Feeling Cooped Up? Cleanse Your Space With Sage

Going back to ancient times, Shamans would burn sage over a fire to cleanse people of negativity and promote healing, wisdom and longevity. Today, you can burn sage in your own home when you want to encourage physical, mental and emotional well-being. Here’s how to get started with the practice, also known as smudging, and get the energy around flowing in a more positive direction.

The quality of sage is important—white sage is recommended as it’s high-quality and ethically cultivated. This is key because when sage is doing its job properly, it’ll also help disinfect the air. Some studies have suggested that sage can clear up to 94 percent of airborne bacteria in a small space.

The Latin word for sage is “salvia” and stems from the word “heal.” It’s why burning sage is associated with wisdom, clarity, and spiritual awareness. Many burn sage as part of a yoga or meditation practice—making a set that includes a shell to hold your stick, healing blessing/rituals and more—a great boost to all spiritual endeavors.

Bringing a smudge stick into your car or other places you may go isn’t always practical. But if you want to renew the energy of new surroundings, even temporary ones, a smudge spray is a great alternative. (Pro tip: Experts recommend opening a door or window before you start spraying your space, so the unwanted energy you’re getting rid of has a place to go.)