Up in Smoke

Many of us have witnessed smudging - any time I am guiding a practice, when I enter studio or space, I typically engage in this ritual myself. But have you ever considered what the intention is, besides making the space smell really good?

Smudging is a Native American ritual that links smoke with spirituality in remarkable ways. Held closely within these cultures to purify, spiritually cleanse, rid physical spaces of negative energy, and bless the event taking place.

By definition, smudging is a ceremony that consists of burning plant herbs and resins in either a clay or shelled bowl while prayers are being done. This results in a smoke cloud formation that is believed to cleanse the air and those within it. It’s not the burning but the smoke that holds the significance in the ritual.

Historical Native Americans believed that the power of herbs and healing are the optimal solutions to rid the body or environment of unwanted thoughts, feelings, spirits, and negative energy to promote a higher state of well-being. The respect of Mother Earth and using the gifts that the earth has provided to heal and promote positive influences is something strongly tied within indigenous cultures. And clearly the yoga community has embraced this reverence; our interconnectivity is the intention that is threaded throughout our meditations.

So what are we burning and why? A few common smudging tools include: sage for its healing properties to offer strength, wisdom and clarity; cedar is considered particularly powerful in cleansing and creating positive energy; sweetgrass, called the hair of Mother Earth by some indigenous folks is believed to carry prayers into the spiritual world with its smoke; and tobacco is considered sacred medicine, capable of bridging the physical and spiritual worlds.

Until next time, namaste 🙏

KVO

What is Sylvotherapy?

Sylvotherapy - a practice that consists in improving the state of health of the body and the mind by the contact with the energy of the trees. This therapeutic approach brings connection with the energy vibrations emitted by the trees. Physical proximity or direct contact with trees would therefore be extremely beneficial to humans.

Recognized in Japan as a technique of relaxation and incorporated policy of preventive medicine, sylvotherapy is an ancient practice, known and used for centuries.

Called Shinrin Yoku by the forest agency in Japan, that is to say “forest baths”, this practice promoted since the beginning of the 80s had to wait until the mid 90s to be studied Scientists. This research has demonstrated the virtues of sylvotherapy and its positive physiological effects.

I do my best thinking when I am surrounded by nature. Many of our events are created in partnership with the trees, the oceans and all that the earth has to offer. I encourage you to grab your mat and journal. Find a magnificent shade tree and stay a while. Disconnect from your technology and just feel the vibrations all around you. Listen to the hum of the trees and find peace.

Until next time, namaste 🙏

KVO