Love & Light Live Crystal Healing Podcast

Join Adam Barralet, Ashley Leavy, Kyle Perez, and Nicholas Pearson in Episode #2 of the Crystal Confab Podcast as they discuss all-things Amethyst, including: * Similarities & differences of Amethysts from different localities * Getting back to basics with simple crystal practices * Crystallography and twinning and their effects on Amethyst energy * Amethyst and Jupiter Retrograde   Tune in now and dive into the magical world of Amethyst!     Podcast Episode Transcript: Crystal Confab Podcast Introduction: Are you just starting with crystals? Or maybe you have a whole collection but aren't sure how to use them? Join 4 crystal nerds, healers, workers, and lovers for crystal confab, a casual chat about all things crystals. Kyle Perez: Hello, and welcome to crystal confab, where we confab about crystals. I'm Kyle, the crystalline mage, and I have with us Adam Barralet, Nicholas Pearson, and Ashley Levy. And we are going to dive into amethyst, which I think we can all agree is an essential crystal and mineral for anyone working in and around crystals and minerals. I have, been blessed with, working with amethyst since I was a little kid when I was gifted my first piece from my grandmother. I think that's probably a story that's quite similar for everyone, whether it's walking into a crystal shop, whether it's being gifted a piece, whether it's finding a piece. I think Amethyst is often our first, and I'm excited to dive in with all of you about what Amethyst is amazing for in different ways. Maybe you haven't thought about it before, and maybe it will confirm the way you do work with amethyst. Adam Barralet: I love what you're saying, Kyle, about it being your first crystal because it was my first crystal as well. When I walked into a crystal shop, that's what I bought. And then I got a little sheet of paper that told you what to do with each crystal, and then that kind of spiraled out of this top mess than it is today. But, actually, Nicholas, was do you remember your first crystal? Nicholas Pearson: Yeah. I know mine really intimately. It's a piece of quartz that my grandfather gave me. I was you know, like a lot of us, I picked up rocks everywhere I went as a kid. I've never outgrown that, by the way, as Ashley can attest. And, my my grandmother collected, like, vintage turquoise jewelry. So, like, I just had this fascination with rock and gem, and my grandfather gave me a piece of quartz from Hot Springs, Arkansas, and that in no uncertain terms, it changed my life 30 plus years ago. Ashley Leavy: I have a similar story, of course, but my first crystal was fluorite. My grandfather was a huge mineral collector, and he specifically collected fluorite from Cave in Rock, Illinois in Southern Illinois, here in the Midwest in the US. And that fluorite in particular is so beautiful, displays this amazing cubic habit, fantastic color zoning, and he was so into it. And I can remember sitting in his office for hours while he would tell me about all these crystals. And when I was 8, I actually went to he had, like, a little cabin property in Southern Illinois, and I went down to visit for spring break over school. And he took me to Cave and Rock. And although I'm pretty sure that mine had recently closed at that time,

Join Adam Barralet, Ashley Leavy, Kyle Perez, and Nicholas Pearson in the very first episode of the Crystal Confab Podcast as they discuss all-things Black Onyx, including: * Black Onyx & the New Moon in Libra * Black Onyx for Shadow Work * The science behind the energy of Black Onyx * The origins and etymology of 'Onyx' and how the meaning has shifted over time   Tune in now and dive into the magical world of Black Onyx!   Podcast Episode Transcript: Crystal Confab Podcast Introduction: Are you just starting with crystals? Or maybe you have a whole collection but aren't sure how to use them? Join 4 crystal nerds, healers, workers, and lovers for crystal confab, a casual chat about all things crystals. Adam Barralet: Hello, and welcome to the first ever episode of crystal confab. My name is Adam Barralet, and I am joined by 3 individuals who I believe to be 3 of the best crystal experts in the world. We're gonna introduce ourselves in just a moment, but this is going to be a podcast which explores the crystal world, and we're gonna take a deep dive into one of your favorite crystals each and every week. So joining me on the podcast is Kyle, Ashley, and Nicholas. How are we all today? Kyle Perez: Really good. Ashley Leavy: Great. Thanks for having us. Adam: A pleasure. A pleasure. Now we're gonna be we're gonna be joining you every single week. Yeah. You might be wondering who on earth we are. So I might get each of the hosts to introduce themselves. We might start with Ashley. Ashley, tell us a little bit about yourself. Ashley: My name is Ashley Leavy. I'm the founder and educational director at the Love and Light School of Crystal Therapy. I am also the author of several crystal healing books, including Cosmic Crystals and the Beginner's Guide to Crystal Healing. I've been doing this work professionally since about 2007, and I am so excited for our inaugural episode and can't wait to talk with all of you. Adam: And, Ashley, your voice sounds a little bit different to mine. I'm guessing you're not Australian. Ashley: I am not. Thank you. I'm in the states. I live in Madison, Wisconsin, where I enjoy gardening, my chickens, time with my dogs, spending lots of time working with my crystals, and, overall, just having kind of a, you know, pretty quiet peaceful existence. Adam: Amazing. Amazing. And, of course, also joining us from the States, we've got Nicholas. How are you, Nicholas? Nicholas Pearson: Great. So, thanks so much for, you know, getting us all to collaborate, getting us in one space. I'm really excited for this. So for those who may not know my work already, my name is Nicholas Pearson. I am currently writing my 10th and 11th books simultaneously. The majority of which have been about crystals. You may already know some of the more popular ones like Crystal Basics or Stones of the Goddess or Crystal Healing for the Heart. And I have been a mineral collector for more than 30 years now. Initially, I went to university and actually majored in earth and environmental science and worked in the earth science field for a bit before leaving to do other things. And,

Working with crystal cards is an amazing way to tap into your intuition and get a little support and encouragement from the universe. Read on to discover the best crystal card decks for your daily card pull!   Why Work with Crystal Cards? I personally like to pull a card or two to start my day.  Then I’ll place the cards somewhere I’ll see them often throughout my day as a reminder of the messages they’ve given me. I like to add the cards I pulled to my altar and reflect on their meanings for some extra insight and clarity. The great thing about working with Crystal Cards, is that there’s no right or wrong way to go about it; it’s all about tuning into your intuition and doing what feels right. Crystal-themed Cards are my favorite because each card is associated with a particular stone. After pulling my cards and reflecting on their meaning, I can connect with the stone in meditation, while journaling, or even carry it with me throughout the day for some added support. It's an excellent way to anchor the card's message into my practice and helps me feel more connected with the energy I want to be mindful of that day. Tarot Cards vs. Oracle Cards: Tarot cards follow suits in the minor arcana and have strong archetypes associated with their major arcana cards, but Oracle cards don’t follow these traditional associations. Instead, they leave a lot of room for your own interpretation based on their symbolism and imagery.   6 Best Crystal Cards: There are TONS of amazing Crystal Card Decks available (including a few of my own!) and I often get asked which are my favorites to work with. I've pulled together my 6 favorite crystal card decks (in alphabetical order) that I'd recommend based on their substance and imagery - these decks have the perfect balance of beautiful aesthetics and great information that makes them perfect for a simple daily card pull, or a more extensive card spread.     #1: Crystal Energy Affirmation Cards by Ashley Leavy The Crystal Energy Affirmations Card Deck contains 52 crystal-themed cards. Each card features a photograph of the crystal and and associated affirmation. Draw a card, speak the affirmation aloud (or silently to yourself), and work with that crystal during the day to call in that energy and create positive changes in your life. This simple system is an excellent way to get to know your stones and is a quick and easy daily ritual for working with your crystals! P.S. I'll be giving away one of these decks to each new student who enrolls in my Crystal Healing Certification Program during the first 3 days of Early Bird Enrollment (from Oct. 7th - October 10th @ 11:59pm CT).     #2: Crystal Moon M...

  Libra season is here! This astrological season, it's important to focus on cooperation and justice. During Libra season, be mindful of your interactions with others. This is an important time for relationships of all kinds, from friends and family, to acquaintances and co-workers, or even those with whom you have a difficult time seeing eye to eye. As we dive into Libra season (September 23 - October 22), the focus shifts to cooperation and relationship building, especially when working in community with others. Discover more about this special time, and some of the best crystals for Libra season to use in your healing practice...     The opposing energies of competition and cooperation are at odds and how you engage with others will influence the outcome of each interaction. Cooperation is always more pleasant and productive than competition, so make an effort to keep your relationships working in your favor.     Working with the following Libra stones aligns you with the current celestial energies and is an excellent way to enhance the positive aspects of this astrological phase while balancing its challenges. Libra Season Correspondences: Dates: September 23 - October 22 Symbol: The Scales Ruling Planet: Venus Modality: Cardinal (Outgoing – related to imagination, resourcefulness, and talent) Element: Air (Click Here to learn more about working with Elemental Crystals) The Body: Kidneys Keywords: Balance, Cooperation, Justice Libra Season Gifts: Accommodation, Community, Compassion, Diplomacy, Geniality, Grace, Harmony, Imagination, Marriage, Partnership, Romance, Unions Libra Season Challenges: Fear, Hurt Feelings, Indecisiveness, Individualism, Isolation, Laziness, Loneliness, Over-Sensitivity, Projection, Wastefulness       Best Crystals for Libra Season: During Libra season, select crystals that amplify balance, harmony, and partnership. It’s important to note that Zodiac crystals are a little different than birthstones (more on that here). You can work with the following crystals to enhance or balance the energies of Libra season. Whether enhancing positivity or addressing challenges by balancing out the more difficult energetic aspects of Libra, these stones are the best companions for the celestial journey ahead.     Aquamarine (Blue Beryl) Azurite Chrysanthemum Stone Chrysoprase Rainbow Fluorite Hiddenite (Green Spodumene) Tai Chi Jasper Zebra Jasper Lapis Lazuli Malachite Snowflake Obsidian Ethiopian Opal Pinolith Pyrite Blue Sapphire Sardonyx Selenite White Marble Wish Stones   Top 3 Crystals for Libra Season: Azurite: This deep indigo stone is connected to your center for intuition and stimulates creative expression and imagination. Work with this crystal when you need a little intuitive help understanding the thoughts or feelings of others. When you can put yourself in someone else’s shoes (or their head for that matter), it’s easier to hold compassion for them and work in cooperation. Rainbow Fluorite: Rainbow Fluorite promotes clear thinking and allows you to see what’s most important...

  One way that I like to connect with the seasons and cycles of the earth is by tuning into The Wheel of the Year. The Autumn Equinox, sometimes called Mabon, is the third of the quarter days, which marks the second of the fall holidays (the mid-point between Lughnasadh and Samhain). Read on to discover how you can connect more deeply with the distinct energies of the Autumn Equinox in your spiritual practice.      Similar to the Lunar Phases (but on an annual scale rather than just monthly), the Wheel of the Year is a guide for living in alignment with the earth's natural cycles. When you harmonize with the seasonal ebb and flow of nature, you can lead a more soulful life, cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself, and better recognize your role in the world around you.   By helping you stay in energetic flow with the seasons, the Wheel of the Year allows you to internalize the outward changes in nature as reflections of the growth and evolution you experience in your own life.     So what is the Wheel of the Year? Separated into 8 main holidays, the Wheel of the Year is a representation of seasonal cycles that focuses on the 4 Solar Holidays of the year (also known as the quarter days). This stems from the Anglo-Saxon cultural observations of the solstices and equinoxes, with the addition of the 4 Gaelic, agrarian, seasonal celebrations (the mid-points between the solar holidays known as the lunar cross-quarter days or fire festivals). Although some of the holidays observed in the Wheel of the Year are quite old, The Wheel of the Year as a whole is fairly modern (being developed in the late 1950s). Though I don't personally follow the tradition that created the contemporary Wheel of the Year, I do find it a helpful way to think about the passage of time and what's happening in the world at each time of year.     I tend to identify more with the Gaelic Cross-Quarter Days, as they stem from my ancestral heritage, than I do with the Anglo-Saxon solstices and equinoxes, but I do find value in these quarter days because they more closely align with the seasons as I observe them where I live in Madison, Wisconsin. For example, though my ancestors in Ireland and Scotland celebrated Lughnasadh as the beginning of autumn, I don't quite feel the seasonal changes until the time of Mabon, the Fall Equinox, here in the United States. For this reason, these seasonal markers are important for helping me feel connected to what's happening in nature all year long, while the cross-quarter days hold more spiritual significance for me in other ways.   An Introduction to the Autumn Equinox: The Autumn Equinox, sometimes called Mabon, is the third of the quarter days, which marks the second of the fall holidays (the mid-point between Lughnasadh and Samhain). Mabon is traditionally celebrated on the day of the Autumnal Equinox, determined by when the Sun is directly over the earth's equator (this date may range from September 21st through September 24th each year depending on the Sun's position).

  Ever felt mysteriously attracted to a certain crystal or stone and wondered 'Why am I drawn to some crystals more than others?' It’s HIGHLY likely that the crystal you're feeling pulled to represents an energy that you need in your life right now.   There’s a wonderful quote by the Persian poet and scholar, Rumi, that says, “What you seek, is seeking you.” In my experience of working with people and crystals, I’ve observed this to be true time and time again.     When there's something in your life that feels like it's missing or something that really needs your focus and attention, then often there's a special stone that draws you in...almost calling to you, to support you in this work.  If you’re seeking to heal or balance some aspect of your life, a helpful crystal companion will often appear at just the right time - showing you the path to transformation and wholeness. These crystals often come into your life to help you create rapid shifts in your well-being.     For example, for the first many years of my crystal journey, I just didn't seem to connect with Rose Quartz at all. It's not that I disliked the stone, it just didn't really capture my attention and I thought it was a little boring. But after my grandmother passed away and I was processing a lot of grief and deeply missing her, I found myself drawn to Rose Quartz like a magnet. There was something so soothing and supportive about its energy and I connected with it in a very deep and meaningful way. I didn't understand for a few weeks why it had suddenly captured my attention, but then I realized how much I was missing my grandma - her support, compassion, love, and care - and Rose Quartz came to my aid to help comfort and soothe me during a very difficult time.       I often hear from people who have had these experiences and then later feel sad when their crystal “doesn’t feel how it used to” or they feel like they just "don’t connect with the stone the same way.” Does this sound familiar?   Well, in my experience, that’s because once the stone has done its job and the energy is no longer needed by you in the same way it was before, your connection to the stone (that feeling of being called to or drawn in by its energy) feels different.  It may even feel like the connection no longer exists at all.    But don’t worry!  This is a GOOD thing.     Feeling like this means most likely means that you’ve transformed and re-aligned the part of you that REALLY needed the supportive energy that the crystal was offering you. Now that you've created the needed shift, your crystal is either ready to do its thing all over again or to take a little rest. I realized after working with Rose Quartz over the course of a few months, that a time came when I just didn't feel as called to work with it as I had in the past. I was still very much grieving the loss of my grandma, but Rose Quartz had been such a helpful ally that it really helped me work through some of the toughest times. It became clear that I didn't need that same level of support anymore and it was ok to let go of my connection to my Rose Quartz companions. This didn't mean that my relationship with these stones was over ...

  Modern Summer Solstice celebrations stem from the contemporary Wheel of the Year, where Litha is associated with Midsummer and is celebrated as a time to revere and honor the Sun and the gifts it bestows to us here on Earth. One way that I like to connect with the seasons and cycles of the earth is by tuning into The Wheel of the Year. This is a relatively new practice for me, but I'm finding the journey into exploring this way of being in flow with the seasons to be an enjoyable one. Read on to discover how you can connect more deeply with the earth's natural cycles in your spiritual practice this Summer Solstice!     The Wheel of the Year can help you tune into natural cycles and helps you internalize these outward changes in nature as reflections of the growth and evolution you experience in your own life. Living in harmony with the seasons and the ebb and flow of nature helps you to lead a more soulful life and to cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself on a soul level. The Wheel of the Year helps you recognize who you are and your role in the world around you.     So what is the Wheel of the Year? Separated into 8 main holidays, the Wheel of the Year represents seasonal cycles that focus on the 4 Solar Holidays of the year (also known as the quarter days). This stems from the Anglo-Saxon cultural observations of the solstices and equinoxes, with the addition of the 4 Gaelic, agrarian, seasonal celebrations (the mid-points between the solar holidays known as the lunar cross-quarter days or fire festivals). Although some of the holidays observed in the Wheel of the Year are quite old, The Wheel of the Year as a whole is fairly modern (being developed in the late 1950s). Though I don't personally follow the tradition that created the contemporary Wheel of the Year, I find it a helpful way to think about the passage of time and what's happening at each time of year.   An Introduction to Summer Solstice: The Summer Solstice, also called Litha, here in the Northern Hemisphere, is the second of the quarter days (the solar festivals), which marks the second of the summer holidays (the mid-point between Beltane and Lughnasadh/Lammas). The Summer Solstice is traditionally celebrated on the longest day of the year, determined by when the Earth's pole is at maximum tilt toward the sun (this date may range from June 20th-22nd each year in the Northern Hemisphere, and between December 20th-23rd in the Southern Hemisphere). From this point forward, the days will begin to grow shorter until we reach the time of equal day and night at the Autumn Equinox (Mabon), followed by the shortest day of the year at the Winter Solstice (Yule). Modern Summer Solstice celebrations stem from the contemporary Wheel of the Year, where Litha is associated with Midsummer and is celebrated as a time to revere and honor the Sun and the gifts it bestows to us here on Earth. As this day is the longest of the year, it also has the shortest night, and in some modern spiritual paths, represents the death of the Sun King. To honor the Sun King, bonfires are often lit at sunset and a vigil is kept until dawn, to ensure his return.   Summer Solstice Crystals: Sunstone * Citrine Ethiopian Opal * Pyrite (especially Pyrite Sun formations) Golden Calcite

Cancer season is here! This astrological season, it's important to focus on your home and family life. It’s easy to take your family members or close relations for granted, but making others feel appreciated can go a long way to strengthening your relationships with them, especially during this time. As we dive into Cancer season (June 22 - July 23), the focus shifts to doing some of your favorite family activities or catch up on your list of things that need to be done around the house. Discover more about this special time, and some of the best crystals for Cancer season to use in your healing practice... When considering which tasks to focus on this season, consider doing more than just your regular house chores by giving your home some extra TLC. Repair broken things, replace anything that has been worn out, or even take time to add a coat of paint to freshen things up! Putting some positive energy into your home moves you into alignment with Cancer Season and the positive energy you create will stick around for many seasons to come. Working with the following Cancer-aligned stones aligns you with the current celestial energies and is an excellent way to enhance the positive aspects of this astrological phase while balancing its challenges. Cancer Season Correspondences: Dates: June 22 - July 23 Symbol: The Crab Ruling Planet: Moon Modality: Cardinal (Outgoing – related to imagination, resourcefulness, and talent) Element: Water (Click Here to learn more about working with Elemental Crystals) The Body: Stomach/Belly, Navel, Chest/Breasts, Ribs, Torso Keywords: Emotions, Family, Imagination, Peace, Tenacity Cancer Season Gifts: Creativity, Domestic Life, Empathy, Enterprising, the Home, Intuition, Inventiveness, Love, Loyalty, Protection Cancer Season Challenges: Defensiveness, Distrust, Excessive Emotions, Insecurity, Moodiness, Negativity, Over-Sensitivity, Reactivity, Shyness     Best Crystals for Cancer Season: During Cancer season, select crystals that amplify domesticity,  nurturing, and vulnerability. It’s important to note that Zodiac crystals are a little different than birthstones (more on that here). You can work with the following crystals to enhance or balance the energies of Cancer season. Whether enhancing positivity or addressing challenges by balancing out the more difficult energetic aspects of Cancer, these stones are the best companions for the celestial journey ahead.   Amazonite Amethyst Angelite Aquamarine Green Aventurine Buddstone Golden Calcite White Calcite Carnelian Chrome Diopside Garnierite Hiddenite (Green Spodumene) Red Jasper Larimar Moldavite Rainbow Moonstone White Moonstone Morganite White Pearl Rose Quartz Rhodonite Ruby Selenite

  Gemini season is here! This astrological season, it's important to focus on learning and new experiences. This is fueled by curiosity and the desire for greater understanding. Often, the knowledge gained during this season provides valuable lessons that will soon be needed in life. As we dive into Gemini season (May 21 - June 21), the focus shifts to being flexible and adapting to new situations. Discover more about this special time, and some of the best crystals for Gemini season to use in your healing practice...     Satisfying your curiosity often requires you to have new experiences or meet new people. This may be difficult for some (especially introverts), but the energy of Gemini’s ruling planet, Mercury, can give you the encouragement you need to try something new. You’ll likely be glad for the experience and look back at what you’ve accomplished with pride and joy.     Working with the following Gemini-aligned stones aligns you with the current celestial energies and is an excellent way to enhance the positive aspects of this astrological phase while balancing its challenges.   Gemini Season Correspondences:   Dates: May 21 - June 21 Symbol: The Twins Ruling Planet: Mercury Modality: Mutable (Open to Change – related to adaptation, intuition, and acceptance) Element: Air (Click Here to learn more about working with Elemental Crystals) The Body: Chest, Lungs, Arms, Hands, and Fingers Keywords: Adaptability, Communication, Cooperation, Curiosity, Joy, Kindness, Wisdom Gemini Season Gifts: Discovery, Empathy, Inquiry, Intelligence, Knowledge, Understanding Gemini Season Challenges: Apathy, Ignorance, Impulsiveness, Indifference, Overwhelm, Refusal to Change     Best Crystals for Gemini Season: During Gemini season, select crystals that amplify curiosity, empathy, and communication. It’s important to note that Zodiac crystals are a little different than birthstones (more on that here). You can work with the following crystals to enhance or balance the energies of Gemini season. Whether enhancing positivity or addressing challenges by balancing out the more difficult energetic aspects of Gemini, these stones are the best companions for the celestial journey ahead.   Moss Agate Angelite Blue Apatite Clear Apophyllite Green Apophyllite Azurite Celestite Chrysocolla Citrine Green Fluorite Rainbow Fluorite Hematite Howlite Red Jasper Blue Kyanite Lapis Lazuli Lepidolite Black Biotite Mica Muscovite Mica Peach Moonstone Rainbow Moonstone White Moonstone

Fossils can be found in nearly every part of the earth, though for some reason, they’re often overlooked by crystal healers who are perhaps lacking the knowledge of all the fossil stone benefits they're missing out on! Perhaps it’s because they often lack the bright colors and glittering, gemmy appearance of many crystals…or perhaps it’s because many crystal workers are unsure of how to work with them. Whatever the reason, it’s time to change that, because incorporating fossils into your crystal work can be deeply rewarding and fulfilling. Though the types of fossils vary, they do share a set of energetic qualities whether they're plant or animal fossils, no matter the mineral type. Individual fossil types have added properties, but all fossils share the following qualities: Common Healing Properties of Fossils:   Enhances your connection with nature and its flora and fauna Promotes journey work Facilitates access to your past life memories Enhances communication with your guides Promotes energetic protection Connects you to your ancestors (familial, spiritual, land spirits, etc.) Facilitates grounding Connects you with the energy of the Earth element     If you’re interested in developing a relationship with fossils, here are a few of my favorites to explore… Top 5 Fossils for Crystal Healing:   #1 - Ammonite Fossils for Crystal Healing Of all the fossils I’ve worked with, Ammonites may be my favorite. They’re a type of cephalopod and their spiral formation evokes a mystical quality that humans have been attracted to for thousands of years. Ammonite fossils are particularly beautiful, and the best are found in Madagascar, England, and Peru. There are various legends and folklore surrounding Ammonite fossils. For example, in England, people referred to Ammonites as “snake stones.” The story behind this is that St. Hilda of Whitby (614-680) prayed for dangerous snakes to be turned to coiled stones, in order to clear the land for a convent (other versions of the lore say St. Hilda turned the snakes to stone to protect the nuns at Whitby Abbey). People believed these “snake stones” to be holy, or at least lucky, and wore them as charms, often with a snake head carved at the end. One genus of ammonites is still known as Hildoceras in the saint’s honor. Properties of Ammonite Fossils: Promotes acceptance Facilitates spiritual journey work and inner work Enhances your connection with Goddess energy Facilitates past life recall Enhances your present moment awareness Facilitates animal communication Assists with receiving guidance from your ancestors Promotes grounding Enhances your connection to Earth energy and nature Aids in recalling your dreams or uncovering past life memories Assists in developing a regular meditation practice Learn more about Ammonite Fossils here.   #2 - Belemnite Fossils for Crystal Healing Also known as Thunderstones, Belemnite Fossils are records of a type of squid-like Cephalopod that inhabited the earth from the Triassic period until the Cretaceous period. The “cone” is the most common fossilized portion of the creature,