Let's get started: how to work with crystals
This article is an introduction to how to work with crystals. This guide is meant to be fun, practical and for some crystals, how to work with them in a safe way.
There are many ways to start on your crystal journey: you can adopt a methodical and scientific approach or a completely intuitive one. Whichever resonates with you, let's not forget that crystals have subtle energies and chemical properties that act on our bodies impacting our physical health and and energy balance.
Work with crystals in a safe manner
So here we are, you are either at the store checking everything on sight or you just got the package in the mail. First, welcome that crystal into your space or to your crystal family if you already own some. As you welcome that crystal, set the intention to clear it from the energies of the traveling and ask it to soften its energy so you can both acclimate and get to know each other better.
Crystals with copper, aluminum, mercury, and sulfur contents
Very soon you will work with crystals in this category. They are very popular and chances are you'll get these in your first or second round of purchases. These are chrysocolla, lapis lazuli, turquoise, and malachite, to name a few. These crystals can be toxic and side effects can lead to serious health issues. When working with crystals with these properties, please:
Always wash your hands after handling
Preferably, use in tumbled form
Do not place them directly on the skin unless is jewelry already purchased as such
Do not use in elixirs
This is a basic list of precautions to get your attention. Always, do your research for any new crystal you get. A good place to start is the International Gem Society website.
Crystals that are sensitive or break down in certain environmental conditions
I'll be brief in this section because all you want to remember for now is what hurts or destroys these awesome crystals:
Gypsum base crystals like selenite and halite will break down or dissolve in water.
Please, keep them in a dry place and away from any water source.
Hematite and Magnetite will rust with water.
Be careful with sun exposure for "recharging" crystals as the color will fade. It doesn't matter if they are in the quartz family, if you don't want to see the beautiful purples of amethyst go away or the gold and caramel tones of citrine, do not expose them to sunlight.
How do you sense energy is key to working with crystals
Before we get to the steps, I want you to do some easy homework:
When you think of a specific crystal or crystals in general, what's the first thing that happens? Do you get a physical reaction? A mental picture or an emotion? This is important because it helps to understand how you learn and receive information. You can take a mental note of these or write down your notes for later.
Then, what do you do next?
Do you run to your local metaphysical store or go online to buy, or
do you start researching the crystal and take in all the knowledge you can before inviting them to your space?
As I said, keep your notes, and let's see what's the first thing to learn as you start to work with crystals.
