Beyond the sparkling aesthetic beauty of crystals, they produce mesmerizing effects on the human body. These precious gems are highly sought-after in different locations around the world. According to Wikipedia, about 1 billion US dollars are spent per year by consumers to acquire these precious stones.
Why do people around the world highly value these crystals?
Crystals have healing properties that may influence the body, spirit, and soul positively. Hence, it is used by many alternative treatments. These stones are also used as a conduit for positive energy.
Crystal healing may be defined as the use of crystals to cure ailments and protect against diseases. They also can be used to induce relaxation. Even though it is acclaimed by many to be effective, it is still regarded as pseudoscience by medical experts.
Image by Sharon McCutcheonÂ
History of crystals
Crystals have been used for countless centuries for various reasons, such as divination, healing rituals, and spirituality.
Different people have worn these stones in various races for different purposes. For example, hematite was worn by Greeks for protection when they go to war; Egyptians adorn their clothing with turquoise and lapis lazuli for decorative purposes and to ward off negative energy. Even during the renaissance, alchemists included crystals in their formula for healing potions
Centuries later, these crystals are still relevant.
How does it work?
Scientifically, crystals have an orderly structure. This arrangement of the molecules of crystals aligns them with the earth’s electromagnetic field, enabling them to act as channels for energy.
The use of crystals for treatment is adopted from several cultures around the world. An example is the Chinese concept of life energy (also called chi) and chakra from Hinduism and Buddhism.
A typical crystal healing procedure involved placing the crystals on various chakra points on the body, such as the head, stomach, chest, stomach, and guts. The kind of stones used depends on the symptoms the patients reported or what the healer is trying to achieve.
Apart from healing effects, crystals are used for a variety of reasons such as;
- They are used for improving moods
- Some crystals promote creativity, clarity, and concentration
- They alleviate stress by inducing relaxation
- They absorb the negative energies from your aura
- They help with depression
- Crystals enhance your confidence
- They foster a connection with the spiritual realm
Types of crystals
There is a wide variety of crystals available in different colors and sizes, each with its uses. To give an idea of these precious stones’ power, some of the most used crystals are listed below.
White quartz
This crystal is also known as a master healer. It is a versatile crystal capable of healing all forms of illness ranging from mental, physical, and emotional ailments. Experts claim that this crystal is a perfect conduit for energy. It works by absorbing, storing, and regulating energy into the environment.
The energy released from the crystal boosts the immune system and keeps the human body at a healthy equilibrium. White quartz works by absorbing those negative vibes and lifting that burden off your shoulders. Furthermore, it can cure depression.
Jasper
Also known as the supreme nurturer, Jasper can be found in different sizes and colors. Some examples are black Jasper, blue Jasper, brecciated Jasper, brown Jasper, green Jasper, to mention a few. These Jasper have different uses also. However, Jasper is known as a gem of grounding and stability. It provides strength, comfort, healing, and security.
This stone may be used to align the energies of the chakra. It is revered for the ability to sustain the physical and emotional body during injury or prolonged illness. Experts claim that this stone has the power to disperse fear, anger, or panic. Besides, it is a powerful aphrodisiac.
Obsidian
This precious gem is also called the stone of truth because they reveal hidden mysteries about the world and the person in contact with it.
Black obsidian is renowned for its protective effects. They are known to provide a barrier against physical and emotional negativity. They also help you feel more grounded by keeping you centered and connected with the earth’s energy. Your chakra is more balanced; you can make better decisions without being unsettled by the hustle and bustle of life. This is what obsidian does for you.
Furthermore, they have healing effects. Obsidians are known to aid digestion, detoxify the human body, and can reduce cramps and pain.
Image by Dan Farrell
Citrine
It is not uncommon to find citrine stones on necklaces. Having a transparent yellow color, they are said to carry the power of the sun. It stimulates the chakra points on the human body, clearing the mind and energizing the soul. Citrine brings good vibes, joy, and enthusiasm to life.
Fun fact- people carry citrine to encourage the inflow of money and reduce the outflow of cash; it is said that citrine is a stone of abundance and fortune. It fosters prosperity. Not only that, but it also helps in acquiring and maintaining wealth.
Sapphire
People of all ethnicity and religion widely cherish sapphire. It is regarded as a stone of wisdom and prophecy. The bible contains many references to this sapphire; Buddhists claim that it brings spiritual enlightenment, and Hindus use it in their temples.
Sapphire brings order to mind, hence promoting mental acuity and psychic intuition. Besides, it is claimed to improve physical health on a cellular level
Other precious stones used for crystal healing include; amethyst, opal, tiger’s eye, bloodstone, moonstone, turquoise, carnelian, lapis lazuli, etc.
Is crystal healing scientifically proven?
Even though many people around the world are widely using crystal healing, it is still considered pseudoscience. Several scientific studies have been carried out to find out if these crystals possess these healing properties.
Christopher French, a researcher from the University of London, in 2001 proposed that crystal healing might be nothing more than placebo effects. In the study, he asked 40 participants to hold crystals in their hands and another 40 participants to hold fake crystals during a crystal healing session. Many of the participants holding fake stones reported similar positive effects to those who held real crystals. Thus, proving that it is all in the mind.
More studies have to be conducted to find out if they genuinely have medical benefits.
Integrating crystals into your life
Crystals could be useful in our everyday life. They could influence your day by giving you the much-needed positive energy.
You can get crystals online from many of the numerous online stores around. Choosing a crystal isn’t difficult; all you have to do is choose one that resonates with you. You may also choose based on what you want to achieve with the crystal.
Use your crystals by;
- Charge up your crystal with your wishes and intentions
- Wear it on your clothes
- Use it as a jewelry
- Place it in your personal space like your desks, nightstands, and shelves.
Then watch as it influences your day to day activities
In conclusion,
Crystals can be good for you. They can provide you with positive vibes, serenity, and mental strength to keep you on top of things.
Get a crystal or two!
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/guide-to-healing-crystals#9
https://www.livescience.com/40347-crystal-healing.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_healing
https://goop.com/wellness/spirituality/the-8-essential-crystals/
https://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/crystal-guide
