Crystals are minerals formed underground from three-dimensional repeating patterns of atoms. The natural structure of the repeating patterns whilst they are growing allows them to store memory and energy. The perfect order of the lattice is due to the individual atoms and molecules being packed together as tightly as possible during formation. This stability ensures they react in characteristic, precise and predictable ways to a broad spectrum of energies, including sound, light, heat and pressure.

For example, when a quartz crystal receives a physical blow, or is rubbed or twisted, it builds up a tiny electric charge across some of the planes within the crystal. This is the Piezoelectric effect and one of its uses is powering watches. Billions of people use quartz every day, but few realize it because the tiny crystals they use are hidden in their watches and clocks.

But this is not their only use, because crystals also respond to bioelectricity and consciousness, i.e. thought and emotion.

The origins of crystal healing can in reality be traced back to around the year 5000 BCE, when the early Sumerians made beads of Obsidian and Carnelian, also using Lapis Lazuli and Carnelian combined with gold. Both men and woman wore these adornments in equal measure, believing that the crystals had special properties. They also wore crystals carved into amulets about their necks, believing the crystal would ward off evil spirits and give protection.

In the 1980s, with the advent of the New Age culture, the use of crystals and gemstones began to re-emerge as a healing method. Much of the practise was drawn from old traditions, with more information gained by experimentation and channelling. Books by Katrina Rafaell in the 80s, and Melody and Michael Gienger in the 90s, helped to popularise the use of crystals.

So much for the history. So what actually IS crystal healing? Simply put it is a non-intrusive therapy using a holistic approac h to wellness. Crystals are usually charged or programmed and placed on or around the body, typically pointing towards the areas that need help. Rather than focusing on one ailment or issue at a time, crystal healing addresses the person as a whole, paying as much attention to spiritual and emotional well-being as to physical health.

It is the energy field that emanates from the energised crystals that can heal your body, spirit and soul. Crystals can heal independently, just through their own presence, or can be used with other modalities, such as Reiki.

Crystal healing is based on the premise that crystals can ‘communicate’ with the energies flowing around the human body. Every crystal has its own unique electromagnetic charge. These charges or ‘healing vibrations’ interact with the body’s energy centres to remove blockages and restore a healthy flow through the meridians of the body and through the mind.

Crystal healing can take many forms, in that a variety of crystals and placements can be used. In this day and age though, a repeating complaint is stress and anxiety. This can arise from a blockage in the energy flow of the body, and a Chakra Balance can be used to restore balance and allow the proper flow of energy through the body, easing stress, tension, frustration and anxiety.

This takes the form of 7 crystals, their colours corresponding to the 7 chakra points, being placed upon the chakra points and so bringing the energy flow of the body back into balance.

So if you are feeling stressed, anxious, tense, frustrated or depressed, why not give the healing power of crystals a go? Pop in to, or call, VaVa yoga and let us recharge your batteries.

Namaste, Ashlí

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