It should come as no surprise that malas attract attention. People you've never met will reach out and touch your mala before even realizing what they are doing! If you'd like to cleanse your mala, or if you're tying a mala kit and want to start with a clean slate, one of the best ways to do that is with the smoke from either Palo Santo or Sage.
 
Bursera graveolens, known in Spanish as "palo santo," or "holy stick," is a wild, mystical tree native to Mexico, Central and South America. Related to Frankincense, Myrrh and Copal, it is part of the citrus family and has sweet notes of pine, mint and lemon. It provides an uplifting scent that raises your vibration in preparation for meditation and allows for a deeper connection to the Source of all creation. It is also said that Palo Santo enhances creativity and brings good fortune to those who are open to its magic. 
 
Sage is the North American cousin of Palo Santo and is burned in a similar way to cleanse the air of harmful energies. Bundles come from Southern California and have a sweet refreshing scent.  
 
Use a candle, match or lighter to ignite your stick of Palo Santo or Sage. Hold at about a 45 degree angle pointing the tip down toward the flame. Allow it to burn for about 30 secs to 1 minute and then gently blow out. Waft the smoke all over your mala and hands. The rich smell will also bring peace and clarity to the moment along with good feelings. When finished, place the stick in a fire proof bowl of metal, glass or clay. The glow will end on its own unless you blow on the ember which will keep the smoke going. Always use caution and respect when working with fire. Listed price is for either one stick of Palo Santo or one bundle of Sage.