Ahamkara Mudra

Ahamkara mudra is one of the most powerful mudras for self-assertion and confidence. It helps the practitioner to combat fear, and dispel timidity and find his or her center of being. This mudra activates the Manipura chakra (solar plexus chakra) and is used when self-doubt arises and more courage is needed.

Ahamkara is a Sanskrit term to describe egoism, self-conceit or the self-consciousness. The word literally means "I-maker."

To form ahamkara mudra, bend your index finger slightly. Place your thumb on the middle phalanx of the index finger and exert a slight pressure. Keep the middle, ring and small fingers stretched out but relaxed.

In this mudra the thumb represents Brahman or the ultimate reality of the universe; the index finger represents ego, or ahamkara. The ego bends down and submits to Brahman. But this mudra also has a second meaning that includes the elements. The index finger is associated with the air element; the thumb is the fire finger. When the fire is placed on the bent air, the hand gesture represents clarity, harmony, and the alignment of the mind with devotion. 

Thus, the ahamkara mudra represents both humility as well as the self-awareness, self-confidence, and trust in one's own deep intuition.

Ahamkara mudra should be formed with both hands during meditation. You should be able to hold it for a few minutes and perform it on a regular basis, especially if fear and doubt dominate your daily affairs. This mudra will help you strengthen your will to face difficulties without fear. It will empower you and give you courage on your personal journey.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2025

Medicine Buddha

Ancient teachings tell us that merely seeing the Medicine Buddha, or even seeing an image of the Medicine Buddha, or hearing the name of the Medicine Buddha, can confer inconceivable benefits. - Spiritual Bliss

Bhaisajyaguru, commonly known as the Medicine Buddha, is the Buddha of healing and medicine in Mahayana Buddhism. He is a fully enlightened being capable of healing both, the outer and the inner, suffering or dukkha by applying his teachings as medicine. He has unbiased compassion for all sentient beings. He offers protection from physical harm and mental afflictions, as well as other dangers and obstacles. He helps the faithful to eradicate the three unwholesome roots (poisons) or kleshas of attachment, hatred and ignorance that are considered to be the source of all suffering.

In a Sanskrit manuscript called Medicine Buddha Sutra (Bhaisajya-guru-vaiḍūrya-prabhā-rāja Sūtra) he was described as a bodhisattva who upon enlightenment made twelve great vows:

1. To illuminate countless realms with his radiance and enable anyone to become a Buddha.
2. To awaken the minds of sentient beings through the light of lapis lazuli.
3. To provide all sentient beings with all necessary material needs.
4. To correct heretical views and inspire all sentient beings toward the enlightened path of the Bodhisattva.
5. To help all sentient beings follow the Moral Precepts of Buddhism even if they have failed before.
6. To heal sentient beings born with deformities, illness or other physical sufferings.
7. To help relieve the destitute and the sick from their suffering.
8. To help women who wish to be reborn as men achieve their desired form of rebirth.
9. To heal sentient beings from their mental afflictions and delusions.
10. To help the oppressed be free from their suffering.
11. To relieve those who suffer from terrible hunger and thirst.
12. To help clothe those who are destitute and suffering from cold weather or mosquitoes.

The idea of Buddha as a metaphorical healer is as old as Buddhism itself and goes back to the historical Buddha who found the cure for suffering and presented his formula as the Four Noble Truths.

Medicine Buddha is one of the emanations of the Gautama Buddha as understood in Mahayana Buddhism. He is venerated in China, Japan and Tibet. He is often depicted as a seated Buddha with a stem of the Aruna fruit (Terminalia chebula) wearing the three robes of a Buddhist monk, sometimes blue-faced or having a blue body and holding a lapis lazuli medicine bottle.

Bhaisajyaguru (Medicine Buddha) Mantra

namo bhagavate bhaiṣajyaguru
vaidūryaprabharājāya tathāgatāya arhate
samyaksambuddhāya tadyathā:
oṃ bhaiṣajye bhaiṣajye
bhaiṣajya-samudgate svāhā

The practice of Medicine Buddha is considered to be a very powerful tool for liberation from suffering. The faithful recite either the dharani or the mantra that helps them overcome the inner "sickness" of attachment, hatred and ignorance. It also helps ease the outer, physical suffering and purify the negative karma.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2025

Images: Medicine Buddha by Dominique Allmon

 

Healing Properties of Amazonite

Amazonite is a silicate mineral from a feldspar family of minerals that share  similar crystalline structure and chemical composition. 

Amazonite forms short prismatic or tabular crystals and masses. Its color ranges from light blue, blue-green, turquoise to light green with white or grayish veins. Latest research suggests that the blue-green color derives from small quantities of lead and water in the feldspar and not from copper as was previously assumed. 

It is not quite clear whether amazonite was named after the Amazon river or the mythological tribe of women warriors called Amazons. Although amazonite occurs in Brazil, no deposits were found near the Amazon river.

Amazonite is rather rare and is usually mined in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Russia, India, Mozambique, Namibia, Brazil and even Austria. Amazonite was known in Ancient Israel. It is believed that the green stone in the High Priest Aaron's breast plate was in fact amazonite and not emerald.

Ancient Egyptians also used the stone to induce fertility and to attract luck and good fortune. Artifacts made of amazonite were discovered in King Tutankhamun's tomb.  Amazonite is sometimes called the Stone of Courage or the Stone of Truth.

It is believed that the stone encourages its wearer to self-discovery and the search for truth within one's heart. It reinforces self-discipline, courage and integrity, and helps one to live free from the judgement of others. It facilitates free communication and expression of feelings, and encourages empathy and a peaceful resolution of conflicts.

On the spiritual plane, amazonite balances the male and female energies. It also helps align all chakras and strengthens the heart and the throat chakra thus allowing undisturbed flow of feelings and truthful speech.

Amazonite has a great healing potential. The stone is believed to have the capacity to absorb the radiation from cell phones and the microwave ovens, and protect its wearer from electrosmog. People who spend long hours working on computers should place it near their device.

It is believed that amazonite has the potential to calm the nervous system. It harmonizes body and mind thus leading to well-being and health. Inner conflicts can be resolved and emotional balance restored. Amazonite can calm trauma and dispel fear. It reduces stress and can help induce peaceful sleep.

On the physical plane, amazonite is believed to help heal problems associated with metabolism. If used as an elixir it can help with osteoporosis, tooth decay and muscle cramps. It can help correct calcium deficit in the body. To enhance peaceful communication this beautiful stone should be placed in places where people interact together, such as living rooms, bedrooms and offices. Placed in the workplace, the amazonite helps dispel negativity and aggression. As a stone of good luck and prosperity it may even help to grow the business since it can attract new customers. 

By Dominique Allmon

 

Dominique Allmon©2016

 
*Information in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or cure a disease.


Images source here

Healing Properties of Citirine

Citrine cluster

Citrine is a silicon dioxide (quartz) mineral whose color ranges from light yellow, orange-yellow, amber to rusty brown. The name derives from the Latin word "citrinus" which means citron colored.

The distinctive yellow color comes from the inclusions of iron, but yellow citrine rarely occurs in nature. Most commercially sold citrine is a actually heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. Sometimes citrine is found together with amethyst. The cluster is then referred as ametrine. Citrine is mined in Brazil, Russia, Myanmar, France, Spain, Great Britain, Madagascar and the USA.

Citrine forms hexagonal crystals that often occur as clusters of small pyramids on a geode base or as short, stubby terminated crystal that exist alone or in drusy aggregates.

Citrine is a purifying and energizing stone that carries the joyful healing energy of the sun. It is believed that citrine has the power to expand and purify the aura and to align the chakras. It is often used to purify and activate the solar plexus chakra, but it also has the ability to clear and amplify the crown chakra and open pathways to increased creativity and intuition.

This wonderful purifying stone has the ability to amplify positive energy and clear negativity without absorbing it. It removes negative vibrations, transforms and dissipates them. This is why, unlike most crystals, it does not need any cleansing.

Citrine is believed to be a stone of wealth and is often called the "merchant's stone." It symbolizes honest profit, wealth and success. It brings luck in business and increases generosity. To improve the money flow in business a citrine gem should be kept in the cash register.

Citrine is a perfect stone for those who want to improve themselves. This stone of positive energy can help to dissipate self-doubt and destructive tendencies. It helps to develop courage, confidence, self-respect and a positive outlook on life. With the help of citrine criticism becomes less hurtful and is rather understood as a motivation to change than a destructive force. Irrational fears and phobias disappear as citrine brings calm and opens the gates to deep, inner wisdom. Those who lost purpose in life may find new direction. 

On physical plane citrin helps recharge depleted energy and heal chronic diseases. It helps activate digestion and detoxification. It helps improve the function of the thyroid gland and pancreas. It helps increase energy and strengthen the immune system. 

Citrine is a very beautiful gem. It brings light an joy to anyone who contemplates it. Placed at home it enhances positive energy of any room, harmonizes and helps dissipate negativity.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2014

*This information is for educational purpose only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease.

The Incredible Lightness of Being

"The Earth is a natural source of electrons and subtle electrical fields, which are essential for proper functioning of immune systems, circulation, synchronization of biorhythms and other physiological processes and may actually be the most effective, essential, least expensive, and easiest to attain antioxidant." - Dr. Joseph Mercola

Have you ever heard about "earthing?" There is an emerging research investigating the relationship between contact with Earth and our health and well-being.

I travel a lot by airplane and also spend many hours working at the computer. Despite an otherwise healthy lifestyle I sometimes feel "disconnected" from my own energy core. No amount of sleep or relaxation seem to help.

Last week I had my eureka moment. I was in Florida over the weekend and jumped into sea water. There were hardly any people on the beach. Only a few joggers dared the early morning breeze. 

I took a very long walk, barefoot. Everything was perfect. The sound of waves calmed my thoughts; the salty breeze nourished my lungs; the morning sun caressed my skin without burning it. It was a perfect morning that ended with a large bowl of freshly made fruit salad. 

The eureka moment came when I realized how energized I was after my walk. I love walking and walk whenever I have a chance, but I hardly ever walk barefoot. A two-hour walk on the beach did more for me than an eight hours of sleep in a super comfortable bed. 

I wasn't imagining things. The energy surge was very powerful and I wondered if this was how "earthing" really worked. 

Researchers believe that the electrons from the Earth have a powerful antioxidant effect on our bodies. Our immune system works best when our bodies have a constant supply of electrons. The easiest way to charge the body is to walk barefoot in grass, field, garden or forest soil, sand or even concrete, especially when they are wet. Moisture amplifies the conductivity.

When we walk barefoot we are establishing a contact between Earth and the body. This allows a free flow of electrons.

Researchers believe that earthing minimizes the consequences of exposure to potentially disruptive energy fields like electromagnetic smog or "dirty electricity" and may be especially beneficial to people who spent a lot of time working with computers or using electronic devices such as cellphones.

Studies show that earthing improves blood viscosity, heart rate, stress hormone levels, inflammation, detoxification and sleep. 

For most part of their evolutionary existence humans were well connected to Earth. They slept on the ground, used natural building materials, natural fabrics and either walked barefoot or wore leather shoes with leather soles. Rubber and plastic are relatively recent inventions. They are perfect insulators where they are needed but they prevent the flow of electrons between Earth and the human body. 

When you wear shoes with rubber soles you are completely disconnected from the Mother Earth. To re-establish the connection take off your shoes as often as you can and walk barefoot, if only in your backyard. I am certain, you will notice the difference in no time!

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2014

The Heart Chakra

The heart chakra or Anahata is the fourth of the seven chakras in the energy body. It is believed to be the seat of love and compassion which is located at the level of the physical heart, at the center of the chest.

The heart chakra is dedicated to overcoming separation and division. When the heart center is blocked, there is a sense of alienation from others. When the heart center is open and flowing, you feel connected at a deep level to all beings in your life. 

The Law of Giving and Receiving governs the heart chakra. Love can take many different forms at different stages of life. The love of child for her mother is different than a mother’s love for her child. A friend’s love is different than that of a passionate lover or the love of a student for his teacher. However, the common thread in each of these expressions of love is the impulse to unify - to overcome separation. This is the true nature of the heart. 

Every act of giving is simultaneously an act of receiving. Each time you welcome a gift into your life, you are providing the opportunity for someone to give. Just as a healthy physical heart receives blood from the periphery which it then oxygenates and pumps back out, your emotional heart stays healthy by receiving and giving love in all its forms.

If you have an under active chakra, you may possess these traits:

• Low self-esteem
• Low self-confidence
• Lack of concern for others
• Respiratory and circulatory disorders
• Heart disorders

If you have an over active chakra, you may possess these traits:

• A tendency to always feel responsible for others
• A dominating personality
• You tend to be over controlling in relationships
• Respiratory and circulatory disorders
• Heart disorders

If any of these symptoms sound familiar to you, you may have an unbalanced heart chakra. Meditation and mindfulness will help you work on correcting these tendencies. You will not only be able to balance the energy flow in heart chakra, but also express your emotions in a free and honest way. Simple heart opening yoga exercises will support this process.

Article and image source unknown, but greatly appreciated

The Vajra Mudra

 Buddha and the vajra mudra

Mudras are symbolic hand gestures that are often to heal the mind-body. Since ancient times mudras represent a non-verbal form of communication and spiritual expression. They are used as symbols of divine powers or the deities themselves.  

Mudras were widely used in the Hindu and Buddhist art to express the capacity in which a deity was represented. In its highest form mudras were used to evoke the invisible forces that operated in the mundane sphere. 

But mudras are not only symbols of divine manifestation. They are used by the spiritually inclined people in their practice of meditation and concentration, and are believed to generate forces attributed to a particular aspect of the deity. They allow the practitioner to align and strengthen his own energy flow. 

Vajra mudra is a gesture of the fiery thunderbolt. It symbolizes the five elements: air, water, fire, earth, and metal. It is supposed to transform ignorance into wisdom. On the physical plane, vajra mudra is believed to stimulate blood circulation and reduce the restlessness and dizziness caused by low blood pressure.

Vajra mudra

Vajra mudra is formed with both hands raised in front of the heart chakra whereas the index  finger of one hand is wrapped and held in the fist of the other hand. The remaining fingers form a fist below. The right-handed people use the palm of the right hand to hold the index finger of their left hand. The left-handed form this mudra with their left hand wrapped around the right index finger. 

Vajra mudra should be practiced three times a day for at least five minutes. This mudra is not as easy as it looks. If you have never practiced before you may want to start with a minute or so until you get used to sitting with hands held in this position. 

By Dominique Allmon

Images source here and here

Healing Properties of Rhodochrosite

Rhodochrosite from the Margarita Mine, Peru

Rhodochrosite is a manganese carbonate mineral. Pure rhodochrosite is rather rare. In its pure form, it is typically pale pink or rose-red, but the color of more prevalent impure specimens can vary from shades of pink, deep red, orange to pale brown. 

Rhodochrosite crystallizes in form of masses, grains, columns, botroyidal structures and  rhombohedral crystals.  It is often confused with the manganese silicate mineral rhodonite, but is distinctly softer than the other one.

Rhodochrosite was first described in 1813 in reference to a sample found in Cavnic, Maramureş Valey, in the northern part of Romania. Its name is derived from the Greek word rhodochros meaning rose-colored. It occurs together with other manganese minerals in low temperature ore deposits in silver mines of Romania and Argentina. It is also mined in the USA, South Africa, Russia, Peru  and Uruguay.

 

Rhodochrosite

In 2002 the State of Colorado officially named rhodochrosite as its state mineral since quite impressive specimens have been found in the Sweet Home Mine near Alma, Colorado. 

While rodochrosite is found all over the world, large red crystals are found only in a few places. 

Rhodochrosite is considered to be a stone of love, balance and creativity. The crystal is believed to open the heart center, alleviate depression and encourage positive and cheerful outlook. It helps integrate physical and spiritual energies, stimulate love and passion, and energize the soul. People with low self esteem profit from it as the crystal is believed to improve one's self-worth and develop unconditional self-love and self-acceptance. 

Rhodochrosite alleviates physical and emotional stress, encourages positive attitude, creativity and innovation, and enhances dream states thus allowing a deeper insight into the subconscious mind. The stone can help us accept negative and painful emotions as part of our emotional make-up. It helps us understand that pain and suffering are step stones to personal growth. Negative experiences and challenges are lessons that help us grow. 

Rhodochrosite can help heal emotional patterns that prevent us from realizing our full emotional potential. It is a perfect stone for balancing, cleansing and energizing the root and solar plexus chakras. It helps us face irrational fear and deal with anxiety. It is believed that rhodochrosite allows us to express emotions, especially those long denied that are buried deep within our souls. People who wear it develop tendency to be cheerful and optimistic. 

On the physical plane rhodochrosite is believed to regulate heart beat, stabilize blood circulation, and balance the blood pressure. The stone is also believed to have a positive influence on kidneys, intestines, thyroid gland, skin, and the reproductive organs. It can  help improve eye sight and alleviate mild migraine. 

Best results are achieved when it is worn as a bracelet or placed over the heart and solar plexus. A gem elixir made of rhodochrosite helps heal and prevent infections, improve the skin, calm inflammation, and regulate thyroid gland.

The beauty of rhodochrosite makes it a desired collectors' object that will not only bring joy to the beholder, but also enhance energy flow in any room of the house. 

By Dominique Allmon

 

Dominique Allmon©2013

*This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease. 

Image source here

Healing Properties of Hemimorphite

Blue Hemimorphite

Hemimorphite is a sorosilicate mineral that occurs in the upper layers of zinc and lead ores. Hemimorphite is usually found together with smithsonite. In fact, when hemimorphite was first discovered in Romania 1853, both minerals were considered to be a variety of a mineral then called calamine. Only later mineralogists found out that although the two minerals resembled each other, they varied in chemical composition: Smithsonite was a zink carbonate; Hemimorphite - a zink silicate.

The name hemimorphite derives from the word "hemi" or half and "morph" meaning shape and points to a  hemimorph development of crystals. This unusual crystalline form, which is typical to only few minerals, means that the crystals are terminated by dissimilar faces.

Hemimorphite most commonly forms crystalline crusts and layers, but also massive, granular, rounded aggregates. Rarely it forms fan-shaped clusters of crystals. The color ranges from white to blue, blue-green and even violet.

Hemimorphite is mined at the German-Belgium border, in Austria, Poland, China, Thailand, Mexico, United States, Namibia and North Africa.

White hemimorphite

Many energy healers consider hemimorphite to be a stone of happiness and joy. The gem can be used to assist personal transformation and growth as it helps develop positive self-image and overcome the inferiority complex. 

It facilitates communication and self-expression and is considered to be a perfect harmony stone for troubled relationships. It allows us to be who we are and respect the other person's need for self-expression.

The gentle healing energy of this stone endows one with generosity, a healthy dose of self-respect and respect for others. Negative emotional patterns are dissolved; anger and  hostility are released. 

The stone promotes inner balance and tranquility, and helps access one's creative energies. It also helps protect from malice and the destructive energies of others.

In the spiritual realm, hemimorphite has the power to enhance the aura and amplify psychic abilities. It helps align the heart and throat chakras and opens the third eye. It aides meditation and clears channels to psychic communication. It helps the seeker to define his spiritual direction and find a purpose in life. 

As a healing stone, hemimorphite is often used to heal ailments in the chest and throat region, but also to alleviate hormonal imbalances, blood related disorders, immune deficiencies, headaches, stress and overall pain. The stone's subtle energies bring gentle, gradual relief.

Hemimorphite is a stone of unusual beauty. It adds a peaceful aura to any space and if worn as jewelry, allows for more self-confidence and compassion. Its beauty brings joy to all. 

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2012

 

*This information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease.

 

Healing Properties of Fluorite

Fluorite, also known as fluorspar, is the most important natural fluoride. In the past fluorite was known as spatum vitreum or calx fluorata. The current name "fluorite" derives from the Latin word fluere which means "to flow" and pertains to the fact that fluorite was, and still, is used as flow agent in iron smelting. Thanks to its ionic nature, fluorite has the capacity to increase fluidity. It reaches the melting point at 1360°C. This qualities were first mentioned in 1530 by Georgius Agricola in his work on metals.

Fluorite is a halide mineral composed of calcium fluoride. It is an isometric mineral with a cubic habit, although octahedral and even more complex crystal forms are not uncommon. So called crystal twinning is rather common and adds complexity to the observed crystal habits.

Although fluorite gave its name to fluorescence in 1852, not all specimen of fluorite are fluorescent. Many fluorites, however, emit a fascinating blue-violet light thanks to traces of europium, yttrium or organic impurities in crystal lattice.

Fluorite is easily available. It occurs in large deposits in many regions, most notably in the United States, China, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, England, North-Eastern Canada, Mexico, South Africa, and Kenya. 

Fluorite often forms vein deposits with metallic minerals and is often associated with sphalerite, calcite, barite, and quartz. 

Fluorite is regarded to be the most colorful mineral in the world. It comes in many colors. The most common are pink, purple, green, blue, yellow, colorless, and rainbow.

 

In esoteric circles fluorite is believed to be a very powerful healing crystal. It is a stone of protection, especially in the mental sphere. It protects from manipulation and helps one recognize the undesirable outside influences. 

Fluorite creates clarity and awareness, and helps reduce mental and physical stress. It helps maintain focus and concentration and can be used during meditation as a grounding stone. The crystal can facilitate spiritual growth and help attain enlightenment.

Fluorite is considered to be the best purifying stone. It can neutralize and dispel negative energy of any kind. It cleanses and stabilizes the aura. It helps reorganize the flow of energy. It clarifies and purifies energetic chaos and helps create a more harmonious structures. It can be used to neutralize the electromagnetic field emanated by cell phones and computers. 

Fluorite restores inner balance and can be used to heal emotional disorders. It encourages positivity and optimism, helps restore trust in one's own power. Fluorite helps clarify vision and redefine one's purpose in life. It helps eliminate bad habits and destructive behavior.

Fluorite is also very effective on the physical plane. It helps to restore the harmony between the body and the mind and can be used to heal many psycho-somatic disorders. 

Fluorite is believed to boost the immune system and stimulate the regeneration on cellular level. It can be used to heal wounds, ulcers, skin disorders, and inflammatory diseases. 

Because fluorite comes in so many colors, it can be used in chakra meditation to restore the energy flow in respective chakras:

• red fluorite - root chakra
• yellow fluorite- solar plexus
• green fluorite - heart chakra
• blue fluorite - throat chakra
• purple fluorite - third eye

This beautiful mineral can be worn as jewelry or placed in living spaces to harmonize the energy flow. It should be placed near TV-sets and computers to neutralize the electromagnetic smog. 

 

 

Fluorite absorbs negative energies and has to be purified after each use. 

By Dominique Allmon

*This article was written for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease.

Healing Properties of Fluorite by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Healing Properties of Smoky Quartz

Smoky Quartz Cluster

Smoky quartz is a macro-crystalline variety of quartz. Like other quartz crystals smoky quartz is a silicon dioxide mineral. It usually forms transparent hexagonal, rhombohedral  crystals. Macroscopic crystals commonly occur as horizontally striated hexagonal prisms terminated by a combination of positive and negative rhombohedrons forming six sided pyramids. 

The name smoky quartz derives from the smoky color that ranges from grayish-brown to dark brown and even black. The smoky color results from natural exposure to radiation. It forms from free silicon that was released from silicon dioxide during the formation of crystals. Smoky quartz is a rather prevalent mineral that is mostly mined in Colorado, USA, in Brazil, Australia, Madagascar, Switzerland, and Scotland where it is considered to be a national stone. 

Since ancient times smoky quartz was used in many cultures because it was rather easy to cut it to gems and ornaments. This beautiful crystal was considered sacred by the Druids. In shamanic cultures smoky quartz was used in rain gathering ceremonies. The gem was often found on top of the ritual wands used by some of the North American native tribes, especially the Cherokees. Smoky quartz was also popular for making snuff bottles in ancient China. Ancient Romans used it for carving intaglio seals. 

In esoteric circles smoky quartz is regarded as a grounding stone providing physical and psychic protection from negative energies. It can help remove negative energy and transform negativity of any kind into positive energy. It can be used to cleanse the aura.

Smoky quartz is considered to be a stone of abundance and a luck bringer. In difficult times it helps enhance the survival instinct and determination as it keeps one's mind focused on success and the realizations of personal goals and dreams. It enhances intuition and promotes personal pride and joy.

It helps elevate mood and gently remove emotional blockages. It can transform negative emotions such as fear, anger and jealousy into positive energy. It helps clear mental clutter and promotes focus. It brings calm and serenity and helps relieve grief and depression.

Smoky quartz is considered to be a perfect stone for meditation as it helps refine the vibratory energies within body and create clarity of the mind thus facilitating access to subconscious wisdom. It grounds during the meditation and facilitates alignment between the lower and higher selves. It activates the flow of the kundalini energy and enables access to higher states of consciousness. The gem also helps accept one's own sexuality.

The gem is associated with the root chakra and is, therefore, believed to promote physical health of organs of the abdomen including stomach, kidneys, adrenals, pancreas, and the reproductive organs. It can help alleviate leg cramps and ease the hip pain. It can even cure headaches. Smoky quartz promotes detoxification, regulates body fluids and facilitates the healing process. 

For healing purposes smoky quartz crystals can be placed on the body, especially where pain is experienced. To reduce stress it is suggested to hold a crystal in each hand and sit quietly for a few moments. Smoky quartz can be used to produce gem elixir that gently works within the body.

This amazingly beautiful mineral can be placed in any room of the house to purify and balance the energies. It is believed that smoky quartz placed in the bedroom near or around the bed helps the couple to overcome communication problems.

For best results make sure that you purchase natural smoky quartz crystals. Artificially irradiated crystals are dark and opaque and may not bring the same healing results.

By Dominique Allmon

Healing Properties of Smoky Quartz by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.
 
*This information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease. 

Healing Properties of Malachite

Malachite Crystal

Malachite is a hydrous copper carbonate that is responsible for the greenish hue of a tarnished copper and bronze. It is often results from weathering copper ores and is often found with azurite and calcite. It has a vibrant color that can vary from bright to dark green.

Malachite crystallizes in form of monoclinic crystal system and most often forms botryoidal, fibrous, or stalagmitic masses. Individual crystals are rather rare but do occur as slender to acicular prisms.

The name malachite most probably originates from the Greek  word malachos which means soft, but it was also called molochitis lithos - mallow-green stone because it resembles the leaves of the mallow plant.

Large quantities of malachite are mined in Israel, Russia, Congo, Namibia, Zambia, and in Mexico. In the United States it mostly occurs in the South West, especially in Arizona.

Malachite was known in Egypt as early as ca 4000 BC. Ancient Greeks made malachite amulets for the protection of their children. During the Middle Ages malachite was believed to protect from black magic and sorcery.The stone was also used to protect travelers from accidents and other evils of a journey. It was often placed in the bedroom to protect the sleeping person from nightmares. For centuries malachite was used by artists as a mineral pigment in green paints, but was later replaced with synthetic pigments.

Malachite is considered to be a very powerful healing crystal that has the potential to amplify the energy. It can help clear and remove past traumas and deep seated negative emotions, but some caution is advised. The healing process might be too overwhelming as the stone is able to amplify both, the positive and the negative energies. The stone should be cleansed before each application. The best way to cleanse malachite crystals is to place them in the sun or on a quartz crystal cluster.

Malachite is regarded as a stone of transformation that helps facilitate change. It helps to clear and activate the chakras and re-arrange the energy pattern in the body. It is particularly useful in balancing the heart chakra and opens this energy center to unconditional love. It helps to clarify thoughts and break old patterns of behavior. It encourages decision making process, determination and acceptance of change. It teaches one to assume responsibility for his own thoughts, feelings, and actions. It clarifies the thinking process, strengthens intuition and enables deep insight.

Malachite can be used to alleviate many physical conditions, especially those associated with heart and blood circulation. It is believed to enhance the immune system and activate liver, pancreas and spleen. It can help detoxify the body at the cellular level and remove chemical pollutants and radiation from the system.

The stone can be placed on the body during a crystal therapy session. It can also be worn as a jewelry. However, malachite encased in metal is believed to lose its healing power.

Malachite is a beautiful mineral and, like many other crystals, it can bring a beautiful energy to any space. Its green color is calming to the mind and induces relaxation.

By Dominique Allmon

*This article was written for informative purpose only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease.

Healing Properties of Mlachite by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Healing Properties of Calcite

Cobaltoan calcite

Calcite is a calcium carbonate mineral which forms wide variety of trigonal-rhombohedral crystals. There are actually more than three hundred crystalline forms of calcite. 

The name "calcite" derives from the Greek word "chalix" which means lime. Calcite can be found in sedimentary rocks, especially limestone and its metamorphic equivalent - marble. It can also be found in some volcanic rocks such as carnonatite. Calcite is also a building block of egg shells and the shells of invertebrate organisms.

Calcite crystals are transparent to opaque and may occasionally be phosphorescent or fluorescent. A transparent variety called Iceland spar known for its strong double refraction and perfect cleavage has been used for optical purposes since the 17th century. Acute scalenohedral crystals are sometimes referred to as dogtooth spar while the rhombohedral form is sometimes called nailhead spar.

Dogtooth calcite

Calcite is easily found. The largest deposits are found in USA, Belgium, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Iceland, Peru, and Brazil.

It comes in variety of colors. It can be white, pink, gray, blue, green, orange, red, black, or colorless. Its color depends on the content of various minerals during the crystallization process.

In esoteric circles calcite is regarded as a fire stone with an amazing ability to cleanse and purify. It is an excellent healing stone. It can be used to purify the aura and to align the chakras. For this purpose calcite crystals of different colors should be placed accordingly on the corresponding energy centers. Healing properties of calcite depend on the color of the particular crystal used in chakra therapy.

Calcite is known to dispel negative energy and to amplify the good one. This quality is very useful during astral travel and channeling as calcite enhances memory of the experience. 

This mineral helps establish connection between emotions and the rational mind. It promotes creativity and imagination, facilitates insight and learning, and helps crystallize and realize ideas.

Golden Calcite on Dolostone from Tennessee

It is a stone of confidence. It helps reduce stress, pacify the mind, and dispel fear. Lazy people or those who lost hope or motivation find new energy to follow their path. 

On the physical plane calcite is believed to enhance elimination of toxins from the body. It speeds up the healing process and soothes troubled skin. It may enhance the immune system and alleviate ailments of the digestive tract. It may also enhance the absorption of calcium. Calcite elixir is very effective in healing various skin conditions. It can be directly applied to warts, boils, or to festering sores.

Calcite is a very beautiful mineral that brings light to any space. It increases the energy flow and can be used to clear negativity from the environment. Stagnant energy begins to flow again. 

By Dominique Allmon

*This information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease.



Healing Properties of Calcite by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Healing Properties of Howlite

Howlite is a calcium boron-silicate hydroxide that usually occurs in sedimentary rock formations. This mineral was named after a Canadian mineralogist Henry How who first discovered it a Nova Scotia gypsum quarry in 1868.

The gem has a rather dull, porcelain-like white or ivory color with pronounced grayish veins that make it look like an albino turquoise. This fact is sometimes exploited by dishonest gem dealers who dye it and sell it as the more expensive turquoise.

Howlite is a rather soft mineral with a hardness 3.5 on the 1-10 Mohs scale. It dissolves in a hydrochloric acid solution.

It forms nodules that can be quite large and look like cauliflowers. Crystals are rare and sometimes form spiky aggregations. They are translucent or transparent, creamy white or light brown.

The largest deposits of howlite were found in Canada, mostly in Nova Scotia, but this mineral is also mined in the USA, especially in California, and in South Africa.

Howlite is considered to be a stone of calm and tranquility. It can be used to calm the troubled or overactive mind, reduce stress, and induce peaceful sleep at night. Energy healers suggest drinking a howlite gem elixir one hour before bedtime or putting pieces of howlite on the bedside table or under the pillow.

Howlite is believed to help control rage and other negative impulses. It can help develop patience, tolerance, and a positive outlook on life. It can also bring calm, reason, and clarity to any verbal exchange. To experience these balancing effects, angry and disappointed people are advised to carry howlite on the their bodies or in their pockets.

This gem is thought to help clarify one's mind and became aware of one's goals and ambitions. It can help expand the horizons and to open the mind to wisdom and new knowledge. It can improve memory, facilitate learning, and help access and balance unprocessed emotions.

Howlite is associated with the third eye chakra. In esoteric circles the gem is believed to facilitate insight and meditation as well as the out of body travel. It helps access deep seated memories including these of the past lives.

On a physical plane, howlite is said to accelerate metabolism and elimination and to heal various skin conditions. It purifies the blood and helps regenerate bodily tissues. It helps reduce pain and loosen the muscles. High calcium content makes it useful in balancing calcium deficits in the body.

Howlite is a stone of modesty and understatement. It balances energy flow in chaotic spaces and infuses them with peaceful energy and tranquility. It helps reduce conflicts and facilitates respectful communication. It promotes kindness, compassionate behavior, and peaceful coexistence. Howlite can be placed everywhere where balance and calm are needed, particularly in rooms where people meet together and in bedrooms. The gem can be worn as jewelry, placed directly on the body or taken as a gem elixir.

By Dominique Allmon

*This information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease.

Healing properties of howlite by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Healing Properties of Creedite

Creedite is a rare calcium aluminium sulfate fluoro hydroxide mineral that usually forms from the oxidation of fluorite ore deposits. It occurs mostly on fluorite-calcite-quartz matrix.

Creedite was named after Creede Quadrangle, Mineral county in Colorado, where it was first discovered in 1916. It was also found in Nevada, Arizona, California, and Mexico. There are also some deposits in Bolivia, China, as well as in Kazahstan and Tajikistan. 

It forms monoclinic prismatic crystals that may resemble sharp blades or needles clustered together. The crystals may be either colorless or white, pale to dark orange, pinkish or violet, either translucent or transparent.

It is believed that creedite helps align the upper chakras, especially the throat and the crown chakras, and expand awareness. This allows an undisturbed access to higher realms and a better expression of one's own spirituality. The gem may also help facilitate connection and improve communication with others.

Creedite crystals emanate high vibrations and can be used for channeling. They help verbalize and render the transmitted messages with utmost clarity. 

Creedite also aides meditation. It creates clarity of the mind and helps cut through intellectual obstacles. It promotes spiritual growth and helps expand awareness. It may help develop the ability to move between different levels of consciousness.

Occasionally, creedite is used to facilitate the out of body experiences and the transition to the realm of Light. 

Creedite crystals can be used to enhance vibrational energy of spaces and to increase the creativity and productivity at work. 

Creedite has the potential to increase one's level of vibration and to expand the energy field. The increased energy flow in the meridians may help speed healing and detoxification. 

Because of its aluminum content, creedite should not be used in crystal elixirs or ingested in any other form. 

By Dominique Allmon

*This information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease. 

Healing Properties of Creedite by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Healing Properties of Carnelian

Carnelian, also known as carnelian, is a translucent, micro-crystalline chalcedony quartz. It is closely related to sard and sardonite which only slightly differ in color and hardness. Its color ranges from orange and pale red to dark brown and comes from iron oxide (hematite) colloidally dispersed in the trigonal crystalline structure.

Carnelian is a rather prevalent mineral. It occurs in the cavities of many rock formations, but most often it develops silica-rich rocks that solidified at low temperatures but it is also found in volcanic rocks. Carnelian typically forms nodules and cone-shaped masses. Considerable amounts of Carnelian have been found in India, with some of the oldest known deposits in Bengal. Carnelian is also mined in Brazil, Uruguay, USA (mostly in Texas, Colorado, and North Carolina), Botswana, Madagascar, and South Africa.

In the Middle Ages carnelian was called carneolus. This name derived from the Latin word carneus which meant fleshy, made of flesh. The French called this gem corneline which probably came from cornele or cornel cherry in Old French.

Carnelian was highly valued in Antiquity and worn as jewelry. In ancient Egypt the stone was used to protect the living and the dead. The Egyptian Pharaohs believed that the stone has supernatural qualities. They regarded this stone as a symbol of renewal and loyalty. An Isis knot or tyet, made of carnelian was placed on the neck of a mummy to ensure safe passage and a peaceful afterlife. An Eye of the Horus ornament made of carnelian was believed to protect from the evil eye.

The Greeks and the Babylonians believed that the stone would bring luck to those who wore it. The Greeks also associated carnelian with the returning sun and used it as ornaments as early as the Bronze Age. For the Romans, the stone was a symbol of courage and power and was worn in rings and signets that were used as seals to seal documents as the wax did not stick to the surface of the stone. The Buddhists in China, India, Nepal, and Tibet use carnelian for protection and often set it with turquoise and lapis lazuli to enhance its powers. This practice was also known in ancient Egypt.

For ages carnelian was considered to be a stone of power, courage, ambition, and inspiration. It is supposed to increase physical energy and personal power. It is a stone of action which is very useful in all decision making processes as it helps to stay focused and motivated. It is a stone of confidence, creativity, individuality, and self-realization. Carnelian helps dispel apathy and indolence. It helps discover hidden talents and awakens curiosity in the people who wear it.

Carnelian is believed to have the capability to protect the wearer from negative energies. It wards off negative emotions such as anger, fear, jealousy, and resentment. It improves mood and helps to deal with sorrow and depression. Carnelian encourages love and friendship. It helps accept the flow of life and takes away the fear of dying. It brings peace and serenity to a troubled soul as it helps heal trauma and emotional wounds.

Carnelian is associated with the root and the sacral chakras. It clears imbalances in these energy centers and enhances the energy flow within the body. The gem helps establish better connection with the surroundings and ground people who meditate.

On the physical plane carnelian is associated with sexuality. It helps awaken passion and balances sexual energies. It helps alleviate disorders of the reproductive system. In folk medicine this mineral was used to heal impotence and fertility problems. Carnelian is believed to relieve menstrual cramps and other problems in the abdomen area. It was used traditionally to heal disorders of the gal bladder, pancreas, and the kidneys. Carnelian is believed to speed up metabolism, warm and cleanse the blood, and stimulate appetite. It can help absorb vitamins and minerals, rejuvenate bodily tissues, increase blood circulation, and accelerate the healing and detoxification process within the body.

Carnelian is a beautiful, sensual stone that can be placed on the body, worn as jewelry or a talisman, taken as gem elixir or displayed to increase energy of any space. It brings warmth and positivity. Placed in the central area of the house, carnelian brings balance and harmony. To increase creativity, carnelian should be placed in the West. To attract luck and success, it should be placed in the South. Carnelian is a stone of renewal that brings joy and increases self esteem. 

By Dominique Allmon

*This information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or cure a disease.

healing properties of carnelian by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.