How Healing Stones Work: The Basics
Have you ever been drawn to a certain rock, gem, or stone? Maybe when you were a child you visited a store that had various crystals and stones, and there was one or two in particular that you had to pick up, or have, or look at just a little bit longer. Or, maybe you are like me and are attracted to ALL the stones. Why is that? Outwardly you might just think they look pretty, or feel nice to the touch. If we dig a little deeper, there is a very rational AND spiritual reason for this: Many stones have healing properties.
How is that possible? Well, it’s actually quite logical. Let me explain using another healing example abundant in nature: plants. We know that many plants, weeds, and herbs have various healing capabilities. In fact, most modern medicines have their roots (excuse the pun) in good ol’ everyday plants found in nature. Peppermint, for example, works wonders in aiding digestion (among several other things). Eucalyptus is incredible for easing respiratory tension and opening sinuses. Lavender is known the world over for treating various skin issues, providing a sense of calm and peace, and as a sleep aid. These are just a few of the thousands of ways plants can be used for healing. (For more information about plants and herbs, schedule a session with our amazing herbalist Karen Culpepper).
Okay, great, but what does that have to do with healing stones? Plants are, after all, alive, and rocks are well…rocks. Simply put, rocks – like plants – are of the earth. And, like plants, some stones and crystals have been formed with certain minerals that carry vibrations which can, and do, affect our health, especially when used in a way that unlocks the healing capacities of the stone. Take my first plant example, peppermint. If you just sit and stare at a peppermint plant, that’s probably not going to be of much use. With plants, you usually need to do something to ‘unlock’, or make useful, its innate healing properties. Maybe you make it into a tea, or crumple the leaves and inhale the peppermint aroma.
So what about stones? When it comes to "unlocking", stones are more metaphysical and subtle than plants, which are often physically and obviously unlocked by crushing, or brewing. Stones like to be held, listened to, or placed on areas needing attention. A tried way to unlock a healing stone is to meditate with it - or - become quiet, mentally tell the stone what you need help with, ask for help, then listen, feel, experience.
I have personally been affected by, and seen others affected, drawn to, and healed with the help of, various healing stones. Just this week I had an old friend visit, and while she was looking through all the new stones I brought back from the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, she mentioned that she had always been drawn to Tiger Eye. I asked her if she knew why, and she said she did not. I handed her my copy of The Book of Stones (one of many good books that list the various physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual healing properties of stones), so she could read about the healing properties of Tiger Eye. I just sat back and listened with glee as she read and emitted noises of shock, and occasional proclamations like, “That makes so much sense!”
“Tiger Eye…stimulates the root chakra and the solar plexus, assisting one in taking effective actions in response to the needs and challenges of life and remaining grounded, calm and centered, regardless of the outer or inner situation…As a stone of balance, Tiger Eye works as it does with paradox. It allows one to find the harmonious center between all types of polarities. It helps one see both sides in disagreements. Those going through difficult negotiations such as those in divorce or custody matters are encouraged to bring along a Tiger Eye.” -Excerpt from the Tiger Eye section in The Book of Stones
My friend, someone who at times needs a nudge (or push) to take action in the face of a challenge and who endured the divorce of her parents as a child, was floored by this revelation. She is not the only one. So, next time you are inexplicably drawn to a stone or crystal (or plant!), look into its healing properties--hold it, intend to ‘unlock’ it, and find out the true meaning of your attraction.
Renata Maniaci is an Energy Medicine Practitioner and Freed Bodyworks’ "Wellness Witch." She sees clients for Healing Touch and Spiritual Response Therapy, and often uses healing stones in her sessions. She also has several healing stones available for purchase. For more information email renata@freedbodyworks.com.
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