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.

Reiki healing presents numerous potential advantages for enhancing both your physical and mental health. Reiki emphasizes that when our life energy is elevated, we experience joy, vitality, and radiance, whereas when it is diminished, we suffer from illness, fatigue, and tension.

Reiki is a form of energy healing in which practitioners use their hands to channel life force energy to the recipient. This universal energy or life force flows through all living things and is called ki in Japanese. The concept is similar to qi (or chi) in Chinese culture and prana in Indian culture.

A Reiki practitioner who has been trained and certified has the ability to direct healing energy, thus restoring balance and vitality to your life force energy.

In recent times, there has been an increase in popularity for Reiki. Previously regarded skeptically by conventional medicine, there is now a greater acceptance of complementary therapies, viewing Reiki as a calming and soothing practice.

Stress is a significant issue in our fast-paced society. Reiki is highly regarded for its ability to induce relaxation and alleviate stress, which has made it popular amongst various individuals, including celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, and Gwyneth Paltrow. Additionally, many mothers have openly expressed their use of Reiki, adding a touch of glamour and social endorsement to its reputation.

Certain hospitals and medical centers are implementing Reiki as a supplementary therapy for patients in addition to conventional medicine. Although there is a lack of definitive scientific proof, ongoing studies are being conducted to explore the possible advantages of Reiki, thereby increasing its credibility.

Reiki focuses on the process of healing rather than solely eliminating physical ailments. It aims to promote the connection with our authentic selves, embracing feelings of completeness, satisfaction, and joy. ~ Bronwen Stiene

Reiki’s widespread appeal is probably a result of several factors: its emphasis on promoting relaxation, the increasing recognition of alternative treatments, and its incorporation into certain healthcare environments.

Benefits Of Reiki Healing

There are several factors that make it worth considering a Reiki session.

Rephrasing: One key advantage of Reiki is its capacity to alleviate stress and foster relaxation. This is accomplished by harmonizing the body’s energy centers, aiding in the release of tension and fostering a serene and tranquil state.

Emotional healing: Reiki can help manage emotions and aid in the healing of emotional wounds. It’s often used as a complementary therapy for those dealing with anxiety, depression and emotional trauma, providing a sense of calm and emotional stability.

Pain management: Some people turn to Reiki for pain relief and management. While Reiki should not replace conventional medical treatment, it can serve as a supportive therapy that helps reduce pain and discomfort from various ailments and conditions.

Rephrased: The calming influence of Reiki enhances sleep quality. Individuals experiencing insomnia or inconsistent sleep patterns frequently discover Reiki sessions beneficial for attaining more peaceful and profound sleep.

Physical healing: Reiki accelerates the body’s ability to heal itself. It can be used alongside other medical treatments to aid recovery from illness, surgery and injury by enhancing the body’s natural healing processes.

Complementary therapy: Reiki is non-invasive and considered safe. It can complement other forms of therapy and medical treatments without interfering with them. Many find it beneficial as part of a broader approach to health and wellness.

Reiki is a powerful method for improving energetic health and is commonly employed to purify and release negative energies, harmful patterns, and energy obstructions. The objective of Reiki is to rejuvenate equilibrium within the body’s energy systems, promoting a profound sense of well-being through the harmonization of the mind, body, and spirit.

Reiki is love, love is wholeness, wholeness is balance, balance is well-being, well-being is freedom from disease ~ Frank Arjava Petter

Engaging in sessions with a Reiki practitioner can greatly benefit your spiritual journey and overall state of being. Here’s what you can anticipate from such experiences:

Finding A Practitioner

Find a certified, reputable Reiki practitioner with good reviews. You can ask friends, family, or your doctor for recommendations, or search online directories such as the International Association of Reiki Professionals or the International Reiki Organization. It’s important to choose a qualified and ethical practitioner who respects your boundaries and privacy.

It is crucial to carefully select your Reiki practitioner to establish a strong connection and ensure your utmost comfort during the treatment. Consequently, it is essential to find a practitioner who possesses not only extensive training and experience but also demonstrates qualities of compassion, empathy, and understanding to effectively address your concerns, health issues, and objectives.

Preparing For Your Session

Consider your desired outcome for the session. Do you seek stress reduction, pain alleviation, or a overall feeling of wellness? Formulating a clear intention can assist in directing the flow of Reiki energy. Communicate your objectives and expectations to your Reiki practitioner. It is important to be candid and transparent about any health issues or queries you may possess.

Make sure to hydrate yourself well before your session by drinking ample water. This promotes better energy circulation and assists in the elimination of toxins. Refrain from consuming heavy meals, caffeine, alcohol, or recreational drugs prior to your session, as they can disrupt relaxation and hinder the effectiveness of Reiki.

Make sure to wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Use the bathroom before the session to prevent any interruptions. If you can, take a few moments to meditate or relax prior to your appointment.

What To Expect

The setting of the session is expected to create a calming and inviting atmosphere, characterized by gentle lighting and tranquil music. You will be in a relaxed position, either lying on a massage table or sitting on a chair, while remaining fully clothed. The Reiki practitioner will utilize various hand positions, lightly touching or positioning their hands just above specific areas of your body, maintaining each position for a short period of time. It’s important to note that there won’t be any traditional massage techniques or physical manipulation involved.

It is crucial to acknowledge that individuals encounter unique sensations during their Reiki experiences. Some describe feeling warmth, tingling, or vibrations, while others may perceive cool sensations or a profound state of relaxation. Some people may not sense anything at all or may even drift off to sleep. All of these responses are completely normal. However, it is common for many individuals to undergo emotional release during a Reiki session.

The duration of a Reiki session can range from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on your personal requirements. After the session, it is important to allocate some time to adapt to the energy changes. It is advisable to stay hydrated by drinking ample water and give yourself the opportunity to unwind afterwards.

Share your encounter with the practitioner and inquire about any uncertainties you might have. They could suggest more sessions or other supplementary techniques to enhance your overall health.

The guidance of Reiki will show you the way. Allow the Reiki energy to take charge. Instead of trying to control it, let the energy effortlessly flow through you.

Reiki Distant Healing

Reiki Distant Healing, also known as distance or remote healing, is a practice within Reiki in which the practitioner sends healing energy across time and space to the recipient who is not physically present. It is based on the fact that energy is not limited by physical boundaries and can be transmitted across distances, much like radio waves or Internet signals.

There is no need for any specific actions to undergo a distance Reiki session, although it is recommended to schedule a particular time and date with your practitioner. This allows you to plan ahead and potentially relax in a lying down position in order to enhance your receptiveness to the healing energy being sent to you.

Reiki And Healthcare

It is important to understand that Reiki is not a substitute for conventional medical care and should never be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. It’s important to consult with your physician about any health concerns you may have.

Studies have revealed numerous advantages of Reiki, particularly in terms of relaxation and alleviating stress. However, the scientific proof regarding its effectiveness for physical healing remains inconclusive. Consequently, Reiki, along with various other alternative and complementary therapies, cannot solely rely on scientific evidence, leading some individuals to doubt its efficacy. However, if you personally experience positive results from Reiki, then its effectiveness for you is all that truly matters.

Although the impact of Reiki differs for each individual, the majority of people express satisfaction and enjoy advantages from their Reiki sessions. It is crucial to embrace Reiki with a receptive mindset and integrate it into a comprehensive strategy for promoting health and well-being, rather than perceiving it as a sole remedy for medical issues. Prior to commencing any new treatment, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional, as with any complementary therapy.

It is also important to know that you do not have to be suffering from a specific disease or condition to benefit from Reiki, but can think of it more as a maintenance program to keep you in a good place emotionally, physically and spiritually.

The Benefits of Reiki Healing: A Comprehensive Exploration

In recent times, there has been a surge in the popularity of alternative healing practices as people look for natural and holistic ways to enhance their well-being. Among these practices, Reiki healing has gained widespread recognition. Originating from Japan, Reiki is an energy healing method that aims to restore balance in the body’s energy and promote relaxation and healing. This article will delve into the many advantages of Reiki healing and explain why it has become a preferred choice for many individuals.

1. Reducing Stress: Stress has become a common issue affecting millions of people in today’s fast-paced world. Reiki healing provides a powerful solution to combat stress by inducing deep relaxation. During a Reiki session, the practitioner lightly places their hands on or above the client’s body, allowing healing energy to flow and reduce tension, promoting a sense of calm. This relaxation response not only helps manage stress but also improves sleep quality and overall mental well-being.

2. Alleviating Pain: Chronic pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Reiki healing has proven to be effective in reducing pain levels by addressing the root cause of the pain rather than just alleviating symptoms. By restoring the body’s energy flow, Reiki stimulates mechanisms of self-healing, resulting in pain relief and enhanced physical well-being.

3. Emotional Healing: Emotional trauma and negative experiences can leave long-lasting impacts on our mental and emotional state. Reiki healing works on a deeper level, resolving emotional blockages and facilitating emotional healing. By clearing stagnant energy and releasing emotional baggage, individuals often experience emotional release, inner peace, and improved emotional resilience.

4. Strengthening the Immune System: A strong immune system is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing illnesses. Reiki healing aids in strengthening the immune system by enhancing the body’s natural healing abilities. By clearing energy blockages and improving the flow of vital life force energy, Reiki supports the body’s ability to fight off infections and disease.

5. Spiritual Growth and Self-Discovery: Reiki healing not only focuses on physical and emotional well-being but also fosters spiritual growth and self-discovery. Many individuals report experiencing a deeper connection with their inner selves and a heightened sense of spirituality after regular Reiki sessions. This spiritual awakening often leads to increased self-awareness, clarity, and a greater sense of purpose in life.

6. Complementary Therapy: Reiki healing can complement traditional medical treatments, serving as a valuable addition to them. It does not interfere with medications or other treatments but rather enhances their effectiveness. Many hospitals and healthcare facilities now incorporate Reiki into their integrative medicine programs, recognizing its potential to support conventional treatments and improve patient outcomes.

7. Non-Invasive and Safe: One significant advantage of Reiki healing is its non-invasive nature. It does not involve any physical manipulation or invasive techniques like some medical procedures or therapies. Reiki is a gentle and safe practice suitable for people of all ages, including children and the elderly.

In conclusion, Reiki healing offers a comprehensive approach to promoting overall well-being, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health. From stress reduction and pain relief to emotional healing and spiritual growth, Reiki provides a wide range of benefits. As more individuals seek alternative healing methods, Reiki continues to gain recognition as a powerful tool for achieving balance, harmony, and optimal health.