Smudging is a cultural practice in which you burn one of the various medicines (cedar, sage, tobacco, sweet grass etc.) to cleanse your mind, spirit, and body. It is a way to remove any negative feelings, thoughts, and energy away from one’s body. Smudging can also be conducted in a room, outside, or on campus (Trent University, n.d.).
How to Smudge (Trent University, n.d.)
Cup the smoke in your hands and waft it over yourself to cleanse your body (much like how you would use water to wash your hands and face). It is customary to remove eyewear and cleanse the eyes and head first.
| Body Part | Purpose |
| Head | To cleanse our mind so we may think clearly and in a kind and gentle way |
| Eyes | To cleanse our sight so we see all things that are good and to look at others in a kind way |
| Mouth | To cleanse our words so that we may speak in a kind and non-judgmental way |
| Ears | To cleanse our ears so we can hear all things in a good way and find the goodness through anything negative |
| Heart | To clear away hurt or negative feelings from our heart |
Optional: Some people may choose to also smudge their feet to cleanse their steps, and their back to cleanse troubles and lift the weight of worries.
Please note if you decide to smudge on campus, please consult your campus guidelines and protocols. Protocols are in place to prevent triggering the smoke alarms on campus. For assistance or for more information, please connect with your Indigenous advisor.
Please review the resource section at the end of this toolkit for a short video clip on the purpose of smudging and/or to practice a smudging prayer.
