Desert Sage
Desert sage (Artemesia Tridentata) covers much of the high desert and plains areas of the Western States of America. As well as being burned, desert sage is often held, worn or kept with sacred objects to ward off negative influences. Native American tradition says that wherever sage is, evil spirits cannot enter.
Sage, which cleanses and disperses negative energies, is sometimes called the ‘ear opener’ because it opens up our inner ears, allowing us to become more in tune with the sacredness of the world around us. Sage can be used before meditation, prayer or ceremony or any time you wish to clear your aura. It can also be burnt to cleanse your house, and is frequently used in Feng Shui for space clearing.
How to Use Your Smudge Stick
Light the end of your sage stick and after it has ignited, extinguish the flame and direct the smoke around your body. You may wish to hold a container in your other hand to catch ashes or to serve as a resting place for the smoldering stick if you use a fan or a feather to direct the smoke. You can direct the smoke around yourself, another person, or in your place of ceremony to purify the energy that is present. The smoke from your sage stick may also be directed as an invocation honoring the four directions, the father sun or the mother earth (“Fathermother God”). To extinguish your sage stick, smother the end and examine closely to make sure the stick is completely out. Note: Your stick may continue to burn if not completely extinguished.
Smudging Is a ceremony used to clear away negative energies and to attract ones that are more positive. Native Americans have traditionally used many herbs for this purpose, each one having a different effect on the aura and inner being. You may burn a smudge stick directly from the end (extinguish carefully afterwards), or break off fragments to burn in a container such as a shell. When smudging, try to feel connected with a power greater than yourself. You may say prayers while using a feather, or simply the palm of your hand, to brush the smoke over you.
Country of Origin: New Mexico, USA
Size of Smudge Stick: Approximately 4″ in length (roughly 10.5 cm).
Caution: A lit sage stick should not be left burning while unattended, and care should be used when extinguishing smouldering sticks.
** Only 1 piece of sage supplied ** ** Crystal is just for photo **
