Unwind and purify with smudge sticks
We see them everywhere on Instagram these days: smudge sticks! Of course, this trend goes way back, to a time far before the digital trend bubble. Smudge sticks are bundles of dried flowers and spices, and find their roots in Native American traditions. During the smudging ceremony, the bundle is lit and the resulting smoke is said to cleanse and purify spaces, objects and people, getting rid of any negative energies. The positive effects of smudging are well-known amongst many indigenous cultures.
Such a soothing, gorgeous object makes our creative juices flow. Luckily, it is not at all difficult to make a smudge stick yourself with the flowers and spices from your garden. A smudge stick is usually made with white sage, because it is said to be most effective in cleansing energies. You can vary your spices and make your own combinations with lavender, rosemary, thyme, marigold, and rose petals, or anything else you can find in your garden.
Credits: @Elementsofsage
Credits: @Elementsofsage
Credits: @Raketendistels
Just putting together the smudge stick is enough to unwind, and to start feeling calm and restored. To turn your gathered plants into a stick, you’ll need sprigs of spices about 15cm long, some (dried) flowers or flower petals, cotton thread or lace, and scissors. Tie all your plants together and hang them in a place in the shade for a few weeks, so the dirt has enough time to dry. Create your own smudging ceremony or just leave the smudge stick in a room to enjoy the soothing smell and create a calming atmosphere.