Palo Santo Cleansing Sticks Beginners Guide - What are they and how can you use them?

Welcome to this week’s blog, where we’re about to embark on a journey into the mystical world of Palo Santo! If you’re a beginner with using this enchanting wood in your energy cleansing rituals, get ready to be enlightened (literally!).

Palo Santo, Spanish for “holy wood,” has a rich history deeply rooted in South American traditions. For centuries, indigenous cultures have revered Palo Santo for its cleansing and healing properties. But what exactly is Palo Santo, and how can you incorporate it into your spiritual practices? Let’s dive in!

A Brief History of Palo Santo

Palo Santo is a mystical tree native to the forests of South America, particularly found in countries like Peru and Ecuador. Translating to “holy wood” in Spanish, Palo Santo has been used for centuries by indigenous communities in rituals, ceremonies, and medicinal practices. Traditionally, it’s believed that burning Palo Santo cleanses spaces of negative energy, enhances spiritual connections, and promotes overall well-being.

Benefits of Using Green Tree Palo Santo Sticks:

Palo Santo is a fabulous tool to use in your crystal cleansing process, but that’s not the only benefit!

Clearing Negative Energy: Palo Santo is renowned for its ability to clear negative energy from spaces, objects, and even people. Burning a Palo Santo stick can help dispel stagnant energy, creating a more uplifting and positive atmosphere.
Promoting Relaxation and Calm: The sweet, woody aroma of Palo Santo has a calming effect on the mind and body. Using it during meditation or relaxation practices can help induce a sense of peace and tranquillity.
Enhancing Spiritual Connection: Palo Santo has been used for centuries in spiritual rituals and ceremonies. Burning it can help deepen your spiritual connection, whether you’re engaging in prayer, meditation, or introspective practices.
Improving Focus and Clarity: The scent of Palo Santo is believed to help clear the mind and enhance mental clarity. Using it during work or study sessions can promote focus and productivity.
Supporting Healing and Well-being: Palo Santo is believed to have medicinal properties and has been used in traditional healing practices for ailments ranging from colds to stress-related conditions. Its smoke is thought to have purifying and immune-boosting effects.

So when should you use Palo Santo?

Obviously you can burn Palo Santo whenever you feel the need, but here are my favourite times to add a little Palo Santo magic to your day:

Cleansing Crystals: Use Palo Santo to cleanse and purify your crystals. This ritual not only clears away any stagnant energy stored in the crystals but also recharges them with positive vibrations, allowing them to function at their fullest potential. Incorporating Palo Santo into your crystal cleansing routine can help maintain their energy balance and enhance their effectiveness in supporting you on your spiritual journey.
Morning Ritual: Start your day on a positive note by burning Palo Santo during your morning meditation or yoga session.Its calming aroma will set the tone for a peaceful and productive day ahead.
Work or Study Sessions: Enhance your focus and creativity by lighting up Palo Santo while working or studying. Its uplifting scent can help clear mental clutter and keep you motivated throughout your tasks.
Before Bedtime: Wind down in the evening by adding Palo Santo into your bedtime routine. Burn it while you read a book, journal, or simply relax, and allow its soothing fragrance to provide a sense of tranquillity and prepare you for a restful sleep.
During Yoga or Meditation: Take your mindfulness practice to the next level by incorporating Palo Santo into your yoga or meditation sessions. Its grounding scent can help deepen your connection to the present moment and foster a sense of inner peace.
Social Gatherings or Events: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings or events by burning Palo Santo. Its pleasant aroma not only purifies the space but also adds a touch of natural elegance, making it perfect for hosting guests or celebrating special occasions.

How to Use Palo Santo Safely (and with a dash of fun)

So, you’ve got your hands on some Green Tree Palo Santo sticks, and now what? Follow these simple steps to enjoy the magic of Palo Santo safely:

Set the Stage: Clear any clutter from your space and grab your favourite cosy blanket or cushion. Palo Santo is all about creating a sacred atmosphere, so make yourself comfortable and get ready to Zen out.
Safety First, People! Before you start waving your Palo Santo around like a magic wand, remember safety comes first! Always burn Palo Santo in a well-ventilated area and keep a heat-resistant container nearby to catch any falling embers. Pro tip: an abalone shell not only looks stunning but also does the job perfectly!
Light It Up: Grab your trusty lighter or matches and ignite one end of your Palo Santo stick. Let it burn for a few seconds, then gently blow out the flame. Now, watch as fragrant smoke starts to swirl around you like a mystical mist (cue the magical music)!
Intention is Key: Palo Santo isn’t just about lighting something on fire and hoping for the best. Take a moment to set your intentions—whether it’s to cleanse your space, find inner peace, or manifest your dreams. Visualize your goals as you let the sweet aroma of Palo Santo envelop you.
Get Your Cleanse On: Time to put that Palo Santo to work! Walk around your space, waving the stick gently and allowing the smoke to reach all corners. Bonus points if you twirl around like a spiritual superhero (cape optional)!
Extinguish Like a Pro: Once you’ve worked your Palo Santo magic, extinguish the stick by pressing the burning end into your abalone shell or a heat-proof dish. Take a deep breath and bask in the newfound tranquillity of your freshly cleansed space.
And relax: Once you’ve made sure you’ve covered all areas of your space, it’s time to get cosy with that blanket! You can either snuggle up on the sofa with a mug of your favourite drink and a good book, or you can place your blanket on the floor and have an ultra-relaxing meditation session. The choice is yours!

To use Palo Santo to cleanse your crystals, just light your stick as mentioned above, and hold your crystal over the Palo Santo smoke until you feel it’s been cleansed. As always, make sure your space is well ventilated and you extinguish your stick safely.

There you have it, folks! With a little help from Green Tree Palo Santo sticks and an abalone shell, you’re well on your way to creating a sanctuary of serenity in your own home. So, grab your Palo Santo, ignite your intentions, and let the magic unfold!

Kate x
For our Green Tree Palo Santo cleansing sticks, click here
For our Abalone Shells, click here