The effectiveness of smudging can be gauged by changes in the atmosphere, improvements in mood and energy, physical sensations, mental clarity, reduction of negative symptoms, and positive changes over time. Trust your senses and intuition to determine if your smudging ritual has been successful. 

Knowing if smudging is working involves tuning into both your physical environment and your inner state. Here are some signs that your smudging is effective: 

Change in Atmosphere 

After smudging, you may notice a shift in the atmosphere of the space. The room might feel lighter, more open, or more peaceful. This change is often subtle but noticeable, especially if you were experiencing heavy or stagnant energy before the ritual. 

Improved Mood and Energy 

One of the most immediate signs that smudging is working is an improvement in your mood and energy levels. You may feel more relaxed, centered, or uplifted after smudging. This can be particularly apparent if you were feeling stressed, anxious, or burdened before the ritual. 

Physical Sensations 

Some people experience physical sensations when smudging is effective, such as a tingling sensation, warmth, or a sense of calm spreading through their body. These sensations can be a sign that negative energy is being cleared and replaced with positive energy. 

Clearer Thoughts and Focus 

Smudging can help clear mental fog and enhance focus. If you find that your thoughts are clearer, and you feel more mentally sharp or productive after smudging, this is a good indication that the ritual has had a positive effect on your mental energy. 

Reduction of Negative Symptoms 

If you were experiencing specific symptoms related to negative energy, such as insomnia, restlessness, or unexplained irritability, and these symptoms improve after smudging, it’s a sign that the ritual has successfully cleared the negative energy from your space or aura. 

Harmonious Environment 

After smudging, you might notice that interactions in your space become more harmonious. If there was tension, conflict, or negativity in the environment, smudging can help to dispel these energies and restore peace and balance. 

Intuitive Confirmation 

Sometimes, you simply feel intuitively that the smudging has worked. Trusting your intuition is important in spiritual practices. If you feel a sense of completion or satisfaction after the ritual, it’s likely that the smudging has had the desired effect. 

Positive Changes Over Time 

In the days following a smudging ritual, you may notice positive changes in your life, such as improved relationships, better sleep, increased creativity, or a more positive outlook. These longer-term effects are further confirmation that smudging is working. 

Author: Coralee Roberts

Coralee is a passionate health and wellness advocate with a deep understanding of holistic living. Driven by a desire to empower herself and others to achieve optimal health and well-being, she has been practicing smudging and energy cleansing for several years. In 2024, Coralee decided to formalize her knowledge and completed a certificate in smudging, deepening her understanding of this transformative practice. Through her writing and teachings, Coralee aims to inspire and support others on their own paths towards wellness and resilience.