Crystal-Healing the Chakras: A Practical Guide

Who among us really understands the chakras? For all that we know about these seven spinal energy points, much is still undiscovered.

According to ancient texts, the chakras appear as spinning wheels of light. In fact, the word chakra is Sanskrit for wheel. Chakras receive and emit energy, which may be either negative or positive depending on the health of this energy. During the healing process, you will discover differences in the needs of each chakra. You needn't fear this challenge. Think of your chakras as a garden, with each flower requiring specialized care. Some chakras will require less attention, while others are more demanding. The dedication to this self-scrutiny makes healing the chakras as challenging as it is rewarding.

The guidelines below may be modified to your needs. When choosing stones, be attentive not to the size or appearance, but instead to your reaction when holding them. Some of these crystals may be unfamiliar, but you are likely to find them at a metaphysical or rock shop. Though you may enjoy this introduction to chakra healing, it is best to undertake long-term treatment with the guidance of a trained professional. Besides being experienced, many professional chakra healers are highly intuitive. Their objective insight may help you understand the reasons for each imbalance. This can be healing in and of itself.

1st Chakra:This is the root chakra. It is located at the base of your spine, or tailbone. The root chakra belongs to the realm of the physical. If you feel grounded, secure, and rooted in the present, this chakra needs little attention. However, many are not so blessed. A blocked root chakra may lead you to grasp at the physical, becoming clingy and overly possessive. Conversely, if you're too open here you may feel estranged from your body and possessions. As a result, your generosity may be taken advantage of.

Crystal Correction:A blocked chakra is opened by obsidian. This gem brings a centered, peaceful perspective, so that the impulse to compulsively acquire is replaced by an understanding of the temporary nature of belongings. To heal blocks, place a piece of obsidian on your genital region while lying down on your back, As you relax more the stone's strength will connect with your own, enhancing it. An abundantly open root needs rose quartz. Though typically associated with the heart, this soft pink quartz allows us to accept and love ourselves, so we can protect ourselves by saying no.

2nd Chakra:The sacral chakra controls our sexual energy and creativity. You need only press two inches below your navel to feel its location. The gift of a balanced sacral chakra is expressiveness and flair. A blockage may result in resistance to new ideas. A sacral chakra that's too open is evident in the "drama queen" as well as in all reckless behavior, from bed-hopping to dangerous driving.

Crystal Correction: Carnelian: this variety of quartz is beautiful for opening the sacral area. Though it can be found in many colors, the stimulating qualities of red or orange give courage to the timid. This enables us to pursue our dreams, without fear-based illusions blocking our path. Conversely, if this chakra is too open, you may require lapis luizi. This historic light blue stone was highly valued in ancient Egypt and Babylon. Today, we can use its moderating properties to help us act with care. In Crystal, Gems & Metal Magic, Scott Cunningham writes: "Simply touching the body with this stone improves your mental, physical, spiritual, psychic and emotional condition." For optimum benefits to the 2nd chakra, rest this stone as long as desired.

3rd Chakra:This is your solar plexus, known also as the power center. Here resides a reservoir of untapped will and heroism. When this chakra is healthy, we understand our potential and are motivated to explore it. When blocked we may feel "butterflies in our stomach" or suffer other stomach woes. A blocked power center makes us act and feel powerless. The opposite problem happens when this energy-center is too broad.

Crystal Correction: Golden Beryl is a light, lemon yellow stone that directs will and improves confidence. Consequently, it is fantastic for 3rd chakra blockages. Placing this stone two inches above your navel will free your power center, helping you to realize your goal