We all have those times where the energy in the space we live in can be rather noisy, chaotic and disruptive. The energy can leave you feeling confused where you lack concentration or there may be tension looming for one reason or the other creating an uncomfortable state of being. Your home should always be your sacred space, where you can retreat and find peace from the everyday hustle and bustle of our daily lives.
Smudging is a great way for me to focus on the energy I bring in to my space. Negative thought forms can take residence in your home and mind as well as negative vibrations others may leave. Smudging is to maintain and uplift the positive energy in your home which enhances peace and tranquility with regular practice.
What is incense?
There are two types of incenses that I will share with you below. To learn more about the spiritual uses for which I use incense, check out my 3 part series in Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3, posted many moons ago.
Combustible
Combustible incenses are most commonly used. This type of incense is popular because it can be instantly lit and comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Examples include: incense sticks, cones and swirls.
Non combustible
Non Combustible incense requires a hot charcoal block (like the one I show below) in which you sprinkle the loose incense into. For example herbs, resins, spices etc.
The Starter Kit
Today I will share with you a guide featuring my Non Combustible incense starter kit available for $12.99 at my Etsy shop here. Make sure to enjoy 15% off in honor of the new year through 12/5/15 using the discount code HN2015.
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| Charcoal Incense Burner |
Here I have a dual purpose burner which can also be used as an essential oil burner. I recommend that once you’ve used it for either purpose stick with it as the oil and charcoal don’t mix. You can purchase this burner for $4.95 here. Make sure to always use a heat resistant burner.
In addition to the burner, always make sure to use an additional plate to help stabilize the burner. I use this very handy glass plate to insure it does not heat the surface I may have it standing on. Make sure to place in a stable surface in an area where it will not tip over.
The tongs are essential to help you carry the lit charcoal from either your stove top, or direct flame source. Remember to not touch the lit charcoal! Once your charcoal is lit, place on the incense charcoal burner with your tongs as seen below.
Once your charcoal is lit, add some resins or herbs of choice and leave it standing while it infuses each room with the smoke and scent. I carry mine around each room and let it sit for 1-2 mins and continue along each room.
There are many varieties of incenses you can burn. You can use resins, herbs and even common household spices like cinnamon and sugar. Make sure to check out my ETSY shop for a variety of incense types and herbs for your burner.
Resins
Incense Burning Tips
1. Make sure to never touch the charcoal directly once it’s lit. Always pay attention! Never leave your burner unattended.
2. Always place your burner on a heat-resistant surface, such as a trivet or ceramic tile. Depending on what method you’re using the outside of your censer may get very hot.
3. Always keep incense burner in a safe stable area. Keep in mind to always keep curtains and loose article away from your burner.
4. Those with respiratory issues such asthma should take precaution and always burn in a ventilated area.
5. Make sure all your spent incense materials are completely extinguished and cold to the touch, before discarding (i.e. incense, matches, ash, charcoal). Charcoal ash can remain hot for hours after your incense has burned out. Hot incense material can ignite in a wastebasket.
For more Incense Burning safety tips go here.
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