How to Perform a Smudging Ceremony: Smudging Ritual

Mira Lash

How to Perform a Smudging Ceremony: Smudging Ritual

During a smudging ritual, set fire to the dried trimmings of specific herbs, then pass your hands through the smoke. Collect the smoke and draw it towards your body or rub it on yourself, concentrating on areas that require spiritual mending. Pray consistently for the hidden strength of the plants to purify your spirit. Occasionally, one individual may perform the smudging for another person or a group, using either their hands or a feather to softly sweep the smoke over those participating. We learned to detect shadowy areas within a person's spiritual essence, which could signify parts in need of healing.

Smudging Ritual Guide: Smudging Techniques & Herbs

Mira Lash

Smudging Ritual Guide: Smudging Techniques & Herbs

Indigenous people worldwide utilize herbs for various purposes, including purification and cleansing rituals. A prevalent ceremony involves burning specific herbs and allowing the smoke to envelop one's body. Nowadays, this practice is often referred to as "smudging." In the western regions of North America, sage, cedar, and sweetgrass are the three most commonly used plants for smudging.