How to Use Crystals - Complete Beginner's Guide

Healing crystals have been used by cool and groovy humans for thousands of years, with the earliest recorded reference dating back to the Ancient Sumerians. Crystal use has been steady in traditional Chinese medicine for the last 5000 years. Even farther back than that, the New Age culture of the 1980's has been reliant on healing crystals for millennia. 

Using crystals can be a powerful way to enhance your spiritual practice and bring positive energy into your life, especially for all the hippies out there! We hope this simple guide will help you focus your energies and live a more positive life!

1. Choose the right crystal: Each crystal has its own unique properties and vibrations, so it's important to choose one that aligns with your intentions. For example, if you're looking to promote peace and love, you might choose crystals like amethyst or rose quartz. 
2. Cleanse your crystal: Before using your crystal, it's important to cleanse it to remove any negative energy it may have absorbed from the transit process. You can do this by leaving it in the sunlight or moonlight for a few hours. Some people also use sage, palo santo or other herbs to smudge the crystal. You can also lay your crystals on selenite overnight to cleanse and charge your crystals.
3. Set your intention: Take a moment to focus on what you want to achieve with the crystal. This could be a specific goal or a general feeling of peace and love. Hold the crystal in your hand and visualize your intention as you repeat it to yourself.
4. Use the crystal: Once you have cleansed and set your intention, you can use the crystal in a variety of ways. Some popular methods include carrying it with you, placing it in your home, or meditating with it. You can also use it as a decoration in your home. 
5. Cleanse it again: Crystals absorb energy, and it's important to cleanse them regularly to remove any negative energy that they have picked up from you or the environment. PLEASE! Research the properties of the minerals the crystal is made of. Some forms of cleansing may destroy certain crystals. Selenite will dissolve in water!

Long gone are the days of crystals being seen as a weird fringe alternative subculture. Crystals are all the rage these days, with tons of books and articles dedicated to them. Crystal therapy has become a legit acceptable complimentary form of therapy. Even colleges are jumping on the bandwagon by offering crystal therapy as a qualification. 

We hope this guide helps you to use crystals in a way that enhances your spiritual practice and brings positive energy into your life. Remember to always stay true to yourself and let the crystals be a tool to access your inner peace and love, or just a cool accessory. Namaste and peace out!

Note: it is important to remember that crystals are not a substitute for medical treatment or therapy. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for medical advice.