smudging
The Ancient Art Of Smudging
There are many effective ways to purify ourselves of old baggage or toxins in our lives. A great place to start is a very ancient art popular among indigenous peoples known as “smudging.” This refers to the burning of sacred or blessed herbs, or grasses to cleanse yourself and your space.
If you are just beginning try burning sage, one of the most popular and fragrant herbs. As you become more adept, you may want to customize your herbal blend. Bundles may be purchased at an esoteric store, or a Native American or natural market, and burned in a vessel of your choice.
Before you start, make sure there are no fire hazards and open a window or two for ventilation. When you light your sage stick, make sure you are only using the leaves and not the other parts. Continue reading
The Secret To Smudging Is In The Smoke
“The secret to smudging is in the smoke.” These were the words of my mentor when I undertook my Ukuthwasa as a shaman initiate many years ago in Southern Africa. I have also come to know that the true intention behind any smudging ceremony is a very significant part of its success.
An initial part of my rigorous training as a Sangoma, or traditional healer, was a self-cleansing ritual using Mphepo, made up of herbs indigenous to Southern Africa.
“Smudging,” simply put, is the burning of certain herbs to create a cleansing smoke bath. The smoke is used to cleanse areas used for rituals and ceremonies, as well as any tools or objects used for such cleansing, as well as to cleanse people. Continue reading
How To Crystal Gaze
Many people are familiar with the popular culture idea of using a crystal ball for divination purposes, also known as the art of “scrying”. The truth is, this is an ancient art, and it’s not just about seeing the future! With some practice, anyone can use this unique and fascinating tool to gain insight into his or her life.
The first thing needed is the crystal itself. Clear quartz is a good choice for someone new to the art. As with any magical tool, use your instincts to select one that is right for you. A small one, no bigger than five inches in diameter, will work fine. Be sure to cleanse your crystal and smudge it of any negative energies before use. This will give you better results. Only you should touch your crystal ball; the influences of others will weaken its power. Continue reading
Shadow Beings Be Gone!
Very recently, for a period of just a few days at around dusk, I kept on seeing dark shadow figures to my left, in my peripheral vision. These dark shadows would move quickly and, although not eerie, they were unlike what I usually witness when I see spirit. My Husky cross, Collie, is always sensitive to the presence of spirit in my work room, and I know from her stares at these dark shadows that she saw them too, but she wasn’t at all perturbed.
It occurred to me only a few days ago that during that brief period of witnessing the shadowy figures, a few chaotic days followed: a water heater burst, a generator went up in smoke, the washing machine seemed to have reprogrammed itself, my older dog was diagnosed with a tumor, my youngest dog ate some of my cash money, as well as other minor aggravations, like power outages. Continue reading