It seems like crystals are everywhere these days – and for good reason. They’re pretty, they’re interesting and, if you believe in energy work, they can make a real, tangible difference in your daily life.
The belief is that the chemical structure in crystals help conduct and transmit energy, which, if used in the right way, can bring some serious physiological and physical benefits.
It may seem like it’s just a wellness trend right now, but these gems have been around all over the world for centuries. The Romans used crystals as talismans against evil. The Chinese used them in traditional holistic healing practices like crystal-tipped acupuncture needles. The Hindus used them in spiritual practices and to counteract the effects of astrology and karma.
And really, the idea that crystals conduct every is not as far-fetched as you’d think – we see this in everyday life all the time. That watch on your wrist? It’s filled with quartz that helps conduct energy from the watch’s battery by acting as an oscillator, which generates nonmechanical electric currents. It really is science.
At best, these gems are a powerful tool to conduct positive energy, manifest your dreams and provide safety and comfort. At worst, they’re something beautiful you can put on your side table. Honestly, it’s a win, win.
As a fun and easy way to deepen the power of your yoga or mediation practice, we’ve got a few great crystals to add to your at-home yoga studio.
Quartz
One of the most common and affordable crystals out there, this is a powerful tool for promoting clarity of mind, internal strength and spiritual growth. It’s also one of the most useful stones because it can be used to amplify the power and properties of other stones around it.
Amethyst
If you’re looking for peace, stability, clarity or patience, this is the stone for you. A beautiful purple, this stone is thought to open the crown chakra and increase positive vibes in your mind. It’s perfect for a clearing and loving meditation practice.
Rose quartz
If its pink hue is any indication, rose quartz is known for its loving properties. Whether you’re going for an increased dose of self-love or looking for positive energy to flow into your romantic life, rose quartz opens up the heart chakra to let all the love flow.
Citrine
For our motivational warriors on the mat, citrine is the perfect stone for you. It’s most often associated with abundance, prosperity and success, which can be channeled into pretty much anything you’re trying to accomplish, from conquering a new pose in your yoga practice to going for a promotion at work.
Now, spiritual buffs and crystal fanatics will tell you that it’s not enough to just own the stones – you have to put a bit of your own energy into them to channel your intention and charge their energy. One way you can do this is by holding each crystal in your hand one by one and doing a 5-10 minute meditation, focusing on what you’d like each stone to help flow into your life based on their properties. Another way to do it is to run crystals under fresh water (just be sure to check that water won’t damage the gem), or let it sit outside overnight to charge in the moonlight.
Sure, it’s a little woo-woo for some, but it couldn’t hurt, right?