History:
Throughout the all the ages of man, we have had a reverence for, and relationship with birds. In many cultures around the globe, birds are regarded as ‘sacred messengers’, sending our prayers and healing wishes to the Creator, to the heavens. Birds are considered the link between heaven and earth and their feathers help them to defy gravity and have been the favourite tool of Shamans for centuries.
I am pleased to honour this ancient tradition.
My wands are made with feather gathered in nature. It is an ancient understanding that each bird is believed to have different healing energies, and when a particular bird feather is used within a wand, ceremonial object, or outfit, it is believed that the energy of that bird resides within the feathers that are used.
Prayer Feathers:
It is the Natives belief that to gain the attention and blessings of the higher spirits you must offer a gift that will delight them. Usually the more work and effort put into and item for offering the more inclined the spirits are to bless the request put to them, this often required more focus upon the intent of the prayer or request by its creator, hence giving it more energy both physically and psychically.
Prayer Feathers are made in honour of the higher spirits and guides and are usually made for prayers for loved ones whom may need healing or spiritual assistance. They too are made in a sacred manner and decorated with respect and love, whilst focusing on the prayer you asked on behalf of your loved one, which is then hid within a chosen tree that you have been guided to by spirit.
Prayer Feathers can also be used in Smudging and Cleansing ceremonies. The energies are generally much lighter which allows the practitioner to be gentle on the client and slowly introduce the natural healing elements as to not hurt or harm a client with serious blockages.
Smudge Bundles:
Smudge Bundles are usually created for prayers and guidance. These bundles are usually created with Sage and/or Sweetgrass. When the bundles are burned the smoke generated is used to cleanse and clear spaces or people of negative energies allowing new and fresh energy in. Lavender, Blackberry and other elements can also be incorporated into the bundles.
Smudge Wands:
Smudging was historically a common way for Neo-Pagans, Wiccans, indigenous people and Shaman to cleanse their sacred spaces or honouring any ritual or ceremony.
As practiced by generations of Native Americans, the pointed end of the smudge stick, while held over a bowl of sand, is ignited. A feather wand or fan would be used to spread and direct the smudging smoke. It is a sensitive tool to use for clearing energy in a house or room, aura clearing or in any space. Wands also ensure prayers reach the heavens.
Continuing to blow on the glowing surface will provide the fragrant “smoke” which is used for banishing (cleansing your sacred space), offering up “prayers”, or to cast a circle with the smoke. These various spiritual uses (and many others) are known generally as “smudging”.