31/07/2025
Since working with vibrational energy, I’ve learned that so much of what we do to clear or shift energy isn’t visible or logical. The spirit and soul don’t need proof to understand what feels true. But, I also love to explore the science behind the magic, to see where ancient practices and modern understanding meet.
One such practice is smudging, the burning of sacred herbs like sage, cedar or palo santo to cleanse people and spaces of stagnant or negative energy. Rooted in Indigenous and shamanic traditions, smudging is a ritual act of purification.
So here’s the science part - burning certain herbs may release negative ions, which are known to neutralise pollutants, allergens and positively charged particles in the air. Negative ions are also linked to improved mood, clarity and relaxation similar to the effect of being in nature.
A study in 2007 found that burning medicinal herbs like sage could reduce airborne bacteria by up to 94%, with effects lasting up to 24 hours. Also, the smell of herbs like sage or palo santo link directly to the brain’s emotional centre, this is why scent can instantly shift our mood and bring a sense of calm.
Even without the science, ritual itself is powerful. When we smudge with clear intention, we shift both our mindset and the energy around us.
There are many other energy cleansers such as
• Sound (rattles, drumming)
• Water (bathing, misting)
• Breath, intention and movement
Not everything we do to shift energy will make sense to the logical mind, and that’s ok. Magic doesn’t need to be explained to be real, it just needs to be felt! 😊❤
Photo's by the talented Milly Nixon Photography 📸
