Despite living in what some are calling a “new normal,” the world does not seem to be slowing down. The focus may have shifted from the hectic commutes to working from home, but for many, the uncertainty of the world is a major cause of stress and anxiety.
What exactly is anxiety? Common indicators of anxiety include feelings of uneasiness, a sense of dread or fear, and even panic attacks. Affecting millions of people every year, it is likely that some form of anxiety affects you or someone you know. Anxiety disorders can be treated with Western medicine, but many people prefer to supplement traditional treatment with natural remedies and there are plenty of options out there.
One of the top ways to manages stress and anxiety is through meditation and using crystals in conjunction with meditative techniques. Meditation and crystals have been in use for thousands of years, but many people are only now becoming familiar with these techniques. The use of calming crystals can help you feel more grounded if you are experiencing anxiety.
Here are some of the best crystals to use for relieving stress and anxiety:
Amethyst
Quite possibly the most popular crystal for relaxation is amethyst. Amethyst is a muted purple stone that can be easily found both online and in brick-and-mortar shops.
Its major properties include: clearing the mind of negative thoughts; calming the nervous system during meditation; reducing insomnia; and helping manage your mood.
Black Tourmaline
If you struggle with anxiety and would like to incorporate crystals into your healing, black tourmaline is one of the top anxiety-reducing crystals available. Used during meditation, this dark crystal should be held in your hands while you visualize your anxiety and stress being absorbed by the crystals.
Other benefits of black tourmaline include: preventing panic attacks; protecting against electric and magnetic fields (EMFs); assisting with visualization during meditation.
Rose Quartz
As the name suggests, rose quartz is pale pink in color and is one of the best crystals to use for stress and anxiety reduction. Rose quartz is renowned for its ability to increase self-awareness and quiet negative thoughts.
Other healing properties of rose quartz include: increasing feelings of relaxation during meditation; increasing compassion for oneself and others; and attracting romantic love.
Aquamarine
A calming crystal, aquamarine is popular for use in meditation. Known as the crystal of courage, aquamarine is an essential crystal for those struggling with anxiety or stress.
Other beneficial properties of this blue-green stone include: increasing one’s perceptive abilities; reducing feelings of overwhelming anxiety; improving awareness; facilitating self-expression; calming fears; and aligning the chakras, particularly the throat chakra.
Blue Lace Agate
An ideal crystal for the reduction of stress and anxiety, blue lace agate is a gorgeous muted blue crystal known for its ability to soothe. It is recommended that those who struggle remaining grounded throughout the day wear blue lace agate jewelry, particularly bracelets.
You can also carry the crystal in your pocket for comfort during stressful situations. Other properties of blue lace agate include: calming the nerves and reducing anxiety during meditation; and improving communication abilities; opening of the throat and crown chakras; and increasing clarity.
How to Use Crystals to Calm Your Anxiety
As noted in the crystal descriptions, many of these crystals serve as a great addition to meditative practice. Taking a break from modern life is essential to finding balance and inner harmony, and crystals facilitate this process.
Whether you are already familiar with meditation or new to the world of self-awareness, crystals can augment your efforts and give you a renewed focus on what is going on inside of you rather than the chaos that is happening around you. If you find yourself overcome with worry, stress, or anxiety, learning to meditate can help you feel more centered no matter what the situation.
Adding crystals to your medication practice is considered a grounding technique that helps you physically and mentally settle down. Crystals give you something to focus on during the meditation, which can be extremely helpful for those who are easily distracted or just new to meditation in general. Many people find that their mind wanders when trying to meditate. Crystals can help you relax and be in the moment.
Finding the Crystals That Resonate with You
The crystals described here are just a few of the most popular options for stress and anxiety relief, but this list is by no means comprehensive. If you are just learning about the power of natural crystals, it is easy to become overwhelmed by all the options and instructions for use.
Consider visiting a local crystal shop with staff that can assist you in finding the right crystals for you. The staff will be knowledgeable about the best crystals to use for your specific goals and can even give you guidance on using your crystals effectively. You can also read books on crystals and meditation techniques to familiarize yourself.