Guide to Smudging: Palo Santo

Are you feeling stuck in your energy or need a little extra boost to get through your day? Smudging with Palo Santo might be just what you need! Palo Santo, which translates to "holy wood" in Spanish, has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures in South America for its cleansing and healing properties. 

Want to give it a try? Here's how to get started:

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PALO SANTO

First things first, it's essential to choose Palo Santo, which is sustainably sourced. This means that the wood was harvested in a way that supports the well-being of the forest and its surrounding communities. We source our Palo Santo from Peru, where it is harvested sustainably from naturally fallen branches. The country has implemented strict regulations to ensure the species' sustainability, which is currently stable despite some online sources suggesting otherwise.

OPEN UP

Before you begin smudging, prepare your space. Clear any clutter, creating a clean and calm environment. Open a window or door to allow any negative energy to exit the building! 

SET YOUR INTENTION

As with any spiritual practice, setting your intention is key. Before you light your Palo Santo, take a moment to reflect on what you want to achieve through this practice. Are you looking to release negative energy, invite positivity, or simply relax and centre yourself? Whatever your intention, hold it in your mind and heart as you begin the smudging process.

GET READY TO BURN

Hold one end of the wood over a flame until it catches fire. Once it starts to smoke, blow out the flame and let the smoke continue to billow. Hold the stick at a 45-degree angle and move it around your space, paying special attention to corners and areas where negative energy may be trapped.

SAFETY FIRST

Remember, you are lighting something on fire, so take care of where you put your Palo Santo. Never leave a burning stick unattended; always ensure it's fully extinguished before disposing of it. You can do this by gently pressing the end of the stick into a fireproof container or sand. Be mindful of any smoke alarms or sensitive individuals in the space.

Smudging with Palo Santo is a simple and effective way to cleanse your space and invite positive energy into your life. By choosing sustainably sourced Palo Santo, preparing your space, setting your intention, and following some basic safety tips, you'll be on your way to becoming a smudging pro in no time!