Crystal gazing is extremely rich in its historical context; though we do not know the exact date or place where this practice originated, it is reasonable to say that crystal gazing in some form has been with mankind since antiquity.

Early practitioners were largely medicine men and seers for their communities; Nostradamus, a highly educated healer, physician, astrologer, philosopher, and psychic, was a “secret scryer,” as were many early prophets. Crystals and their many uses were among many of the first forms of divination and healing – man first realized they were able to discern, manipulate, and heal from many reflective surfaces, such as a pool of water, a stone, a slate of glass, and even fire and smoke.

However, the history of crystals is not confined to southern Europe and the Middle East; cultures all over the world have used the properties of crystals as a means of divining the past, present, or future, and for healing. Depending on the culture and practice, crystal gazers of yesterday and today will usually see visions, use the crystals to clear the “etheric energy” around the body, and apply crystals to certain “power points” on the body in order to heal a specific ailment.

Crystal balls, composed of the same elements of “raw” crystals cut from rock and various gems, became popular in 18^th and 19^th century Europe, with the rise of Spiritualism. Many practitioners still use crystal balls to perform healing and divination; it varies largely with each person and his or her individual choice, but in broad terms, the rather roughly cut, yet elegantly mysterious mirage that one can see inside a crystal cut from a natural rock or gemstone is the most popular because, unlike a crystal ball, there is nothing “static” or “fixed” about a crystal – which can come in every size, shape, color, and with any accessory imaginable.

Those new to the practice of crystal healing and its many other properties are best advised to choose the crystals that “call out” to them; it is often said that the shaman, or psychic, in everyone reaches for that which just “feels right” to them. When entering a metaphysical shop or even while perusing pages of a catalog or on the Internet, though you may have certain ideas or preferences regarding the colors, shapes, and even the sizes of the crystals you’d like to use, you may be surprised at what you end up taking home! The unconscious mind is always at work, ruminating just beneath the surface, to lead you exactly to the source – in this case, the crystals – that you need. Just like people, snowflakes, and teardrops, crystals are all unique – and each is meant for only one person. Keep your body and mind in an open, receptive state when looking for your special crystals – they will become your very own “charms” – especially once you have taken them home and truly made them yours.

Now that you have your crystals, cleanse them to de-program and clear them of any unwanted influence. An easy way to do this is to wash them under running water.

Next create an alter for want of a better description, in an area that will not be in the way of day to day activities. An easy means to do this is to use a small round display table or a card table and cover it with an appealing cloth. You can also use a section of the floor if a table or similar is not available.

On top of this area, set a circle with your crystals. The diameter is largely determined by the space available, but about 15” or 35cms is OK. Place the 12 points evenly around the circumference with the points facing inwards.

For manifesting, it is now time to write out a description of the desired item or outcome on a piece of paper and place it in the centre, or a photograph may be employed. Now take the generator between your hands in prayer position and activate it for your purpose. This is done by stating words similar to these; “I ask that I be granted my desire for (and here state your written request or as represented by your photograph) and that it is manifested by (here state your date for achievement). My request is accompanied by my desire for the highest good for all and the understanding that this or better will be delivered. Amen.”

Now place it over your request and wait for the outcome. Of course keep this area clean and remember to dismantle when your desire is manifest.

For healing the process is the same, just the details are different.

Ron Windred

One that I find most exhilarating is a Hematite and Clear Quartz bath. Fill your bath with water at your desired temperature and add 6 to 10 Hematite tumbles and 3 to 6 Clear Quartz tumbles. Hop in and lay back and relax, making sure of course that you aren’t laying on top of one or more of the crystals. This can be a bit uncomfortable. I find this bath especially invigorating after a hard day of physical labor or to re-energize when I am feeling down. Often the energy playing in the bath feels like thousands of little air bubbles coming through the water: A most delightful sensation.

There are many other combinations to try. Why not experiment and come up with your own! Of course, make sure that you only use hard crystals that won’t be affected by immersion in water.  When you have finished be sure to rinse your crystals off and dry them thoroughly.

Ron Windred