Smudging 1995 CO1

Smudging 1995 

Let's talk about smudging before Circle. Smudging is often done for a number of reasons...to set the tone, calm the energies, clear negativity, claim the space, and many others. Contrary to popular understanding it's not always done with herbs and smoke. It can be done with drums (my favorite) flowers, bowls, feathers, water, tuning,  glitter, bells, singing, if you can imagine it, you can do it. Just remember to clean up when done!  In my group, smudging changed dependent on the season, the reason, and the intent of the Circle.

For us, Circle space was always cleared, smudged, and set up before anyone else was allowed in. Then everyone was smudged, individually, as they entered Circle space. Participants were encouraged to leave all their worries and woes outside. As the Smudgee, while you're being smudged, your responsibility is simple...let it go. That nasty customer...let it go...that sibling argument...let it go...traffic lights...let it go...sour milk...let it go. A deep breath in, exhale, and let it go. Smudging is not so much about clearing the environment for Circle, but it's about clearing the space inside your head. Whether you're working alone, with a small private group, or attending a large public Circle, smudging is a great way to prepare for what's about to happen.

Now as the Smudger, you do have some work to do. And a lot of it depends on what resonates with you or your group. Do you work deosil (clockwise) to draw in, or do you work widdershins (counterclockwise) to remove? Do you ground any negativity, or do you draw in universal energy? Sometimes it's simply to focus on the vibrational energy of whatever you're doing to bring their energy in line with the purpose of the Circle. And then there are the mantras...nothing elaborate, nothing that even needs to be spoken out loud. But a few simple words to repeat in your head to help you stay on track while smudging other people.  Examples of mantras might be...'I remove any heaviness or negativity' - 'May you live in harmony of mind, body, and spirit' - 'I release all energies that do not serve the greater good.'

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