While the use of crystals has become a trendy and more common occurrence these days, the practice is an ancient one spanning thousands of years through multiple cultural, religious, and spiritual practices. These earth treasures have an energetic vibration which when attuned to can soothe, inspire, calm, or empower and ultimately put you back in harmony with the rhythms of the natural world. 🌳

Here are my five tips for how to tap into the majestic power of crystals and stones in everyday life:

#1 Energy Shifter

Everyone has felt the magnetism of earth’s natural resources — when you’re drawn to picking up rocks or shells on the beach; when you have a sense of freedom while walking barefoot in the grass; or when you collect leaves while on a hike in the woods. Crystals, stones, and fossils are no different. When you touch or collect them you immediately feel their harmonious earthy vibration. These primordial sacred messengers work at a deep cellular level and promote the natural flow of Qi in the body. Have them near when you are looking to elevate your state, shift your mood, or increase mental clarity.

#2 Meditation Companion

Given the vibration crystals and stones emit it’s no wonder they are powerful meditative tools. While sitting in meditation, place a stone in the palm of your left hand — the receiving hand — make a soft fist and then set the intention to open up to the grounding force of the stone. The crystal will help to dissipate incessant mental activity. When it’s at its peak you may feel a subtle vibration or even intense heat emanating from the gem.

Stones are also incredible tools to cultivate attention and enhance a mindfulness practice. Sit up straight in a chair (most couches are too soft and comfy for this exercise), with a stone or crystal placed on the table in front of you. Keep your eyes open and simply gaze at the stone. The world will always be in a reactive state with constant activity and movement. If you are able to sit for just ten minutes and gaze at a stone without losing focus you are well on your way to approaching life in a more mindful and less reactive state.

#3 Heritage Pieces

Gorgeous and unique stones and crystals make for incredible heritage pieces. Heritage pieces are items and goods that have a past and whose virtues and themes resonate with you. Heritage pieces are classic, worldly, luxurious, and intimate. When it comes to these ancient messengers you may not know the story of their birth nor the journey that preceded their arrival to your care — nonetheless you know the way they make you feel when you look at them. I always have pieces on my desk that evoke wonder, mysticism, enchantment, and creativity. They serve to clear and bless my space as I write or work on other creative projects.

#4 Whimsical Interior Design

Stones, crystals, and fossils are also beautiful objects for creating a serene, minimalist, and stunningly simple atmosphere. I use them whimsically in my home interior design. Instead of strategically placing, matching, or staging these pieces, wander your space with them and see which corners, table tops, windowsills, or small spaces call out to them. Sometimes it’s the end table, other times the dresser, most times you’ll find they crave light and will fit perfectly in any sunny spot.

#5 Trusted Spiritual Totem

Crystals and stones become companions. Once you begin using them you will find that you gravitate towards specific types or kinds — trust your intuition. Once you’ve attached to a stone in this way it becomes your spiritual totem. When you are planting seeds for a new dream, working to manifest new goals, or opening up to receiving your heart’s desires you can anoint a specific stone or crystal to hold the sacred space for that intention. From then on, whenever you are in the presence of your trusted totem, or gazing at it, or holding it in your palm —  you are reminded of your power, your dream, and your commitment to self. The totem will serve to ground you, bring you back to center, and keep you aligned with the energy of your desires.

Tip: Crystal, stone, and fossil care is essential. They are magnets for whatever energies they come in contact with, so at least once a month be sure to put them all in direct sunlight for at least six hours to cleanse and recharge them.