As more and more people learn about alternative health measures, options like yoga, acupuncture, and meditation continue to grow in popularity. Another complementary health option that's been recently gaining traction is healing crystals. Many believe in their power to help and can trace their usage back several centuries.
But what are healing crystals and how do they work? And how can you know the best way to use them for yourself? Here's everything you need to know about healing crystals, including a chart with some of the most popular ones and how they can benefit you.
What are Healing Crystals?
Healing crystals are semiprecious crystals and stones like quartz, opal, and amethyst that are used in a pseudoscientific alternative medicine way. Ultimately, many believe that crystals carry a mystical energy to them and can be used to match your vibration and energy to improve your overall health and well-being.
While there is no scientific evidence that healing crystals can offer major health benefits, many cultures throughout history have used them and believed in their power. ScienceTimes.com reports that crystals can be found in ancient Egyptian times, Ancient Greece, and even as far back as 4000 BC during the Mesopotamia era. The Sumerians were one of the first groups to record using crystals for their medicine and healing power.
While the pseudoscience of crystal healing can be found throughout history and continues to grow in popularity today, it's important to note that they are often used as an alternative medicine. They are not used to replace modern medicine like chemotherapy and prescription drug medications. However, there isn't any evidence that shows crystals are harmful either. They can simply be used in addition to your overall health goals.
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How Do Healing Crystals Work?
Healing crystals are believed to affect an individual's vibration and mindset. These stones are believed to affect the energy that is within all of us, either by enhancing positive energy or by taking negative energy and redirecting it to a new direction.
While we've discussed that there is no scientific evidence proving the validity of healing crystals, many choose to use these as a way to relax and channel positive energy. This is similar in the way that meditation and mindfulness can be beneficial.
Additionally, depending on which crystal you choose to use, you can have different effects. We'll discuss this further in depth below, but for now, just know that these crystals are believed to have magical powers that can change your mood or improve your mindset.
How to Use Healing Crystals
Healing crystals can be used in several different ways. They can be worn, used in decorations, or in other holistic health approaches. Here's a breakdown of how healing crystals can be used:
Emotional and Physical Support
Crystals can be used to heal the mind, body, and soul. In general, specific crystals can help to lessen the symptoms of headaches, encourage sleep, or even speed up recovery. Some can also be used to reduce anxiety and depression. Crystals can also be used as a grounding tool or something to look at or hold while you meditate.
Wearing
Some crystal healers recommend wearing a crystal to gain the most benefit from it. This can be done through jewelry or simply placing the crystal in your pocket. Additionally, should you ever choose to visit a crystal healer, they may place crystals on your body while they work with you.
Decor
Crystals can easily be used in your home's decor to promote positive energy. They can also bring the right energy into your home. This can be done through wall hangings, or simply placing specific crystals throughout your home.
Accessories
Healing crystals can also be used as accessories. For example, some choose to place crystals in their prayer beads. These can either be worn or held and used as a repetitive prayer routine. Additionally, healing crystals can be found in everything from crystal-infused water bottles to coasters on your coffee table. How you choose to use them and accessorize them is up to you!
Holistic Health Approaches
Have you received a facial treatment lately where the practitioner used a crystal in your skincare regimen? This is an example of how healing crystals can be used in alternative health measures. You may also find crystals being used in messages or chiropractic visits.
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What are Some Popular Crystals and What Do They Do?
While there are many healing crystals, a few stand out as the most used or the most popular. Here is a breakdown of 15 of the most-used crystals and the healing power they can bring:
| Rose Quartz | Love, trust, and harmony |
| Clear Quartz | Positive, powerful cleanser, and immunity booster |
| Citrine | Wealth, prosperity, and abundance |
| Amethyst | Stress reduction and intuition |
| Jade | Luck, prosperity, and joy |
| Moonstone | Ignites inner power and strength |
| Obsidian | Protects against negative energy |
| Touquoise | Stress and pain reduction, purification |
| Tiger's Eye | Courage, clarity, and focus |
| Jaspar | Stress reliever, tranquility, and strength |
| Bloodstone | Anemia and poor circulation |
| Ruby | Love and passion |
| Pink Tourmaline | Joy and enthusiasm |
| Emerald | Acceptance and growth |
| Opal | Inspiration, positivity, and independence |
Does the Shape of the Crystal Matter?
Crystals come in many different shapes and sizes. The shape of the crystal you choose can bring different energy and provide specific benefits. For instance, crystals that come to a point are good for directing energy and are often used when manifesting. A sphere represents all energy from all sides while a cube is known for its grounding energy that promotes calm and balance.
If you're curious about which shape would benefit you the most, consider visiting with an expert. You may also be able to research a shop online or visit a local shop if available.
Which Healing Crystal is Best for You?
There is a whole world of healing crystals available for you to use, so deciding which one is best may seem like a daunting effort. Keep in mind two important things:
- Consider researching a seeking help from a credentialed holistic practitioner to guide you.
- Think about what you need first before you choose.
By identifying what's missing within yourself first, you can better understand how to choose a crystal that will give you the most benefits. It's also important to listen to your intuition and let that be your guide. If you can quiet your mind and pay attention to your own personal needs, this can guide you to the right crystal.
Ultimately, consider what you feel drawn to and feels drawn to you. This is the best way to determine the right healing crystal for you.
Final Thoughts
Crystals can bring power and positive energy to your life. While there is no scientific evidence that crystals have healing power, many have found them to be helpful. Crystals have been used throughout history as a way to heal one's mind, body, and soul. If you're considering adding a few alternative health options to your life, crystal healing may be the right addition for you. Healing crystals can provide a holistic approach to living an overall healthy life.
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