DeepSummary
The hosts discuss the practice of smudging, which involves burning sage to purify spaces and remove negative energy. They explain the origins of smudging in indigenous North American cultures like the Dakota and Ho Chunk tribes. While the scientific evidence for the benefits of smudging is limited, some people believe it can improve mood, sleep, cognition, and reduce stress. The hosts caution about cultural appropriation and recommend researching proper smudging rituals and intentions.
The hosts also discuss the potential health benefits of burning sage, such as its antibacterial properties and ability to release negative ions that can counteract allergens. However, they note that many studies on the benefits of sage involve ingesting sage extracts orally rather than burning sage. They emphasize the importance of harvesting sage sustainably and respecting the cultural significance of the practice.
The hosts provide tips for smudging responsibly, such as using an abalone shell to represent water, bundling the sage to represent fire, and stating intentions or prayers to represent air. They also suggest buying sage from local Native American-owned businesses or growing it yourself, and disposing of the ashes on bare earth after smudging. Overall, the hosts encourage an open but respectful approach to smudging.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Smudging involves burning sage to purify spaces and remove negative energy, a practice with roots in indigenous North American cultures.
- While some believe smudging offers benefits like improving mood and reducing stress, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.
- To practice smudging respectfully, research proper rituals, use sustainable harvesting methods, and consider the cultural significance.
- Smudging rituals may include using an abalone shell, bundling the sage, stating intentions, bathing in the smoke, and disposing of ashes on bare earth.
- An open yet cautious approach to smudging is recommended, avoiding cultural appropriation while respecting individual choice.
- When purchasing sage for smudging, prioritize local Native American-owned businesses or grow your own to ensure ethical sourcing.
- Burning sage may offer some benefits like releasing negative ions that counteract allergens, but moderation is advised, especially for those with respiratory issues.
- While the scientific evidence is limited, if smudging provides a positive experience when practiced ethically and responsibly, it can be a meaningful ritual.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Yeah, it's called smudging. The smoke supposedly does some stuff to, like you said, the vibes.“ by Josh
- “If it makes you happy, if you like it, if you're doing it ethically and responsibly, that more power to you.“ by Josh
- “But one of the things you can do if you smudge is basically, you take the smoke and waft it to yourself and basically run it through your hair, run it over your shoulders, down your arms. Just take a quick bath in the smoke. Then you're actually doing the most basic ancient indigenous practice with smudging.“ by Josh
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Episode Information
Stuff You Should Know
iHeartPodcasts
2/28/24
Smudging is the process of wafting around the smoke of burning white sage. What is it good for? Listen in and find out.
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