Burning Sage
Suggested Uses for Burning Sage
For those not familiar with the practice of burning sage, there are suggestions and warnings that you need to follow in order to burn safely and effectively.
Sage burns at a very high temperature, and the embers remain hot for a very long time. Burn sage in a small metal container, or some kind of ironstone or ceramic dish. Put clean sand in the bottom of the dish to insulate it, and don't use glass to burn in. When you have finished burning your sage, cover it with your sand, and leave it in the container you are using. When you are ready to burn the bundle again, you can simply shake the sand off.
When you light your sage, let it flame for a moment, and blow the flame out right away. You want to utilize the smoke, not the fire.
The healing properties released from burning sage come from agents of antibiotics. You may also boil the sage and drink the tea made from it. The smoke from sage can bring relief for migraine headaches, pain and sinus congestion. If you're using sage for this purpose, take off a single leaf and breathe through your nose when it smokes. If it bothers you or makes you uncomfortable, don't use it.
If you have a low energy level, or you're depressed and feeling in the dumps, you can cleanse your whole energy field. The best way to cleanse your energy field is to have a friend fan the smoke around your entire body, front to back. If there is not anyone you wish to help you with this, you may do it yourself, reaching as much of your body as you can yourself. Breathe calmly and deeply to feel the instant relaxation.
Before you go to bed at night, you can burn sage so that it will clean away the emotional stress. If you would like a wonderfully relaxing night, break off one sage leaf and then burn it in your container, making sure to put the sage out as soon as you can smell the smoke.
If you are with others, where burning sage will be welcomed and appreciated, use that time to practice the art. Use the entire bundle of sage in order to cleanse the whole room. Do NOT drop hot embers while you move around, or you may burn the carpeting. Start in the farthest corner and walk to the front of the room. Go back and forth across the room in a serpentine shape, and let the smoke rise as you go. Cleanse everyone as they enter the room, just like you do in cleansing yourself. Inquire of them if they will be peaceful, and of so, they will be blessed with learning and positive awareness.
Mother Earth gives us sage as a gift. Burning sage is a way to share that gift with others.