Smudging is an ancient practice where sacred herbs are burned for spiritual cleansing and purification. Native Americans have been doing this for centuries. Typically, herbs like white sage or cedar are bundled together with cotton or hemp string, dried, and then lit to produce smoke. This smoke is then fanned around to cleanse an area.

Here are 8 reasons why you should consider smudging:
1. Enhances your sense of well-being and mental focus.
2. Clears negative energy.
3. Acts as a natural anti-depressant.
4. Purifies the air.
5. Cleanses objects.
6. Offers calming and relaxing effects.
7. Boosts energy.
8. Improves sleep.

When it comes to choosing herbs for smudging, you have several options. You can use herbs from your garden or select specific herbs for different purposes:
– Sage: Clears negative energy
– Pine needles: Cleansing and purification
– Balsam fir: Cleansing and purification
– Mugwort: Lucid dreaming, purification, and calming
– Juniper: Cleansing and purification
– Holy basil (tulsi): Purification and calming
– Rosemary: Protection
– Lavender: Calming
– Rose petals: Meditation, calming, and attracts love
– Peppermint: Healing and protection
– Yarrow: Eliminates toxins from the body
– Lemon balm: Spiritual cleansing and calm
– Calendula: Love and constancy
– Dill: Protection, luck, money, and lust
– Chamomile: Protection and purification

Most of these herbs also help keep bugs away. My favorite mix is rosemary and sage for protection and clearing negative energy.

To make a smudge stick, you’ll need:
– Fresh rosemary
– Fresh sage
– Cotton thread or organic hemp string
– Snips

Layer several sprigs of herbs on top of each other to make a thick bundle. Secure the bottom with a double knot, then wrap the thread tightly around the bundle, tying another double knot at the top. Let the bundle dry completely on a screen or rack.

To use your smudge stick, light the end with a lighter, match, or candle. Once it has a steady flame, blow it out so it smoulders and produces smoke. Use a dish to catch the ashes and waft the smoke into any area you want to purify and cleanse.

These homemade smudge sticks make great, inexpensive gifts, especially if you grow your own herbs. Feel free to experiment with different herb combinations.