20 Ways to Incorporate Palo Santo into Your Spiritual Practice

Palo santo, also known as "holy wood," has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures in South America for its powerful spiritual and healing properties. In recent years, it has gained popularity in the Western world as more people turn to alternative forms of spirituality and self-care.

If you're looking to add some magic and mystique into your spiritual practice, then incorporating palo santo is a must.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of palo santo and outline the top 20 ways to incorporate palo santo into your spiritual journey and ignite your soul.

What Does Spiritual Practice Mean?

Before we dive into the ways to incorporate palo santo, let's first define what spiritual practice means.

Spiritual practice is a personal journey of self-discovery and growth that involves connecting with your inner self and the world around you. It can encompass various activities, such as meditation, prayer, journaling, or simply being present in the moment.

No matter how you choose to practice, the ultimate goal is to cultivate a deeper understanding and connection with yourself and the universe.

A loving reminder: There is no wrong way to have a spiritual practice. It is a unique and individual experience for each person.

The Power of Palo Santo

It's important to understand the power behind this mystical wood. Palo santo is believed to have cleansing and spiritual purifying properties that can clear negative energy, promote relaxation,, and uplift the spirit.

The benefits of palo santo for the mind, body, and soul are endless. It can aid in reducing anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation.

In addition, palo santo can also enhance creativity and intuition, allowing you to tap into your higher self and gain clarity. This can be especially beneficial for those on a spiritual journey or looking to reconnect with their inner self.

Still not enough? Palo santo can also help alleviate physical ailments such as headaches, cold and flu symptoms, and symptoms. It's truly a multi-purpose tool for all aspects of your well-being.

Can I Only Get Palo Santo in Wood Form?

Palo santo is commonly sold as palo santo sticks. However, if you don't want to burn palo santo sticks, you can also find it  in essential oil, incense sticks, and even in the form of skincare products. This makes it a versatile spiritual tool that can be incorporated into your practice in various ways.

The Tale of Palo Santo

Legend has it that palo santo trees only release their sacred oils and aroma after they have died naturally. This creates a deep connection to the earth and a sense of reverence for this sacred wood.

Moreover, palo santo is only allowed to be harvested from fallen trees, making palo santo a sustainable and ethical choice for your spiritual practice.

Why Can't You Harvest Palo Santo from Live Trees?

It is believed that harvesting palo santo from live trees will not have the same spiritual and physical healing properties. This is why it's important to only purchase palo santo from ethical sources that follow sustainable harvesting practices.

How is Palo Santo Harvested?

The harvesting process is done carefully and respectfully by hand to ensure the sustainability of the trees.

Firstly, only dead or fallen branches from palo santo trees are collected. This ensures that the tree is not harmed and can continue to grow naturally. The branches are then left to dry for several years, allowing the resin and oils to develop within the wood.

Once dried, the branches are cut into smaller pieces and then burned as incense or used in sacred rituals. The process of harvesting palo santo is a true labor of love and requires patience and respect for the land.

Ancient Traditions with Palo Santo

Palo santo has a rich history and is deeply rooted in ancient traditions. It has been used by shamans for centuries to ward off evil spirits, heal the body and soul, and bring good luck. In Peruvian cultures, it is referred to as "sacred wood" and is often burned during ceremonies or rituals.

By incorporating palo santo into your spiritual practice, you are tapping into centuries of ancient wisdom and knowledge.

What Peruvian Rituals Are Associated with Palo Santo?

Several ancient Peruvian rituals have been associated with palo santo. One such ritual is called "Despacho," which involves creating a sacred offering to the earth and the spirits using various natural elements, including palo santo. This ritual is believed to bring balance and harmony into one's life.

Another traditional Peruvian practice is called "Ayni", which means "reciprocity" in the Quechua language. This ritual involves offering palo santo as a symbol of gratitude and reciprocity to the earth, or “Pachamama,” for all its blessings. It is a beautiful practice that teaches us to give back and honor the natural world.

The Roots of Palo Santo

Palo santo comes from the “palo santo tree,” scientifically known as the Bursera Graveolens tree, which is native to South America. This tree can be found in countries such as Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil.

Who Originally Discovered Palo Santo?

The use of palo santo can be traced back to the Incas and has been used for medicinal, spiritual, and practical purposes throughout history. It was also believed to have been used by Spanish conquistadors who encountered it while exploring South America.

Is Palo Santo Only Available in Central and South America?

Thanks to its growing popularity, palo santo is now available worldwide. However, it's important to purchase ethically and sustainably sourced palo santo from reputable sellers. By doing so, we not only ensure the quality of the wood but also support the communities that have been harvesting it for generations.

Who Uses Palo Santo Today?

Palo santo is used by people from all walks of life, from spiritual seekers to those looking for a natural remedy for their ailments. It has gained popularity in the wellness community and is often found in yoga studios, meditation spaces, and holistic healing centers.

20 Ways to Use Palo Santo

Now that you understand the power and history of palo santo, let's explore ways to incorporate it into your spiritual routine.

1. Palo Santo for Smudging

Burning palo santo wood and allowing the smoke to fill your sacred space can create a peaceful and calming atmosphere. The aroma of palo santo is known to aid in relaxation and promote a deeper level of focus during meditation.

What Is Smudging?

A smudging ritual uses herbs, such as white sage or palo santo, to purify and clear a space. It's an ancient tradition that has been practiced by many cultures around the world. Smudging with palo santo can help you set intentions to brighten energy, release negative emotions, and invite positivity into your life.

Where Did the Practice of Smudging Come from?

The practice of ritual smudging has many roots in indigenous cultures, such as Native American and South American traditions. It was believed that the smoke from burning herbs could cleanse a space or person's aura, creating balance and harmony within.

How Do I Smudge?

To smudge with palo santo, light the end of a stick and allow it to burn for a few seconds before blowing out the flame. The smoke will continue to emanate from the stick throughout your space. You can also use a feather or your hand to guide the smoke around your body and home.

What's the Difference Between Smudging Palo Santo and Sage?

While both palo santo and white sage are used for smudging, they have different properties and energies. Sage is typically used to remove negative energy, while palo santo can help bring in positive energy and promote spiritual connection. Some people prefer one over the other, but you can also use them together for a more balanced smudging experience.

2. Burning Palo Santo for Protection

Feeling like you need an extra layer of protection? Palo santo is known to have protective properties that can ward off negative energy and entities. Burning a stick of palo santo while visualizing a protective shield around you can help create a sense of safety and security.

What Do I Need To Be Protected from?

Negative energy can come from many sources, such as stress, toxic relationships, or even our own thoughts. By burning palo santo for protection, you are not only shielding yourself but also creating a positive and uplifting environment to combat these negative influences.

How Do I Know if I Am Doing this Right?

Trust your intuition and visualize a protective white light surrounding you. You can also recite a mantra or affirmation, such as "I am protected and safe," while burning palo santo.

How Should I Feel Afterward?

After burning palo santo for protection, you may feel a sense of calm and peace. You may also notice a shift in the energy around you, feeling more at ease and grounded.

3. Incorporate Palo Santo into Your Yoga Practice

Yoga is not just about the physical movements; it's also about connecting with your mind, body, and spirit. The addition of palo santo can enhance this connection and deepen your practice. You can either burn palo santo during your yoga session or use its essential oil for aromatherapy benefits.

How Does Palo Santo Enhance My Yoga Practice?

The scent of palo santo can calm the mind and promote a sense of inner peace, making it the perfect addition to your yoga routine. Its purifying properties also help clear any stagnant energy in your sacred space, allowing for better focus and spiritual connection.

Which Yoga Poses Pair Well with Palo Santo?

Any yoga pose can be enhanced by incorporating palo santo. However, poses that promote grounding and stability, such as Warrior I or Tree Pose, pair well with the earthy energy of palo santo. You can also use it during your Savasana meditation to deepen relaxation and spiritual connection.

4. Create a Palo Santo Ritual

By creating a ritual using palo santo, you are setting aside time and space to connect with yourself on a deeper level. This can be as simple as lighting a stick of palo santo and taking a few deep breaths, or you can create a more elaborate ceremony.

The key is to focus on your intention and allow the aroma of palo santo to guide you toward a deeper connection with your higher self.

How Can I Create A Ritual with Palo Santo?

• Find a quiet and sacred space where you can connect with yourself without distractions.
• Light a stick of palo santo and take deep breaths, allowing the smoke to fill your lungs.
• Set an intention or say a prayer while holding the palo santo stick in your hand.
• Allow the smoke to fill your space and visualize any negative energy being cleared away.
• When you're ready, extinguish the flame and take a moment to reflect on your experience.
• You can repeat this ritual daily or whenever you feel called to connect with yourself on a deeper level.
  
  

5. Palo Santo for Setting Intentions

Whether you are starting a new project, embarking on a journey, or seeking clarity in your life, setting intentions is a powerful way to manifest your desires. Burning palo santo while visualizing your intentions can help amplify your manifesting abilities and bring your goals to fruition.

How Do I Set Intentions with Palo Santo?

As you light your stick of palo santo, visualize your intentions coming to life. You can also recite affirmations or write down your intentions on a piece of paper and burn it with the palo santo. This ritual will help release any doubts or fears and allow for a clearer path towards manifesting your desires.

Can I Use Palo Santo for Specific Intentions?

Absolutely! Palo santo can be used for any intention you wish to manifest. Its versatility and adaptability make it a powerful tool in your spiritual practice. Whether you want to attract love, abundance, or success, palo santo can aid in bringing your intentions into reality.

6. Clearing Negative Energy with Palo Santo

Palo santo is believed to have powerful energy-cleansing properties that can help purify your environment. Burning a few sticks around your home or workspace can clear any stagnant or negative energy and promote positive vibes.

What Is Negative Energy?

Negative energy can come from a variety of sources, such as anger, fear, or cluttered spaces. It can create a heavy and dense atmosphere that affects our mental and emotional well-being. By clearing this energy with palo santo, we are creating space for positivity and harmony to thrive.

How Often Should I Use Palo Santo for Clearing Negative Energy?

It's up to personal preference, but it's recommended to use palo santo at least once a week. You can also use it after a particularly stressful or negative event, such as an argument or a bad day at work.

Can I Use Palo Santo in My Living Space?

Yes! The calming scent and cleansing properties of palo santo make it a perfect addition to any living space without being overbearing.

7. Creating a Palo Santo Spray

For a quick and convenient way to cleanse your surroundings and promote positive energy, create a palo santo spray. Simply mix water with a few drops of palo santo oil and spray it around your home or workspace whenever you feel the need to refresh your energy.

How Do I Make a Palo Santo Spray?

You will need a spray bottle, water, and a few drops of palo santo essential oil. Simply mix the ingredients, shake well, and spray around your space. You can also add other essential oils or even crystals to enhance the properties of your spray.

Where Can I Find Palo Santo Products?

Palo santo products, such as sticks, essential oils, and sprays, can be found at most metaphysical shops. Make sure to purchase from a reputable source to ensure the authenticity and sustainability of the product.

Interested in high-quality palo santo that is sourced ethically and directly from South America? Look no further than our collection here.

8. Carrying a Piece of Palo Santo with You

Many people believe that carrying a piece of palo santo with you can bring good luck and protection. You can also use it as a talisman or charm to remind you to stay grounded, centered, and connected to your spiritual journey throughout the day.

How Do I Carry Palo Santo with Me?

You can carry a small piece of palo santo in your purse or pocket or else wear it as jewelry. You can also charge the piece with intention and use it during meditation or hold it when you feel anxious or stressed.

9. Recharging Your Crystals with Palo Santo

Crystals are powerful tools for healing and manifestation, but they can absorb negative energy over time. Some crystals may also become overwhelmed with too much energy, affecting their effectiveness. Palo santo can help you eliminate negative energy and recharge your crystals, allowing them to work at their full potential.

How Do I Recharge My Crystals with Palo Santo?

Light a stick of palo santo and pass your crystals through the smoke several times while visualizing any negative energy being cleared. You can also leave your crystals near the palo santo for a few hours to absorb their cleansing properties.

10. Using Palo Santo During Moon Phases

The moon's phases have different energies that can impact our spiritual practices. Incorporating palo santo during these phases can enhance and align with their unique energies.

For example, during a full moon, you can use palo santo to release any negative energy or old patterns that no longer serve you. During a new moon, you can burn palo santo while setting intentions for the upcoming lunar cycle.

11. Using Palo Santo As A Natural Bug Repellent 

Palo santo not only has spiritual benefits but also practical ones. The smoke from burning palo santo can act as a natural bug repellent, making it the perfect companion for outdoor meditations. Its grounding and purifying properties will also help you stay focused and connected to nature during your practice.

How Do I Use Palo Santo as a Bug Repellent?

Simply light a stick of palo santo and allow the smoke to surround you while meditating outdoors. You can also add a few drops of palo santo oil to a carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, and apply it to your skin before heading outside.

12. Creating Palo Santo Teas or Drinks

Palo santo can also be incorporated into your daily routine by infusing it into teas or drinks. Its calming and grounding properties can help alleviate stress and anxiety while promoting relaxation. You can also add other herbs or spices, such as cinnamon or ginger, for added flavor and benefits.

How Do I Make a Palo Santo Tea/Drink?

Simply add a few drops of palo santo oil to hot water or your favorite tea blend. You can also infuse the wood directly into hot water for a more natural and subtle flavor.

For drinks, you can add a few drops to your favorite cocktail or mocktail.

Try these:

• Palo Santo Tea: Boil water and add a few sticks of palo santo. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes, strain, and enjoy the calming effects.
• Palo Santo Smoothie: Blend a frozen banana, almond milk, honey, and a drop of palo santo oil for a delicious and grounding drink.
  
  

Is Palo Santo Safe to Ingest?

It's generally safe to ingest small amounts of palo santo, but it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional beforehand.

It's important to note that the oil and wood may interact with certain medications or have adverse effects on individuals with specific medical conditions. Always use caution and moderation when incorporating any new herb or supplement into your diet.

13. Adding Palo Santo to Your Bath

For a truly immersive spiritual experience, add a few drops of palo santo oil to your bath. As you soak in the water, envision all negativity and stress being washed away, thereby leaving you feeling rejuvenated and balanced. You can also add other essential oils, Epsom salt, or flower petals for added healing benefits and aromatherapy.

How Do I Add Palo Santo to My Bath?

Add a few drops of palo santo oil to your bathwater or mix it with a carrier oil before adding it. Make sure to dilute the oil properly to avoid any skin irritation. Soak for at least 15-20 minutes and allow yourself to fully relax and let go

14. Using Palo Santo for Divination

Palo santo can also be used for divination practices, such as tarot readings or scrying. Its cleansing and grounding properties can help you connect with your intuition and higher self during these spiritual practices.

What Does Divination Mean?

Divination is the practice of seeking knowledge from a higher power or spiritual realm through various methods, such as tarot cards or scrying. It's often used for gaining insight and guidance on specific issues or questions.

What Is Scrying?

Scrying is a divination practice that involves gazing into or onto a reflective surface, such as water or a crystal ball, to receive intuitive messages or visions. The practice is believed to open up the third eye and allow for deeper spiritual connection and understanding.

Incorporating palo santo into your scrying practice can help clear any negative energy and enhance your focus and intuition.

How Do I Use Palo Santo for Divination?

Before beginning your divination practice, burn palo santo to cleanse the space and yourself. As you perform your practice, focus on your intention and allow the palo santo's energy to aid in your connection with the spiritual realm.

15. Using Palo Santo Before and After Energy Work

Energy work, such as Reiki or acupuncture, can help balance and align our chakras. Burning palo santo before and after these sessions can further enhance the cleansing and purifying effects of the energy work. Its soothing aroma can also create a calming atmosphere for deeper relaxation during the sessions.

How Do I Use Palo Santo Before/After Energy Work?

Light a stick of palo santo and allow the smoke to fill the room before beginning your session. This will help clear any negative or stagnant energy in the space.

After completing the session, you can also use palo santo to cleanse yourself and release any energy that no longer serves you.

16. Using Palo Santo for Home Cleansing and Protection

Palo santo can be used to cleanse and protect your home from negative energy or spirits. Its purifying properties can help create a peaceful and inviting space for you and your loved ones.

What Is Home Cleansing?

Home cleansing is the practice of removing negative energy or spirits from a living space. It's believed to create a more harmonious environment and promote positive energy flow.

Why Is Home Cleansing Necessary?

We let people in our space every single day, with each individual carrying their own energy. This can sometimes leave a lingering negative or stagnant energy in our home.

Home cleansing can help remove this energy and create a fresh start for you and your family.

How Do I Use Palo Santo for Home Cleansing?

Light a stick of palo santo and walk around your home, allowing the smoke to fill each room. You can also use a palo santo spray or diffuser for a more subtle cleansing effect.

17. Using Palo Santo for Grounding and Centering

Palo santo's grounding properties make it an excellent tool for centering and balancing yourself. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected from your inner self, palo santo can help bring you back to a state of calm and grounding.

What Does Grounding Mean?

Grounding is the process of connecting with your physical body and the present moment. It can help reduce stress, and promote a sense of stability and balance.

How Do I Use Palo Santo for Grounding?

Hold onto a stick of palo santo and take deep breaths as you focus on your intention to ground yourself. You can also diffuse palo santo oil or wear a piece of palo santo as jewelry throughout the day for ongoing grounding support.

18. Using Palo Santo in Meditation

Palo santo's calming and cleansing properties make it an excellent tool for meditation practices. It can help clear your mind, deepen your focus, and enhance your spiritual connection.

How Do I Use Palo Santo in Meditation?

Before beginning your meditation, light a stick of palo santo and allow the smoke to fill the space. As you meditate, focus on your breath and allow the calming energy of palo santo to support and guide you.

19. Using Palo Santo for Aromatherapy

Palo santo's unique aroma has been used for centuries for its therapeutic benefits. Its calming and purifying properties make it a popular choice for aromatherapy practices, helping to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Why Is Aroma Therapy Helpful?

Aromatherapy is helpful because it utilizes the powerful scents of essential oils to stimulate our olfactory system and trigger certain responses in our brains. These responses can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, improve mood, and even alleviate physical symptoms related to various ailments.

What Does Palo Santo Smell Like?

The aroma of palo santo is often described as woody, sweet, and slightly citrusy. It's a unique scent that can instantly transport you to a place of calmness and serenity.

How Do I Use Palo Santo for Aromatherapy?

Diffuse palo santo oil in a diffuser or mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle to create an inviting and calming atmosphere. You can also add a drop of palo santo oil to your favorite unscented lotion or carrier oil and use it as a natural perfume.

20. Using Palo Santo for Manifestation

Palo santo's high vibrational energy and connection to the spiritual realm make it a powerful tool for manifestation practices. Its cleansing properties can help release any blocks or negative energy that may be hindering your manifestations.

What Does Manifestation Mean?

Manifestation is the process of bringing something into reality through focused intention and belief. It involves aligning our thoughts, feelings, and actions with our desires to bring them to fruition.

How Do I Use Palo Santo for Manifestation?

Before beginning your manifestation practice, burn palo santo to cleanse yourself and the space. As you focus on your intentions and goals, allow the energy of palo santo to support you in releasing any doubts or negative beliefs that may be blocking your manifestations.

You can also use palo santo to create a manifestation ritual by writing your desires on a piece of paper and burning it with the smoke of palo santo, symbolizing the release and manifestation of your goals.

Palo Santo and Ethics

Ethically using palo santo means respecting the sacredness and sustainability of this plant. It is important to purchase palo santo from trusted sources that ethically and sustainably harvest it without harming the environment or disrespecting indigenous communities.

It is also essential to use palo santo with intention and reverence, rather than simply for trendy purposes or commercial gain. By doing so, we can honor the spiritual significance of palo santo and ensure its preservation for generations to come.

How Do I Know If My Palo Santo Is Real or Ethically Sourced?

Look for palo santo that is certified by reputable organizations, and avoid purchasing from sources that do not disclose their harvesting practices or do not have a clear connection to indigenous communities.

Additionally, genuine palo santo has a distinct sweet scent and woody aroma when burned, and the smoke should linger for a while after extinguishing the stick. If your palo santo has a strong chemical smell or the smoke dissipates quickly, it may not be authentic.

Why Does Ethical Sourcing Matter?

Not ethically sourcing palo santo can have detrimental effects on the environment and indigenous communities. Overharvesting can lead to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and disrupt ecosystems that rely on palo santo. It also affects the livelihoods and traditions of indigenous peoples who depend on this sacred plant for their spiritual practices and economic well-being.

By ethically sourcing palo santo, we are not only respecting the plant and its spiritual significance, but we are also preserving natural resources and supporting sustainable practices. 

Spending a few extra dollars to purchase ethically sourced palo santo is a small sacrifice to make in exchange for the immense benefits it can bring to our minds, bodies, and souls. So next time you reach for a stick of palo santo, remember to do so with mindfulness and gratitude towards this sacred plant.

FAQS About Palo Santo

Q: Is palo santo safe to use?

A: Yes, palo santo is generally safe to use. However, as with any herb or essential oil, it's important to practice caution and do a patch test before using it on the skin. Additionally, you'll want to avoid burning palo santo wood around loose drapery or items that can easily catch fire.

Q: Can I reuse a stick of palo santo?

A: Yes, you can reuse a stick of palo santo multiple times. Simply light the end of the stick and allow it to burn for a few seconds before blowing out the flame.

Q: Can I use palo santo if I have respiratory issues?

A: If you have any respiratory issues, it's best to consult with a medical professional before using palo santo, as its strong aroma may irritate some individuals with sensitive respiratory systems. You can also opt for a palo santo spray or diffuser instead of burning the actual stick.

Q: How often should I use palo santo in my spiritual practice?

A: There is no set rule for how often you should use palo santo in your spiritual practice. It's up to personal preference and intuition. Some may choose to use it daily, while others only use it when they feel the need for cleansing or grounding. Listen to your intuition and use it as needed.

Q: Can I use palo santo during pregnancy?

A: It's always best to consult with a medical professional before using any herbs or essential oils during pregnancy. Some sources suggest avoiding the use of palo santo during pregnancy due to its strong aroma, while others say it's safe to use in moderation. It's always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a professional before use.

Q: Is palo santo culturally appropriated?

A: The use of palo santo can be traced back to indigenous cultures, so it's essential to respect its cultural origins and gather knowledge from reputable sources before using it in your spiritual practice. When using palo santo, it's important to do so with cultural sensitivity and understanding.

Now It's Time for YOU to Take Action

• Pick one or more of the suggested ways to incorporate palo santo into your spiritual practice.
• Set an intention for how you want to feel during this practice.
• Write down your experience and any insights or messages you received during the session.
• How did using palo santo enhance your spiritual practice?
• What other ways can you incorporate palo santo into your daily routine?

You Can Never Do It Wrong

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to incorporate palo santo into your spiritual practice. The most important thing is to listen to your intuition and do what feels right for you. There is no wrong way to do anything. Everything is perfect because it is already in existence. Because it's here. And the “now” is never lacking, never imperfect.

Our wish is for you to let palo santo guide you to that truth.

Everyone's journey looks different, and that's what makes it beautiful. Whether you use palo santo for meditation, aromatherapy, manifestation, or all of the above, trust in the power of this sacred wood and its ability to enhance your spiritual connection. Trust that the connection is already within yourself and available at any moment, you are in there.

So take a deep breath, light that palo santo, and just be. Everything is perfect as it is, right here right now. You're doing it right.

Namaste.