Clear, cleanse, and clarify your space with Palo Santo, meaning “holy wood.” The wood is burned to help purify air, release negative energies, enhance creativity, and increase good fortune. The aroma resembles that of pine, mint, and lemon. Traditionally Palo Santo is used for relieving headaches and helping with the common cold and flu symptoms, as well as with reducing anxiety and stress, asthma, depression, inflammation, and emotional tension. In addition to sustainably harvested sticks, Palo Santo can also be found as an essential oil, used during massage to assist in healing work.
Similar to “smudging” with sage, simply light your stick of Palo Santo, using a candle, match, or lighter. Hold at a 45-degree angle, pointing the tip down toward the flame. Allow the stick to burn for 30 seconds to a minute, then blow the flame out.
Move about your home, workspace, or anywhere you would like to clear the energy, wafting the smoking stick. The rich aroma will bring a sense of peace and clarity. For me, the smell triggers memories of similar smell–like campfires and fireplaces–bringing with it a reassuring sense of balance and calmness. When you finish burning the Palo Santo stick, place it in a fireproof bowl made of metal, glass, or clay. The lit stick will go out on its own unless you keep blowing on the ember to keep the smoke going. Relish the peace the smoke leaves in its wake.
Remember, always use caution and respect when working with fire.
Contributor:
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.