February is a strange time of year. Summer seems way off in the distance and the chaos/excitement of Christmas is long behind us. It is very often at this time of year that we get a niggling feeling that we’re not doing all we can with our life - that we’re in a bit of a rut.
You need some carnelian! Whether your inaction is down to fears of failure or just the fact that it’s cold outside, carnelian is just the galvanising force you need. It introduces life and energy into your aura and making those all important first steps will suddenly seem all the easier. Carnelian is often called the stone of the here and now and will stop you putting things off.
Carnelian is excellent to wear as a piece of jewellery to get you motivated. That way its influence will be on you all day! After all, you’ve been putting things off for weeks and months so you may need carnelian’s help over quite a few weeks too.
However, as with almost all crystals you can also just move a piece or some carnelian tumblestones into a more prominent place as and when you need them and you will find that you effortlessly absorb the energies as you relax. And at this time of year, what could sound more appealing?!
Sunday, 15 February 2009
Tuesday, 3 February 2009
Citrine for the Blues
Citrine gets its name from its beautiful, lively range of colours - from orange to lemon, even through to a brownish red. A member of the quartz family, it is a very tough crystal, able to take the knocks and bumps that all too often happens with our everyday crystals!
Known as the ‘cuddle stone‘, citrine is renowned for chasing away sadness. This is all thanks to its strong nature. A bit like a determined, matriarchal force taking you under its wing and making you feel good about yourself again. Picture Ma Larkin and you can’t go too wrong! Citrine also will not hold on to negativity so even if you slip into a low mood again, it will not keep these emotions near to you.
As this is the cuddle stone, I like to keep this close to my chest and keep it in a breast pocket for the day. In fact I’ll choose a jacket just for this purpose! If you have 3 or 4 pieces of citrine in your possession though, try a trick that I found out purely by accident.
Sit yourself down for the evening, maybe get yourself a good book and a glass of wine. But before you do, place the pieces of citrine around you so that you are surrounded. By being right in the heart of the citrine, you will absorb the loving vibes and energy and by the end of the evening, will have chased those blues away.
Known as the ‘cuddle stone‘, citrine is renowned for chasing away sadness. This is all thanks to its strong nature. A bit like a determined, matriarchal force taking you under its wing and making you feel good about yourself again. Picture Ma Larkin and you can’t go too wrong! Citrine also will not hold on to negativity so even if you slip into a low mood again, it will not keep these emotions near to you.
As this is the cuddle stone, I like to keep this close to my chest and keep it in a breast pocket for the day. In fact I’ll choose a jacket just for this purpose! If you have 3 or 4 pieces of citrine in your possession though, try a trick that I found out purely by accident.
Sit yourself down for the evening, maybe get yourself a good book and a glass of wine. But before you do, place the pieces of citrine around you so that you are surrounded. By being right in the heart of the citrine, you will absorb the loving vibes and energy and by the end of the evening, will have chased those blues away.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Bloodstone and Taking On The World
Bloodstone
Bloodstone - not the most appealing name I always think. It conjures up something quite dark and icky! However, think again and you’ll find associations of a powerful force will come to you, as powerful as a representation of lifeblood should be.
Bloodstone is said to encourage justice. And in a world that is so often unfair (and even more often feels it!), this is a gemstone that we can do with from time to time.
Before I talk of how you can use this crystal, I think it helps to know that it is also known as heliotrope, which can be translated from Greek to mean ‘sun’ and ‘turning’. It was believed that when bloodstone was immersed in water, it changed the sun to red. In essence, bloodstone is very influential indeed!
So bloodstone is perfect for those times when you could use a little help in your corner. How can you absorb this energy? Firstly, it is important to recognise that it should not be used for a negative outcome. Even if you are certain that you are the aggrieved party in whatever situation you would like to change, you must always try to get a positive return for all. Remember, bloodstone is about justice, so it isn’t necessarily personal to you.
But, never-the-less, you are looking for a boost. And bloodstone, for this purpose, is very easy to use indeed. When I need a little help in my corner, I like to keep my piece of bloodstone with me whenever I am trying to solve the issue. Need to do some research ? Keep a bloodstone tumblestone nearby. Need to confront someone and get them to see your point of view? Take yourself off to somewhere quiet and think over what you need to say holding on to your crystal.
You get the picture. Be aware of the bloodstone’s presence, and consciously allow in its grounded and objective energies. When you become more accomplished at using crystals, it won’t be long before you are able to feel its vitality resonating within you. It will give you the strength to face your adversary or even be the one that everyone looks to for the necessary diplomacy.
Chris xx
Saturday, 24 January 2009
Amethyst and drunkenness!
Amethyst
Amethyst - the perfect protective talisman. It is one of the most popular of the quartz family crystals and its beautiful, lilac colour is soothing, calm and reminiscent of psychic energies. And for those born in the month of February, this is your stone - and how well you’ve done! I’m quite jealous actually!
So, what can we practically use amethyst for? The good news is amethyst can be practically used for anything!!
Firstly, there’s where it gets its name from - the Greek amethustos meaning "not drunken". It has been used to help with drunkenness and ward off its effects, even to the point of drinking out of amethyst goblets. It was also used for another kind of spirits, although this time of the evil kind, and was said to offer protection from them.
But even if you do not believe that you’re being plagued by evil spirits (and I sincerely hope you’re not!) bear in mind that it is equally relevant to the negative thoughts in your own head. Amethyst can be a great comfort and dissipater.
These negative thoughts are bad for you, not only because they cause you distress, but because they more often than not lead onto more negative thoughts. Before you know it, the problem will spiral downwards and the problem will worsen. Not what you need.
So, this is how I use amethyst during these difficult times. Try to leave yourself at least 15 minutes as you will not be able to see the benefits in a shorter time than this.
I like to take a piece of amethyst (I use a rough piece but you can equally use a tumblestone if you have one) and place it right between my eyebrows. I then close my eyes and relax and try not to think of anything so that I am free to experience any shift in energies within me.
This is always marvellous if I have been feeling churned up and, even if I hadn’t noticed it, if my breathing has quickened with the stress. Within 5 minutes I usually can feel a lightening feeling come upon me and a positive attitude will follow. By the end of the 15 minutes (or half an hour if I can manage it) I will find that solutions or suggestions will start to enter my mind and take the place of the negativity.
If you are going through a particularly bad time, try to fit this in at least once a day if you can and you will soon find that, while amethyst can’t solve all your problems (sadly!), you will be better able to think things through rationally and face up to them in a calmer manner.
Amethyst - the perfect protective talisman. It is one of the most popular of the quartz family crystals and its beautiful, lilac colour is soothing, calm and reminiscent of psychic energies. And for those born in the month of February, this is your stone - and how well you’ve done! I’m quite jealous actually!
So, what can we practically use amethyst for? The good news is amethyst can be practically used for anything!!
Firstly, there’s where it gets its name from - the Greek amethustos meaning "not drunken". It has been used to help with drunkenness and ward off its effects, even to the point of drinking out of amethyst goblets. It was also used for another kind of spirits, although this time of the evil kind, and was said to offer protection from them.
But even if you do not believe that you’re being plagued by evil spirits (and I sincerely hope you’re not!) bear in mind that it is equally relevant to the negative thoughts in your own head. Amethyst can be a great comfort and dissipater.
These negative thoughts are bad for you, not only because they cause you distress, but because they more often than not lead onto more negative thoughts. Before you know it, the problem will spiral downwards and the problem will worsen. Not what you need.
So, this is how I use amethyst during these difficult times. Try to leave yourself at least 15 minutes as you will not be able to see the benefits in a shorter time than this.
I like to take a piece of amethyst (I use a rough piece but you can equally use a tumblestone if you have one) and place it right between my eyebrows. I then close my eyes and relax and try not to think of anything so that I am free to experience any shift in energies within me.
This is always marvellous if I have been feeling churned up and, even if I hadn’t noticed it, if my breathing has quickened with the stress. Within 5 minutes I usually can feel a lightening feeling come upon me and a positive attitude will follow. By the end of the 15 minutes (or half an hour if I can manage it) I will find that solutions or suggestions will start to enter my mind and take the place of the negativity.
If you are going through a particularly bad time, try to fit this in at least once a day if you can and you will soon find that, while amethyst can’t solve all your problems (sadly!), you will be better able to think things through rationally and face up to them in a calmer manner.
Tuesday, 16 December 2008
Green Aventurine and Difficult Decisions
If I was planning on doing a top 10 of favourite crystals I would definitely have to put green aventurine in the top 5. It is such a wonderful all rounder of a crystal, with gentle and balancing properties. And it’s exquisite to look at.
Green aventurine has been used for physical healing by lots of people who swear by it, but seeing as I have not experienced this myself yet I will not be discussing this use here. I have however, turned to this beautiful crystal many times when I need to make a decision or think things through in a logical or methodical manner. It is amazing how much clarity green aventurine can bring you.
How Does Green Aventurine Work?
It works by bringing out the positive from any situation - working with your own innate wisdom. We can often have our judgements cluttered by too many distractions and stresses in modern life, or simply by letting our emotions rule our heads. Green aventurine, for me, seems to be able to put all of these things to one side and show me the right path or course of action to take. Which of course I knew all the time, but couldn’t see for looking!
So, if I’m feeling indecisive, here are the ways in which I use green aventurine. A very simple method - and the one I try first - is to place it by my bed at night, as close to me as possible to allow it to influence my dreams and subconscious. I may not necessarily have any answers come to me through my dreams but I can certainly feel the difference in my thinking when I wake up in the morning. I have had quite a few eureka moments .
It can also be used with some basic meditation techniques (see my last post about snowflake obsidian for more info) in order to draw out of you the answers you seek. Also try carrying it around with you throughout the difficult times, as of course you can do with most crystals for any of your problems.
But one of the most effective methods for more long term problems is to bring it into the heart of the situation wherever possible.
For example, I have used green aventurine for many a work decision when I’ve been struggling to find the right solution. I have left a green aventurine tumblestone on my desk or taken it with me to meetings (tucked away safely in my pocket), and sometimes even left it nearby to colleagues that were part of the problem!
You will find that the qualities of this crystal will soon have you able to see what is the best thing for you to do, and give you back an empowering sense of control over your life.
Chris
Green aventurine has been used for physical healing by lots of people who swear by it, but seeing as I have not experienced this myself yet I will not be discussing this use here. I have however, turned to this beautiful crystal many times when I need to make a decision or think things through in a logical or methodical manner. It is amazing how much clarity green aventurine can bring you.
How Does Green Aventurine Work?
It works by bringing out the positive from any situation - working with your own innate wisdom. We can often have our judgements cluttered by too many distractions and stresses in modern life, or simply by letting our emotions rule our heads. Green aventurine, for me, seems to be able to put all of these things to one side and show me the right path or course of action to take. Which of course I knew all the time, but couldn’t see for looking!
So, if I’m feeling indecisive, here are the ways in which I use green aventurine. A very simple method - and the one I try first - is to place it by my bed at night, as close to me as possible to allow it to influence my dreams and subconscious. I may not necessarily have any answers come to me through my dreams but I can certainly feel the difference in my thinking when I wake up in the morning. I have had quite a few eureka moments .
It can also be used with some basic meditation techniques (see my last post about snowflake obsidian for more info) in order to draw out of you the answers you seek. Also try carrying it around with you throughout the difficult times, as of course you can do with most crystals for any of your problems.
But one of the most effective methods for more long term problems is to bring it into the heart of the situation wherever possible.
For example, I have used green aventurine for many a work decision when I’ve been struggling to find the right solution. I have left a green aventurine tumblestone on my desk or taken it with me to meetings (tucked away safely in my pocket), and sometimes even left it nearby to colleagues that were part of the problem!
You will find that the qualities of this crystal will soon have you able to see what is the best thing for you to do, and give you back an empowering sense of control over your life.
Chris
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
Snowflake Obsidian
Seeing as it’s nearly Christmas I’ve decided to go for a wintery feel to my first, real crystals piece and talk about snowflake obsidian. Even the sound of it conjures up images of log fires and hot chocolate! It certainly is a feel good crystal and is a good one to start with seeing as you can fit working with it into your day pretty much immediately.
Firstly, I have to say that I find snowflake obsidian absolutely beautiful (hence it making it to the first post on my favourite crystals!). Black and white, yin and yang, light through the darkness - its stunning contrasts are bold and unapologetic. It’s clear that it’s a strong gemstone that will cut through any nonsense! Which is precisely why I find it so invaluable in reaching the all important inner self.
Snowflake obsidian is also often referred to as the stone of purity, and is associated with the root, or base chakra. Situated at the base of your spine, it is the first chakra - responsible for survival, instincts and physical energy. It is easily blocked by the pressures of life, be them criticisms and put downs at work or the monotony of housework (the list is endless). These strains can cut you off from your from your true self, and leave you feeling totally overwhelmed.
Recognise this feeling? Let’s face it who doesn’t. It’s time to bring some snowflake obsidian into your life!
As snowflake obsidian deals with purity and the inner self, I would recommend using it for meditation. (Click here for some basic meditation techniques if needed.)You can simply have it on your person while you meditate, but try to keep it central so that you maintain the correct balance between the left and right side of your body. Alternatively, you could try lying down on your front with the snowflake obsidian placed on your base chakra, right on the tailbone.
As you start to open up, allow all feelings and thoughts to flow through you, and don’t be afraid of any negative ones. The obsidian will help to guide you through them, and resolve any issues. Be strong and be determined to turn these feelings around.
You should start to feel the power of the gemstone being absorbed into your body and soul, and the meaning of time fading away. Clarity of thought is the inevitable result. Try and put aside at least half an hour if possible. However if that’s not viable, carry it with you as you go about your day and try to remember to close your eyes and allow the properties of the obsidian in whenever you can. A grounded and balanced state of mind will soon catch up on you!
So seeing as it is nearly Christmas, I think it’s time for me to get my favourite piece out, the snowflake obsidian angel! I think the description here is spot on - the stillness of freshly fallen snow! And it looks lovely in the lights :)
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
Crystals - My Full Time Hobby!
A Small Bit About Me
Hi there, my name is Chris and in case you hadn’t noticed, I’m really into crystals and gemstones - so much so that I‘ve built up a selection of favourites! Or at least I’m extremely interested in their healing and therapeutic properties and favour some over others but that‘s harder to say :) .
This is my first blog, as I’m sure is all too obvious, so hopefully you’ll forgive me if I commit a serious blogging faux pas! It’s not my fault, I’m a newbie.
How On Earth Can You Have Favourite Crystals??
Good question - there's so many to choose from and it's true that it does depend on your circumstances. It’s a little more complex than a simple top 10 list as you will discover, but for certain situations and conditions I have built up a collection of crystals I will always turn to for help.
But for the purposes of helping you to understand how to use them, I will mostly be focusing on a particular crystal with every post and will talk you through what they can be used for.
So, why have I decided to start writing about these crystals for all the world to see?
Not sure I have the answer to that! But I have, over the past 7 years, built up a wide range of knowledge and experience using crystals as a hobby (I’m not a professional) and have been able to advise and help my friends with various problems and situations. More importantly though, because I use them on myself. I like the fact that I am able to say that I have felt many of the benefits first hand.
Now of course, it’s important to say here that crystals are not miracle workers. They cannot cure ailments or wipe away all of your life’s problems (unfortunately). But if you’re looking to make life that little bit calmer, stiller and generally more harmonised then I believe that crystals can help. It is from that point - when you see your life slowing down, becoming more relaxed and your perspective changing - that you will see the real difference that crystals can make.
And that is what I’d like to write about! I’ll do my best to up-date on a weekly basis and will tell you about my various projects with crystals, my favourite crystals and their properties, and some stories from my past work with crystals to show you how they have made a difference. And consequently, how they can for you too.
So this is where you come in to it! Although of course I don’t mind a bit if you want to just sit back with a cup of tea and read, but if there is anything you would like to know or ask then don’t be shy - leave me a comment. I can’t promise that it’ll be something that I’ve come across before, but I will certainly do my best to help.
Well, thanks for reading my introduction! I hope you get a good idea of what I would like to do and have taken an interest in up-coming blogs.
Take care and see you next week :)
Chris
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