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| Cherokee Smudging Kit |
 Smudging is a ceremony for cleansing that has been used in many traditions throughout history. Widely varying cultures and religions from all over the Earth have discovered power in working with the smoke from burning herbs and incense. Smell is the sense that connects us to a deep, instinctual part of the brain. Certain scents have the power to change our energies and trigger emotions. Beyond that, the Native American smudging ceremony adds a dimension of ritual and respect for all the many diverse parts of Creation.
The purpose of smudging is to cleanse yourself, your objects and/or a place. It can be done before other ceremonies or by itself. According to what we have been taught, certain plants have entered into a sacred agreement with us two-leggeds: in exchange for our respectful treatment of them, they will give up their lives so that we can have their purifying smoke to cleanse with and to pray with, so that we might stay in balance and keep our walk sacred. This means we are to pick the plants with honour, asking permission and giving thanks, taking only what we need and not damaging the plant.
Below we share information on some herbs that are commonly used for smudging. Any of the herbs can be combined with any of the others, but we suggest that you try them one at a time at first to better connect with the unique powers of each. For smudging, as we were taught to do it, you will need something to burn the herbs in -- a bowl or a shell perhaps. We have been taught to use an abalone shell, a gift from the oceans. It helps to call in the element of Water, from where life began, to balance the four elements in the smudging ceremony. An abalone grows its shells in a spiral, and thus connects us to the first spiral that started all life. You will also need matches (which are less likely to burn your fingers than a lighter) and a feather or fan of feathers. The feather is to acknowledge the winged ones who dwell in the sky and to call in the element of Air.
We have been taught to perform the smudging ceremony in the following manner, which we share with you. You are free to use it, or you may choose to learn another ceremony or create a way that feels right to you. No one way is right or wrong. Place the abalone shell in front of you and thank it, aloud or silently, for the life that created it and for helping you in this ceremony. Place the herb(s) that you will be using in the shell, thanking each as you hold it. They have died so that you could have this smoke. That should not inspire guilt, but rather gratitude for the sacrifice. One day you will give your body for other beings of the Earth. Detailed Instructions comes with every kit. |
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$50 including postage within Australia
International Orders $60
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