5 Steps to Clearing Negative Energy with Smudging

Negative energy can subtly build up in our surroundings, creating feelings of discomfort, stress, or unease. Smudging, an ancient practice rooted in various traditions, particularly those of Native American cultures, is a powerful way to cleanse and purify spaces of this unwanted energy. By burning sacred herbs—most commonly sage—and letting the smoke flow through an area, smudging helps clear negativity and restore harmony. If you’ve been feeling stuck or burdened lately, this ritual can provide a sense of renewal. Below, we’ve outlined five essential steps to effectively cleanse your space and invite balance through smudging.

Step 1: Set Your Intention

Cleansing with smudging is most effective when done with a clear intention in mind. Before you begin, take a moment to reflect on what you want to achieve. Are you looking to clear negative energy from a specific object, renew the energy in your home, or create a peaceful atmosphere for meditation? Setting your intention helps channel the energy in the right direction and makes the practice more powerful. You can also say your intention out loud if it helps you focus—for example, “I release all negative energy from this space and fill it with light and love.”

Step 2: Choose Your Smudging Tool

The most common herb used in smudging is sage, particularly white sage, which is revered for its cleansing properties. However, there are other herbs you can use depending on your specific needs. For instance, cedar is often used for protection, palo santo for inviting positive energy, and lavender for promoting calmness and relaxation. You can use a smudge stick—a bundle of dried herbs tied together—or loose herbs if you prefer. Be sure to source your smudging tools ethically, as there has been growing concern about the overharvesting of white sage.

Step 3: Prepare Your Space

Preparation is very important when it comes to smudging with sage. Start by decluttering and tidying up your space to make room for fresh, positive energy. Open windows and doors to allow negative energy to leave and fresh air to circulate. Having airflow is particularly important, as it ensures the dispersal of negative energy carried by the smoke. Gather any additional tools you may need, such as a fireproof vessel to catch ash (such as an abalone shell) and a feather or fan to direct the smoke. Make sure there are no flammable objects nearby for safety purposes.

Step 4: Begin the Smudging Process

Light the end of your smudge stick or herbs and allow the flame to burn for a few seconds before gently blowing it out, leaving a steady smoke. Start at the entrance to the room or space you wish to cleanse, and move in a clockwise direction. Wave the smoke into every corner, nook, and cranny, as negative energy often gathers in stagnant areas. If you’re smudging yourself, let the smoke drift over your body from head to toe, focusing on areas that feel heavy or tense. While performing the ritual, repeat your intention in your mind or out loud to reinforce its power.

If you are smudging an object—for instance, crystals, furniture, or even personal items—make sure to pass the item through the smoke or gently wave the smoke around it. For best results, keep the process slow and intentional without rushing.

Step 5: Close with Gratitude and Grounding

Once the smudging ritual is complete, express gratitude to the herbs and the practice for their cleansing energy. This acknowledgment helps strengthen your connection to the process and the positive energies you’ve invited into your space. Safely extinguish the smudge stick by pressing it into sand or a fireproof dish—never use water as this can make the herbs hard to relight in the future.

To ground yourself and seal the ritual, take a few deep breaths and visualize your space filling with light. You can also incorporate affirmations, such as “This space is now blessed with peace, love, and harmony.” Closing on a positive note allows the clearing process to settle and ensures that the energy remains aligned with your intention.

Smudging is more than a way to clear negative energy, it’s a sacred ritual that nurtures mindfulness and fosters a deeper sense of connection. By following just five simple steps, you can welcome clarity, positivity, and balance into your life. However, it’s important to approach smudging with respect and understanding, as it carries deep cultural significance for Indigenous communities. Honoring its origins ensures the practice is meaningful and mindful.

Whether you smudge weekly, after a challenging experience, or as part of a seasonal reset, this timeless tradition offers a powerful way to refresh your space and reconnect with yourself. Try it and discover how this ancient practice can transform both your surroundings and your sense of well-being.