Before burning sage, some recommend setting intentions if smudging for spiritual, energetic, and negativity clearing purposes. Remove animals or people from the room.
It’s also important to leave a window open before, during, and after smudging. This allows smoke to escape.
Beliefs that burning sage clears out spiritual impurities, pathogens, and even insects have been fundamental to the practice of smudging.
Tradition suggests that smudging can literally lift one’s spirits to banish negativity.
Ridding the body, objects, and spaces of bad energy can help welcome in newer, fresher, and more positive energies. In a way, this could have an energizing effect and help with fatigue.
If burning sage can lift one’s mood, it could also be a great ally against stress.
Some believe smoke also takes impurities and negative energy with it — so don’t skip this step.