How do You Properly Smudge Yourself?

lit white sage smudge stick

Smudging yourself, also known as personal smudging, is a ritual that helps clear your aura, remove negativity, and align your energies. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly smudge yourself: 

Set Your Intention 

Before you begin, take a moment to set a clear and positive intention for the smudging ritual. This could be something like, “I am cleansing myself of any negative energy and inviting positivity and peace into my being.” 

Choose Your Smudging Tool 

Common smudging tools include sage, palo santo, or other sacred herbs. Light your chosen smudge stick or herb until it begins to smoke. Once it’s smoking, gently blow out the flame so that the embers remain and produce smoke. 

Begin Smudging 

Start at the top of your head and move the smudge stick in a downward motion. You can use your hand or a feather to guide the smoke around your body. Move the smoke down the front of your body, over your head, and down your back. Ensure you also pass the smoke under your arms and around your legs. 

Focus on Key Areas 

Pay special attention to the areas where energy tends to gather, such as around your head, heart, and hands. Wave the smudge stick or feather in circular motions around these areas to ensure they are thoroughly cleansed. 

Move Slowly and Mindfully 

As you move the smudge stick around your body, do so slowly and with intention. Take deep breaths, and with each exhale, imagine releasing any negativity or stress that has built up. 

Close the Ritual 

Once you’ve smudged your entire body, take a moment to close the ritual. Express gratitude for the cleansing and affirm that you are now aligned and protected. You can say something like, “I am cleansed, I am balanced, I am at peace.” 

Extinguish the Smudge Stick 

Gently extinguish your smudge stick by pressing it into a fireproof bowl or shell. Ensure that it is fully out before leaving it unattended. 

Personal smudging can be done regularly, particularly when you feel the need to reset your energy or after encountering negative situations. The key is to be mindful and intentional throughout the process, allowing the smoke to carry away any unwanted energies. 

 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.