Gemstone therapy is an ancient practise rooted in diverse cultures around the world. It is an alternative form of healing. This practise has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries. From ancient civilizations to Eastern philosophies, the use of gemstones for healing and spiritual purposes has played a significant role.
People practising gemstone therapy believe that crystals have unique healing energies. So when placed on the body during therapy sessions or worn as jewellery, they can work with the energy, thoughts, emotions, and even memories of a person, therefore fighting illnesses and stresses.
History
The practise of using gemstones for wellbeing is not new. Gemstone therapy was widely practised by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians, as well as during the Vedic period in India.
Modern gemstone therapy is heavily influenced by the beliefs and mythology of the ancient Greeks. They believed that crystals were a form of eternal ice that had been given to people as a gift from the gods.
Gemstones such as amethyst were used to promote mental clarity, rose quartz for channelling female energy and symbolising eternal love, and hematite for protection on the battlefield.
The ancient Romans used to use crystals as good-luck charms. They’ve believed that they will promote good health, wealth, and prosperity. And Tibetan Buddhists used crystals to bring peace, harmony, and light into their lives.
The usage of crystals for their healing properties has declined since the beginning of the 20th century, as with the progress of science, people started to turn more towards traditional medicine. The practise of gemstone therapy re-emerged as a healing method only in the 1980s, and much of it was based on ancient traditions.
What is gemstone therapy?
At its core, gemstone therapy is built on the belief that gemstones possess certain energetic vibrations that can interact with the energy system of the body. Therapists practising gemstone treatment believe that different crystals emit distinct frequencies that correspond to specific qualities and intentions. By aligning these vibrations with the body’s energy centres (also known as chakras), gemstone practitioners aim to restore harmony and promote healing.
Gemstone therapy contains a wide range of practises, each with its own techniques and approaches. One of the most common methods is when a therapist places gemstones directly on or near the body, allowing the energy of the stones to interact with the energy of the body, helping to relieve stress and improve an individual’s mental wellbeing.
Alternatively, a therapist might advise wearing certain gemstones as jewellery, such as bracelets, pendants, or rings.
Another approach involves creating gemstone elixir or infusion, where gemstones are placed in water or oil to extract their energetic properties. Those preparations can be ingested, applied topically to the skin, or used in various rituals and ceremonies. It is quite common to use different essential oils in the infusion to strengthen the healing properties of crystals. One of the most commonly used oils during an infusion process is lavender oil, as it is known for its benefits for health and mental wellbeing.
The intention of these elixirs is to charge the liquid with the vibrational essence of the crystals.
Uses of gemstone therapy
Gemstone therapy is often used to address a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental concerns in an individual.
Physical healing: gemstone therapy is often used as a complementary approach to address some physical health issues. Different gemstones are believed to have the ability to aid the healing process. By selecting gemstones based on their specific qualities and placing them on or near the affected area, practitioners aim to promote physical healing and restore balance within the body.
Emotional and mental wellbeing: Gemstone therapy has long been recognised for its impact on emotional and mental wellbeing. By wearing or using crystals that resonate with specific emotional or mental concerns, individuals might benefit from emotional stability, reduce stress, and enhance overall emotional balance.
Spiritual growth and connection: Many individuals turn to gemstone therapy as a means to deepen their spiritual practises, opening their third eye and enhancing their connection to higher realms.
Conclusion
It is important to note that while gemstone therapy has a long history and many practitioners attest to its benefits, proper research on its benefits is still limited. Some critics are arguing that all the benefits of gemstone therapy are largely attributed to a placebo effect. So as with any alternative therapy, it is essential to approach gemstone therapy with an open mind and consult with an experienced practitioner who can provide proper guidance and support.
Another important thing to note is that gemstone therapy should not be seen as a replacement for conventional medical treatments and should be used more as a complementary practise to enhance wellbeing.