The Latest Wellness Therapy Buzz: Crystal Healing

By Alison McGill

Feeling the need to get centered and quell turbulent energies and anxiety? The ancient art of crystal healing is a wonderful way to do it. Prepare to be blown away by how much better you feel after having spent some quality time in the magical orb of gemstones.

Crystal therapy is an ancient art focused on spiritual healing, emotional balance and physical health. Think of crystals as a soothing pick me up that helps to balance, revitalize, unblock toxic energy, and nurture the flow of good feels and joyful, high vibrations. Holistic healers are huge fans of crystals because they’re known to improve everything from your mood to sleep patterns and your immune system.

Some of the most popular stones for selfcare and wellness include citrine known for balancing mood swings. Carnelian which promotes motivation, creativity and vibrancy. Garnet is a system booster that nurtures and centres. Lapis lazuli is a sleep enhancer, as is amethyst which is also beloved for easing aches and promoting spirituality. Rose quartz calms energy, fosters love, forgiveness and strong cardiovascular health, while clear quartz is celebrated for its ability to unblock chakras. 

To fully harness the healing powers of crystals and foster an energetic connection, they need to be physically on your body. You can wear them or experience them as part of a therapeutic spa session which is my personal choice because I love the concept of a treatment that simultaneously calms and resets.

I recently experienced a luxurious crystal healing treatment at Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa. Journey of the Gems is a signature treatment designed exclusively by the spa pros at Langdon Hall, and the influence of this 90-minute indulgence lies in the principles of Ayurvedic holistic balancing. My session began with a head-to-toe dry brush exfoliation which helps to stimulate the lymphatic system and flush the body of toxins. This was the energizing part of the treatment and was also great for getting rid residual skin dryness hanging on from winter. 

After dry brushing, it was time for the crystals, and Journey of the Gems uses a total of four—garnet, amethyst, carnelian, and rose quartz—which are incorporated into a luxurious full body massage. Each crystal is used with a complimentary gemstone oil (from organic skincare brand Isun) to promote healing; different stones are used on different parts of the body. I began the gemstone massage face up, laying on my back, and my spa therapist Lisa worked from my toes to my nose and the massage incorporated long, calming effleurage movements.

I flipped over at the midpoint of the massage, and when it came time to treat my back, Lisa worked in a horizontal pattern, starting from my waist up to my shoulders using each unique gemstone and oil to deliver maximum benefits. As she massaged, Lisa left a trail of smooth gemstones behind on the area she treated allowing the crystals to deliver maximum energetic benefits.

I can tell you post-therapy not only did I feel incredibly serene for days but experienced some of the best sleeps I’ve had in ages. Consider me a believer—I’m counting down the days until my next crystal healing session.