How do you smudge your home with sage?

Where smudging comes from

Burning sacred herbs for purification is part of many cultures. The word 'smudging' is most closely tied to ceremonies of several Native American and First Nations peoples, which have their own protocols. Many people outside those traditions prefer to call their practice 'smoke cleansing' and to use herbs from their own heritage, such as rosemary, juniper or lavender in British folk custom.

These are traditional and spiritual associations shared for interest, not health or medical claims.

Step by step

• Tidy and open a window or door so the smoke has somewhere to go.
• Hold the bundle at an angle and light the tip; let it flame briefly, then blow it out to an ember.
• Hold a heatproof dish or shell underneath to catch embers.
• Move clockwise around the room, wafting smoke into corners, behind doors and across windowsills.
• Many people say a short intention aloud, such as 'only kindness lives here'.
• Extinguish fully in sand or the dish. Never leave it smouldering.

Alternatives to sage

• Rosemary and lavender bundles
• Palo santo sticks (choose sustainably sourced)
• Incense such as frankincense or sandalwood
• Sound: a singing bowl or bell
• Smokeless sprays or simply fresh air and a good clean