A wonderful way to clear the energy in a space is by using Palo Santo or Sage. Both have physical benefits as well, but from a spiritual perspective it’s a great way to set your intentions over the atmosphere. If you think of how someone might stake a flag to claim land, smudging using Palo Santo or Sage allows you to essentially “stake” the air or energy field. 

Usage

The smoke can also be very grounding and centering – bringing you solidly into the present moment. This makes it a great practice to do before beginning a sacred ritual or meditation time (or any time you want a reset). 

As someone with an allergy to Sage, I’m a Palo Santo user. I also just enjoy the woody scent. But I will say in my experience with a Palo Santo stick vs a Sage bundle, I found the Sage gave a thicker smoke generally, which some prefer – so try both and see what resonates for you. 

Palo Santo is available in small sticks, which is great for a portable version (fun tip: it also is wonderful in the bathroom in lieu of “air fresheners” which aren’t good for you). 

Palo Santo is also available as a powder (it’s basically Palo Santo sawdust). It can be burned in a fire safe container. I find the powder gives a thicker smoke and longer burn (that’s what you see me using during the Meditations I share).

So in short, for a sustained smoke I use the Palo Santo powder, but for everything else I use a Palo Santo wood stick. I love being able to light it up and walk around with it, or to encircle myself with it. Both types of Palo Santo are wonderful for their respective uses. 

Getting Equipped 

Be intentional to choose a quality product that is ethically sourced (this is a good practice across the board – especially when you’re sensitive to energy). @SacredWoodEssence has lots of Palo Santo options. If you’re using powder you’ll need a bowl (I use a copper one) and if you’re using wood, I have holders all around the house. For Sage, a shell works nicely. 

How-To Do a Burn

The burning part can seem kind of like a no-brainer – you light it, extinguish the flame, and… voila… smoke! The big tip here is that the longer the flame is lit, the longer the smoke burns. So if you just want a little, only burn it for a moment before blowing it out. If you want it to go a little longer, let it burn for 30 seconds or so. 

With the powder you will learn over time how much to use. I suggest starting small. Remember that as far as energy goes, your intention and connection with the Divine are where the power is. This is an act that is physically representing that, so just allow your intuition to lead.