You know those days when the energy in your house or office just feels so... stale? Like something is just not right? Or something seems unaligned? Simply Blah?

You really can't pinpoint what the feeling is — it’s hard to explain... 

Have you ever thought that just maybe:
The energy that you are feeling outside your body is a reflection of the energy you are carrying inside your body?

Read that again. Powerful, right? 

We are so swayed by external forces: social media, comparisons, the “should's, would's and could's" in life and MORE, that we actually can internalize their energy — important to become aware of this! Because usually, instead of taking the time to create space for healing/releasing, we ignore or suppress this “inflammation” energy, when we really CAN clear it!

As much as I speak about the food aspect of inflammation, I believe the same goes for our thoughts, habits and patterns that actually make our inner body and energy become inflamed… which leads to tension headaches, anxiety, depression, weight gain, achy, tired and just feeling like crap.

And I have been there too… no one is exempt from these feelings!
SO, what do I do when these feelings / negative energies creep up on me?  

Well, I start by feeding my body with foods that nourish, instead of foods that cause inflammatory responses. This is a definite for me; my steady go-to is always nutrient-dense meals. But my belief is that cleaning your gut is just one piece of the equation.

Besides the food, I also have one ritual I would like to share to release negativity energy. We have many parts of ourselves that need attention. And emotional cleansing is one! This is my favorite cleansing ritual — that I do daily — brings me so much mindfulness, awareness and a sense of clearing my inner and outer space.

Introducing The Palo Santo Stick

Years ago when we moved into our home in New Jersey, I was introduced to the Palo Santo Stick. I was working with a Feng Shui specialist who explained to me the benefits of cleansing my space and home using this stick. (Some call it a Smudge Stick.)
I began using this stick after I had guests staying in my home, clients leaving my office, when I was feeling overwhelmed, and when I wanted to clear my thoughts & begin thinking creatively. 

Most of all, I use the Palo Santo stick when I want to clear the STUCK energy.

Believe it or not, I do take a stick with me while traveling to clear the energy from those who have stayed in my hotel rooms. Now, some of you may be thinking, “Shoot, Jen… we are losing you to outer space!” Ha, I can assure you… you are not!  

This is a simple practice that keeps me grounded and aware of my feelings. Think about it, wouldn’t you much rather use a Palo Santo Stick than…
- Emotional eat?- Use anger as a vice?- React negatively to others?- Sit in the stuck feeling?

Clearing my space has become a positive distraction for me.  A distraction towards moving away from the vices listed above…a clear reminder that it is time for me to take a step back.

This is a healthy ritual for when we are experiencing too many overwhelming, external forces that life throws our way! Which eventually dominates our well-being. I’d highly recommend you try this if you can relate to any feelings I have mentioned! 

Palo Santo is most commonly used for: 

- Cleansing people and objects

- Healing illnesses

- Inspiring creativity

- Protection

- Clearing negativity

- As an energizer to lift spirits or prepare for a task or project

So how do I do it?

How to Cleanse with Palo Santo

1.  Light one end of the stick

2.  Blow out the flame gently

3.  The Stick will start to smoke

4.  This smoke is used to CLEAR + CLEANSE

5.  Go to a room that you want cleansed and walk the perimeter

6.  If you want your body cleansed, gently wave it up and down the front of your body then turn your back into the smoke.

7.  If your head is feeling full and overwhelmed, just circle the smoke in a circle around your head.

8.  Some use it in a circular motion around there belly or heart when feeling restricted.

9.  Gently put it into a ceramic bowl such as the one the pic, heated side down, and it will stop smoking.

10. Keep it on your desk, bedroom, kitchen… basically anywhere that reminds you that Palo Santo is a tool for cleansing!

I get my favorite Palo Santo Sticks here:

I love sharing my rituals whether it be nutrition, lifestyle tips and tools, spiritual awakenings, and all things that pertain to health and well being!

Have you tried a Palo Santo Stick? I’d love to see how & where you have used it! Send me an email to jen@jennifermeister.com.

And, as always, stay tuned for more simple lifestyle tools in my upcoming blogs!

To healthy rituals in the coming year and positive energy always,