Crystals and stones are gaining popularity as accent pieces that provide an earthy touch to home decor. There’s also an increased interest in using crystals for more esoteric purposes.
Cultures around the world have used crystals in healing and meditation practices for thousands of years. But do crystals possess healing powers?
According to crystal healer and certified meditation leader Carol Boote, the answer is yes.
“There’s a long history stretching over thousands of years of the use of crystals for healing and protection, and many forms of meditation for focus and achieving a higher state of consciousness,” says Boote.
She believes that crystals have an effect on consciousness.
“The use of crystals in meditation practice can deepen your meditation, provide a focus object, and raise your consciousness and awareness of your higher self,” Boote says.
Getting started
To get started with crystal meditation, you’ll need your chosen crystal and a willingness to practice, particularly if meditation is new to you.
“The key issue to meditation is to practice as regularly as possible and make it part of your self-care routine. Often if you feel if you don’t have time, feel tired or ill, you need it more than ever,” explains Boote.
When it’s time to get started, set the mood. Find a place where you won’t be disturbed, set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature, and adjust the lighting for a relaxed, soft feel.
If you’re already a seasoned meditator, you can simply add the crystal into your current practice.
You can also add tools like:
- candles
- essential oils
- incense
- images of ancestors
- images of inspiring figures, like the Buddha
- sacred objects
Next, have the crystals you’re going to use at hand.
Cleansing
You’ll want to cleanse your crystals before you begin. You can do this by:
- passing your crystal through incense, especially sage smoke
- using sound, like chanting or singing bowls
- exposing your crystal to sun or moonlight for several hours
- setting your crystal under running water
- immersing your crystal in salt water
- burying your crystal in a bowl of brown rice
Some cleansing methods are appropriate only for particular crystals, so make sure to do your research before you start.
Grounding
The next step, says Boote, is to connect to your highest self.
“Ground yourself and ask your highest self and highest beings to help you in this session,” she says. “Set your intention that any information or actions are for the highest good to humanity.”
Then, ask your crystals for permission to use their vibrations. Simply connect to your intuition and feel for an answer.
“Connect to your breath and the crystal vibrations, keep your breath relaxed, and see where the energies take you,” Boote says. “Some people like to shut their eyes — but to keep a level of alertness, I find it better to keep them half open.”
If you notice your mind wandering, don’t be dismayed.
“Any distracting thoughts are normal,” Boote encourages. “Acknowledge and send them off. You may be aware of sensations from the crystals such as vibrations, visions, or thoughts.”
Watch your timing
According to Boote, crystals shouldn’t remain on your body for more than 20 minutes.
“If you feel uncomfortable with the crystals before then, take them down immediately and drink water,” she says.
Closing your practice
When the meditation session is over, gradually become aware of yourself in the room.
“You might want to stretch and wiggle fingers and toes,” says Boote. “Don’t rush, take a drink of water to detoxify, and be aware of your experience and feelings.”
If you meditate daily, Boote recommends you add crystals no more than once per week.
“You’re working with some powerful energies,” Boote explains. “You need time to assimilate and get rid of any negative vibrations.”
Finally, Boote says to remember that meditation is a long journey over many years. Don’t rush it!
