Burning sage

Burning sage has been a ritual in many cultures since ancient times. It is best known for its purification and cleansing properties to a person's aura, which is the energy field directly outside the body. It can be used to clear a person or a space. The word sage comes from the Latin word salvia, which means, "to heal". While used in the purification or cleansing process, sage is tied into bundles called smudge bundles. The top of the bundle is set on fire and blown out like an incense. The sage then begins to smoke. To cleanse a person, have them hold their hands at a 45 degree angle outside of their body. Next, beginning at the head, trace around the outside of their body, staying within the auric field, smudging the sides, front, and back of their body. To clear a space, set a positive intention to clear any stagnant, negative, or unnecessary energies, and hold the smoldering sage bundle in a the area desired. This is a sacred ritual performed to honor our sacred bodies and to create a sacred space.