Ask the expert: Crystal healing for beginners

A lot of us are looking for a little energetic support at the moment. This kind of support can come in various ways, from talking with loved ones to exploring holistic therapies. It’s perhaps not a surprise then that many are turning to ancient practices to feel grounded in these uncertain times.

Here we chat to complementary therapist Louis Oliver-Brooke about crystal healing – something natural and accessible even during lockdown. We discuss getting started with using crystals, the benefits of working with a professional and how it all works. 

What is the premise behind crystal healing and how it can help? 

Crystal healing is a holistic, non-invasive, vibrational energy-based system of healing. Meaning it treats the body as a whole, its integrated energy system, mind, body, and spirit. It works on the premise that we all vibrate at a certain frequency and when the body (both physical and energetic) is out of balance, this frequency also becomes out of balance. 

Each crystal vibrates at different frequencies and when used on the body these crystals absorb, focus, direct and diffuse energy as they interact with the electromagnetic forces and subtle vibrations within the subtle human or environmental energy field, restoring the body to a normal vibration. Crystal healing can be a really beneficial complementary therapy that can help with many ailments, including balance, easing stress and anxiety, as well as spiritual healing.

I’m looking to buy some crystals – which ones would you recommend for a beginner?

When starting out with crystal healing there is no real definitive answer to which ones to start with. See which ones you are drawn to and choose those. When you first hold a crystal, you will know if it’s right for you as your vibration and the vibration of the crystal will match.

The crystal may tingle in your hand heat up or feel heavy. These are all signs that that crystal is meant for you.

Crystals such as clear quartz, amethyst, rose quartz and hematite are all great crystals to start with, or a chakra crystal set – seven crystals which correspond to the seven major chakras of the body – would be a good place to start. If you are drawn to a particular crystal, you probably need it.

I’ve heard you need to cleanse crystals, why is this and how can I do it?

Yes, it is particularly important to cleanse crystals both when you first get them and after each time you use them. Crystals absorb the energy of their surroundings and the people who use them, including negative energy. Cleansing them will remove this energy and restore the crystal to its original healing vibration. 

There are many ways of cleansing crystals. You can run them under water, either the tap or in a free-flowing stream, but this method is not for all crystals as some can dissolve in water (for example selenite).

You can also leave them outside in the light of the full moon, pass them through cleansing incense such as dragon’s blood or, if you are Reiki practitioner, use Reiki to cleanse them. Find the way that’s best suited to you but ensure you do it with all new crystals and each time you use them. 

Is crystal healing something I can do myself or should I work with a professional?

Crystal healing is best done working with a professional as they will know what the best crystals are to use for what you require at the time of healing. They are also able to scan the body to find out what imbalances are present and choose according to these imbalances. 

Crystal healing can be deeply relaxing as well and to be in the presence of a professional ensures that there is someone there during the healing session and to bring you around safely.

You can, however, use crystals on a daily basis, either carry them in your pocket or place them in your home. But, seeking the advice of a professional can ensure you use the appropriate crystals needed. It’s also worth mentioning here that no harm would ever come to you from using crystals and crystal healing. 

Can you tell me what to expect when visiting a crystal healer for a session?

When visiting for the first time, a full consultation of medical history is done and the reasons for the healing. This will give the healer an idea of what crystals to use. Lying down, clothed, the healer will perform a body scan either using their hand or a pendulum, which shows areas of imbalance. Crystals are then chosen and placed on or around your body and left in place while you relax. 

You may feel a tingling sensation, your body may jerk as it releases patterns held in your muscles, you may even laugh or cry as emotions are let go, or you may feel nothing at all except relaxation. The crystals may feel warm or cold, added or removed during the session and some may even fall off, this is normal.

When finished, the crystals will be removed and you will be allowed to sit up, talk about your experience and schedule further sessions.  

Top tips for those looking to start their crystal healing journey:

1. Be open to everything and every experience no matter how subtle they are. There are signs everywhere just wanting to be seen and you have to be open to see them. 
2. Be realistic, you are not going to be able to learn the properties of every single crystal in the world. Don’t be disheartened if you have to use a reference book to look up a particular crystal, it’s all part of the learning. 
3. Most importantly, follow your intuition. It is there to guide you and if it feels right then chances are it is right. 

This article was originally published in Happiful Magazine (February 2021). You can order print copies online, or read the e-magazine for free on the Happiful app.