Sage.

If you keep up with my blog you might know that I've just moved into a new place. I'm aware that this post might make me sound entirely hippy dippy or so "California" but hey, if the shoe fits! In the process of moving I had had a few friends mention to me that it would be a good idea to sage the new loft. Ever walked into a place and felt "bad vibes" or a weird energy? Saging is of most often referred to as "smudging" which is an ancient tradition used to purify or bless people and/or places. I was actually really surprised about how different the new place (and I!!) felt after the smudging. It was like a breathe of fresh air. It just felt lighter. I would recommend this to absolutely anyone going through any kind of transition, whether it be moving, a break-up, a new job, etc... after doing a lot of research on this it's not nearly as complicated as it sounds!! I'm gonna walk you through it.

Step 1. Find a smudge stick. 

A smudge stick is just Sage kind of wrapped with thread into a stick. If you live close to Topanga or Laurel Cyn this should be easy to find!! (LA inside jokes) Otherwise any kind of store that sells crystals or does palm reading etc.. should have one. Not into palm reading and crystals?! Don't be put off by all that! This smudging thing is not as strange as it seems.

Step 2. Light it up.

Open your windows and doors and over a bowl or small plate (traditionally abalone shell was used) light the end of the smudge stick how you would light incense and blow it out so that the embers are smoking but its not inflamed. 

Step 3. Walk around.

Take a walk around your place. Some articles I read said to do this in a clockwise motion. Pay close attention to closets, corners and any place where energy could be trapped. The weirdest part about this was one blog said you should be able to feel where it needs it the most- and you actually can! Don't be spooked! Watch the smoke billow out the open windows and doors and imagine the negative energy is escaping the space.

Step 4. Think happy thoughts.

As you are walking there are several things you can say but anything along the lines of "I cleanse this room of any impurities, negativity, or anything that does not suit or support the people that live here." and set positive intentions for yourself in the new space. 

Step 5. Sage shower.

With the help of a buddy surround yourself with smoke and cup into your hands and "wash" your face with it, visualize any residual negativity sailing out of your body and out of your home. 

Step 6.

Exintguish the stick by running under water or tapping onto sink, bowl, plate, whatever.

You can repeat this "cleansing ritual" as frequently as you'd like! I've read some people do it at the start of every week! And I might just be addicted. 

Xx

Jess