Smudging has been traditionally used to safeguard against negativity in your area and on your being. Tradition suggests that smudging can literally lift one’s spirits to banish negativity. Burning sage creates fragrant smoke central to smudging’s benefits. You can use this incense to smudge yourself, specific spaces or your crystals.
 
Smudging may also be used as a ritual tool to rid yourself — or your space — of negativity. This includes past traumas, bad experiences, or negative energies from others.
This may help you establish a positive environment for meditation or another ritual. Choosing to sit and let go of negative thoughts in a ritual like this sets your intention and dedication to self-improvement. Choosing to engage in ritual can be the beginning of your change in mindset.
 
Light the end of a sage bundle with a match. Blow out quickly if it catches on fire.
The tips of the leaves should smolder slowly, releasing thick smoke. Direct this smoke around your body and space with one hand while holding the bundle in the other.
Allow the incense to linger on the areas of your body or surroundings you’d like to focus on. Using a fan or feather can also help direct the smoke, though this is optional.
Allow the ash to collect in a ceramic bowl or shell.