Throughout history and even in modern times, crystals, gemstones, and incense have garnered great popularity for their usage in spiritual, esoteric, and healing practices.

However, there exists a different kind of natural substance that lacks the same widespread recognition and popularity, despite possessing distinct metaphysical qualities and holding importance in diverse cultures and mystical practices.

Many modern practitioners are not familiar with resins and their metaphysical properties, making them less well-known and utilized. I often encounter people who have limited knowledge about the different types of resins that are available.

Resins have not garnered as much attention and exposure as crystals, gemstones, and incense, despite their growing popularity, particularly on social media and the Internet.

Consequently, individuals might have a lower chance of coming across resins while engaging with metaphysical tools and practices.

I also find that people who are at least somewhat familiar with resins tend to associate them with their use as incense. Resins such as frankincense, myrrh, copal, and others are often burned as incense to purify spaces, objects, and individuals. The smoke cleanses negative energies, purifies the aura, and creates a sacred atmosphere for rituals and ceremonies.

Never cold, as if each bead were an unquenchable flame that burned a million years like a sanctuary lamp beneath the ice, each drop of sticky gold hardening to honeyed stone ~ Gillian Clarke

Burning resins also facilitates spiritual connection and communication with higher realms, guides, and deities. The aromatic smoke is a medium for prayer, meditation, and communion with the divine. Resins are believed to have protective properties that ward off negative energies, evil spirits, and psychic attacks. Burning certain resins creates a barrier of spiritual protection around people and spaces.

Amber, my favorite type of resin, is not typically used as incense in the same way as other resins such as frankincense, myrrh, and copal. While amber has a distinct aroma when heated, it is not commonly burned as incense, mainly because pure amber resin does not produce as much smoke or fragrance as other resins. Instead, the resin is worn as protective jewelry, used in rituals and ceremonies, or displayed as decorative objects to enhance spiritual practices and personal well-being.

Amber is commonly perceived as a stone, but it is indeed a fossil that originated from the resin or ‘tree sap’ of cone-bearing trees like conifers millions of years ago. It is not classified as a mineral, but as an organic substance. The creation of amber starts when resin emerges from trees, usually as a reaction to damage or illness. Gradually, this resin gets buried in layers of sediment and undergoes polymerization and fossilization.

Amber possesses the extraordinary ability to safeguard fossils. It can trap various things like plants, insects, and even small vertebrates, freezing them in time and perfectly preserving them for countless years. This exceptional quality has intrigued scientists, historians, and collectors, enhancing the desirability of amber as a valuable substance. Regrettably, amber cannot conserve genetic DNA.

Amber holds a special place in human history as one of the oldest materials used for decoration and has been valued and used by humans throughout the ages, with evidence of its use dating back to the Stone Age. Archaeological findings, such as amber beads and artifacts, attest to its importance in ancient societies.

Amber’s natural beauty is one of the primary factors contributing to its popularity as an ornament. With a range of hues from pale yellows and oranges to rich browns and reds, amber possesses a warm and translucent appearance that fascinates people. Throughout history, various cultures have linked amber to wealth, status, and power. In civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, members of royalty, nobility, and clergy adorned themselves with amber jewelry as a symbol of prestige and divine support.

Ancient, warm, and with thousands of years of wisdom to lean on, it tethers us to nature and the cycles of rebirth. It is pure golden warmth ever ready to rouse your authentic desires and fill your spirit with calm and beautiful energy ~ Brett Larkin

Throughout history, amber has been prized not only for its beauty and use for ornamental purposes, but also for its use in traditional medicine, perfumery, and religious rituals. Amber holds cultural significance in many societies around the world and continues to be valued for its mystical qualities, including:

Protection

Amber holds great significance in various cultures due to its renowned protective properties. It possesses the ability to safeguard against harmful energies, malevolent entities, and psychic assaults by enveloping the wearer or surroundings in a shield of positive energy.

Amber has the ability to fortify the aura, improve spiritual clarity, and aid in connecting with beings from higher dimensions. Whether utilized as jewelry, a talisman, or incorporated into rituals, this precious substance acts as a potent assistant in safeguarding the spirit and fostering spiritual equilibrium and harmony.

Purification

Amber has the ability to purify and restore balance to the aura by eliminating negative energies. It is commonly used in cleansing rituals and ceremonies. In order to enhance the effectiveness of these rituals, amber-infused oil is often utilized. Additionally, amber essential oil, derived from amber resin, serves a variety of purposes such as aromatherapy and fragrance for candles, diffusers, and perfumes.

It is important to note that raw amber should not be burned as incense. Burning raw amber can release unpleasant odors and potentially harmful fumes due to certain organic compounds trapped within the resin. There are alternatives. Some types of amber resin are available for purchase that have been formulated specifically for use as incense. These resins often contain aromatic additives to enhance their fragrance while burning.

Grounding

Amber symbolizes the earth’s energy and the natural world due to its organic origin from fossilized tree resin. It establishes a connection between us and the elemental forces of nature, allowing us to ground and center our energy. In earth-based spiritual practices, amber is utilized to pay homage to the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Healing

Amber was frequently utilized in ancient medical customs due to its therapeutic attributes. It was thought to enhance physical well-being, vitality, and overall health. Traditionally, amber is employed as a remedy for different health issues such as alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and addressing respiratory problems.

Amber has numerous health applications, providing relief for various conditions like sore throats, earaches, toothaches, rheumatism, asthma, and digestive problems. It is believed that holding an amber ball can lower fever and boost metabolism. Additionally, it has been traditionally used to alleviate teething pain in babies.

Spirituality

Amber is said to contain the essence of life because it is warm to the touch, and whole insects or fragments of insects are often found in this fossil. Amber helps open the third eye chakra and facilitates spiritual insight, intuition and psychic abilities. It can be used in meditation practices to deepen one’s connection to the spiritual realm.

Amber holds significance in certain esoteric practices, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and the broadening of one’s awareness. In regions like the Baltic and Northern Europe, where amber is plentiful, stories and myths frequently portray it as tears shed by the sun or as solidified sunlight, carrying the essence of solar energy and divine illumination.

The origin of Baltic amber in Lithuania is often linked to a mythical story about queen Jurate and fisherman Kastytis. According to the legend, when Kastytis, a mortal man, tried to court the Queen of the Baltic, God Perkunas was furious and struck her underwater amber palace with lightning, sinking Kastytis and his boat. As a result, fragments of amber from the palace have been washed ashore by the waves, while smaller pieces, believed to be Jurate’s tears, are scattered during storms.

Manifesting

The energetic properties of amber help to ‘solidify’ or ‘crystallize’ our prayers, intentions and desires, making it a valuable tool for manifestation practices and rituals. It enhances the power of affirmations, visualization techniques, and intention setting practices to create and manifest wishes and desires more effectively.

Amber is associated with the Fifth Element, also known as Akasha. Akasha is the ruler and binder of the elements of earth, fire, wind and water, symbolizing all living things. When rubbed against silk or wool, amber becomes electrically charged. It is wonderful to work with when manifesting your intentions. This fossil is magnetic and its golden color symbolizes success for Gemini’s, Leos and Virgos.

Amber is considered a sign of fortune and wellbeing in certain cultures. Wearing amber accessories or having them in your living space is thought to bring in abundance and positive outcomes. It is also believed that amber can amplify sensuality and draw attention from someone you are interested in, showcasing your inherent beauty to them.

Ancestral Work

Amber is connected to the Akashic Records, the regression of past lives, and the knowledge inherited from our ancestors. It contains the memories and energies from previous lifetimes and ancient eras, along with the collective wisdom passed down by our predecessors.

Using amber during past life regression sessions or ancestral ceremonies can aid in the exploration of past lives and ancestral ties. Its harmonizing properties help in pacifying an excessively intellectual mind and are beneficial for both past life and inner child work.

Shamanism

Amber is of great importance in shamanism and is utilized in numerous ways to aid in healing, safeguarding, foretelling, and connecting with the spiritual realm. Particular shamans employ amber to summon positive spirits, intensify their altered states of consciousness, and ease their voyages into the world of spirits.

Amber is also sometimes used in psychopomp work, which involves guiding souls to the afterlife or helping spirits transition from the earthly realm. In these rituals and ceremonies, shamans incorporate amber to assist the spirits in their journey and facilitate their passage into the spirit world.

The historical significance of amber in spirituality and mysticism reveals humanity’s profound admiration for nature and the belief in the intrinsic abilities of natural elements to cure, safeguard, and enhance awareness.

Divination

Amber has various applications in divination practices. I have explored the use of amber as a pendulum, but my primary usage revolves around casting the bones. Prior to delving into different Western approaches to healing and divination, I underwent training as a sangoma in Southern Africa three decades ago. During that time, I acquired knowledge in various areas, including the art of divination referred to as ‘throwing the bones.’ A sangoma who casts bones can be likened to a Native American shaman, an Old Norse rune reader, or a European tarot reader.

The bones casting is an ancient divination practice found in many regions of the world, including Africa, Asia, and North America. Traditionally, each bone or token used for casting is part of a “set” or “kit” that the diviner carefully selects with the guidance of spirit, the ancestors, and initially with the help of a mentor. The typical kit contains several small objects and natural curiosities, including bones, shells, beads, wood, ivory, crystals, stones, and other objects of personal significance to the diviner.

At first, my kit for fortune-telling only contained bones from different wild creatures like baboons, lions, anteaters, and wild pigs. These bones were gathered from animals that had passed away naturally. Gradually, I expanded my collection to include shells, seeds, tree bark, money, crystals, and other charms that seemed to have a significance to me. One of the noteworthy additions was a stunning fragment of unprocessed amber.

Some diviner also use amber as a scrying tool by holding or hanging a piece of polished amber in front of a candle flame or natural light source. Scrying is a divination technique that involves looking into a reflective or translucent surface to receive messages, symbols, or visions from the subconscious or spirit realm.

Finally, I’d like to emphasize the significance of being mindful about the karmic responsibility associated with the usage of natural resources like amber in spiritual or healing practices. It is essential to prioritize ethical and sustainable sourcing for all natural materials we utilize, including crystals, gemstones, incense, resins, and so forth.

By actively opting for ethically and sustainably acquired amber, you demonstrate your respect for both our planet’s natural resources and the well-being of the communities and ecosystems involved in its extraction and manufacturing process. Ethically sourced amber guarantees fair labor practices, safeguards biodiversity, boosts local economies, and fosters a harmonious coexistence between humans and the environment.

By infusing your spiritual practice with intentionality and compassion, you contribute to the collective well-being of our planet and affirm your commitment to living in alignment with your values. Choose consciously, practice mindfully, and let your spiritual practice be a beacon of light for the world.

Discover the Fascinating Properties of Ancient Amber

Amber, a fossilized tree resin, has captivated humans for centuries with its mesmerizing beauty and intriguing properties. This ancient gemstone, often referred to as “the gold of the sea,” holds within it a wealth of historical and scientific significance. From its stunning colors to its ability to preserve ancient life forms, amber continues to amaze and fascinate people around the world.

One of the most remarkable properties of amber is its ability to preserve ancient life forms. Trapped within its golden depths are remnants of a bygone era, offering a unique glimpse into prehistoric times. Insects, spiders, and even small reptiles have been found perfectly preserved in amber, frozen in time for millions of years. These tiny creatures provide invaluable insights into the biodiversity and evolution of our planet.

Amber is formed from the resin of ancient trees, primarily conifers. When a tree is injured or stressed, it secretes resin as a defense mechanism. Over time, this resin hardens and fossilizes, transforming into amber. The process can take millions of years, resulting in a gemstone that is both beautiful and durable.

The colors of amber are as diverse as the species of trees from which it originates. Ranging from pale yellow to deep red, amber’s hues are influenced by various factors such as the tree’s age, the presence of minerals, and the environment in which it was formed. The most prized color is a rich, warm honey tone known as “classic amber.” However, other shades like green, blue, and even black can also be found, each possessing its own unique charm.

Amber’s beauty has been admired and sought after throughout history. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, valued amber for its aesthetic appeal and believed it possessed magical properties. It was often used in jewelry, amulets, and religious artifacts. Today, amber continues to be highly regarded in the world of jewelry, with designers incorporating it into modern and innovative pieces.

Beyond its visual allure, amber also possesses interesting physical properties. It is lightweight, making it comfortable to wear as jewelry. Additionally, amber is an excellent conductor of electricity when rubbed, a phenomenon known as “static electricity.” This property has been utilized in various scientific experiments and has even inspired the creation of electrostatic generators.

Amber has also been used for medicinal purposes throughout history. Its healing properties were believed to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote general well-being. Today, amber is still used in alternative medicine practices, particularly in Baltic countries where it is believed to have therapeutic effects on various ailments.

In recent years, scientists have discovered that amber contains a substance called succinic acid. This compound has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, leading to its use in skincare products and supplements. The potential health benefits of succinic acid have sparked interest in the scientific community, with ongoing research exploring its applications in various fields.

I have recently incorporated the practice of rune reading back into my daily spiritual routine. I had briefly experimented with it a couple of years ago while exploring different forms of divination.

However, this time around, my quest has taken on a more personal meaning in light of recent events in my life. I have been able to recall much of what I had previously learned, and I must say that utilizing the runes once again has been an incredibly rewarding journey.

I have recently realized that the runes can be a powerful instrument for profound self-reflection, inner direction, and alignment with the universal spiritual principles at the core of these ancient tablets of wisdom.

The term “rune” itself means “secret” or “mystery” in Old Germanic languages, reflecting their traditional use for various purposes, including writing, divination, and magical practices. Each runic tablet or stone contains a character from the ancient alphabets of early Germanic and Scandinavian cultures, including the Elder Futhark, which is the oldest form of the runic alphabet.

The Elder Futhark dates from the 2nd to 8th centuries and consists of 24 runes, each with its own unique meaning and symbolism. I use the Elder Futhark, which is the most commonly used rune set in divination practices, just as the Rider-Waite Tarot deck is the most commonly used in cartomancy.

Both the Elder Futhark Runes and the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck are widely used esoteric instruments in their respective traditions for individuals seeking divination, spiritual development, and self-contemplation.

Divination tools are translators of the universe and gods, and whichever one works for an individual to be a diviner is the correct one ~ Erin Scrogum

The Rider-Waite Tarot is arguably the most famous and widely used tarot deck, known for its rich symbolism and depth of meaning. The Elder Futhark is similarly revered in the realm of runic study and practice, valued for its historical significance and the wide range of insights it offers.

Both serve as excellent starting points for novices and provide valuable knowledge and opportunities for deeper exploration to those who are more experienced in their spiritual pursuits. I consider them as age-old remnants of wisdom to help navigate the difficulties of contemporary existence.

Some of my favorite runes from the Elder Futhark are:

Fehu (ᚠ) – Associated with wealth, abundance, and prosperity. It can also signify material possessions and the energy or effort required to achieve success.

Uruz (ᚢ) – Symbolizes power, well-being, and liveliness. It signifies physical strength, endurance, or an obstacle to conquer.

Thurisaz (ᚦ) – Represents a thorn or giant, suggesting defense, protection, or a potentially dangerous or challenging situation that requires caution.

Ansuz (ᚨ) – Associated with communication, wisdom, and the divine. It may indicate messages, advice, or revelations.

Raidho (ᚱ) symbolizes the act of traveling, moving, or embarking on a journey. This journey can be either a literal adventure or a symbolic quest through life.

The symbol Kenaz (ᚲ) represents knowledge, enlightenment, and understanding. It can also signify creativity or a resolution to a problem.

Gebo, also known as ᚷ, embodies the act of giving or showing generosity. It symbolizes the concept of offering and receiving, whether it involves tangible possessions, heartfelt emotions, or spiritual connections.

Wunjo (ᚹ) represents feelings of joy, pleasure, and harmony. It signifies happiness, well-being, and accomplishments in one’s activities.

These are only a few instances, obviously, and every rune encompasses a diverse range of significance that may alter according to the situation in which it is employed. In the practice of divination, runes hold a significant association with themes of fortune and predetermined outcomes. Each rune represents a distinct facet of existence, natural powers, or human sentiments. Nevertheless, runes are also potent instruments for contemplation, introspection, and internal direction on an individual’s spiritual journey.

In my previous professional readings, I would utilize tarot cards to address practical matters and difficulties. Additionally, I would incorporate runes as a means to gain insight into the individual’s psychological obstacles. – Anne Reith

Rune Reading As A Spiritual Practice

I engage in the practice of rune reading in order to gain a deeper understanding of the difficulties in life, make informed choices, and delve into spiritual inquiries. The significance and explanations associated with each rune can highlight fundamental qualities like bravery, power, resilience, safety, and wisdom, which prove crucial in facing and overcoming life’s obstacles.

For me, runes are less predictive in nature than other forms of divination. Instead, I find that runes offer more meaningful insights into the present moment, highlighting underlying dynamics and potential paths forward, rather than predicting future outcomes.

This is what I love about reading runes for spiritual growth. Once the seeker has accepted a baseline of wisdom and understanding, and is less concerned that everything will be all right in the future, runes can be used to enhance and strengthen that journey.

The runes, however, do also emphasize spiritual principles for manifesting results or outcomes For example, Isa, represented by a vertical straight line, informs us that we must take cover or stand still. Thurisaz, on the other hand, is a rune of luck, of being in the right place at the right time. Wunjo is a rune of joy. Raidho contrasts with Isa’s virtues in that we must move or take action.

You can also read the runes backwards, like in Tarot. I like this technique because it gives more intuitive depth and dimension to the reading. Not all runes are reversible, however, as they are in the same position, both upright and reversed. Ten of the 24 runes are the same whether cast upright or reversed.

You can also read runes alongside Tarot, either doing the reading side by side or drawing a Tarot card that corresponds to each rune. I like the former technique because it gives the reading a more intuitive and less structured perspective.

The use of runes can enhance your spiritual rituals or daily routine in various ways, providing a distinctive combination of self-reflection, guidance, and a link to age-old knowledge.

Runes are not a form of fortune-telling and don’t offer exact answers or give you advice – rather they offer different variables and suggest how you could behave if the event does occur ~ Rachel Newcombe

SELF-DISCOVERY

Runic readings encourage deep self-reflection. As you interpret the runes, you’re encouraged to look inward, to consider your current situation, your life’s path, and the choices you face. This process can lead to greater self-awareness and understanding, which fosters personal growth.

DECISION-MAKING

Runes serve as a tool for guidance, offering insight into possible outcomes or highlighting aspects of a situation you may not have considered. While they do not focus on predicting the future, they help you reflect on your actions and choices, providing a different perspective that can aid in decision making.

ANCESTRAL WISDOM

Runes are steeped in history and tradition, originating from ancient Germanic and Norse cultures. Using them in your spiritual practice creates a sense of connection to the ancients, their wisdom, and their understanding of the universe, enriching your spiritual experience with a link to the past.

MEDITATIVE FOCUS

Contemplating the significance of casting runes can serve as a meditative activity. It encourages mindfulness and concentration, redirecting attention from the chaos of everyday life to spiritual reflection.

Ingwaz is an excellent rune to meditate on at this time of year in the northern hemisphere. Its symbol is a double diagonal crisscross. Representing the germination of seeds planted earlier in the growing season, it represents growth and new opportunities. We’re reminded that sometimes action is in order if we have the patience of its sister rune, Isa, to sit still and wait for the flowers to bloom.

The rune Eihwaz, depicted as an arrow pointing up and down, presents a lesson that may seem contradictory. It brings to mind a biblical verse that states: “If a person doesn’t work, they won’t be able to eat.” As we wait, it is necessary for us to continue with our everyday tasks in order to sustain ourselves and have our needs met.

INTUITIVE DEVELOPMENT

Working with runes helps to sharpen your intuition and enhance psychic awareness. As you become more familiar with the symbols and their meanings, you’ll likely find yourself tapping into your inner knowledge and intuition to interpret them, strengthening these abilities.

MANIFESTATION PRACTICE

Using runes during manifestation can enhance your efforts by offering guidance and affirmations that resonate with your intentions and desires. By incorporating ancient wisdom, rune reading can uncover underlying energies, potential challenges, and helpful strategies relevant to your goals. This valuable guidance aids in sharpening your focus, clarifying your intentions, and bolstering your dedication to the manifestation process.

Rune casting fosters a more intuitive and co-creative relationship with the energies that shape our reality. In addition, the act of drawing and meditating on specific runes serves as a powerful ritual that energetically aligns your vibration with your desired outcomes, thereby increasing the effectiveness of your manifesting efforts.

SPIRITUAL ROUTINE

Adding the practice of rune reading to your spiritual routine establishes a framework and ceremonial aspect, establishing a designated time for introspection and communion with the spiritual realm. This consistent habit can help anchor you and bring a feeling of stability and ongoing progress to your spiritual path.

Runes can be adapted to suit different aspects of spiritual practice. Whether you’re seeking guidance, performing a ritual, or simply meditating on their esoteric meaning, runes offer a flexible tool that can be personalized to meet your spiritual needs. As with any spiritual tool, the key is to approach rune reading with respect, openness, and a willingness to learn from the insights it offers.

Understanding the Significance and Methodology of Rune Reading as a Spiritual Practice

Rune reading, also known as runic divination, is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to gain insight into the past, present, and future. Originating from the Norse and Germanic cultures, runes are a set of symbols that hold deep spiritual significance. This article aims to explore the significance and methodology of rune reading as a spiritual practice.

The Significance of Runes:
Runes are not just ordinary symbols; they are believed to possess magical and spiritual properties. Each rune represents a specific concept or energy, making them powerful tools for self-reflection and guidance. The runic alphabet, known as the Elder Futhark, consists of 24 symbols, each with its own unique meaning.

Rune reading is based on the belief that the universe is interconnected, and by tapping into the energy of the runes, one can gain insight into various aspects of life. Runes are often associated with the natural world, embodying the forces of nature and the cycles of life. They can provide guidance on relationships, career choices, personal growth, and spiritual development.

The Methodology of Rune Reading:
Rune reading involves drawing runes from a bag or casting them onto a cloth or surface. The most common method is to use a set of rune stones, which are small, flat stones or tiles engraved with runic symbols. Each symbol is associated with a specific meaning and interpretation.

To begin a rune reading session, it is essential to create a calm and focused environment. Many practitioners choose to light candles or incense and meditate before starting. This helps to establish a connection with the spiritual realm and open oneself to receiving guidance.

Once in a receptive state, the practitioner can draw runes from the bag or cast them onto a cloth. The runes that appear are then interpreted based on their individual meanings and their positions in relation to each other. The interpretation can be influenced by the practitioner’s intuition, knowledge of the runes, and the question or issue at hand.

Interpreting the runes involves considering their literal meanings, as well as their symbolic and metaphorical associations. Some runes may have positive connotations, while others may indicate challenges or warnings. It is crucial to approach rune reading with an open mind and a willingness to explore different perspectives.

Benefits of Rune Reading:
Rune reading offers numerous benefits as a spiritual practice. Firstly, it provides a means of self-reflection and introspection. By delving into the meanings of the runes, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their emotions, and their life circumstances. This self-awareness can lead to personal growth and empowerment.

Secondly, rune reading can offer guidance and clarity in decision-making processes. When faced with difficult choices or uncertain situations, consulting the runes can provide valuable insights and perspectives that may not be immediately apparent. The runes can help individuals navigate through challenges and make informed decisions aligned with their highest good.

Lastly, rune reading can serve as a tool for spiritual development and connection. By engaging with the energies of the runes, individuals can deepen their spiritual practices and strengthen their connection to the divine. The process of rune reading can be meditative and transformative, allowing individuals to tap into their intuition and access higher levels of consciousness.

In conclusion, rune reading is a significant spiritual practice that offers guidance, self-reflection, and connection to the spiritual realm. By understanding the significance and methodology of rune reading, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and spiritual development. Whether seeking answers to specific questions or simply exploring the mysteries of life, rune reading can be a powerful tool for those on a spiritual path.