Bundle of White Sage

The practice of purifying the air with herbs, resins and dried flowers is rooted in all cultures.

Smudging with white sage incense is primarily a purification ritual. During the "smoke ceremony," white sage leaves or a stick of incense are burned, allowing its smoke to envelop our body, space, and mind.

This smoke plays a vital role in eliminating negative energies, purifying individuals and events, while driving away "bad spirits" to attract positive energies.

Traditionally, this practice is accompanied by prayers, creating a framework conducive to healing and well-being. It is not surprising that the term "sage" derives from the Latin "salvare", which means "to heal".

In the alchemical process of fumigation, the four elements are present: the shell represents water, the match that ignites the incense symbolizes fire, the herbs and ash embody the earth, while the smoke represents air.

Composition: Salvia alpina

Step 1: Obtain some California Native American white sage and a suitable container, such as an abalone shell, bowl, or other heat-resistant container. Open windows. Sit on a non-flammable surface. Abalone shell is particularly prized for its ability to withstand heat while allowing natural ventilation.

Step 2: Light your sage or white sage stick, preferably with a match. Let the leaves burn for a few moments before blowing out the flame gently. Be careful, as white sage leaves can easily fly away. If you are using a smudge stick, which is denser, let it burn a little longer before blowing. Caution: If your container is made of metal, be careful not to burn yourself when moving it.

Step 3: Use white sage in a well-ventilated space. Inside, open one or more windows to create a draft. This will help to evacuate excess smoke as well as positive ions or "bad spirits." Walk through each room, guiding the smoke into every corner. After a few minutes, you should begin to feel a shift in energy.

Step 4: Wait for the smudge stick to burn completely. According to Native American belief, white sage incense continues to burn until the purification process is complete.

Step 5: If you want to extinguish your stick while it is burning, simply smother it with sand, crush it in its ashes, or dip the end directly into water.