Smudge Kit

It’s recommended to have a candle nearby to relight the smudge stick during the smudging ceremony. Matches or a lighter is used to light the candle. And you will light the smudge stick with the candle flame.

It's useful to have a fireproof container, like a small clay bowl, to hold underneath the smudge stick to catch any ashes or embers. Indigenous peoples often use an abalone shell for this, bringing in a water element. I recommend you use a container (bowl or plate) that you love and only use for smudging ceremonies.

A bowl of sand is a must. It is used to properly extinguish the smudge stick safely after the ritual is complete

Allow enough space and time for the ritual so you don’t feel rushed. If possible, meditate for at least five minutes to calm your mind and heart. 

If anyone else is present during this smudging ceremony, you can include them in the ritual. 

Remember when performing a space clearing, intention is key. Before you start, take some time to contemplate what your wishes are for your home and family. When you clear your house, there’s a vacuum that’s created. You want to welcome your intentions into the newly cleared and open space.

Now that you have all your tools and preparations in place, you can begin the smudging ritual. 

Start at the front door of the home and light your smudge stick. Then, begin to move around the home. Move mindfully and with care, walking clockwise around the entire perimeter of the home. Be sure to allow the smoke to drift into even the hidden spaces, like inside closets, basements and dark corners. If there are stairs, just go up or down when you encounter them. Then keep moving clockwise until you meet the stairs again. Then continue to go down or up the stairs and resume the main floor. 

Moving around a space like this is called “circumambulation”. It’s a practice that’s been done for centuries in ancient cultures to make a space more sacred. And, if it feels okay to you, it’s helpful to chant a mantra or a prayer that you’re connected to. This is a way to fill the space with more cleansing vibrations.

When you arrive back at the front door, chant your final mantra or prayer. Visualize the entire home is filled with bright white sunlight. Then speak your intention one last time to close the smudging ceremony.

Smudging rituals are a beautiful technique to clear a space. This can be done annually or more often. It’s especially powerful to perform a space clearing when you first move into a home, or on the lunar new year.