Meditation Stones

Meditation refers to the practice of a self-inducing a mode of consciousness in order to reach a state of relaxation. Practiced for many centuries, it is often believed that meditation can have health benefits, such as lowering blood pressures or reducing depression. Meditation is often used in clinical settings as a method for managing stress or pain. It is believed by many the meditation can assist one in overcoming dangerous addictions. It is difficult to trace the history of meditation without considering the religious context within which it was practiced. History suggests that even at prehistoric times older civilizations used repetitive, rhythmic chants and offerings to appease the gods.

Meditation is usually a personal practice and done without any external involvement. The person may rely on external objects such as meditation stones, on which to focus their attention and as an aid to the process. The belief in the cyrstal healing is not new. Belief in the supernatural properties of rocks and minerals bringing peace, wellness and protection goes back beyond recorded history. There are ancient legends that trace rocks, minerals and crystals back to the creation of the Earth and the Universe. The best way to tune into the natural energies of stones and crystals is to hold one or more during meditation. It is believed that some meditation stones induce serenity and can help one reach a meditative state. Other stones known for certain healing powers can be best utilized during meditation. This is because meditation quiets the mind and allows new influences to penetrate the consciousness.

There are many ways to meditate. The most common and simple is to sit comfortably, hold your meditation stone, close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing. An alternative is to set the stone at eye level in front of you and gaze into the stone. You may sit in a chair or on the floor, whatever is comfortable. You should keep your spine straight. The room should be quiet and free from distractions. You may play soft music if that helps you relax. You may wish to lower the lights, but if you don't make sure no light is shining directly into your eyes.

Another way to meditate is by laying supine and placing meditation stones on your body. There is an ancient Chinese belief in 7 "chakras " in the body. These are considered energy centers. They include the Sahasrara (head or crown), the Ajna (third eye)-between your eyebrows, the Vishuddha (throat), the Anahata (heart/lung), the Manipura (solar plexus)-one hand width up from your navel, the Swadhisthana (genitals) and the Muladhara (root)-the base of the spine. Different meditation stones may be used on each chakra depending on what healing powers you hope to invoke.

Suggested meditation stones for both holding, focusing on, or laying on the body include:
Jasper is said to have a stabilizing effect, and help one take all one's energy and use it in a balanced manner. Though different Jaspers have different powers, generally all Jaspers are good for relaxation and restoring energy.
Tiger Iron is a stone of strength, stamina, and courage.
Clear Quartz is said to have an incredible variety of energies and forms. It is used to structure, store, amplify, focus, transmit and transform energy, which includes thoughts, emotions and information.
Rhyolite is said to encourage change and creativity.
Agates in general are known for being lower intensity stones. They are considered stabilizing and strengthening influences. Different Agates may also have more specific healing powers.
Fossils can help increase accomplishments in the area of business and add excellence to one's environment. They also aid one in being open to change and new ideas.
Rose quartz is a stone of unconditional love. It opens the heart to all types of love: self-love, family love, platonic love, and romantic love. This is a good one for the heart chakra!

This is just a small sampling of the available meditation stones. You can explore our website for other materials. OakRocks has been in the rock and mineral business for 30 years. We are a great source for a variety of gemstone meditation stones Look for Meditation Stones in our store! or browse our lovely polished rocks or polished slab. Polished slabs make great focal points!