sage

Burning sage also known as smudging is an ancient spiritual ritual. Smudging has been well established as a Native American cultural or tribal practice for cleansing and healing purposes.  Not all sage plants are the same. They have different looks, scents, uses, and even safety profiles. White sage is the type most often seen in dried bundles in stores. It has pale leaves and a very strong scent when burned. Blue sage is less common. It is generally considered milder in fragrance than white sage. Black sage, sometimes called Mugwort has green leaves that can darken during droughts, giving it a very different appearance from white or blue sage. 🌿White sage is burned as a way to cleanse and purify an area. If you need something to help you banish negative energy and cleanse your space, white sage is a powerful way to do it. The leaves smoulder well on their own, you do not need to place them on top of charcoal. Cleanse your home or sacred space by lighting a white sage leaf or the tip of a smudge stick, and placing it in a fireproof vessel. Carry this clockwise around the area you wish to cleanse, fanning the smoke with a feather so it touches every corner. 🌿Blue sage is often used similarly to white sage, to cleanse and protect. It is less pungent, and its soothing scent and "cool" nature make it very helpful in rituals for healing and abundance. Since it tends to be relaxing and less overpowering than white sage in small spaces, it is also a good choice for cleansing and preparing meditation spaces. 🌿Black sage is extremely helpful for inner healing, dream magic, shamanic journeying, trance work, and protection during astral travel. Whenever you need to look inward, or access other realms of consciousness, black sage can help you. Waft the smoke from a black sage smudge stick over yourself before getting into a comfortable position and clearing your mind. You may use chanting, rattling, drumming, or any other techniques you prefer to help your mind access the astral realms. Trust that the black sage smoke will keep you safe and protected as you travel and see where it carries you.