Native Americans have traditionally used herbs like sage to clear away negative energies and attract positive ones. Smudging with white sage is also said to release negative ions that fight dust and pollution.  

Either way, smudging can be a joyously intentional act that focuses the mind in the present, and can be used before meditation. To use, light your sage stick over a bowl, then blow on it until the flame goes out. The sage will then lightly smoke, much like incense. Holding it over the bowl, walk around your home gently wafting the smoke of your sage stick into every corner of your space.