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As published on Reiki Rays, February 7, 2021… Article by Kathleen L. Johnson, M.A., RMT
One of the most common questions I encounter when working with clients and students concerns meditation, specifically, the “right” way to practice. Although meditation is widely touted for its numerous benefits, misconceptions about the right way to meditate still linger. In my years of working with clients and students, I have noticed a tendency for people to view meditation as a valiant attempt to sit uncomfortably for extended periods with the goal of achieving inner peace (often while trying to transcend the nagging back pain). While that may be one way to meditate (definitely not mine), it is by no means the only one. Fortunately, there are numerous meditation methods, each offering its own benefits, so the only right ways to meditate are the ones that work for you.1
My meditation practice is quite eclectic, ranging from guided imagery sessions to walking meditations to simply sitting and allowing myself “to Be.” Of course, all my meditations include Reiki, which elevates all it touches and, in its essence, is meditation.
And because I dearly love working with crystals, one of my very favorite ways to meditate is with these loving gifts from Mother Earth. Crystals are included in all my Reiki sessions and spiritual practices and have been for many years. Their energies blend beautifully and seamlessly with Reiki, resulting in a truly synergistic healing experience 2, and they are a valuable complement to all healing modalities.
Recently, I was asked to share my method for meditating with crystals and Reiki. This article details the method that Reiki helped me develop, which I have used successfully many times. However, Reiki will likely guide you in the right way for you, so allow yourself to remain open to its guidance.
• Choose the crystal
This can be any stone to which you are drawn, a stone you would like to learn more about, or one that seems to “call” to you. Do you have a new crystal and want to know if it has a message for you? Are you curious about the crystal’s properties and how they may best work with you? Or perhaps you have a favorite crystal and want to delve deeper into its healing properties that are not included in crystal books? For example, Rose Quartz is widely regarded as a stone of love, joy, harmony, and emotional healing. However, during a meditation, you may receive different or additional information. The stone can provide you with information that is specific to your work with it.
For those new to meditating with crystals, Clear Quartz is an excellent choice. It is easily programmed with a specific intention and is a versatile healer. Selenite is another great starter stone – it is highly spiritual yet is relaxing and allows for peaceful focus during meditation.
• Cleanse the Crystal
Although there are numerous ways to cleanse a crystal, Reiki provides an efficient and thorough method. While channeling Reiki, simply hold the stone in your hands and intend that it be cleared of all unhealthy and incompatible energies, in accordance with the Highest Good. This technique is the one I use most often for cleansing crystals.
• Select the Meditation Space
Find a quiet room or area where you can be comfortable and free from disturbances. Turn off electronic devices (cell phone, laptop, etc.) and sit comfortably. Comfort is necessary during meditation; otherwise, you will tend to focus on your discomfort, thereby distracting from the meditation. If desired, you may play soft music, light a candle, or use essential oils. Again, your comfort is necessary. My Reiki room is my favorite meditation spot, and I typically light scented candles and play relaxing music.
• Invite Reiki
If you haven’t already, now is the time to invite Reiki into your meditation and allow its loving energy to flow. Hold the chosen crystal in your Reiki hand, and, if you have Reiki symbols, draw them in the air over the stone as you hold it, and visualize the symbols entering the crystal. If you do not have Reiki symbols, merely activating the energy is more than sufficient.
• Set the Intention
As Reiki practitioners, we know that energy follows intention. Setting an intention for the meditation sends a message to the universe and can help to manifest desires. The intention can be as specific or general as you prefer. I often set a general intention to receive any relevant or helpful information from the crystal. Or you may ask a question such as:
• Do you have any messages for me?
• How can we best work together for healing?
• Can you tell me more about your healing properties?
• Begin the Meditation
As you sit quietly and comfortably, hold the crystal in your Reiki hands as the energy flows. Gaze softly at the crystal as you breathe in its energy, and allow Reiki to surround and envelop you. You may wish to repeat your intention to maintain focus if necessary. Let the energy of the crystal meld with Reiki and take you where you need to go. When extraneous thoughts arise (and they will), simply acknowledge them, and then return your focus to the crystal and the feeling of Reiki flowing through you and the crystal.
As the meditation continues, you may want to close your eyes; remember, allow yourself to be guided by Reiki and the crystal, as together they create a unique synergistic meditative experience.
• Concluding Your Experience
Sit with the meditation for as long as needed. When it is complete, bring your awareness back into your body, and visualize your energy returning to your physical self. Ground yourself thoroughly and feel your connection with Mother Earth, through your feet and deep into the Earth. After a few moments, express gratitude for the experience, slowly open your eyes (if they were closed), and take a few deep breaths. Give yourself some time to integrate the information received, and, if so guided, make a few notes in a journal or notebook.
Although you will often receive information during a Reiki Crystal Meditation, it is important to mention that more may continue to emerge over time following the meditation, so permit yourself to remain open to additional insights or guidance. In my experience, combining the power of Reiki and crystals in meditation opens a whole new world of possibilities for healing. I hope you will add this to your healing toolkit!