Using crystals in the context of healing has a very long history. Primitive paintings dating back to 25,000 BC show that the ancient Egyptians used crystals for therapeutic purposes. Lapis Lazuli, a beautiful blue stone with freckles of "Fools Gold" Pyrite, was ground down and apparently rubbed onto the eyelids to prevent eye infections from the sandy deserts, is one such example. Blue eye shadow is far more dated than the 1960's! It is also believed that the ancient lost civilizations of Atlantis and Lemuria also understood the healing properties of crystals. In more recent times, crystals have found resurgence in popularity. People are buying crystals for their aesthetic qualities, dabbling in the beliefs that they will bring them love, prosperity and healing.

Crystals are very powerful energy systems and, when used in a treatment by a qualified practitioner, can be harnessed to bring about profound healing benefits both physically, mentally and emotionally.

In a crystal treatment, crystals would be placed around, on and over you. The treatment may be seated or lying down; the removal of clothing is unnecessary. There are many different treatments that can be used for specific illness and ailments, and a practitioner may adapt these to tailor for the needs of the individual.

Specific treatments that I have been taught help with symptoms such as:

• The common cold
• Migraines
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Blood sugar disorders such as diabetes
• High/low blood pressure
• Kidney and urinary conditions
• Reproductive issues including fertility conditions and menstrual imbalances
• Ear and sinus problems
• General detoxification and cleansing of the body system.

I have personally found crystal therapy to be very powerful in my emotional and spiritual development.

Before a treatment commences, you will be required to give some personal information about your physical health, which will be the basis of the decision as to the course of treatments, and indeed whether a treatment should be given or not. A treatment usually lasts about an hour, in which time you may have many different sensations arising such as emotions, physical sensations, or mental images. It is not unusual, however, for a you not to feel anything, just very relaxed.

The best way to find a qualified Crystal Therapist is to contact a Crystal Healing Organisation. You can then find a Practitioner who has been trained to the standards met by these organisations, two years of training being one of them. You can then be sure that someone who has a good knowledge of crystals and their affects is treating you.