Chakras are understood in traditional Eastern systems as spinning wheels of energy located along the body’s central axis. These centers process and distribute the life force energy, often called prana or qi, which influences physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Lithotherapy involves placing specific stones or crystals on or near the body to interact with these centers, helping restore balance and promote a harmonious flow of energy.
Mapping the Seven Major Chakras
The seven primary chakras are mapped along the spine, from the base to the crown of the head. The Root Chakra (Muladhara) is situated at the base of the spine and is associated with the color red. This center governs stability, grounding, and survival. Moving upward, the Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana) is located just below the navel and corresponds to the color orange, linked to creativity and emotional expression.
Next is the Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura), found in the upper abdomen between the navel and the sternum, resonating with the color yellow. This center relates to personal power, self-esteem, and confidence. The Heart Chakra (Anahata) is positioned in the center of the chest and is associated with the color green, or sometimes pink. It acts as the bridge between the lower and upper chakras, governing love, compassion, and emotional healing.
The Throat Chakra (Vishuddha) is located at the throat’s base and corresponds to the color light blue. This center is responsible for communication and self-expression. Above this is the Third Eye Chakra (Ajna), situated between the eyebrows on the forehead, associated with the color indigo. It governs intuition, inner wisdom, and perception. Finally, the Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) is located at the top of the head and is represented by the color violet or white, linked to spiritual connection and enlightenment.
Selecting the Right Stones for Each Chakra
The selection process often matches the crystal’s color to the chakra’s frequency.
- Root Chakra: Red Jasper or Hematite are used for grounding due to their red or black coloring.
- Sacral Chakra: Orange stones such as Carnelian or Orange Calcite encourage creativity and vitality.
- Solar Plexus Chakra: Yellow stones like Citrine or Tiger’s Eye are chosen to enhance personal power.
- Heart Chakra: Green Aventurine or Rose Quartz align with green and pink, supporting love and emotional balance.
- Throat Chakra: Blue stones such as Sodalite or Lapis Lazuli facilitate clear communication.
- Third Eye Chakra: Amethyst or dark blue Sodalite stimulate intuition and insight.
- Crown Chakra: Clear Quartz or Selenite are used, symbolizing clarity and spiritual connection.
Practical Guide to Stone Placement
Before beginning any session, the stones should be cleansed. Common methods include passing them through the smoke of burning sage or Palo Santo, or placing them under the light of a full moon. This preparation ensures the crystals are ready to receive your intentions.
To begin the placement practice, find a quiet space where you can lie down comfortably on your back without interruption. You may wish to place a yoga mat or blanket beneath you for extra comfort during the session. The process involves placing the stones directly on the corresponding chakra points along the body’s center line. Start at the base, placing the Root Chakra stone, and proceed upward until the Crown Chakra stone is positioned at the top of the head.
Once all the stones are placed, the session typically lasts between 10 and 20 minutes. During this period, focus on deep, slow breathing and visualizing the color of each stone filling its respective energy center. When the session is complete, remove the stones in the reverse order, starting with the Crown Chakra and moving back down to the Root to gently close the energy flow.
After removing the stones, remain lying down briefly before sitting up slowly to allow the body’s energy to integrate the experience. Since energetic work can sometimes cause a feeling of being ungrounded, drinking water is recommended to help stabilize the body. After the session, cleanse the stones again to release any energy absorbed during the balancing process.