and to promote healing and wisdom. It’s been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians and Romans to treat digestive issues, memory problems, and sore throats.
What are 5 benefits of burning sage?
Benefits of burning sage are believe to include:
- Removing bacteria from the air.
- Repelling insects.
- Improving intuition.
- Purifying specific objects.
- Improving mood and reducing stress and anxiety.
How long should I burn sage?
Once you’re ready, hold the sage at a 45-degree angle, light it using your match or candle, and let it burn for about 20 seconds. After that, gently blow out the flame so you see orange embers on one end. The smoke should now billow up.
