Kerry Romano Zall Walking the Land
Walking across the farm, I see my sage crops thriving in the sunshine. Their silver-green leaves dance in the breeze. There are two types of sage that flourish here. However, today, I want to talk about white sage, Salvia apiana, the sacred herb known for its powerful cleansing properties. Sage smudge sticks, made from white sage, are among the most popular tools for energetic clearing. They are found commercially in abundance. Yet in recent years, many have begun questioning the ethics of their widespread use.
A Sacred Practice Rooted in Intention
That is why I grow my own. I cultivate, harvest, and bundle it with intention. Because of this, I know exactly where it comes from and the energy infused into it. If you know, you know. I burn it daily. Smudging is a sacred practice for me. I cleanse my home, my spaces, and even the land itself. Often, you will find me outside, walking the perimeter of the main residence. I waft the fragrant smoke around to reset the energy. When I run out, I always source locally. That way, the integrity of the tradition remains intact.
Feeling the Shift
The moment I strike the match and the first tendrils of smoke rise, I can feel the shift. Instantly, the energy lightens. The air clears. A sense of clarity takes hold. While it may look like a simple act, it is not just a ritual. Instead, it is a deep-rooted connection that invites stillness and peace.
Two Types of Sage. One Deep Connection
In addition to white sage, I also grow culinary sage, an herb rich in flavor and medicinal benefits. Both hold their own magic. If you ever find yourself here at the Villa and I pull out my smudge stick, it is an invitation. For us both to enter a space of clarity. To wipe away what no longer serves us. To breathe deeply into the present moment together. As a result, we both ground ourselves in something ancient and true.
The Scent of Home
I am in love with its scent. Every time I walk past, my fingers instinctively reach for its soft leaves. Then, I bring them to my nose to inhale its grounding, earthy aroma. Truly, it is a gift from the land. I am endlessly grateful to witness its prosperity here. Even so, nature has surprised me again. Volunteer native sage has begun sprouting at the top of my property. It feels as though nature herself is offering her blessings.
The Frequency of Sage
The frequency that sage holds is undeniable. It carries the wisdom of the earth. The cleansing power of fire. The whisper of the wind. Therefore, I honor it deeply. It is an ally. A guide. A teacher. One that walks with me every single day.
Closing Thoughts
If Sage has been calling to you, listen. Whether you grow it, burn it, or simply admire it, remember that this plant holds ancient wisdom. Let it remind you that clarity is always within reach. After all, the ritual is not just about the smoke. It is about the presence, the intention, and the sacred moment you claim for yourself.
Want to go deeper into plant wisdom and ritual? Listen to the ApoethKerry podcast where we explore the sacred medicine of herbs, stories from the Villa, and conversations rooted in healing.
In a comfortable state of gratitude,
Kerry