Crystals have been used for their healing properties for centuries, from the ancient world to modern day. They can heal physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, and are also useful tools in magic and divination.
New crystals should be cleansed before use, to clear away any negative energy they have accumulated from past owners and situations. Crystals also absorb energy during healing, and from their environment, so should be cleansed before and after every use. There are numerous ways of cleansing, but be aware that some crystals are sensitive to certain methods.
Cleansing Crystals with Water
This is the most common cleansing method. Hold the crystal under running water, preferably pure mineral water. Visualise a waterfall pouring over the crystal. Crystals which crumble easily are not suited to water cleansing. A clue to water solubility of a crystal can be found in its name. Most water soluble crystals end in "ite", such as fluorite, calcite, angelite and sodalite.
Cleansing Crystals with Sunlight and Moonlight
Sunlight is another popular method. Light is a key element of crystal healing, so energise a water-cleansed crystal in sunlight for 24 hours before using it. Alternatively, charge a bowl of water with sunlight for 24 hours and use this water for cleansing. Certain crystals, such as amethyst and rose quartz, fade in light, so are not suitable for sunlight cleansing.
Moonlight can be used in the same way. It is a good alternative for crystals sensitive to sunlight, and perfect for stones to be used in magic, as they will absorb the magical, feminine powers of the moon.
Cleansing Crystals with Sound
Purify crystals with the resonating sound of a bell. This is a good method for multiple crystal cleansing, although the process is more effective if purifying one stone at a time. Toning with the voice is an alternative form of sound cleansing, as different notes resonate with different crystals.
Burial Cleansing
Crystals come from the earth. Burying them in the ground will cleanse them thoroughly, as the earth has a natural, magnetic quality, which draws away negativity. If you are worried they might get lost in the garden, bury the crystal in a pot of organic soil instead.
Cleansing Crystals with Salt
Salt is highly cleansing, but unsuitable for crystals that scratch easily. Sea salt is the best type to use, and can be combined with the water method by submerging the crystal in seawater. One powerful cleansing ritual involves leaving the container outside for three days before the full moon. Alternatively, soak crystals in a non-metallic container filled with a solution of water, sea salt and Crab Apple flower essence.
Cleansing Crystals with Smudge Sticks
Crystals can be cleansed by smudging. Burn a bundle of dried herbs, incense or smudge sticks, and wave the smoke over and through the crystals. This is an excellent method for a roomful of crystals.
Candle Flame Cleansing
Crystals can be cleansed with fire by carefully passing them through a candle flame. If the crystal is to be used on a particular chakra, burn a candle in the corresponding colour. Never leave burning candles unattended.
Using an Amethyst Bed
To cleanse several crystals at once, use a large amethyst bed (a flat, natural bed of amethyst rock). Amethyst is said to transmute lower energies into the higher frequencies of the spiritual and ethereal, thus transforming whatever is placed upon it.
Cleansing with Intention
The final method of crystal cleansing is by the power of intention, or thought visualisation. This can be achieved by undergoing a crystal cleansing meditation, such as visualising a stream or waterfall that cleanses the healing crystal in your mind.
Once the crystal has been cleansed and dedicated, it is ready to be used for its intended purpose.
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