Christina Gobert, Contributing Writer

When we think of practicing good hygiene, we often think of physical practices such as bathing, brushing our teeth and using deodorant. What if I told you there is another form of hygiene that many of us do not think about when it comes to taking care of ourselves. Spiritual Hygiene can be defined as the act of tending to the spiritual body-which we all have. It is said by many ancient cultures that we are “spiritual beings having a human experience”. If this is true, why do we not stress the  importance of tending to this area of our lives?

Ways that you can practice Spiritual Hygiene:

• Spend at least 5 minutes in silence per day
• Create a daily practice of prayer, meditation in order to connect with your spirit
• Create a daily practice of smudging/burning protective herbs such as Rue and Eucalyptus 
• Call on one’s ancestors for additional support during difficult times
• Set boundaries with those that siphon your energy
• Use water and other natural elements to cleanse yourself and your spaces
• Spending time in nature, indulging all your senses
• Take a spiritual bath with herbs like Sage to clear negative energy, Rosemary to strengthen protection and enhance clarity

Spiritual Hygiene, when practiced regularly has the ability to provide a level of support that surpasses what we can do for ourselves in the physical world. As a result, tending to one’s spirit should be a priority, just as consuming food and water is.

In what ways are you already practicing Spiritual Hygiene?

In what new ways will you incorporate Spiritual Hygiene into your daily self-nourishment practices?

I have two upcoming classes in partnership with Austin Community College. The first is called Intro to Herbalism, Infusions 101 on Thursday March 13th from 6-8pm at ACC Highland. In this class, participants will learn a brief history of Herbalism, including how indigenous cultures used herbs historically. Participants will learn ways herbs can support in balancing the body and mind and soul. Participants will have the opportunity to make an herbal infusion in class and will leave with a sample herb. 

The second class is Taking Impeccable Care of Yourself on Thursday April 17th from 6-8pm at ACC Highland. In this class you will learn your unique constitution based on Ayurvedic principles and will leave with a personalized self-care plan. You will also learn basic principles of the Alkaline lifestyle.

Click here to register and hope to see you there!

Christina Smith

Holistic Well-Being Guide

Meditation| Ayurveda Guide

Natural Healing Wellness Co.