How to Cleanse and Charge Crystals
Introduction
When I first sat down to write this I knew exactly what I wanted to do; I wished to create a very simple guide to cleansing and charging crystals. My aim was to make it so that even an absolute beginner could follow without confusion. Rafaelle is all about making the healing properties of crystals accessible to all. With that thought in mind, here I go.
Reasons For Cleansing and Charging Crystals
Firstly we are talking about an energetic cleanse rather than a physical one.
A crystal it is far from being new even if you have just bought or received it. The crystal has travelled a long way, through the hands of many different people and been stored in many different locations. Crystals absorb the energy from their surroundings and from people, cleansing removes these and brings the crystal back to an energetic clean slate.
Crystals should then be cleansed on a regular basis, how often is down to how they are used. The negative energies of pain whilst being used for healing and/or the patient not being in a great state of mind will be collected by the crystal therefore it will require cleansing. If you find a crystal seems less effective than normal this is a sign that the crystal needs to be cleansed.
Over time crystals will weaken and lose their energy. When they were in the ground they were able to charge themselves using the earth's energies, once mined they lose this ability. Once cleansed, crystals should be charged to return them to their natural energetic state.
Cleansing Methods
The first method normally recommended is to cleanse using water, I’m going to start here by being slightly controversial and say that I highly suggest you avoid this method unless you really know what you are doing. The reason being is that although one of the simplest, most accessible methods many crystals available these days can be damaged by water. Some crystals can have their surfaces ruined, some much worse, they can be dissolved. Unless you know for definite that the crystal you wish to cleanse is ok in water then it’s really not worth the risk, especially when there are other methods available that work just as well. Also if you have several different crystals then it makes much more sense to use the same method to cleanse all your crystals.
There are also a couple of other common methods I have left out due to the issues with some crystals and water. The burying method, normally soil contains water and brown rice can leave a residue which needs to be washed off.
When deciding on which of the following methods I would recommend using the method you are most drawn to.
Smudging
Smudging is the act of burning certain plants/herbs to create a cleansing smoke, it is a Native American custom. It purifies and drives away negative energies so is great to cleanse crystals with. Sage and Palo Santo smudge sticks are relatively easy to come by (either online or in holistic shops). To cleanse crystals using this method just waft smoke from the burning smudge stick around the crystals for a couple of minutes with the clear intention of cleansing them. WARNING: Do not use this method if you have respiratory problems, are pregnant or think you may be.
Incense
In a similar way to smudging incense can also be used. Either cedarwood or sandalwood incense sticks are great, just light and when producing smoke hold the crystal over it for a couple of minutes. WARNING: Do not use this method if you have respiratory problems, are pregnant or think you may be.
Methods to Charge Crystals
Now that you have cleansed your crystals then you will now need to charge them.
Using Another Crystal
A large crystal cluster with a naturally high vibration such as clear quartz or selenite can be used to charge crystals. Crystals can also be charged using geodes. Just place the crystals either on the large crystal or in the geode for a few hours and they will be charged.
Moonlight
Moonlight is a funny one, some people swear by it where as others will tell you it does not work. I would say to use moonlight if you feel drawn to it and leave it if not. If you wish to charge your crystals with moonlight leave them on a windowsill on a clear night. I would advise against leaving them outside overnight in case it rains on them.
Methods for Both Cleansing and Charging Crystals
Sunlight
Cleansing and charging crystals with sunlight is by far and away the most simple, easiest and cheapest method. 30-60 minutes on a sunny windowsill will fully cleanse and charge a crystal. This amount of time is more than enough time to complete the process. Make sure the sun’s rays will not be focused onto something flammable and start a fire!! Some crystals may fade in the sun if left out too long. WARNING: Extreme heat will damage crystals. In hot countries (or during heat waves) do not put them out during the hottest parts of the day. Crystals can be put out in the early morning or evening if it is very hot during the day.
Reiki
Cleansing and charging crystals with Reiki is very simple. Anyone attuned to at least Reiki level 1 can do this. Just hold the crystal in your hands with the intention of cleansing and charging it. Once attuned to level 2 it is then possible to cleanse and charge crystals with Reiki symbols. Cleansing crystals with Reiki will also charge them so if you are attuned to Reiki this is a great method to use.
Conclusion
If you are attuned to Reiki then using Reiki is probably the best method for you. You can cleanse and charge crystals with Reiki whenever you wish. Sunlight is a great method, it's free and anyone can use it. Cleansing and charging crystals can all be done in one go if you have lots making it much more convenient. I personally find that the less complicated you make something than the better you will be at doing it regularly.
Saying this my own 7yr old daughter decided the other day that she absolutely needed a piece of emerald. I felt I needed to give it an extra cleanse so smudged it with sage before placing it in the sun for 30 min. Ultimately you will know what to do, trust yourself and your own intuition.