Is it cultural appropriation to smudge? 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.
Is it okay for non indigenous people to smudge? 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.
How do you smudge respectfully?
What is the cultural significance of smudging? Smudging connects people to the Creator and provides communities with a way to gain spiritual protection and blessings, as well as to improve spiritual health. The smoke created by burning sacred herbs is thought to purify the body and soul, and bring clarity to the mind.
Is it cultural appropriation to smudge? – Additional Questions
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.
Is it okay to use sage?
Sage should never be harvested, plucked, burned or used in any way, shape or form if you’re “under the influence” — so no drinking or smoking and smudging. There’s also something to be said for sustainability, so it’s wise to burn a single leaf at a time, rather than light up the entire bundle.
What culture is smudging from?
Smudging, or other rites involving the burning of sacred herbs (e.g., white sage) or resins, is a ceremony practiced by some Indigenous peoples of the Americas.
What does smudge mean spiritually?
The art of smudging is an ancient spiritual ritual for purification, dispelling negative energy and improving mood and can easily be incorporated into your weekly routine or meditative practice. Sage: The Latin word for sage, salvia, stems from the word, heal.
What is the history behind burning sage?
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 does smudging a house mean?
Smudging is a way to energetically cleanse a space to invite positive energy. When smudging a space, you burn plant material (but there are alternatives if you can’t tolerate the smoke). The smoke fills and purifies the environment.
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.
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.
How do you smudge Indigenous?
What do Native Americans use to smudge?
The plants incorporated into smudging are usually harvested on their lands. California tribes use white sage or salvia apiana, which is native to the region. It’s the plant most popular for smudging among non-Native people.
Is burning sage holy?
Keep in mind: Burning sage is a sacred religious practice in some Native American cultures. Treat the ritual with respect.
What is sage used for in Indigenous culture?
Sage, depending on the particular culture, can be used in medicine pouches, spread over the floor of a sweatlodge, wrapped around sacred implements, used for healing, used to make bad spirits sick, purify people and dwellings, healing and calming.
