Welcome to Autumn! It is my favorite season. With Autumn come many of my favorite things, like romantic firelit evenings, holidays, hot spiced cider, leaves to crunch, sweets to eat, and so much more. But with Autumn’s cool winds and atmosphere of celebration also comes cold and flu season, and this year is shaping up to be especially dreary in that regard.
I have been a singer for most of my life. Since I was five, in fact. Getting a cold for me in the middle of my busiest performance time (the holidays), means disaster to my schedule and my finances, so maintaining my health is essential to my work. If I book a gig, the last thing anyone wants is to hear a sick singer. Here are my tips and tricks for taking care of my body and my voice, all year long, but especially during this crazy time.
There are a million home remedies for the voice. Every singer has something he or she swears by. Vinegar, lemon, baking soda, gargling salt water, cough drops, steak, apples, sex, and shots of Yeigermister, whiskey or wine… Everyone has a preference as to what they feed their vocal chords before or after a performance. Let me start off by validating or debunking a few of these.
Anything caffeinated or alcoholic will dry out the tissues of your body. Our voice needs to be properly hydrated to prevent friction on the larynx. Too much friction is damaging to the chords.
Vinegar or lemon juice are highly acidic. For some body types, this blasts through mucus deposits on the vocal chords lickity split. (This post is not for the squimish, did I mention that?) :-d Take it easy on the acidic stuff, orange or other citrus juices, and vinegar or syrupy things like soda. While it may feel like it clears the mucus off, the body will naturally respond to this by creating a bunch of new mucus to coat the throat, which is supposed to be mucusy to some degree, and you’re back where you started less than an hour later. All flemmed up.
Scalding hot tea, or ice cold water alternately swell or shrink the tissues of the throat just enough to mess with your sense of pitch. Drink room temp water or warm to hot tea instead, especially during a performance.
Sex? steak? Apples? Um, you’re on your own there. :-d
So what does work? What do the pros use? All of the above, really, but there are a few things I personally use that have been backed up by science and anatomy, and my ENT (ear nose and throat doctor).
Hydration is number one. Take your body weight, divide by two and add half of that, or take seventy five percent of your body weight. That is hown many ounces of water you should be drinking daily. Example, a 200 pound man needs 150 ounces of water daily to be properly hydrated. That is a basic ground rule. If your body is higher in fat, or muscle tissue, the numbers may change slightly. Have a good working knowledge of your own body, and learn to judge your water intake. Watch your urine color. The darker the urine, the more water you need. Urine should be clear, especially as a vocalist. If you are on tour, watch climate and temperature changes, as this can have an impact on how much water you need.
I drink ginger tea before performances, especially long ones. The tea is hot, but not hot enough to scald the mouth. I drink room temperature water or warm water during the show, and more tea after to soothe the throat. Keeping well-hydrated before, during, and after a performance is crucial to good vocal health. Ginger is excellent for the body, astringent, but not too acidic, cleansing and soothing at the same time. If you have stage fright, ginger is a fabulous anti-nausea agent.
Do yourself a favor, go to bed! Yep, next tip… get plenty of rest. The same tips they give you to avoid getting sick are the same ones that will keep your voice in top form. If you sing professionally, these rules are etched in stone if you want long vocal life. There are so many reasons why sleep will help you sing better. It boosts the immune system, relaxes the muscle structure, gives your vocal chords much-needed quiet time… a million other reasons. Make sure you give yourself a few hours of awake time before you sing. This allows the body to slowly wake up, and the muscles to warm up. Stretch out or do some cardio work before you sing to allow oxygen to saturate the bloodstream, an warm up the breath flow through the lungs an the muscles surrounding the vocal chords.
Rest, hydration.. tip number three… vocal care. If you’re throat hurts, there is probably a reason, believe it or not. Listen to that. If you sang heavily the night before, go light or not at all the next day. Allow the tissues time to recuperate. They say not to work out on weights for the same muscle group two days in a row… well, treat your vocal chords and singing mechanism the same way you would treat any other muscle group in your body. Give it rest and growing room. If you get tired singing during rehearsal, back off until you build up enough stamina to sing for longer periods of time. This will gradually happen, just as muscle bulk gradually happens in your arms or abs. Don’t expect miracles overnight.
As you care for your body, your voice will improve. It’s that simple. Good rest, plenty of water, good food, routine check ups, and plenty of relaxation and exercise will balance your voice. Ladies, go easy on your vocals during your menstrual cycle if possible. You may find yourself slightly flat, or cloudy sounding because the tissues are swollen and cleansing. Respect your body’s need to clean itself, and be gentle to yourself.
In crystal healing, wear jade, or blue lace agate at the throat chakra to increase clean vocal production and vocal stamina and clarity.
Warm up thoroughly before performance, your high and low registers, and your mixed voice. Remember head voice and chest voice build differently, like working your biceps and triceps. Strengthen each individually, and then work on putting them together cleanly.
Singer’s tea recipe
For sore throat, hoarse voice, and overall vocal health
8 to 12 oz. boiling water, filtered
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp grated orange peel
2 tbsps grated fresh ginger root
A sprig of fresh mint
1 cardimum pod, cracked open
1 tsp or less cinnamon
Native honey to taste
Allow all ingredients except the honey to steep in boiling water for 6 to 8 minutes.
Strain tea and add honey. Wait for tea to be warm to hot before drinking.
Add licorice root for irritated throat or congestion.
Add rose hips for coughing or swelling and redness of throat.
Add extra mint to reduce fever.
Break a leg, or as they say to german opera singers, and as my voice teacher taught me, as she kneed me in the butt and pretended to spit over my shoulder… Toi! Toi! Toi!
Happy Singing
-Sassy
Friday, September 25, 2009
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Rocks and Runes Reminder
Namaste!
Don’t forget to come join me for Sunday’s with sassy at Rocks and Runes. today, reading crystals, doing healings, and answering all your questions about minerals. No appointments necessary today, all are more than welcome. If you are not in the Southern California area, don’t worry, I do phone work as well, Just give Wendy at Rocks and Runes a call to schedule your appointment. We can find you the perfect crystal,, and Wendy has the best collection of energetic healing stones I’ve ever worked with. Come hang with us today, Sept. 6, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM and discover how a few little pretty rocks can transform your world. I’ll be there from one to five every Sunday this month and the first two Sundays in October.
Please see the Rocks and Runes website for directions and contact info.
Love, peace and light,
-Sassy
Don’t forget to come join me for Sunday’s with sassy at Rocks and Runes. today, reading crystals, doing healings, and answering all your questions about minerals. No appointments necessary today, all are more than welcome. If you are not in the Southern California area, don’t worry, I do phone work as well, Just give Wendy at Rocks and Runes a call to schedule your appointment. We can find you the perfect crystal,, and Wendy has the best collection of energetic healing stones I’ve ever worked with. Come hang with us today, Sept. 6, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM and discover how a few little pretty rocks can transform your world. I’ll be there from one to five every Sunday this month and the first two Sundays in October.
Please see the Rocks and Runes website for directions and contact info.
Love, peace and light,
-Sassy
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Harmonyum Certification and Naam Yoga Retreat
I spent the weekend earning my Harmonyum Practitioner’s certification at a gorgeous retreat overlooking the ocean in Malabou, California. The retreat is part of a monastery, peaceful, secluded and simple in its exquisite, austere beauty. The days were long, but full of such powerful, life-changing classes, and I met people there I know will stay in my life for years to come.
Naam Yoga is a form of yoga based on chanting, meditation, Cabala and moving poses, rather than still, held asanas like physical Hatha yoga. There is singing, dancing, constant motion of the hands, voice, body and mind. It combines the best things from your dance classes with the soothing quiet stretching of your yoga classes, then steps it up several notches! Throw in some amazing mental acrobatics, some serious mudras that could give sign language a run for the money, and a good course in vocal harmonizing, and you’ve got Naam. Your mind is fully engaged, your heart is fed, and your soul is bathed in the light of your work. And you are guaranteed to work up a sweat! It’s something you have to try for yourself.
If you have nevr had a Harmonyum treatment, the best way I can put it into words for you is that it feels like you are receiving a giant, warm, gentle hug from god, light, and the good things in the universe. It’s wondrous. Your body relaxes, your mind just drifts, and your whole being revives, nourished, satiated and warm all over. You’re not asleep, but you feel like it. You’re in a healing trance, a loving, safe place where true healing can take place, of the body, heart and soul. If you are ready for transformation on every level, ready to walk the highest path the universe has prepared for you through your own divinity, then find your nearest certified Harmonyum practitioner, and go for a treatment.
I used to think massages were the best way to relax! If my mind never came out of a massage feeling, well, massaged, my body felt great, and so why should I complain? That was before I got a Harmonyum treatment! My muscles got worked on in a massage, but my heart and mind came out as busy and full as when I went in. Harmonyum gets into all three levels, and even deeper. It’s non-invasive, and if you are uncomfortable being touched in a massage, you can receive a Harmonyum treatment where the practitioner doesn’t lay a finger on you. You are fully clothed, comfortable, and if nothing else, it’s a chance to take n hour out of your hectic day and just chill out. Who doesn’t think that sounds wonderful? Harmonyum heals Karma, using energy work, gentle massage and your own power to self heal. Most holistic medicine believes in not just treating the symptoms of an illness, but finding and treating the root of an illness. Harmonyum is the most direct path to this that I, as a healer, have ever seen. But again, you’ll have to try it for yourself.
To learn more about Harmonyum, please visit the Harmonyum Association.
For information on Gurunam and Naam Yoga, please visit Rootlight.
Love, peace and light to you!
-Akaljeet Kaur
Sat Nam
Naam Yoga is a form of yoga based on chanting, meditation, Cabala and moving poses, rather than still, held asanas like physical Hatha yoga. There is singing, dancing, constant motion of the hands, voice, body and mind. It combines the best things from your dance classes with the soothing quiet stretching of your yoga classes, then steps it up several notches! Throw in some amazing mental acrobatics, some serious mudras that could give sign language a run for the money, and a good course in vocal harmonizing, and you’ve got Naam. Your mind is fully engaged, your heart is fed, and your soul is bathed in the light of your work. And you are guaranteed to work up a sweat! It’s something you have to try for yourself.
If you have nevr had a Harmonyum treatment, the best way I can put it into words for you is that it feels like you are receiving a giant, warm, gentle hug from god, light, and the good things in the universe. It’s wondrous. Your body relaxes, your mind just drifts, and your whole being revives, nourished, satiated and warm all over. You’re not asleep, but you feel like it. You’re in a healing trance, a loving, safe place where true healing can take place, of the body, heart and soul. If you are ready for transformation on every level, ready to walk the highest path the universe has prepared for you through your own divinity, then find your nearest certified Harmonyum practitioner, and go for a treatment.
I used to think massages were the best way to relax! If my mind never came out of a massage feeling, well, massaged, my body felt great, and so why should I complain? That was before I got a Harmonyum treatment! My muscles got worked on in a massage, but my heart and mind came out as busy and full as when I went in. Harmonyum gets into all three levels, and even deeper. It’s non-invasive, and if you are uncomfortable being touched in a massage, you can receive a Harmonyum treatment where the practitioner doesn’t lay a finger on you. You are fully clothed, comfortable, and if nothing else, it’s a chance to take n hour out of your hectic day and just chill out. Who doesn’t think that sounds wonderful? Harmonyum heals Karma, using energy work, gentle massage and your own power to self heal. Most holistic medicine believes in not just treating the symptoms of an illness, but finding and treating the root of an illness. Harmonyum is the most direct path to this that I, as a healer, have ever seen. But again, you’ll have to try it for yourself.
To learn more about Harmonyum, please visit the Harmonyum Association.
For information on Gurunam and Naam Yoga, please visit Rootlight.
Love, peace and light to you!
-Akaljeet Kaur
Sat Nam
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Crystal healings, readings and classes at Rocks and Runes in Burbank: Come on by!
I have a great bit of newsfor those of you in the southern California area. If you’ve been looking for a place to nurture yourself, heal your body and heart and replenish your spirit, come see me at Rocks and Runes in Burbank.
Rocks and Runes
I am now the resident crystal healer and reader for Rocks and Runes. Come on in, check out Wendy’s vast array of crystals and one-of-a-kind jewelry, and see me for a reading or treatment at the same time. Whether you need a quick question answered, or you need a full healing with totem medicine, aromatherapy, crystals or angels, we’re here to help. Call to schedule your appointment today. I will also be teaching classes and workshops there, so check the Rocks and Runes website event calendar or watch this blog for dates and details. I will be working with wendy to develop a product line of alixors and chakra healing tools, so feel free to send suggestions or comments here on the blog and I’ll do my best to put them in the product line. If you aren’t in California, I still do distance readings and healings, and you can always give Wendy or I a call to order the perfect stone or alixor for you.
Come on over and hang out with us for a little while! There’s always something fun and healing going on at Rocks and Runes. It’s a casual friendly atmosphere with great music and wonderful people, puppies and crystals all around you. We get straight down to the heart of your healing, and we’re all about welcoming you by name and learning about you and your unique story.
See you soon at Rocks and Runes!
-Sassy
Rocks and Runes
I am now the resident crystal healer and reader for Rocks and Runes. Come on in, check out Wendy’s vast array of crystals and one-of-a-kind jewelry, and see me for a reading or treatment at the same time. Whether you need a quick question answered, or you need a full healing with totem medicine, aromatherapy, crystals or angels, we’re here to help. Call to schedule your appointment today. I will also be teaching classes and workshops there, so check the Rocks and Runes website event calendar or watch this blog for dates and details. I will be working with wendy to develop a product line of alixors and chakra healing tools, so feel free to send suggestions or comments here on the blog and I’ll do my best to put them in the product line. If you aren’t in California, I still do distance readings and healings, and you can always give Wendy or I a call to order the perfect stone or alixor for you.
Come on over and hang out with us for a little while! There’s always something fun and healing going on at Rocks and Runes. It’s a casual friendly atmosphere with great music and wonderful people, puppies and crystals all around you. We get straight down to the heart of your healing, and we’re all about welcoming you by name and learning about you and your unique story.
See you soon at Rocks and Runes!
-Sassy
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Crystals and the heart: Healers and mirrors
Lately in my crystal healing practice, the same issue has been cropping up for many of my clients: romance. Heart stuff… love new and love broken, love blooming, love burning out. And each time, I get asked the same question: what stones can I wear for love?
Answer: None. Ouh, suks I know, but truth always hurts when it’s staring you in the face and it isn’t what you wanted to hear. Love is something that manifests itself in every area of life: it’s a spiritual thing; it’s a body thing; it’s a mind and heart thing; it’s a universe-binding, blinding-light, God-did-it thing. And yep, God did it and left you in charge. Crystals often act as mirrors to us, allowing our physical and emotional issues to surface for us to deal with. The crystals amplify our abilities to deal with the unearthed issues, then help us to disperse the problems. So there is no crystal that can solve all your love woes. That’s up to you, and how much you want to heal your heart. But I can suggest some stones to help and guide you along the way.
I guess this would be a good time to define for you the difference in feelings and emotions. Emotions are those primal things that just happen. Fear, hate, love… you get the idea. Feelings, however, are different. Feelings stem from emotions, like branches on a tree. You are afraid, with that comes hatred, jealousy, greed. You are in love, with that comes a whole lot of stuff, sadness, mad lust, possessiveness.
Love makes us do some crazy stuff, as I’m sure you know from experience. Crystals may not re-kindle your flame or cast a spell of charm on your sweetheart, but they are powerful little allies you can use for a lot of the pitfalls and adventures of romance. Here are a few of my favorites, but please remember, seeking a certified crystal healer before employing a stone unless you are an experienced practitioner may be your wisest course of action if you have a problem you feel has gone too far.
Sun stone/moon stone: Day and night, fire and ice… opposites attract, and in the case of these two stones, ignite! Moon stone is the stone of Dianna, lady of the Hunt, mistress of the moon in mythology. Moon stone is also the feminine stone. Associated with 6th Chakra, or the third eye, this stone attracts romantic attention to the wearer like a moth to flame. The attention does have to be there to begin with, but moon stone acts as an amplification, transmitting aura to aura things that are best left unsaid. Let your moon stone do the talking, and your mouth will do the kissing!
Pair it with the male sun stone, and you’re on fire! Sun stone is completely rooted in the physical, lust, beauty, passion and inhibition. Worn separately, sun stone is a powerful courage stone, a breaker of barriers and limitations. Sunstone sees no obstacles, hinders no progress, and charges your libido like a quad shot latte to your bloodstream. It is also a good stone for impotence in both men and women.
Place sunstone and moonstone together beneath a pillow, or in your pocket or bra, and you’re sex life will become magical. Just remember, neither of these stones deals with love, just attraction, and yes, there’s a difference. :-d So wear them wisely, or you may find yourself with a mess.
Rose quartz. Quarreling, squabbling, heartbreak, unrequited love are your symptoms? Rose quartz is for you. This is the stone of forgiveness and understanding. Emotions are brought up and laid bare for you to examine and remove in a nonhurtful, gentle way. Some crystals are brutally honest, like the most revealing of mirrors. Rose quartz is a gentler, healing stone, that allows you to see the problems, but then allows you to put them behind you and cultivate forgiveness, empathy, and compassion. Rose quartz is a loving stone, but it cannot make love grow where there is none, nor can it heal the heart alone. Love, and heart healing, comes from one source. You.
Termaline: Green termaline is the stone of heart wisdom. Looking for insight into what has been making your partner so moody? Need some intuitive guidance on why you’ve been sleeping alone lately? Green termaline clarifies issues and allows you to see what’s been going on behind the scenes. Watermellon termaline also helps to clarify, but it promotes healing, transformation and recovery as well.
Aventurine is a heart stone, though I associate it more with manifesting hidden emotions and opening higher heart. It isn’t the best romance stone, but it is excellent for learning to accept and love yourself,and transform the negative into positive. We all need self-love before true romance can enter the picture, so if you’re stuck in that perpetually lonely single stage, aventurine may be calling you.
Amethyst is the divine stone. It equals complete opening and peace. If you’re heart has been badly broken and you can’t move past it, do yourself the favor of seeking amethyst. When paired with rose quartz, amethyst becomes a healer, a visionary stone of comfort, courage and release. Give your fear, sorrow, hurt and betrayal to the amethyst and let its peace, tenderness, divinity and serenity cleanse you and begin the healing process.
There are a ton of other heart stones out there, but these are a few of my favorites. Angelite, calcite, jade, halite, paradot, sapphire, green amethyst, all have heart healing properties. Emerald can also heal, but most of these are stronger stones associated with one state of love or another. The crystals listed above are good general love stones for use by anyone. For further questions on heart stones, leave a comment here and I will do my best to respond.
Namaste,
-Akaljeet kaur
Answer: None. Ouh, suks I know, but truth always hurts when it’s staring you in the face and it isn’t what you wanted to hear. Love is something that manifests itself in every area of life: it’s a spiritual thing; it’s a body thing; it’s a mind and heart thing; it’s a universe-binding, blinding-light, God-did-it thing. And yep, God did it and left you in charge. Crystals often act as mirrors to us, allowing our physical and emotional issues to surface for us to deal with. The crystals amplify our abilities to deal with the unearthed issues, then help us to disperse the problems. So there is no crystal that can solve all your love woes. That’s up to you, and how much you want to heal your heart. But I can suggest some stones to help and guide you along the way.
I guess this would be a good time to define for you the difference in feelings and emotions. Emotions are those primal things that just happen. Fear, hate, love… you get the idea. Feelings, however, are different. Feelings stem from emotions, like branches on a tree. You are afraid, with that comes hatred, jealousy, greed. You are in love, with that comes a whole lot of stuff, sadness, mad lust, possessiveness.
Love makes us do some crazy stuff, as I’m sure you know from experience. Crystals may not re-kindle your flame or cast a spell of charm on your sweetheart, but they are powerful little allies you can use for a lot of the pitfalls and adventures of romance. Here are a few of my favorites, but please remember, seeking a certified crystal healer before employing a stone unless you are an experienced practitioner may be your wisest course of action if you have a problem you feel has gone too far.
Sun stone/moon stone: Day and night, fire and ice… opposites attract, and in the case of these two stones, ignite! Moon stone is the stone of Dianna, lady of the Hunt, mistress of the moon in mythology. Moon stone is also the feminine stone. Associated with 6th Chakra, or the third eye, this stone attracts romantic attention to the wearer like a moth to flame. The attention does have to be there to begin with, but moon stone acts as an amplification, transmitting aura to aura things that are best left unsaid. Let your moon stone do the talking, and your mouth will do the kissing!
Pair it with the male sun stone, and you’re on fire! Sun stone is completely rooted in the physical, lust, beauty, passion and inhibition. Worn separately, sun stone is a powerful courage stone, a breaker of barriers and limitations. Sunstone sees no obstacles, hinders no progress, and charges your libido like a quad shot latte to your bloodstream. It is also a good stone for impotence in both men and women.
Place sunstone and moonstone together beneath a pillow, or in your pocket or bra, and you’re sex life will become magical. Just remember, neither of these stones deals with love, just attraction, and yes, there’s a difference. :-d So wear them wisely, or you may find yourself with a mess.
Rose quartz. Quarreling, squabbling, heartbreak, unrequited love are your symptoms? Rose quartz is for you. This is the stone of forgiveness and understanding. Emotions are brought up and laid bare for you to examine and remove in a nonhurtful, gentle way. Some crystals are brutally honest, like the most revealing of mirrors. Rose quartz is a gentler, healing stone, that allows you to see the problems, but then allows you to put them behind you and cultivate forgiveness, empathy, and compassion. Rose quartz is a loving stone, but it cannot make love grow where there is none, nor can it heal the heart alone. Love, and heart healing, comes from one source. You.
Termaline: Green termaline is the stone of heart wisdom. Looking for insight into what has been making your partner so moody? Need some intuitive guidance on why you’ve been sleeping alone lately? Green termaline clarifies issues and allows you to see what’s been going on behind the scenes. Watermellon termaline also helps to clarify, but it promotes healing, transformation and recovery as well.
Aventurine is a heart stone, though I associate it more with manifesting hidden emotions and opening higher heart. It isn’t the best romance stone, but it is excellent for learning to accept and love yourself,and transform the negative into positive. We all need self-love before true romance can enter the picture, so if you’re stuck in that perpetually lonely single stage, aventurine may be calling you.
Amethyst is the divine stone. It equals complete opening and peace. If you’re heart has been badly broken and you can’t move past it, do yourself the favor of seeking amethyst. When paired with rose quartz, amethyst becomes a healer, a visionary stone of comfort, courage and release. Give your fear, sorrow, hurt and betrayal to the amethyst and let its peace, tenderness, divinity and serenity cleanse you and begin the healing process.
There are a ton of other heart stones out there, but these are a few of my favorites. Angelite, calcite, jade, halite, paradot, sapphire, green amethyst, all have heart healing properties. Emerald can also heal, but most of these are stronger stones associated with one state of love or another. The crystals listed above are good general love stones for use by anyone. For further questions on heart stones, leave a comment here and I will do my best to respond.
Namaste,
-Akaljeet kaur
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Crystal Magic 101: Cleansing Crystals
Many people use the words cleansing, charging and programming interchangeably. But it’s important to note the distinctions between each, and to denote their importance in your crystal work. Each is a very important step in working safely and accurately with crystal magic. If a baker skips the yeast, the bread won’t rise. It’s just as important to properly and carefully cleanse each of your crystals.
What is crystal cleansing?
Just what it sounds like. When you cleanse crystals, you’re cleaning the surface of chemicals and fingerprints, but much more importantly, you’re detoxing the energy of the stone, allowing its magnetic resonances to realign to you, giving it a chance to get rid of all that negative energy it’s picked up and opening it to receive a new charge and program.
WE each need sleep to allow our brains to sort through the mess of our days and dream things out. We need food to nurish us, we need water to sustain us and wash toxins out. Cleansing, to your crystals, is as important as water is to you. Some crystals, such as citrine, are self-cleansing, and can cleanse crystals placed upon them. But most crystals have no way to self cleanse. You can open your mouth and drink water, so give your crystals the same chance.
Your crystals should be cleansed after any major work. Stones you wear daily can be cleansed at night in a salt bed:
Most crystals love salt. A few prefer not to be near it, but they’re rare. Fill a bowl with sea salt (not ionized). When you take off your pendants, tumbled stones and jewelry before bed, place them in the salt bed with a thank you and a prayer for them. Let them lightly cleanse over night before you wear them again the next day. You don’t need to re-program them after this light cleansing. All you’ve done is taken any outside influence or negativity away, and allowed them to detox a little.
When you first buy a crystal, give it a good cleanse before using it. This prevents you from taking on anything the crystal dealt with before it came to you, and allows the crystal to have a fresh start in its new home. As you get to know the crystal, it wil begin to inform you quite clearly when it’s ready for a new cleanse. This can be as often as every month, and as rare as once a year depending on the composition of the crystal, and what you’re doing with it.
Cleansing Crystals
There are many different techniques out there for cleansing crystals, but most revolve in some form around the four elementss of earth, air, fire and water. In some Celtic belief systems, as well as in Tibetan or caballa practices, human guidance or body magic can also be used. Below is a brief outline of some of the most commonly used cleansing rituals.
Please note that some crystals respond best to a specific cleansing, either because of mineral composition or energetic cotent. I list a few here, but I’m compiling a full glossary of crystals and properties to go up later which also will note cleansing, charging and programming preferences.
Water cleansing
Please do not perform this ritual on any sodium-based minerals, such as anything in the calcite family. Most quartz crystals respond very well to this form of cleansing. The quartz family includes agate, carnelian, aventurine, citrine, amethyst, and anything else in the SIO2 mineral class.
If you’re lucky enough to live near a source of pure running water such as a brook or stream, this may be a perfect ritual for you. Cryrstals love the motion of water. It makes it very easy for them to release their negativity, and purify themselves gently and completely without expending a ton of energy in the process.
Some people maintain hold of their crystals and simply dip them int a river or stream for cleansing. I prefer to make a medicine bag out of a water permeable fabric such as organic cotton or bamboo, and place the crystal in the bag. I secure the bag to a root or rock so it will not wash away, and let the crystal remain in the stream overnight if possible. (I don’t get to use this ritual very often because I live in the city but when I have done it, the crystals have thanked me in many ways. They love it.)
If, like me, you’re stuck in the city, a good alternative is a fountain. Find a fountain in a sacred place, or invest in one of your own. You don’t need a huge fountain, just a source of fresh, clean running water deep enough to cover your crystals. Place your crystals in the bowl of the fountain and let the water do the rest. You may find that it takes a couple days for this to work, but have patience and let the crystals clean themselves. The more you mess with them during this process, the harder it is for them to get their work done. Thank heavens, the crystals actually listen when you tell them to do something. So nag your kids and spouse about cleaning rooms and doing dishes, but tell your crystals once, and then trust that it’ll get done. :-d Don’t you wish everything was that easy?
Some crystals, especially ice crystals, nephrite (jade), rose quartz, and anything from the termaline family love the rain. Putting your crystals outside in a good soaking rain makes for very happy friends in your magic later on. I find that placing my big record keepers and laser crystal wands outside during a thunderstorm is a quick easy way to both cleanse and charge crystals that normally need a lot of attention. Again, set them out, and walk away. (As long as they’re in a place where they won’t walk away on someone else’s legs.) Crystals are magical items that hold part of you. Don’t leave them around for just anyone to pick up and use. They can be used against you, so be cautious about who touches your stones, and who is near them as they cleanse and charge.
Fire Cleanse
Amethysts do not like sunlight, so please keep them away from fire cleansing, along with moonstone, some topaz, and other light-sensative stones.
There are two commonly used forms of pyrocleansing.
Sun cleansing is great for stones like sunstone, bloodstone, and clear quartz. Any stone that channels fire or earth elements usually responds well to sunlight and draws it deep, becoming immensely powerful. Did you know that the diamond in your wedding ring is also a metaphysical stone? Diamonds love light, so show it off and clean it up at the same time! Place your sun-craving stones on a window sill at midday, and watch them sparkle in the light. Most stones don’t need a lot of time to sun cleanse. It’s a quick and easy way to cleanse, but most stones prefer a gentler deeper cleanse from water when they can get it. So use sun cleansing only intermittently. Remember that stones come from earth, and sun is not heir native energy. It’s harder for them to stay clean with a sun cleanse in some cases, so ask the stones what works. Trust me, they’ll let you know if you’re willing to listen.
The other method of fire cleansing is one I don’t recommend for beginners, because it needs a strong, practiced mind, and a steady magical hand to perform it correctly. Smudging crystals is probably the fastest way to cleanse them, but smudging is not a self cleansing process. The most common ingredient for smudging is sage, though dragon’s blood, lavender and other herbs can also be used, depending on what you will be using the stone for. For smudge cleansing, only the herb in it’s purest essence should be used, so use a sage smudge stick, or dried herbs, rather than incense, oil or candles. Light the herbs, bless the ritual, and use your right hand or your casting hand to waft the smoke over the crystal in your left hand or open hand. (reverse the hands if you are left handed, or cast and receive opposite the standard). The smudging should be done in a cast circle for maximum benefit, and should be done with intent chanted, or direct will applied to cleanse the stone of all previous negativity and all that does not serve it in it’s current place in your aura.
Earth Cleansing
Cleansing using the crystals native element is a favorite among your rocks. It’s like vacation/family reunion day for them, and they’ll come back to work for you as refreshed and happy as can be.
I like to dedicate the earth with a blessing or ritual before I consecrate my crystals to it. I start by casting a circle, and blessing the earth, giving back of myself, asking that she may be generous to me and my stones. Mother Earth is straining herself to the breaking point to keep up with all the demands we place on her. Honor her, and feel of her pain. The more you give to her, the more she can freely give to you without pain. The more you take from her, the less she can give to you without letting go of her magic—in effect, killing herself to meet your needs. Do a karma check and remember to always give of yourself to her before you ask her to give to you!
Once you’ve found your sacred ground, spend time with your hands in the earth, turning it, feeling it, experiencing it. Smell it, taste it, breathe it into you. I use another medicine bag of the same permeable material for this ritual. Bury your stones, and be sure to leave a marker atop the spot for easy retrieval in a few days. This process can take anywhere from several days to a week, to a full moon cycle for some traumatized stones. (more on trauma and stones in another post.)
All stones enjoy this ritual, and at least once every year, usually around the solstice, you should earth cleanse your stones, to give them a little time to re-group, and care for themselves. They’ve spent so much time caring for you, do them a favor and return the love.
Salt Cleanse
Salt water cleansing is probably the most commonly used form of crystal cleansing, but it’s not for all stones. My own personal recipe for salt cleansing baths for my crystals:
Enough water to cover the crystal in a large ceramic bowl of white (metal bowls, metallic glazes and glass should be avoided, along with woods and synthetics).
Please use purified water to avoid leaving mineral deposits on your stones
1 part salt to 3/1/2 parts water.
I work on a high salt content, so you can dilute this slightly for a less potent cleanse. This is a good strong recipe for ‘sterilizing’ crystals for working crystal healers with clients, but I do recommend less salt for personal cleansing
For every 12 fluid Oz. of water, add 12 drops lavender or sage oil
Occasionally I use other oils for a specific cleanse, but these are the best for overall cleansing
Immerce the crystals overnight, and let them bathe. Don’t babysit, don’t bug them, again, go away and let them do self-care without having to worry about you.
Dry the crystals after any water submersion with a soft towel.
Cluster cleansing
Large amethyst or clear quartz clusters are good for this cleansing though a few other clusters can also be used. Place smaller crystals on top of the cluster, and let the talk together for a while. Your ears might burn, but the smaller crystals will come away refreshed and enlightened. The big clusters are generally self-cleansing, though an earth cleanse every blue moon or solstice doesn’t hurt.
Wind cleansing
Wind is a very strong cleanser for crystals, especially a weather phennomonon like the Santa Ana winds of California, the monsoons, or the winds of Indian summer. My favorite way to do this is to put my crystals in a medicine bag, and tie the bag up high near wind chimes, or set it in the window near an Aeolian harp. Wind is the elemental voice of music along with water, and crystals respond very strongly to music. Try different chimes or different times of day and season for this cleansing to find what each individual stone prefers.
Body magic cleansing
This is a very private practice, and very controversial, so I’ll just touch upon it here. In tantra, druidism and other body magic belief systems, placing the crystal near certain chakras of the body, and using deep trance to cleanse and commune with the crystal is believed to provide a higher level of cleansing. Body magic is difficult karmically, and should not be done without full knowledge and training. It requires karmic sacrifice, and magic gifting preparation. When done improperly, it can result in auric injury, or damage to the soul, spirit, body and heart. When done correctly, it can result in a level of communication with your crystal that is unsurpassed. I’m an adept, and yet, even I approach this ritual with tremendous care, and only when absolutely crucial. But it can be done, and it is a resource for those facing life threatening situations, or major karmic or soul issues. Be sure you see a certified, trained crystal healer who has experience in body magic, akashic record or aura reading, and yogic healing. This should only be done with very specific crystals.
Crystal care
Store your crystals on or near a sacred place in your home, or in a designated place in the house or on your person. They are special beings, and you should care for them as partners and friends. Make sure they are kept clean, and the oils of your skin removed before putting them away after each use. Give them light and breathing room when they need it, and use them often to keep them active and happy. A dormant crystal is unable to earn karma, so bring it out and give it work.
When transporting them, or storing them, there is debate as to the best container to use. Some say that wood is unacceptable, but I come from the Celtic tradition and find the opposite is true. Woods have their own magic, and though the tree gave itself for the wood, there are metaphysical shops out there that make boxes out of drift wood, or fallen limbs freely given by the tree. I use these woods to store my crystals in. Research the properties of the wood you choose, and make sure it is in line with your intentions and desires before putting your crystals in it, then watch what happens. If your crystals like there new home, they’ll let you know. Oak, ash, murtle, walnut, maple, holly, rowan and willow are some of the best healing woods and make great crystal homes.
Some crystals don’t like wood, and their high metal content makes them particularly picky. They may do well in a ceramic or earthernware container, or a metal container, though the latter is rare.
Cotton, bamboo, silk or other organic fabric bags are good for storing crystals, but beware of leather. It’s that darned karma thing again. Putting your crystals in leather is like putting them in a head-lock. Synthetic leather isn’t as bad, but I prefer to keep synthetics away from the crystals whenever possible. Leather makes it hard for the crystals to reach out and sense the world around them. You’ve basically blindfolded, ear-plugged and tied the hands of your friend. Not nice.
Treat your crystals with care and love. They are karmic beings who love you an care for you, and it’s only fair to return the favor to yourself and them. If you have specific questions regarding crystal cleansing, feel free to leave a comment, and I will do my best to answer you.
Namaste!
-Akaljeet Kaur
What is crystal cleansing?
Just what it sounds like. When you cleanse crystals, you’re cleaning the surface of chemicals and fingerprints, but much more importantly, you’re detoxing the energy of the stone, allowing its magnetic resonances to realign to you, giving it a chance to get rid of all that negative energy it’s picked up and opening it to receive a new charge and program.
WE each need sleep to allow our brains to sort through the mess of our days and dream things out. We need food to nurish us, we need water to sustain us and wash toxins out. Cleansing, to your crystals, is as important as water is to you. Some crystals, such as citrine, are self-cleansing, and can cleanse crystals placed upon them. But most crystals have no way to self cleanse. You can open your mouth and drink water, so give your crystals the same chance.
Your crystals should be cleansed after any major work. Stones you wear daily can be cleansed at night in a salt bed:
Most crystals love salt. A few prefer not to be near it, but they’re rare. Fill a bowl with sea salt (not ionized). When you take off your pendants, tumbled stones and jewelry before bed, place them in the salt bed with a thank you and a prayer for them. Let them lightly cleanse over night before you wear them again the next day. You don’t need to re-program them after this light cleansing. All you’ve done is taken any outside influence or negativity away, and allowed them to detox a little.
When you first buy a crystal, give it a good cleanse before using it. This prevents you from taking on anything the crystal dealt with before it came to you, and allows the crystal to have a fresh start in its new home. As you get to know the crystal, it wil begin to inform you quite clearly when it’s ready for a new cleanse. This can be as often as every month, and as rare as once a year depending on the composition of the crystal, and what you’re doing with it.
Cleansing Crystals
There are many different techniques out there for cleansing crystals, but most revolve in some form around the four elementss of earth, air, fire and water. In some Celtic belief systems, as well as in Tibetan or caballa practices, human guidance or body magic can also be used. Below is a brief outline of some of the most commonly used cleansing rituals.
Please note that some crystals respond best to a specific cleansing, either because of mineral composition or energetic cotent. I list a few here, but I’m compiling a full glossary of crystals and properties to go up later which also will note cleansing, charging and programming preferences.
Water cleansing
Please do not perform this ritual on any sodium-based minerals, such as anything in the calcite family. Most quartz crystals respond very well to this form of cleansing. The quartz family includes agate, carnelian, aventurine, citrine, amethyst, and anything else in the SIO2 mineral class.
If you’re lucky enough to live near a source of pure running water such as a brook or stream, this may be a perfect ritual for you. Cryrstals love the motion of water. It makes it very easy for them to release their negativity, and purify themselves gently and completely without expending a ton of energy in the process.
Some people maintain hold of their crystals and simply dip them int a river or stream for cleansing. I prefer to make a medicine bag out of a water permeable fabric such as organic cotton or bamboo, and place the crystal in the bag. I secure the bag to a root or rock so it will not wash away, and let the crystal remain in the stream overnight if possible. (I don’t get to use this ritual very often because I live in the city but when I have done it, the crystals have thanked me in many ways. They love it.)
If, like me, you’re stuck in the city, a good alternative is a fountain. Find a fountain in a sacred place, or invest in one of your own. You don’t need a huge fountain, just a source of fresh, clean running water deep enough to cover your crystals. Place your crystals in the bowl of the fountain and let the water do the rest. You may find that it takes a couple days for this to work, but have patience and let the crystals clean themselves. The more you mess with them during this process, the harder it is for them to get their work done. Thank heavens, the crystals actually listen when you tell them to do something. So nag your kids and spouse about cleaning rooms and doing dishes, but tell your crystals once, and then trust that it’ll get done. :-d Don’t you wish everything was that easy?
Some crystals, especially ice crystals, nephrite (jade), rose quartz, and anything from the termaline family love the rain. Putting your crystals outside in a good soaking rain makes for very happy friends in your magic later on. I find that placing my big record keepers and laser crystal wands outside during a thunderstorm is a quick easy way to both cleanse and charge crystals that normally need a lot of attention. Again, set them out, and walk away. (As long as they’re in a place where they won’t walk away on someone else’s legs.) Crystals are magical items that hold part of you. Don’t leave them around for just anyone to pick up and use. They can be used against you, so be cautious about who touches your stones, and who is near them as they cleanse and charge.
Fire Cleanse
Amethysts do not like sunlight, so please keep them away from fire cleansing, along with moonstone, some topaz, and other light-sensative stones.
There are two commonly used forms of pyrocleansing.
Sun cleansing is great for stones like sunstone, bloodstone, and clear quartz. Any stone that channels fire or earth elements usually responds well to sunlight and draws it deep, becoming immensely powerful. Did you know that the diamond in your wedding ring is also a metaphysical stone? Diamonds love light, so show it off and clean it up at the same time! Place your sun-craving stones on a window sill at midday, and watch them sparkle in the light. Most stones don’t need a lot of time to sun cleanse. It’s a quick and easy way to cleanse, but most stones prefer a gentler deeper cleanse from water when they can get it. So use sun cleansing only intermittently. Remember that stones come from earth, and sun is not heir native energy. It’s harder for them to stay clean with a sun cleanse in some cases, so ask the stones what works. Trust me, they’ll let you know if you’re willing to listen.
The other method of fire cleansing is one I don’t recommend for beginners, because it needs a strong, practiced mind, and a steady magical hand to perform it correctly. Smudging crystals is probably the fastest way to cleanse them, but smudging is not a self cleansing process. The most common ingredient for smudging is sage, though dragon’s blood, lavender and other herbs can also be used, depending on what you will be using the stone for. For smudge cleansing, only the herb in it’s purest essence should be used, so use a sage smudge stick, or dried herbs, rather than incense, oil or candles. Light the herbs, bless the ritual, and use your right hand or your casting hand to waft the smoke over the crystal in your left hand or open hand. (reverse the hands if you are left handed, or cast and receive opposite the standard). The smudging should be done in a cast circle for maximum benefit, and should be done with intent chanted, or direct will applied to cleanse the stone of all previous negativity and all that does not serve it in it’s current place in your aura.
Earth Cleansing
Cleansing using the crystals native element is a favorite among your rocks. It’s like vacation/family reunion day for them, and they’ll come back to work for you as refreshed and happy as can be.
I like to dedicate the earth with a blessing or ritual before I consecrate my crystals to it. I start by casting a circle, and blessing the earth, giving back of myself, asking that she may be generous to me and my stones. Mother Earth is straining herself to the breaking point to keep up with all the demands we place on her. Honor her, and feel of her pain. The more you give to her, the more she can freely give to you without pain. The more you take from her, the less she can give to you without letting go of her magic—in effect, killing herself to meet your needs. Do a karma check and remember to always give of yourself to her before you ask her to give to you!
Once you’ve found your sacred ground, spend time with your hands in the earth, turning it, feeling it, experiencing it. Smell it, taste it, breathe it into you. I use another medicine bag of the same permeable material for this ritual. Bury your stones, and be sure to leave a marker atop the spot for easy retrieval in a few days. This process can take anywhere from several days to a week, to a full moon cycle for some traumatized stones. (more on trauma and stones in another post.)
All stones enjoy this ritual, and at least once every year, usually around the solstice, you should earth cleanse your stones, to give them a little time to re-group, and care for themselves. They’ve spent so much time caring for you, do them a favor and return the love.
Salt Cleanse
Salt water cleansing is probably the most commonly used form of crystal cleansing, but it’s not for all stones. My own personal recipe for salt cleansing baths for my crystals:
Enough water to cover the crystal in a large ceramic bowl of white (metal bowls, metallic glazes and glass should be avoided, along with woods and synthetics).
Please use purified water to avoid leaving mineral deposits on your stones
1 part salt to 3/1/2 parts water.
I work on a high salt content, so you can dilute this slightly for a less potent cleanse. This is a good strong recipe for ‘sterilizing’ crystals for working crystal healers with clients, but I do recommend less salt for personal cleansing
For every 12 fluid Oz. of water, add 12 drops lavender or sage oil
Occasionally I use other oils for a specific cleanse, but these are the best for overall cleansing
Immerce the crystals overnight, and let them bathe. Don’t babysit, don’t bug them, again, go away and let them do self-care without having to worry about you.
Dry the crystals after any water submersion with a soft towel.
Cluster cleansing
Large amethyst or clear quartz clusters are good for this cleansing though a few other clusters can also be used. Place smaller crystals on top of the cluster, and let the talk together for a while. Your ears might burn, but the smaller crystals will come away refreshed and enlightened. The big clusters are generally self-cleansing, though an earth cleanse every blue moon or solstice doesn’t hurt.
Wind cleansing
Wind is a very strong cleanser for crystals, especially a weather phennomonon like the Santa Ana winds of California, the monsoons, or the winds of Indian summer. My favorite way to do this is to put my crystals in a medicine bag, and tie the bag up high near wind chimes, or set it in the window near an Aeolian harp. Wind is the elemental voice of music along with water, and crystals respond very strongly to music. Try different chimes or different times of day and season for this cleansing to find what each individual stone prefers.
Body magic cleansing
This is a very private practice, and very controversial, so I’ll just touch upon it here. In tantra, druidism and other body magic belief systems, placing the crystal near certain chakras of the body, and using deep trance to cleanse and commune with the crystal is believed to provide a higher level of cleansing. Body magic is difficult karmically, and should not be done without full knowledge and training. It requires karmic sacrifice, and magic gifting preparation. When done improperly, it can result in auric injury, or damage to the soul, spirit, body and heart. When done correctly, it can result in a level of communication with your crystal that is unsurpassed. I’m an adept, and yet, even I approach this ritual with tremendous care, and only when absolutely crucial. But it can be done, and it is a resource for those facing life threatening situations, or major karmic or soul issues. Be sure you see a certified, trained crystal healer who has experience in body magic, akashic record or aura reading, and yogic healing. This should only be done with very specific crystals.
Crystal care
Store your crystals on or near a sacred place in your home, or in a designated place in the house or on your person. They are special beings, and you should care for them as partners and friends. Make sure they are kept clean, and the oils of your skin removed before putting them away after each use. Give them light and breathing room when they need it, and use them often to keep them active and happy. A dormant crystal is unable to earn karma, so bring it out and give it work.
When transporting them, or storing them, there is debate as to the best container to use. Some say that wood is unacceptable, but I come from the Celtic tradition and find the opposite is true. Woods have their own magic, and though the tree gave itself for the wood, there are metaphysical shops out there that make boxes out of drift wood, or fallen limbs freely given by the tree. I use these woods to store my crystals in. Research the properties of the wood you choose, and make sure it is in line with your intentions and desires before putting your crystals in it, then watch what happens. If your crystals like there new home, they’ll let you know. Oak, ash, murtle, walnut, maple, holly, rowan and willow are some of the best healing woods and make great crystal homes.
Some crystals don’t like wood, and their high metal content makes them particularly picky. They may do well in a ceramic or earthernware container, or a metal container, though the latter is rare.
Cotton, bamboo, silk or other organic fabric bags are good for storing crystals, but beware of leather. It’s that darned karma thing again. Putting your crystals in leather is like putting them in a head-lock. Synthetic leather isn’t as bad, but I prefer to keep synthetics away from the crystals whenever possible. Leather makes it hard for the crystals to reach out and sense the world around them. You’ve basically blindfolded, ear-plugged and tied the hands of your friend. Not nice.
Treat your crystals with care and love. They are karmic beings who love you an care for you, and it’s only fair to return the favor to yourself and them. If you have specific questions regarding crystal cleansing, feel free to leave a comment, and I will do my best to answer you.
Namaste!
-Akaljeet Kaur
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Crystal magic 101: Choosing your crystals
The first and most important part of crystal magic is choosing your stones. Choosing your crystals can be a challenging, lengthy process, or it can be a one-touch, one-look love affair. Bear in mind as you seek out crystals for yourself or others that these are very powerful tools of healing and energy, and they do have a huge impact on the user. Be well aware of the power these stones wield at all times. Use wisely and with care, for these stones can heal and harm indiscriminantly when they are improperly used, or their warnings are ignored. They, like all other beings of energy operate under the laws of karma and magic. The law of 3 and all karmic laws do apply, so what you do with these stones will come back to you three-fold, in good or in ill.
Once you feel prepared to become a crystalworker, please understand that you are embarking upon a journey of self-healing, self discovery, and miracles. Perhaps more than almost any energetic tool we have in our arsenal these days, the crystals carry knowledge, power, and transformation, and the are willing to share it with you, if you are wiling to share yourself, your talent, and your commitment with them. Keep in mind that the crystals mirror the truth and light in everything, so hiding things from them is impossible; they’ll bring it all out and lay it on the table. So be sure you’re ready to undergo lot of introspection before you decide crystals are for you.
Crystalssignify different things to different people. I have heard them described as beings of light, friends, guides, stones, pretty rocks, healing tools, or perhaps, most aptly, implements of magic. To me, personally, they are all of these, and much more.
Here I put a big caution sign. If you are monotheistic in faith you may read the word “magic” and think crystals aren’t for you. The use of crystals should, in no way, conflict with religious views; instead, it should add to or enhance them. Magic means meany things to many people. If you are willing to embrace the fact that you are a radiant soul full of potential, then you are ready to begin crystalwork and add its benefits to your life.
Choosing a source for your crystals is just as important as choosing the crystals themselves. Think of the crystals you are bringing into your aura as prescriptions, for they are just as powerful. They affect the body, mind and spirit on a physical level by adjusting the magnetic resonances of the body and things around you.
We each have a perceptible aura around us. Some people can see this aura, but most technology, animals and natural environments perceive this aura. (That’s why the radio or TV gets all fuzzy when you move.) Every human has the ability to feel auras coming into contact with his or her own. It’s that prickle you get on the back of your neck when someone else sneaks in the room behind you, or that crawling chill up your spine when someone you don’t like is nearby. It’s that warm glow that seeps into you when you are around someone you love.
Crystals work by altering the auric structure, for the most part. They act on the mind and heart by mirroring certain emotions to us, helping us discern and implement certain qualities in ourselves and others, and they can pinpoint and release emotional barriers and blockages. They can and do heal physical and mental illnesses when used correctly, but they can exaserbate underlying problems if the wrong crystals are used on the wrong areas of the body, or worn around the wrong people. Use your intuition and your awareness, but know that in most cases, the crystals will direct and guide you with gentleness and love as to their use and care.
Plenty of stores sell gemstones, rocks and minerals, but reatively few are specifically tailored to the needs of crystalworkers and metaphysics. You can still buy from nonmetaphysical stores, but I recommend that as you begin your crystal journey, you start with a source who can guide you, or provide you tips, and help along the way. There are an endless variety of crystals out there, and it helps in the beginning to have a friendly face and a brain to pick, because none of us know it all from the get go.
If you don’t have a metaphysical store near you, and a google search doesn’t turn up anything, here are the stores online I use and recommend highly. These stores have working healers and/or crystal experts you can talk to via email or phone, and all are able to accurately and carefully select stones that are specific to you and your individual needs.
Howl at the Moon
Susan (Gemstoner) is one of the most knowledgeable and easy-to-work-with crystalworkers I have ever interacted with. You’ll find her site to be packed with wonderful, quality gemes, helpful advice, references, and ideas. Her prices are great, and she’s always available to answer your questionsor make something extra special for you. She has an uncanny knack of picking the stones that are perfect for me. Ore than anyone, I trust her skills at picking my stones when I can’t do it myself.
The Crystal Matrix
Patricia Bankins and the staff at The Crystal Matrix are experts at finding those hard to find, one-of-a-kind crystals. They are local to me, and I use them for a lot of my own healing needs, as well as buying many of my working stones from them for my patients.
Rocks and Runes
This is another local store to me here in los Angeles. They specialize in gorgeous metaphysical jewelry, but they also have a great reference section, and a wonderful staff who can findany kind of precious or semi-precious stone you need, and set it for you if need be. Nothing is too strange or hard for them. They also carry beautiful carved runes (as the name implies) and pendulums.
I’m very picky about the sites I trust, and these are my top faves at the moment. As the list grows, I’l let you know.
Some things to look for when choosing a vender include:
Quality of product. Does the store specifically handle crystals, or is it a bead store or gift shop that carries a few crystals and candles. If it’s a store that does not carry just crystals, are they aware of where their crystals were mined, what techniques were used, and who polished, cut or cared for the stones bfore they were available for retail? All of these factors play a vital role in the life and work of your crystals. Improper mining practices leave the crystal traumatized, and unable to adequately care for you. Additionally, these mining practices harm the earth, and supporting them by purchasing their products only encourages furer harm. When slecting your crystals, I highly advise learning about where your stones came from, and how they came to your hands.
AN informed buyer makes a happy healer. :-d Don’t hesitate to ask questions. What metaphysical properties does the crystal in question possess? How should it be used? When and where should it be recharged? If a store has a knowledgable staff, they will gladly answer these questions for you.
Lastly, when you walk into a store, look for a vibe. Does the store make you feel calm and welcome, or uneasy and confused? Are the staff kind to all the customers? What other products are on the shelves and do you like them?
When buying crystals, make sure you check the stores return policy. The stores I recommended above have policies that allow you to choose the crystals that are best for you as a working practitioner, meaning that if the stone does not feel right to you once it is shipped to you, they will take returns, and work closely with you to find the right stone. Note that policies do change, so always read before clicking the purchase button.
When selecting stones, there are two ways to go. If you have a specific mineral or crystal in mind, for example, rose quartz, decide how the crystal can best help you or your healing practice. Do you need it in tumbled stones, jewelry, points, spheres, eggs… Crystals come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes, and forms, and each has its own uses and characteristics.
Once you’ve decided what you’re looking for, find the pieces available, then let your intuition and hand chakras guide you. For example, if you’ve decided that you’re looking for a rose quartz pendant, let your hands hover over the display tray, and your fingers be pulled to a particular pendant. Relying on your eyes isn’t the best course of action here sometimes. They can help you, but let your chakras do most of the talking.
If you’re not sure what kind of stone you’re looking for, spend time wandering among the crystals until you find one that catches your eye or hand. Even if its an unfamiliar mineral, let your own inner healer guide you. Your body is the best expert at knowing what it needs at the moment. You may not realize that you are strugging to release an emotional hurt until the smoky quartz points attract your attention. Go with your whim here, that’s how your inner healer communicates with you.
Yes, size does matter. But unfailingly, I’ve seen that the crystals choose you, and the crystals that are within your financial means tend to be the ones that call to you. Trust the crystals, and allow them to know your needs. Tumbled stones may be small, but they’re mighty. Don’t be concerned if all you can afford right now is a handful of tumbled stones, or a single pendant. The crystals will come to you as you are ready, so don’t spend outside your means. Tust that what you buy will be enough for you.
Once you’ve selected a crystal, spend time sitting with it and meditating. If it’s ten seconds standing in an empty store aisle, or an hour spent in the back room of a metaphysical store, take all the time you need to commune with your heart, pray, feel the energy of the crystal, and decide if it fits you. Don’t be afraid to ask them to hold the stone for you for a day or two while you go home and research it or meditate about the purchase.
Selecting a crystal is as complex as selecting a lover. This is your working partner, your guide and friend. Choose a stone that speaks to you, appeals to you. From color, to texture, to luster and weight, experience the crystal completely before you add it to your aura.
I hope this helps you make a smart and informed by. Happy hunting!
Namaste, Sat Nam!
-Akaljeetkaur
Once you feel prepared to become a crystalworker, please understand that you are embarking upon a journey of self-healing, self discovery, and miracles. Perhaps more than almost any energetic tool we have in our arsenal these days, the crystals carry knowledge, power, and transformation, and the are willing to share it with you, if you are wiling to share yourself, your talent, and your commitment with them. Keep in mind that the crystals mirror the truth and light in everything, so hiding things from them is impossible; they’ll bring it all out and lay it on the table. So be sure you’re ready to undergo lot of introspection before you decide crystals are for you.
Crystalssignify different things to different people. I have heard them described as beings of light, friends, guides, stones, pretty rocks, healing tools, or perhaps, most aptly, implements of magic. To me, personally, they are all of these, and much more.
Here I put a big caution sign. If you are monotheistic in faith you may read the word “magic” and think crystals aren’t for you. The use of crystals should, in no way, conflict with religious views; instead, it should add to or enhance them. Magic means meany things to many people. If you are willing to embrace the fact that you are a radiant soul full of potential, then you are ready to begin crystalwork and add its benefits to your life.
Choosing a source for your crystals is just as important as choosing the crystals themselves. Think of the crystals you are bringing into your aura as prescriptions, for they are just as powerful. They affect the body, mind and spirit on a physical level by adjusting the magnetic resonances of the body and things around you.
We each have a perceptible aura around us. Some people can see this aura, but most technology, animals and natural environments perceive this aura. (That’s why the radio or TV gets all fuzzy when you move.) Every human has the ability to feel auras coming into contact with his or her own. It’s that prickle you get on the back of your neck when someone else sneaks in the room behind you, or that crawling chill up your spine when someone you don’t like is nearby. It’s that warm glow that seeps into you when you are around someone you love.
Crystals work by altering the auric structure, for the most part. They act on the mind and heart by mirroring certain emotions to us, helping us discern and implement certain qualities in ourselves and others, and they can pinpoint and release emotional barriers and blockages. They can and do heal physical and mental illnesses when used correctly, but they can exaserbate underlying problems if the wrong crystals are used on the wrong areas of the body, or worn around the wrong people. Use your intuition and your awareness, but know that in most cases, the crystals will direct and guide you with gentleness and love as to their use and care.
Plenty of stores sell gemstones, rocks and minerals, but reatively few are specifically tailored to the needs of crystalworkers and metaphysics. You can still buy from nonmetaphysical stores, but I recommend that as you begin your crystal journey, you start with a source who can guide you, or provide you tips, and help along the way. There are an endless variety of crystals out there, and it helps in the beginning to have a friendly face and a brain to pick, because none of us know it all from the get go.
If you don’t have a metaphysical store near you, and a google search doesn’t turn up anything, here are the stores online I use and recommend highly. These stores have working healers and/or crystal experts you can talk to via email or phone, and all are able to accurately and carefully select stones that are specific to you and your individual needs.
Howl at the Moon
Susan (Gemstoner) is one of the most knowledgeable and easy-to-work-with crystalworkers I have ever interacted with. You’ll find her site to be packed with wonderful, quality gemes, helpful advice, references, and ideas. Her prices are great, and she’s always available to answer your questionsor make something extra special for you. She has an uncanny knack of picking the stones that are perfect for me. Ore than anyone, I trust her skills at picking my stones when I can’t do it myself.
The Crystal Matrix
Patricia Bankins and the staff at The Crystal Matrix are experts at finding those hard to find, one-of-a-kind crystals. They are local to me, and I use them for a lot of my own healing needs, as well as buying many of my working stones from them for my patients.
Rocks and Runes
This is another local store to me here in los Angeles. They specialize in gorgeous metaphysical jewelry, but they also have a great reference section, and a wonderful staff who can findany kind of precious or semi-precious stone you need, and set it for you if need be. Nothing is too strange or hard for them. They also carry beautiful carved runes (as the name implies) and pendulums.
I’m very picky about the sites I trust, and these are my top faves at the moment. As the list grows, I’l let you know.
Some things to look for when choosing a vender include:
Quality of product. Does the store specifically handle crystals, or is it a bead store or gift shop that carries a few crystals and candles. If it’s a store that does not carry just crystals, are they aware of where their crystals were mined, what techniques were used, and who polished, cut or cared for the stones bfore they were available for retail? All of these factors play a vital role in the life and work of your crystals. Improper mining practices leave the crystal traumatized, and unable to adequately care for you. Additionally, these mining practices harm the earth, and supporting them by purchasing their products only encourages furer harm. When slecting your crystals, I highly advise learning about where your stones came from, and how they came to your hands.
AN informed buyer makes a happy healer. :-d Don’t hesitate to ask questions. What metaphysical properties does the crystal in question possess? How should it be used? When and where should it be recharged? If a store has a knowledgable staff, they will gladly answer these questions for you.
Lastly, when you walk into a store, look for a vibe. Does the store make you feel calm and welcome, or uneasy and confused? Are the staff kind to all the customers? What other products are on the shelves and do you like them?
When buying crystals, make sure you check the stores return policy. The stores I recommended above have policies that allow you to choose the crystals that are best for you as a working practitioner, meaning that if the stone does not feel right to you once it is shipped to you, they will take returns, and work closely with you to find the right stone. Note that policies do change, so always read before clicking the purchase button.
When selecting stones, there are two ways to go. If you have a specific mineral or crystal in mind, for example, rose quartz, decide how the crystal can best help you or your healing practice. Do you need it in tumbled stones, jewelry, points, spheres, eggs… Crystals come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes, and forms, and each has its own uses and characteristics.
Once you’ve decided what you’re looking for, find the pieces available, then let your intuition and hand chakras guide you. For example, if you’ve decided that you’re looking for a rose quartz pendant, let your hands hover over the display tray, and your fingers be pulled to a particular pendant. Relying on your eyes isn’t the best course of action here sometimes. They can help you, but let your chakras do most of the talking.
If you’re not sure what kind of stone you’re looking for, spend time wandering among the crystals until you find one that catches your eye or hand. Even if its an unfamiliar mineral, let your own inner healer guide you. Your body is the best expert at knowing what it needs at the moment. You may not realize that you are strugging to release an emotional hurt until the smoky quartz points attract your attention. Go with your whim here, that’s how your inner healer communicates with you.
Yes, size does matter. But unfailingly, I’ve seen that the crystals choose you, and the crystals that are within your financial means tend to be the ones that call to you. Trust the crystals, and allow them to know your needs. Tumbled stones may be small, but they’re mighty. Don’t be concerned if all you can afford right now is a handful of tumbled stones, or a single pendant. The crystals will come to you as you are ready, so don’t spend outside your means. Tust that what you buy will be enough for you.
Once you’ve selected a crystal, spend time sitting with it and meditating. If it’s ten seconds standing in an empty store aisle, or an hour spent in the back room of a metaphysical store, take all the time you need to commune with your heart, pray, feel the energy of the crystal, and decide if it fits you. Don’t be afraid to ask them to hold the stone for you for a day or two while you go home and research it or meditate about the purchase.
Selecting a crystal is as complex as selecting a lover. This is your working partner, your guide and friend. Choose a stone that speaks to you, appeals to you. From color, to texture, to luster and weight, experience the crystal completely before you add it to your aura.
I hope this helps you make a smart and informed by. Happy hunting!
Namaste, Sat Nam!
-Akaljeetkaur
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Surya Namaskar: Sun Salutation series part A
Traditionally, those who practice Yoga as a lifestyle rise with the sun to cleanse our bodies and minds. We spend time in quiet meditation and prayer focusing in on the dawning of a new day in ourselves and in the world around us. We perform Surya Namaskar (sun salutations), to greet the daylight, and to greet our re-awakened spiritual selves.
Surya Namaskar are essential parts of Hatha and Ashtanga Yoga. They are physical gestures that manifest our inner spiritual needs and obligations. They are the foundation upon which we base the rest of our day, in a Yogic sense, but also in a very physical real sense. Performing sun salutations every dawn reminds us that we are miraculous beings of light and wisdom, to be honored, respected and loved by ourselves and others. As we walk this earth, we are obligated, as the sun, to serve by bringing light and knowledge, learning, wisdom and growth to all we meet. Sun salutations promote self love, self healing and vitality, all of which are necessary to first plant within ourselves before we embark on bringing them to those around us. How can we nurture and create harmony in the world if we arselves are malnourished and out of tune?
Surya Namaskar A
: Before beginning, make sure you have prepared yourself body and mind. Spend some time in quiet meditation, measuring and witnessing your thoughts, breathing paterns, and heart rate. Spend time having inner dialogue with your body and heart. What is going on inside of you today? How do you feel at this moment? Why do you feel that way? What things can you focus on during your Yoga practice to either build upon or release these feelings? Find a mantra, a thought, phrase, idea or vocal sound that embodies the essence of what you’d like to accomplish with your practice this morning.
Once you feel centered, begin your yoga practice for the day with some pranayama, or breathing exercises. If you are familiar with the vocal breath, or ujaia pranayama (victory breath), spend several minutes using the ujaia breath to cleanse, purify and open your body.
Most Yogis begin practice with a mantra repeated three times, such as a long single note sung “Om.”
Next, begin with some soft stretching, warming up the spine, awakening the hips, and releasing any lingering tension. Find your body’s flow and rhythm, let your body and your breath guide your motions, slow, easy, and without force.
Once you have stretched out and feel prepared to begin, come to the top of your mat in tadasana (mountain pose), hands palm to palm at heart center in Namaste mudra. Let your thumbs softly graze the heart chakra, and feel the connection from hands to heart to soul. Take a moment to awaken the chakras and let the energy circle through you. Greet the flow, fill yourself with the gifts of the new dawn, and let yourself bathe in the magic of life and re-birth, new and full of potential.
Closing your eyes, draw in a deep inhale through the nose, and raise the hands over head. Draw the shoulder blades down the spine, planting the feet hip-width apart, or let your big toes touch for an ashtanga-based pose.
Clasp your hands above your head, and point the index fingers to the heavens. Stretch up, reaching for the light and the knowledge this new day will bring you.
On the exhale, swan-dive into utanasana (forward fold), either sweeping the hands to the knees, shins, or to the floor. Find the pose that feels most comfortable to you at this moment. You may have reached the floor yesterday, but today you may only reach your shins. That’s okay. Let your body guide itself to full wakefulness. Letthe crown of the head hang toward the floor, and let the spine lengthen and curve gracefully from the hips toward the ground. Bring the chest in toward the thighs. Don’t lock the knees, let them be as they are, fluid, slightly bent if need be.
Inhale, and bring the hands to the knees, stretching the spine out parallel to the floor, bringing the crown of the head toward the front of the room, or toward the rising sun, if you are facing east.
Exhale, and let your hands slide back down your legs to a comfortable place, letting the spine bow and the head hang toward the ground, Release any tension in your neck and shoulders, letting the head hang as if only held there by the bones.
Place your hands flat on the mat, fingers slightly splayed, palms pressing into the mat. Inhale deeply, and on the exhale, step or jump your feet behind you to the top of a push up.
For beginning Yogis, you may wish to place your knees on the floor to help keep your back aligned. Keep the heart aimed eastward at the sunrise, and resist the temptation to let the heart fall down toward the floor, Let your shoulder blades draw down the spine, and come toward each other. Keep the elbows in near the ribcage and keep the eyes (if you were to open them) focused in front of your hands on the floor. Be sure not to crane the neck up which forces the chin forward.
For more advanced Yogis, try practicing the jump back as a full Ashtanga movement, bringing the weight borward over the hands, and using just your arms to go from the top of a push up to the bottom of a push up and into Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (upward facing dog) all in one fluid motion. This takes practice, and should ultimately be accomplished in one exhale.
Come down to Chaturanga Dandasana (four limbed staff pose, or the bottom of a pushup), and either let your body rest completely on the floor, or hover just above the floor in full chaturanga dandasana, supporting yourself on just your hands and the balls of your feet. Make sure the palms are grounded, and your weight is evenly distributed, with all five fingers engaged in holding you up. The face should be to the flor, forehead on the mat.
On the next inhale, if your knees are on the floor, bring the hips down as well. Arch your back, bringing the heart forward, then bringing the eyes back up to that place in front of your hands. Again, make sure the shoulders are drawing down the spine. Either place your elbows on the floor and come into sphinx pose, or push up with your hands, and come into Bhujangasana (cobra pose.) Keep the elbows close to the ribs, and the gluts relaxed and supportive. It’s important to resist the urge to begin this pose with the head. Rather, start from the bottom up, letting your heart lead, and your head and eyes come up last. This keeps your spine strong and in line, and allows your lungs to freely expand on the inhale.
If you are in chaturanga dandasana, press the tops of your feet firmly on the floor, and lift up into Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (upward facing dog.) Again, make sure to lead with your heart, not your head, and keep the spine long and strong.
From either sphinx, cobra or upward dog, tuck your toes under, hike the hips up, lower your heels, and push with the hands, back into Adhomukha Svanasana (downward facing dog.) Keep pressing the heels toward the floor, lengthening the spine, drawing the hips back and up, letting the head hang, widening the ribcage and the shoulder blades, letting your body relax deeper into the pose with each exhale. Remain here for five full deep breaths, and don’t cheat yourself. This is a resting pose, and your body loves it, even if it doesn’t feel all that great early in the morning. With each exhale, listen to your body’s feedback, and if it feels right, let yourself move deeper into the pose, shifting the hips back, pulling down on the heels, and letting the head sink toward the floor.
On your sixth inhale,step or jump the feet forward between the hands.
Exhale the body into utanasana (forward fold), long, graceful, supple and strong.
Inhale, and come up slowly, either reaching he arms out to either side, or sweeping them up before you and over the hed.
Exhale, and bring the hands to heart center, completing suria namasgar A.
As you move through the various poses, remember that you are bowing to and witnessing the light within yourself, within the day, within all things.
Start off with a slow, easy Surya Namaskar, and as you feel ready to advance your practice, pick up the speed of your practice. Repeat as a vinyasa, a flow, at least five times to get the blood flowing and allow the body to start cleansing and functioning correctly every day. Bringing the head below the heart allows blood to defy gravity and pour into the brain. Engage the leg muscles, and work every part of your body from your toes to the facial muscles to allow old blood to drain from the muscles and new oxygenated fresh blood to flow in.
Benefits: Helps with back pain, immune system, headaches, heart trouble, digestive movement, overall muscle toning, good therapy to build strength back up in injured hamstrings. Releases stress tension, helps to alleviate nasal congestion.
Please remember to listen to your body, and go at a pace that feels comfortable. Results may vary and only you know how each asana feels to your body. Asana literally means “seat.” Each pose should be a challenge, should be something which actively energizes and engages you, but it should also be a seat for the body, mind and soul. In each pose, bring your mind to the movement of your body, and find a mental as well as a physical reason to be in that pose.
As you go through your day, carry the reverence and respect gained from Surya Namaskar with you. Remember, Yoga isn’t just something we do on the mat, it’s a way of living, a way of existing. Yoga means unity, a yoking of mind, body, soul, heart, spirit, life. We are all irrevocably bound and yoked together.
May your new dawn be blessed with light, truth and knowledge,
May that which is beyond time lead you forward, and may you be taught that which is true and divine,
May peace be your companion, truth and wisdom be your guides, and courage be your sword.
Om Shante, shante, shante om (peace, peace, peace)
Namaste,
Akaljeet Kaur
Surya Namaskar are essential parts of Hatha and Ashtanga Yoga. They are physical gestures that manifest our inner spiritual needs and obligations. They are the foundation upon which we base the rest of our day, in a Yogic sense, but also in a very physical real sense. Performing sun salutations every dawn reminds us that we are miraculous beings of light and wisdom, to be honored, respected and loved by ourselves and others. As we walk this earth, we are obligated, as the sun, to serve by bringing light and knowledge, learning, wisdom and growth to all we meet. Sun salutations promote self love, self healing and vitality, all of which are necessary to first plant within ourselves before we embark on bringing them to those around us. How can we nurture and create harmony in the world if we arselves are malnourished and out of tune?
Surya Namaskar A
: Before beginning, make sure you have prepared yourself body and mind. Spend some time in quiet meditation, measuring and witnessing your thoughts, breathing paterns, and heart rate. Spend time having inner dialogue with your body and heart. What is going on inside of you today? How do you feel at this moment? Why do you feel that way? What things can you focus on during your Yoga practice to either build upon or release these feelings? Find a mantra, a thought, phrase, idea or vocal sound that embodies the essence of what you’d like to accomplish with your practice this morning.
Once you feel centered, begin your yoga practice for the day with some pranayama, or breathing exercises. If you are familiar with the vocal breath, or ujaia pranayama (victory breath), spend several minutes using the ujaia breath to cleanse, purify and open your body.
Most Yogis begin practice with a mantra repeated three times, such as a long single note sung “Om.”
Next, begin with some soft stretching, warming up the spine, awakening the hips, and releasing any lingering tension. Find your body’s flow and rhythm, let your body and your breath guide your motions, slow, easy, and without force.
Once you have stretched out and feel prepared to begin, come to the top of your mat in tadasana (mountain pose), hands palm to palm at heart center in Namaste mudra. Let your thumbs softly graze the heart chakra, and feel the connection from hands to heart to soul. Take a moment to awaken the chakras and let the energy circle through you. Greet the flow, fill yourself with the gifts of the new dawn, and let yourself bathe in the magic of life and re-birth, new and full of potential.
Closing your eyes, draw in a deep inhale through the nose, and raise the hands over head. Draw the shoulder blades down the spine, planting the feet hip-width apart, or let your big toes touch for an ashtanga-based pose.
Clasp your hands above your head, and point the index fingers to the heavens. Stretch up, reaching for the light and the knowledge this new day will bring you.
On the exhale, swan-dive into utanasana (forward fold), either sweeping the hands to the knees, shins, or to the floor. Find the pose that feels most comfortable to you at this moment. You may have reached the floor yesterday, but today you may only reach your shins. That’s okay. Let your body guide itself to full wakefulness. Letthe crown of the head hang toward the floor, and let the spine lengthen and curve gracefully from the hips toward the ground. Bring the chest in toward the thighs. Don’t lock the knees, let them be as they are, fluid, slightly bent if need be.
Inhale, and bring the hands to the knees, stretching the spine out parallel to the floor, bringing the crown of the head toward the front of the room, or toward the rising sun, if you are facing east.
Exhale, and let your hands slide back down your legs to a comfortable place, letting the spine bow and the head hang toward the ground, Release any tension in your neck and shoulders, letting the head hang as if only held there by the bones.
Place your hands flat on the mat, fingers slightly splayed, palms pressing into the mat. Inhale deeply, and on the exhale, step or jump your feet behind you to the top of a push up.
For beginning Yogis, you may wish to place your knees on the floor to help keep your back aligned. Keep the heart aimed eastward at the sunrise, and resist the temptation to let the heart fall down toward the floor, Let your shoulder blades draw down the spine, and come toward each other. Keep the elbows in near the ribcage and keep the eyes (if you were to open them) focused in front of your hands on the floor. Be sure not to crane the neck up which forces the chin forward.
For more advanced Yogis, try practicing the jump back as a full Ashtanga movement, bringing the weight borward over the hands, and using just your arms to go from the top of a push up to the bottom of a push up and into Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (upward facing dog) all in one fluid motion. This takes practice, and should ultimately be accomplished in one exhale.
Come down to Chaturanga Dandasana (four limbed staff pose, or the bottom of a pushup), and either let your body rest completely on the floor, or hover just above the floor in full chaturanga dandasana, supporting yourself on just your hands and the balls of your feet. Make sure the palms are grounded, and your weight is evenly distributed, with all five fingers engaged in holding you up. The face should be to the flor, forehead on the mat.
On the next inhale, if your knees are on the floor, bring the hips down as well. Arch your back, bringing the heart forward, then bringing the eyes back up to that place in front of your hands. Again, make sure the shoulders are drawing down the spine. Either place your elbows on the floor and come into sphinx pose, or push up with your hands, and come into Bhujangasana (cobra pose.) Keep the elbows close to the ribs, and the gluts relaxed and supportive. It’s important to resist the urge to begin this pose with the head. Rather, start from the bottom up, letting your heart lead, and your head and eyes come up last. This keeps your spine strong and in line, and allows your lungs to freely expand on the inhale.
If you are in chaturanga dandasana, press the tops of your feet firmly on the floor, and lift up into Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (upward facing dog.) Again, make sure to lead with your heart, not your head, and keep the spine long and strong.
From either sphinx, cobra or upward dog, tuck your toes under, hike the hips up, lower your heels, and push with the hands, back into Adhomukha Svanasana (downward facing dog.) Keep pressing the heels toward the floor, lengthening the spine, drawing the hips back and up, letting the head hang, widening the ribcage and the shoulder blades, letting your body relax deeper into the pose with each exhale. Remain here for five full deep breaths, and don’t cheat yourself. This is a resting pose, and your body loves it, even if it doesn’t feel all that great early in the morning. With each exhale, listen to your body’s feedback, and if it feels right, let yourself move deeper into the pose, shifting the hips back, pulling down on the heels, and letting the head sink toward the floor.
On your sixth inhale,step or jump the feet forward between the hands.
Exhale the body into utanasana (forward fold), long, graceful, supple and strong.
Inhale, and come up slowly, either reaching he arms out to either side, or sweeping them up before you and over the hed.
Exhale, and bring the hands to heart center, completing suria namasgar A.
As you move through the various poses, remember that you are bowing to and witnessing the light within yourself, within the day, within all things.
Start off with a slow, easy Surya Namaskar, and as you feel ready to advance your practice, pick up the speed of your practice. Repeat as a vinyasa, a flow, at least five times to get the blood flowing and allow the body to start cleansing and functioning correctly every day. Bringing the head below the heart allows blood to defy gravity and pour into the brain. Engage the leg muscles, and work every part of your body from your toes to the facial muscles to allow old blood to drain from the muscles and new oxygenated fresh blood to flow in.
Benefits: Helps with back pain, immune system, headaches, heart trouble, digestive movement, overall muscle toning, good therapy to build strength back up in injured hamstrings. Releases stress tension, helps to alleviate nasal congestion.
Please remember to listen to your body, and go at a pace that feels comfortable. Results may vary and only you know how each asana feels to your body. Asana literally means “seat.” Each pose should be a challenge, should be something which actively energizes and engages you, but it should also be a seat for the body, mind and soul. In each pose, bring your mind to the movement of your body, and find a mental as well as a physical reason to be in that pose.
As you go through your day, carry the reverence and respect gained from Surya Namaskar with you. Remember, Yoga isn’t just something we do on the mat, it’s a way of living, a way of existing. Yoga means unity, a yoking of mind, body, soul, heart, spirit, life. We are all irrevocably bound and yoked together.
May your new dawn be blessed with light, truth and knowledge,
May that which is beyond time lead you forward, and may you be taught that which is true and divine,
May peace be your companion, truth and wisdom be your guides, and courage be your sword.
Om Shante, shante, shante om (peace, peace, peace)
Namaste,
Akaljeet Kaur
Friday, June 5, 2009
Water on the wind: Is time hell or a healer?
The only constancy in this life is change. Circumstances, people, everything in this world will change; it’s just a matter of time.
Change does not always feel good. Nor is it necessarily always a bad thing. With change comes growth, wisdom, courage and understanding.
As I left the temple today, the wind was gusting fiercey in from the coast, blowing my skirts, making me shiver. Ahead of me, I heard a fountin on the temple grounds that I love. The water path of this fountain sounds particularly serene to me, so I pulled on my friend’s arm, and asked if we could stand by the fountain before we headed into the thick of L.A. rush hour.
I’ve always been fascinated with the sound of water, the flow of it, it’s perpetual motion, and multiple transformational properties. Water is miraculous, and it can come in so many forms: ice, rivers, oceans, clouds, a drink, a teardrop, a kiss, a tsunami, healing rain to a desert, or a placid garden foutain. It can give life, and it can wash it away.
As I stood at the fountain, and felt the wind whipping droplets into my face, I flashed back to a vivid childhood memory. I remember being able to see, staring intently at a fountain. Wind caught the water, and threw it in arcs to the side, playing with it, teasing the drops into a dancing spray in the sunlight. The subtlety of the wind’s touch, the way the light glimmered in the spray…
the image was painfully perfect in my mind today.
A week of emotional roller coastering and a lifetime of split-second memory caught up with me at that moment. I sat on the edge of the fountain, frustration and longing filling me.
I looked over at my friend, and tried to describe to her what I was evisioning. As I did so, I felt sunlight on my face. Wind intensified, sending spray cascading down my arms and cheecks.
The tears came, slowly, burning hot agains my chilled skin . I put my hand forth in desolation, reaching into that wind-whipped spray blindly for the ghost of a sense I can never get back.
“I want it back!” I wept. “God, why? I want it back!”
I cried it out, my friend holding me on her shoulder, crying with me. We laughed together, dried our tears in the wind, and got on with life.
But for that one moment, I was as vulnerable to the hands of time and chance as that fountain was to the whims of the wind.
I can’t remember the last time I cried about the fact that I can’t see. It’s been a very long time, years, probably. I laugh about it more often than not; It’s a great source of humor, inspiration and strength to me.
But it’s a reality check, too. That childhood memory I have of watching dancing water is the only one I’ll ever get. I’m not angry or bitter about that; it’s my path in life. It’s who I am, and I accept and rejoyce in that. But it hurts, too.
Healing is a changeable process. We each hope to move only forward, but if you are not wiling to step back once in a while and survey your time on this earth, then no forward progress can be made. E are human, we are made to bend and sway with life’s winds like the mighty willo tree.
Tina Malia is a wonderful singer/songwriter. Her music can be found at http://www.tinamalia.com
I borrow lines from the title track of her latest album:
“We are the wind that carries the seeds,
We are the roots of the bannian tree;
We are love offered on the wing
That stretches across eternity
We are a chord In life’s symphony
We are the silent awakening.”
Time’s hands too often maintain a choke hold on us. We must work diligently to balance time against change, and accept the inevitable role of both.
Meditation:
Aromatherapy:
Insight clarity diffusion
4 drops ginger oil
3 drops sage
3 drops sweet orange
4 drops sandalwood
5 drops Moroccan blue chamomile
Blend mixture in a good carrier oil, apricot kernel or sweet almond are best for this recipe.
Find a quiet room, and either spray room with oil, or put into a diffuser.
Stone:
Amethyst or amber are the best for gently releasing time-induced stress or fear. These stones also promote clarity, comfort, healing, and isight. Amber is great for relieving headaches and high blood pressure, and amethyst calms, and when placed by the bed, will aid in sleeping patterns, inducing restful, enlightening dreams.
Tiger’s Eye: Helps uplift by targeting the 3rd chakra (solar plexus chakra) connecting body, soul and mind. This is a wondrful stone to wear while practicing Yoga, or to have near you when doing anything that requires physical and mental stamina.
Mantra: Find a comfortable meditation pose for you. When choosing a meditation pose, remember to sit or lie in a position comfortable for your body, bu allows you to remain alert and aware. Find a mantra that feels right to you at the moment.
Suggested mantra: “I am. I am. I am. I am letting go of the past, and opening myself to all possibility. God in me. Me in God. I am. I am. I Am.”
Namaste
-Sassy
Change does not always feel good. Nor is it necessarily always a bad thing. With change comes growth, wisdom, courage and understanding.
As I left the temple today, the wind was gusting fiercey in from the coast, blowing my skirts, making me shiver. Ahead of me, I heard a fountin on the temple grounds that I love. The water path of this fountain sounds particularly serene to me, so I pulled on my friend’s arm, and asked if we could stand by the fountain before we headed into the thick of L.A. rush hour.
I’ve always been fascinated with the sound of water, the flow of it, it’s perpetual motion, and multiple transformational properties. Water is miraculous, and it can come in so many forms: ice, rivers, oceans, clouds, a drink, a teardrop, a kiss, a tsunami, healing rain to a desert, or a placid garden foutain. It can give life, and it can wash it away.
As I stood at the fountain, and felt the wind whipping droplets into my face, I flashed back to a vivid childhood memory. I remember being able to see, staring intently at a fountain. Wind caught the water, and threw it in arcs to the side, playing with it, teasing the drops into a dancing spray in the sunlight. The subtlety of the wind’s touch, the way the light glimmered in the spray…
the image was painfully perfect in my mind today.
A week of emotional roller coastering and a lifetime of split-second memory caught up with me at that moment. I sat on the edge of the fountain, frustration and longing filling me.
I looked over at my friend, and tried to describe to her what I was evisioning. As I did so, I felt sunlight on my face. Wind intensified, sending spray cascading down my arms and cheecks.
The tears came, slowly, burning hot agains my chilled skin . I put my hand forth in desolation, reaching into that wind-whipped spray blindly for the ghost of a sense I can never get back.
“I want it back!” I wept. “God, why? I want it back!”
I cried it out, my friend holding me on her shoulder, crying with me. We laughed together, dried our tears in the wind, and got on with life.
But for that one moment, I was as vulnerable to the hands of time and chance as that fountain was to the whims of the wind.
I can’t remember the last time I cried about the fact that I can’t see. It’s been a very long time, years, probably. I laugh about it more often than not; It’s a great source of humor, inspiration and strength to me.
But it’s a reality check, too. That childhood memory I have of watching dancing water is the only one I’ll ever get. I’m not angry or bitter about that; it’s my path in life. It’s who I am, and I accept and rejoyce in that. But it hurts, too.
Healing is a changeable process. We each hope to move only forward, but if you are not wiling to step back once in a while and survey your time on this earth, then no forward progress can be made. E are human, we are made to bend and sway with life’s winds like the mighty willo tree.
Tina Malia is a wonderful singer/songwriter. Her music can be found at http://www.tinamalia.com
I borrow lines from the title track of her latest album:
“We are the wind that carries the seeds,
We are the roots of the bannian tree;
We are love offered on the wing
That stretches across eternity
We are a chord In life’s symphony
We are the silent awakening.”
Time’s hands too often maintain a choke hold on us. We must work diligently to balance time against change, and accept the inevitable role of both.
Meditation:
Aromatherapy:
Insight clarity diffusion
4 drops ginger oil
3 drops sage
3 drops sweet orange
4 drops sandalwood
5 drops Moroccan blue chamomile
Blend mixture in a good carrier oil, apricot kernel or sweet almond are best for this recipe.
Find a quiet room, and either spray room with oil, or put into a diffuser.
Stone:
Amethyst or amber are the best for gently releasing time-induced stress or fear. These stones also promote clarity, comfort, healing, and isight. Amber is great for relieving headaches and high blood pressure, and amethyst calms, and when placed by the bed, will aid in sleeping patterns, inducing restful, enlightening dreams.
Tiger’s Eye: Helps uplift by targeting the 3rd chakra (solar plexus chakra) connecting body, soul and mind. This is a wondrful stone to wear while practicing Yoga, or to have near you when doing anything that requires physical and mental stamina.
Mantra: Find a comfortable meditation pose for you. When choosing a meditation pose, remember to sit or lie in a position comfortable for your body, bu allows you to remain alert and aware. Find a mantra that feels right to you at the moment.
Suggested mantra: “I am. I am. I am. I am letting go of the past, and opening myself to all possibility. God in me. Me in God. I am. I am. I Am.”
Namaste
-Sassy
Friday, May 29, 2009
Sat nam; Namaste; Slaindte: Welcome to Sassy's Crystal blogs
Sat Nam: The truth is now--you are the truth
Namaste: The divine light in me knows the divine light in you.
Slaindte: Blessings and greetings from my heart to yours.
Welcome to the crystal healing and Yoga blog.
I am a licensed cryrstal Healer, Yoga instructor and aroma therapist. I also have my certification in energetic massage. I have ben practicing Yoga and forms of holistic healing for eight years. Yoga and crystals, along with prayer and a good dose of love and courage have saved my life.
I am a three-time cancer survivor. My most recent battle was with multiple brain tumors. After undergoing neurosurgery to remove two of three tumors on the right side of my brain, I had a MRI and bone scan which detected a bone tuor on the left side of my face. Two weeks later, I had a second scan preparatory to doing a bone biopsy and starting chemo therapy (after having been told this tumor was likely to kill me). All that was there was a series of deep scars in the bone. The bone tumor had vanished.
From having life threatening bone tumors to having bone scars in two weeks? That's the power of crystal healing. That is the power of prayer, love, ultimately, of God Himself.
Before I go any further, I have to make that usual disclaimer. God is the miracle worker, not the healer, not the crystal, not the doctor, and certainly not me, or those participating in this blog. Nothing in this blog is meant to be an official medical diagnosis or perscribed treatment. You should always seek medical advice from a trusted source before embarking on any course of treatment. I hope for your wellbeing, but in no way am I responsible for your healin by runing this blog. Be careful when choosig a holistic healing practitioner. Herbal, crystal or Yogic recommendations are on this blog as general suggestions. Plese always check with a doctor to make sure they will in no way interfere with any current treatments. Please consider westen medicine in extreme circumstances, or as needed in your life. Use both holistic healing methods and alementary medicine wisely.
That having been said, I hope you find miracles here and a way of living that will change your life for the beter.
I will have contributing bloggers post here periodically. Others in my field, Yogis, healers, or benefactors of various holistic healing techniques.
If you have questions, or an idea for a post, please feel free to leave me a coment or send me an email, and i'll do my best to answer you.
I am Christian in faith, but that does not exclude anyone or any belief from this blog. Whether you embrace one god or many, please fee at home here and share your thoughts bout your healing, body, mind, heart, and soul. Holistic healing often involves mental work, energy work, what some would call magical and psychic gifts. Be respectful of all views that are posted here, please. All views are welcome here, except those who harm or hurt.
The Yogis say "There is but one truth, called by a thousand names." Whatever walk of life you hail from, we all live here on this one planet, in this one time, sharing the same resources, breathng the same air. Let's share in love.
The spiritual name given to me by my guru is Akaljeet Kaur, or in english "Princess who walks with grace and courage beyond time and space."
I have walked many roads in my life; most have been trying paths,with pain as a companion. I am blind as a result of childhood cancer, but I have never let that come between me and all the blessigs of life. My blindness is in many ways, a unique and precious blessing. So are those other roads I've wlked. My spirit animal is the butterfly, a sign of metamorphisis, change, growth and purpose. The butterfly knows her path. Spreading her beautiful wings, she soars toard her destination without leting anything pull her far vfrom her course. We can all learn something from her.
We each hav a unique set of gifts, strengths and weaknesses. As you read this blog, I hope you embrace all you have been given, and use it to help yourself and those around you. Share, love, learn and grow.
Namaste,
-Akaljeet Kaur
Namaste: The divine light in me knows the divine light in you.
Slaindte: Blessings and greetings from my heart to yours.
Welcome to the crystal healing and Yoga blog.
I am a licensed cryrstal Healer, Yoga instructor and aroma therapist. I also have my certification in energetic massage. I have ben practicing Yoga and forms of holistic healing for eight years. Yoga and crystals, along with prayer and a good dose of love and courage have saved my life.
I am a three-time cancer survivor. My most recent battle was with multiple brain tumors. After undergoing neurosurgery to remove two of three tumors on the right side of my brain, I had a MRI and bone scan which detected a bone tuor on the left side of my face. Two weeks later, I had a second scan preparatory to doing a bone biopsy and starting chemo therapy (after having been told this tumor was likely to kill me). All that was there was a series of deep scars in the bone. The bone tumor had vanished.
From having life threatening bone tumors to having bone scars in two weeks? That's the power of crystal healing. That is the power of prayer, love, ultimately, of God Himself.
Before I go any further, I have to make that usual disclaimer. God is the miracle worker, not the healer, not the crystal, not the doctor, and certainly not me, or those participating in this blog. Nothing in this blog is meant to be an official medical diagnosis or perscribed treatment. You should always seek medical advice from a trusted source before embarking on any course of treatment. I hope for your wellbeing, but in no way am I responsible for your healin by runing this blog. Be careful when choosig a holistic healing practitioner. Herbal, crystal or Yogic recommendations are on this blog as general suggestions. Plese always check with a doctor to make sure they will in no way interfere with any current treatments. Please consider westen medicine in extreme circumstances, or as needed in your life. Use both holistic healing methods and alementary medicine wisely.
That having been said, I hope you find miracles here and a way of living that will change your life for the beter.
I will have contributing bloggers post here periodically. Others in my field, Yogis, healers, or benefactors of various holistic healing techniques.
If you have questions, or an idea for a post, please feel free to leave me a coment or send me an email, and i'll do my best to answer you.
I am Christian in faith, but that does not exclude anyone or any belief from this blog. Whether you embrace one god or many, please fee at home here and share your thoughts bout your healing, body, mind, heart, and soul. Holistic healing often involves mental work, energy work, what some would call magical and psychic gifts. Be respectful of all views that are posted here, please. All views are welcome here, except those who harm or hurt.
The Yogis say "There is but one truth, called by a thousand names." Whatever walk of life you hail from, we all live here on this one planet, in this one time, sharing the same resources, breathng the same air. Let's share in love.
The spiritual name given to me by my guru is Akaljeet Kaur, or in english "Princess who walks with grace and courage beyond time and space."
I have walked many roads in my life; most have been trying paths,with pain as a companion. I am blind as a result of childhood cancer, but I have never let that come between me and all the blessigs of life. My blindness is in many ways, a unique and precious blessing. So are those other roads I've wlked. My spirit animal is the butterfly, a sign of metamorphisis, change, growth and purpose. The butterfly knows her path. Spreading her beautiful wings, she soars toard her destination without leting anything pull her far vfrom her course. We can all learn something from her.
We each hav a unique set of gifts, strengths and weaknesses. As you read this blog, I hope you embrace all you have been given, and use it to help yourself and those around you. Share, love, learn and grow.
Namaste,
-Akaljeet Kaur
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