The use of crystals for meditation, healing, and transformation
has experienced a renaissance during the past few decades. In many ways,
crystals are very similar to humans. They grow in darkness, and become
incredible channels for light and clarity upon emergence into the world.
Each has its own individual characteristics and qualities, although
emanating from a common matrix and latticework. The crystal lattice
is very similar in form to the DNA double-helix structure, and has an
ability to store, reproduce, amplify, harmonize, and radiate electromagnetic
forces.
Some of the qualities of crystals are already utilized
by various technologies. Time-keeping devices, stereo systems, and computers
are but a few modern tools that use the piezoelectric effect of quartz
in their operation. The computer, in its ability to store large amounts
of data in electronic form, and to release that information upon command,
is perhaps the best example of the power of the crystal kingdom at work.
All quartz crystals partake of the common elements of
silicon and oxygen. They are formed through intense heat and pressure
within the core of the earth, over eons of time. Slowly they coalesce
from liquid into solid form, often incorporating other elements such
as iron oxide, titanium, aluminum, and manganese, as well as water droplets
and vapor. This gives rise to various colors and varieties, such as
amethyst and citrine, and to the wisps and clouds within the structure
so reminiscent of swirling galaxies and star clusters. And the imperfections
in crystals, often caused by shattering within the lattice due to variations
in temperature and pressure during the growth process, create rainbows
when light shines through them.
In the shamanic tradition, crystals are called living
rocks. Indeed, their ability to transmute energy and transform consciousness
has been known throughout time. For example, I have had inner experiences
and dreams of Atlantis, and remember using huge crystals for learning,
generating power, establishing harmony and balance, and curing illness.
And this ancient knowledge is becoming more and more available today,
through meditation and inner attunement, as a powerful means for healing
ourselves and our planet.
Working creatively with crystals requires a great degree
of openness and receptivity. Each one has been imprinted with a particular
pattern, within the general framework of the crystal kingdom. This pattern
can often be seen in the physical appearance of size, shape, faces,
color, inclusions, and terminations. This information, together with
intuitive knowing, can establish the area of best use, whether that
be for healing, meditation, energy generation, harmonizing and balancing
of forces, knowledge and experience of other dimensions, or storing
of information.
Within each crystal is an inherent intelligence which
is charged with the responsibility of safeguarding it and ensuring its
proper growth and unfoldment. By learning to work with the qualities
of the crystal, properly directed human will and intention can greatly
expand its power and abilities. Through the processes of clearing, cleansing,
charging, and alignment, all crystals can be energized to perform their
specific functions in a more potent manner.
Much has been written about this subject, and yet all
these books merely convey the thoughts, ideas, and experiences of the
writer. Although I obviously am doing the same thing, I want to make
it very clear that these words are merely guidelines. They are in no
way a substitute for personal experience. In fact, it is far more important
to discover things for oneself, and to learn through trial and error,
than to rely upon the observations of others. And so I hope that each
person will trust her/his intuition and experience, and use this article
merely as a mirror for reflection and contemplation.
One's own inner knowing, and physical response, are
especially important in choosing crystals. In a sense, we are selected
by the crystal, rather than the other way round! Many people use appearance
and aesthetics in the selection process, but I have often found that
the most powerful crystals are not necessarily the most beautiful. I
allow the energy of the crystal to speak to my intuitive mind, and trust
the feelings in my body; I rarely have to think about whether a particular
one is right for me or not. I allow the energy of the crystal to fill
my consciousness, and focus on my internal response yes, or no.
In choosing crystals for others, I use a similar method.
I hold the image of the intended recipient in my mind's eye, together
with my purpose in wanting to give the crystal to that person. Again,
it is far more a case of the right crystal coming to me than of me selecting
it.
Upon returning home, I use several methods for clearing
the crystals. This is necessary because they often pick up static and
impure vibrations from the environment. They may also have been contaminated
during mining operations due to lack of awareness and respect. One method
is to place them in either seawater, if available, or a supersaturated
solution of salt water. The solution is made by dissolving sea salt
in lukewarm water until no more can be dissolved. I use either a ceramic
or glass bowl for this, as the salt will interact with metal, and leave
the crystals in the water for 24 hours or so.
Another method is to place them outdoors for at least
24 hours, preferably within a crystalline gridwork. Also, one can simply
visualize a ray of clear light penetratrating the crystals. I know the
cleansing process is complete when I can feel the energy shift within
myself.
I then hold the crystals under cool running water to
cleanse them. I visualize clear light penetrating and surrounding them
as I do this. I then place the crystals outside for a day or two in
order to charge them. This clearing, cleansing, and charging process
may have to be repeated at regular intervals, especially when crystals
are used for intense healing and energy balancing. In such cases, the
crystals become contaminated. This can be recognized intuitively, or
when the exterior feels sticky.
An additional way of charging and activating crystals
is to take them to places of great nature and spiritual power. Other
useful methods include placing them in running streams, the ocean, stone
circles and sacred sites, groves of large trees, or in thunderstorms
and heavy rains for several hours. I have found that the energy of particular
crystals has been magnified ten-fold by using these techniques.
A possible next step is aligning the crystals for specific
purposes. This process utilizes the electromagnetic properties of human
thought to imprint and enhance energy patterns within the crystal lattice.
After holding and attuning with a particular crystal, I place it in
the region of my third eye. Vizualizing a beam of pure white light penetrating
the crystalline structure, I hold the thought of love, peace, and harmony,
and direct it into the stone. I then project an image of the appropriate
use for this crystal, such as healing, meditation, or connecting with
other realms, and hold it for several minutes until I feel intuitively
that this intent is placed solidly within its very core.
I then bless the crystal to do its particular work,
and give thanks to the Crystal Deva, the Great Spirit, and my guides
for their help and protection in this process. It is then ready to act
as a tool to generate power, catalyze healing and transformation, and
radiate love, peace, and harmony.
Note: Unfortunately, due to supply-and-demand and the
unscrupulousness of certain dealers, a number of crystals on the market
are not natural, in that they have been artificially heated or irradiated
to change their color. This is especially true for citrine and smoky
quartz, and for turquoise as well, which is often dyed. So be sure to
buy from honest and reputable sources.
If you are in the Santa Fe area, stop on by, as I always
have some special crystals available for viewing and/or purchase. Use
the Contact link below to set up an appointment.
Other articles by the Author can be found here.
© 1989-2007 Merlin Emrys. All Rights Reserved
Contact
The Author at merlin@evening-sun.com