Make Your Own: Smudge Stick!!!
A smudge stick is a bundle of dried herbs tied tightly together then dried and burned like a giant incense stick. Smudging is found in cultures and societies the world over, and its practise stretches back to the beginnings of the human story. Often found in Native American culture, smudging is usually associated with ritual, ceremony or prayer and is used to clear, refresh or renew the energy in any given space. For example you may smudge a new house just prior to moving in, or during a time of peaceful reflection. Alternatively, smudging can simply be a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh, herby, potpourri of early summer, anyplace you choose!
You will need:
Sage leaves on the stem, twine or 100% cotton thread and scissors
Additionally you can add any number of herbs to your stick:
roses, birch leaves, basil, mint, rosemary, thyme, juniper, cedar, cornflower, pine needle, wormwood, mugwort, oregano or marjoram flowers or everlasting flowers. These are just some examples, feel free to experiment and please share your results!
Directions:
Gather your herbs and flowers together (using fresh herbs means your bundle is more pliable and easier to tie up, but dried herbs will work as well).
Layer the ingredients, positioning the bases of the largest leaves at the same level as one another. This makes the binding process easier.
Next cut a piece of twine that is four times the length of your bundle. Make a simple knot on one end of the string and tighten it around the stems, binding the bundle together. This should leave a length of string approximately three times the length of your bundle.
With the long end of the string, begin to wrap the bundle tightly, spiralling up toward the top of the bundle. Be sure to fold in any stray sprigs under the twine as you go. When you reach the top of the bundle continue wrapping, crisscrossing the twine as you make your way back to the base. Then tie the loose end of the string to the original knot at the base of the bundle.
For best results, hang your herbs and allow at least three weeks drying time.
When you are ready ask your parent to light the ends, blow out the flame and let the herbs continue to burn.
*Remember to always have an adult present when using fire to light your smudge stick*
Enjoy!!
Happy Early Summer!
Mr. Reynolds