Healing with Crystals

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Crystals and gemstones can be used to aid healing when used in conjunction with other alternative therapies, particularly colour therapy because of the obvious links of colour and refracted light. Some people believe that crystals are actually the tools of healing and can be used in isolation, although practices of meditation and visualization are usually also employed. As with the previous two therapies, crystals act on energy vibrations and are believed to emit their own vibrations, which amplify and focus the natural energies of the recipient's mind and body.

Crystals are believed to alleviate blockages in the flow of energy around the body, which may be causing physical or spiritual distress. It achieves this by working on the chakra points.

The chakra is a concept of Indian origin, literally meaning wheel, and its system is used in many different types of healing. The chakras are subtle points of focused energy in the human being and are believed to be the source of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual energy. They are sometimes described in physical terms as whirling vortices that can easily become blocked, but, of course, this is merely a symbolic representation of an abstract concept.

There are seven major chakras, each relating to different functions of the mind and body. Each chakra also relates to specific colours and different gem-stones. Here are the seven chakras, beginning at the bottom of the body and working up:

Root or base chakra

This chakra is located at the base of the spine, near the reproductive organs. It relates to sexual activity and feelings, and links us to our basic instincts. The root chakra is associated with the elimination of waste from the system and the regeneration of cells and tissues in the body. Its colour is red, and its stones are rubies, garnets and bloodstones.

Abdominal or sacral chakra

This chakra relates to the digestive system and the reproductive system, as well as controlling the body's production of adrenaline. This chakra also signifies happiness and openness towards others. Its colour is orange, and its gemstones are coral, carnelian and amber.

Solar plexus chakra

Situated at the level of the naval, this chakra relates to the internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, pancreas and intestines. It is also to do with the intellect and communication. Its colour is yellow, and its stones include citron, topaz and yellow amber.

Heart chakra

This chakra is connected to the heart, circulation and immune system. It is also the centre of love and emotions. The colour of the heart chakra is green, and its corresponding stones are emeralds, jade and green tourmaline.

Throatchakra

Located just below the vocal chords, this chakra is connected to sound and the larynx. It is also associated with the thyroid gland and the lymphatic system. The throat chakra's colour is blue, and its stones include turquoise, sapphires and aquamarine.

Brow chakra

Situated between the eyebrows, this chakra relates to psychic or spiritual matters, and governs the pituitary gland and certain parts of the brain. The brow chakra coordinates all the other chakras, and its colour is indiao, its stones be-ing amethyst, dark sapphires and lapis lazuli.

Crown chakra

This last chakra is located at the top of the head and is associated with the functions of the brain and spiritual aspirations. Its colours are violet and white-gold, and its stones include amethyst, rose quartz, clear crystal quartz and diamonds. In order to unblock a chakra, a charged crystal is held above or placed directly on the area where the affected chakra is located.

There are different ways in which a crystal can be charged with energy. One method is to sit quietly holding it in your palm, concentrating on positive thoughts and visualizing spiritual energy entering into it. Some people like to sleep with a crystal under their pillow, so that they can absorb their own special psychic power during dream sleep. Another popular method of charging is to leave the crystal in direct sunlight (or moonlight) for at least six hours, or, even better, leave it outside during an electric thunderstorm.

Once a crystal has been used for healing it will have absorbed a lot of negative energy and must be cleansed before being recharged. An easy way of cleansing a crystal is to leave it to soak overnight in a bowl of spring water and sea salt, or, if there is a handy stream nearby, just give it a good dip.

When it comes to choosing a crystal, as well as bearing in mind what function you wish the stone to fulfil, you must use your intuition to guide you to what you are looking for. If you feel towards a particular stone, pick it up and handle it to see if you can sense its energy. Always inspect every crystal carefully for chips or cracks, as any imperfection may result in a dramatic loss of energy and healing sensitivity.

Here is a small selection of some of the most widely available stones and their uses:

Quartz crystal

Quartz crystal is the most easily recognizable type of healing crystal. It is the rough-cut clear stone that you will find in most New Age boutiques. Quartz is highly suitable for healing as it is believed to unblock the energy centres, allowing the body to respond and heal itself. It is a good all-round crystal to use for meditative and healing purposes as it promotes mental and spiritual well-being.

Rose quartz

Rose quartz is a beautifully coloured version of clear quartz, with its soft pink glow. This is another very important stone of healing as it deals with love and emotions. It is also a comforting stone and can ease distress in someone who has suffered trauma, as well as relieving everyday stresses and tensions.

Amethyst

Amethyst is thought to be a highly spiritual stone, associated with heightened perception and psychic insight. It is believed to have protective properties and is therefore a good stone to carry about with you. Amethyst is also said to relieve insomnia and provoke inspired dreams if placed under the pillow.

Cornelian

Of a warm red colour, this stone is believed to help with circulatory problems. Carnelian can also help to ease feelings of anger and frustration, and induce contentment and fulfilment.

Sodalite

Sodalite is a blue stone often speckled with white. It is believed to help those suffering from neuroses and irrational thoughts by balancing the mind and lowering the blood pressure.

Tiger's-eye

This also belongs to the quartz family and is golden brown in colour. Tiger's-eye is thought to increase confidence and reduce nervousness. On a physical level it can aid the digestive system.

There is no harm in experimenting with crystal in order to find out what feels right for you. Meditation with crystals is a good way to introduce yourself to the types of energy emitted, before trying to achieve healing effects. It must also be stressed that using crystals can neither diagnose illness nor provide miracle cures. If in doubt, see a doctor.