Smudging with sage and palo santo are both ancient practices used for energetically cleansing a space, object, or person. Here's how you can use each:

1. Smudging with Sage:

   • Sage, particularly white sage (Salvia apiana), has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures for its purifying properties.
   • To smudge with sage, you'll need a bundle of dried sage leaves, often called a smudge stick.
   • Light one end of the sage bundle with a match or lighter until it begins to smolder and release smoke.
   • Hold the sage bundle in one hand and use the other hand to guide the smoke around the area, object, or person you wish to cleanse.
   • Focus on setting your intention for clearing away negative energy or unwanted influences as you move the sage around.
   • You can use a feather or your hand to direct the smoke, ensuring it reaches all areas you want to cleanse.
   • After smudging, extinguish the sage bundle by gently pressing it against a heatproof surface, such as a ceramic bowl or dish.

2. Smudging with Palo Santo:

   • Palo Santo, also known as "holy wood," is a sacred tree native to South America, particularly Peru and Ecuador.
   • Palo Santo is valued for its sweet, uplifting aroma and cleansing properties.
   • To smudge with Palo Santo, you'll need a stick or small piece of Palo Santo wood.
   • Light one end of the Palo Santo stick with a match or lighter until it catches fire.
   • Allow the flame to burn for a moment, then blow it out, allowing the wood to smolder and release fragrant smoke.
   • Hold the Palo Santo stick in one hand and use the other hand to guide the smoke around the area, object, or person you wish to cleanse.
   • Similar to smudging with sage, focus on your intention for clearing and purifying the space as you move the Palo Santo stick around.
   • After smudging, extinguish the Palo Santo stick by pressing it against a heatproof surface or allowing it to burn out on its own.