13 OTHER METHODS OF SELF-LOVE
There are many ways of utilizing crystals to facilitate self-love and positive energy flow in your body. Once you have strengthened your connection to yourself and to the subtle vibrations of crystals, you can feel empowered to create your own exercises and rituals customized to your needs. The following are some of my favorites.
Crystal Elixirs and Massage Oils
A crystal elixir is created by infusing the energetic qualities of a specific crystal with filtered water. This allows the water to absorb the crystal’s vibratory energy for storage or enhancement. When the water interacts with another life force, the energetic patterns within the crystals are manifested. This can be done by anointing yourself with the crystal elixir, watering plants with it, or drinking it.
The ancient Chinese created crystal elixirs with jade, cinnabar, and hematite for longevity, and the famous “Tan Chin Yao Ch’eh” text from approximately 600 CE discusses using mercury, sulfur, and other precious stones in elixirs. Indian Vedic texts dating back to 3000 BCE speak of elixirs as well, and powdered gemstones were used to treat a host of ailments in ancient Greece and medieval Europe. These practices have been passed down to current day; mineral salts, tinctures, and vitamin compounds are still used for their numerous healing benefits.
When choosing a crystal to create an elixir, make sure that it is non-toxic. It is safest to use an indirect, non-water-soluble method if you are unsure. Rose quartz, amethyst, and clear quartz are considered safe for mixing directly into your elixirs.
You can also create your own oil-based elixir to create crystal-infused body massage oils. Natural, organic carrier oils should be used as a base for oil elixirs. For lighter oils, charging will take a minimum of 12 hours, and for heavier oils it can take up to 28 days.
For the direct method, if using non-toxic crystals:
1. Fill a sterilized bottle with base oil.
2. Using a wooden spoon, place one cleansed stone in the oil.
3. Fasten a piece of cheesecloth over the opening of the bottle with an elastic band.
4. Place the glass bottle in the sun or in a window that gets direct sunlight to charge it.
5. Once the elixir is charged, use a clean wooden spoon to remove the stone. Add 4 to 6 drops of vegetable glycerin per 2 cups of oil to maintain the sterility of the elixir. Place the crystal in direct sunlight for several hours to re-energize it after adding the glycerin.
6. Refrigerate the elixir when not in use. It will last for up to two weeks.
For the indirect method, you’ll separate the crystals with a glass barrier. This is considered the safer method, so be sure to use it if you’re unsure whether the crystals you’re using are non-toxic.
1. Find a drinking glass that will fit inside a glass bowl. It shouldn’t be too much taller than the bowl, if at all. Using a wooden spoon, gently place a cleansed stone in the drinking glass, and place the glass in the bowl.
2. Fill the bowl with your chosen liquid to about halfway up the outside of the glass.
3. Drape a large piece of cheesecloth over the glass and bowl, securing it with a large rubber band.
4. Place the glass bottle in the sun or in a window that gets direct sunlight to charge it.
5. Remove the drinking glass and stone. Add 4 to 6 drops of vegetable glycerin per 2 cups of oil to sterilize the crystal’s vibration. Alternatively, you can place the crystal in direct sunlight for several hours to re-energize it after adding the glycerin.
6. Transfer elixir from the bowl to a container with a lid before storing. Refrigerate the elixir when not in use. It will last for up to two weeks.
Chakra Foot Massage
The chakra centers in the feet are often forgotten in favor of the seven main chakras along our spine, but balancing these chakras can help stimulate and heal the entire chakra system. Anytime you feel that you need a complete energy tune-up, or just want to feel the benefits of a lovely foot massage, try this exercise, which can be done by applying pressure to the base of the feet with a charged crystal. This massage can also be done to the legs, face, and hands.
1. Take a small amount of crystal elixir (see here through here) and warm it between your hands. Apply it to the soles and tops of your feet.
2. Using a crystal wand, apply pressure with one end of the wand at the bottom of one foot. Hold pressure firmly for about eight seconds and release.
3. Move up to the next chakra point of the foot and repeat.
4. Once you have activated each of the chakra points through pressure, repeat on the other foot.
5. Turn the wand so it is horizontal and roll it up each foot, three times each, with as much pressure as you like.
6. Move to the tops of the feet, easing the pressure of the crystal as you move over your joints. The small end of the wand can be put in between each toe, creating a soothing stretch.
Opening the Palm Chakras
In the center of each palm are the chakras for exchanging energy. When these secondary chakras are in balance, we can give and receive, offer and accept, and so on. When we hold crystals in our palms, they empower us and connect us to the universal energy flow. Igniting energy flow in the palms allows sensual massage and touch to be taken to a therapeutic level. To open up the palm chakras, try this exercise.
1. While in a seated position, place a white quartz crystal that is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand in front of you. Light a white candle.
2. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Do this for a few moments.
3. Rub your palms together to create warmth and hold them over the crystal. Continue to breathe.
4. Place the crystal in one of your hands, and feel its energy seeping into your palm. Direct it with your intention into your heart, creating a connection. Move the crystal to your other hand and repeat.
5. Hold the crystal in both of your hands, over your heart center. Repeat the statement, “I permit myself to feel the flow of this crystal energy through the palms of my hands. I will only give and receive energy that is beneficial and loving.”
6. To seal this practice, place the crystal back in front of you and blow out the candle.
