posted March 29, 2003 12:51 AM         

A Natural Approach to Skin Care

I bet most of you are suffering from itchy, flaky skin, the effects of the dry winter air. Unromantic as dry itchy skin can be, it is a very common complaint and can be remedied rather easily.

First let's explain why this happens, the obvious being low humidity in the air, add moisture to your air if possible. If you are dry on the outside then you are dry on the inside. Increasing your fluids is the first step to a comfortable birthday suit. The skin is able to absorb whatever you put on it thank goodness we have Langerhans cells from the immune system sitting in the epidermis ready to attack bad invaders. Did you know that a lot of commercial products actually cause dry skin and allergic type reactions?

Take a look at your label on your body wash and shampoos and lotions. Do you see Methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben, mineral oil, petroleum jelly, propylene glycol (antifreeze component) sodium lauryl sulfate, Triethanolamine or TEA or their cousin DEA, stearalkonium chloride? Any one of these chemicals can cause rashes, dry skin and allergic reactions. This information comes from the OSHA Standards and Guidelines and is labeled skin irritants.

Even most of your commercial vitamin and herb capsules and medicine capsules have SLS in the capsules. So not only are you smearing these chemicals on your skin you are ingesting them also....everything goes straight to the liver. (There will be those that will want to refute this information but first look up what OSHA has to say)
The Natural Approach steps to healthy skin would be increasing the moisture content in the air, increasing your fluid intake and decreasing the chemicals or skin irritants applied to the body on a daily basis. I recommend a "natural" soap for bathing. The reason being is there are no chemicals or skin irritants in them.

The many different oils used in the herbal soap formulas are used because of their ability to reconstruct and stimulate new skin cells. Ingredients like goats milk help to replace the skin natural acid mantle, unlike the commercial detergents (they are not soap according to the FDA) on the market that strip the natural acid mantle off the skin.

Another natural approach is to have your partner give you a massage with a good herb infused oil. The action of rubbing the oil in stimulates blood flow and the warmth from the hands of another human being has great healing ramifications.

To make a massage oil that is great for dry tired winter skin
1/c cup of sweet almond oil
5 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of patchouli oil
3 drops of peppermint

Thank you Lucinda Jenkins an LPN & HC as well as a Reiki Practitioner. She is the owner and Master Soapmaker at Glenbrook Farms Herbs and Such, an on-line herb and tea shop.

March 27 2003

Come count the rain with me.
Mitakuye Oyasin & Namaste
MaryLee
HHP, CCHT, CMT, Ret. LPN,
Reiki Master, Native Medicine Woman & Crone

posted March 29, 2003 12:54 AM         

I know there is but One Mind, which is the Mind of God, in which all people live and move and have their being.

I know there is a divine pattern for humanity and within this pattern there is infinite harmony and peace, cooperation, unity and mutual helpfulness.

I know that the mind of humankind, being one with the Mind of God, shall discover the method, the way and the means best fitted to permit the flow of divine love between individuals and nations. Thus harmony, peace, cooperation, unity and mutual helpfulness will be experienced by all.

I know there shall be a free interchange of ideas, of cultures, of spiritual concepts, of ethics, of educational systems and scientific discoveries - for all good belongs to all alike.

I know that, because Divine Mind has created us all, we are bound together in one infinite and perfect unity.

In bringing about world peace, I know that all people and all nations will remain individual but united for a common purpose of promoting peace, happiness, harmony and prosperity.

I know that deep within every person, the divine pattern of perfect peace is already implanted.

I now declare that in each person and in leaders of thought everywhere this divine pattern moves into action and form, to the end that all nations and all people shall live together in peace, harmony and prosperity - forever.

posted March 29, 2003 08:29 PM         

SPeddicord@harpo.com Please fell free to ask your family, friends, and CO workers to join in with us. Thank you so much you know this is a subject close to my heart so thanks again I am going to forward you the email I sent to her producer over a week ago here it is:

MS Peddicord, On January 31st

The Sickle Cell Forum Group
Sickle Cell Group on Yahoo
The Sickle Cell Thalassemia patients Network
Ralph Sutton 's Group at The Sickle Cell Disease Organization
Allan Platt, Program Coordinator, The Georgia Comprehensive Sickle Center in Atlanta, GA
The Comprehensive Sickle cell Center Harlem Hospital
and numerous Sickle Cell patients, family members and friends

Agreed to send an email to Oprah asking her to please do a show on Sickle Cell Anemia. Life stories of how this disease effects us were included in our emails and these efforts that started on January 31st have continued, unfortunately with no response from The Oprah Winfrey show. All of us at one time have requested Ms. Winfrey's help but no response other than the usual form letter was received. We felt if we asked family, friends, CO workers, church members and Sickle Cell organizations to join with us it would make a difference and our voices would be heard, but still no response from the Oprah Winfrey show.

This is a disease that effects us in great numbers. Sickle cell and S. Beta-Thalassemia disease are hereditary blood disorders found primarily among people of African, Asia, Southeast Asian, East Indian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern Central and South American decent. Both blood disorders cause excruciating pain, tissue, bone, and organ damage and in the case of poor medical care childhood and early adult death.

There are so many African Americans who are not aware of this disease and have never been tested. It is imperative that we bring this to the public's attention. Ms. Winfrey' is respected by all in every community all over the world. MS Winfrey's shows on Breast Cancer, Obesity, and other health issues are appreciated but this is something close to my heart and the hearts of many others.

MS Peddicord, wont you please take some time out of your busy schedule and give some thought to doing a show on Sickle Cell Anemia? Would you take a moment and inquire from your staff how many emails have been received and are still coming in regarding this topic? On January 31st I know your site was flooded with emails and we continue to ask you to please address this issue. I hope you will find it in your heart to act on this. I know education is a very high priority on MS Winfrey's list and rightfully so, will you and MS Winfrey help to educate the public about Sickle cell Anemia? I know there is a wide audience for this subject please consider doing this and thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. Juanita McCoy

--

posted April 06, 2003 05:39 PM         

Lorraine V

Disclaimer

This information is offered here as a service and is not meant to replace any medical treatment.
No guarantee is made towards validity. Use this information at your own risk.
This is my personal belief on how high quality gemstones work for me.

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
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Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

Gemstone Therapy Overview
Gemstone therapy is an alternative technique for strengthening the body and resolving issues and patterns. The theory is that gemstones carry vibrational rates. By placing these vibrational rates within the aura - your aura's vibrational rates also change. Often the effects are indirect but very potent. Other times, the effects are very direct and repeatable.
The easiest way to do gemstone therapy is to wear high quality round beads around the neck. Intention strengthens the process but is not necessary. Metal inhibits the process. If metal surrounds the gemstone, its affects are often greatly reduced (and sometimes eliminated).

There are many fancier gemstone therapy techniques -- some can be found on my Chakra Therapy web page. Details about what each stone does when in rounded form is available under Therapeutic Gemstone Properties. As I say there -- don't take my word for what any stone does -- find out what it does for you. You are the best judge of what works for you.

I always use high quality gemstones. These gemstones are undyed, not irradiated and have very few inclusions and cracks. Beware that there are several "look-alike" glass and fake stones out there. Generally, if the cracks are darker than the bead -- the bead is dyed. See Buying Your Own Gemstones for more information

To determine which stone to use, I recommend going to several bead stores and seeing if any stone attracts you. Verify that the stones are not dyed and ask if the stones have been treated. String the beads on silk if possible.

I have been doing Gemstone therapy since 1990. For more details see: Lorraine Venner's Gem Work page. Thank you.

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
Free Health-Related Newsletter ~ Cleaning Gemstones ~ Buying Gemstones
Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

Therapeutic Gemstone Properties
I only use the highest quality stones. High quality stones are undyed (if possible), have no chips/fractures, and are not irradiated (to enhance color). I recommend using rounded stones for gemstone therapy.
The properties listed here are for rounded, highest quality gemstones. Non-rounded stones may have different effects.

Amazonite: Improves self worth. I find that I have more confidence when I wear this stone.
Amber: Lift heaviness. Amber is great at lifting the heaviness of burdens -- allowing happiness to come through.
Amethyst: Spiritual Upliftment. This is also the present carrier of the purple color ray. I wear a short necklace of this when I need to communicate effectively. I place this on my stomach/liver when I have stomach problems.
Apatite: Communication. I wear this stone when there has been a misunderstanding. It is also helpful for fighting viruses.
Aquamarine: Remind one of the ocean of love and mercy. It can help one understand difficult situations from a love-filled viewpoint. I either wear an aquamarine stone or gaze into an aquamarine crystal. I recommend aquamarine or rose quartz for those who are experiencing a lot of grief.
Blue Aventurine: Circulation. I get very happy when I wear this stone. I also use this to help clear my congestion.
Green Aventurine: Physical healing. I either place this around my neck or on the area where healing is needed. This is the stone I would choose for overall healing support. For major illnesses, I would use emerald and/or frosted quartz as well. Transparent Aventurine is extremely powerful - however, it needs washing daily (dry flat). Immature transparent aventurine will fade.
Cape Amethyst: Inner alignment. This seems to balance the inner bodies (emotional, spiritual, etc.) as well as provide more energy. I use a very small sphere (4-6mm) on acupressure points for 1-5 minutes to clear energy blockages. For larger spheres (8mm), use less than a minute. Also good for arthritis - wrap strands of cape amethyst around aching joint.
Carnelian: Balance creativity and mental processes. When my husband was wheezing from allergies, I placed this on him. He stopped wheezing within 30 seconds. When I removed it, he started wheezing again. This worked best with natural carnelian (bright orange). However, clear man-made carnelian worked on him as well. Wash carnelian under water after wearing it. Carnelian is the carrier of the orange ray.
Chrysoprase: Spiritual protection. Thi stone allows me to work through issues without outside influences. Great when starting in management or working with large groups of people.
Citrine: Upliftment. I wear this to help align my spine. I either place a strand along my spine or wear it around my neck. Citrine encourages the yellow ray to support the body. This stone also helps one process energy work.
Coral: Emotional Foundation. Coral protects and strengthens one's emotional foundation.
Diamonds: Increase personal clarity. I find this aligns me with my higher purpose as well as offers many healing properties. I have had profound results with diamond therapy. (Some diamond therapists are listed under gemstone therapists.)
Emerald: Physical and emotional healing. This is the strongest physical healing gemstone that I know. I use it by placing it on the area which needs healing or wearing it around my neck. Emerald is the carrier of the green ray.
Green Fluorite: Hormone Balance. This stone has been helpful with hormonal changes such as PMS and menopause.
Purple Rainbow Fluorite: Change. Helps one get out of ruts.
Jade: Relaxation. Jade works wonders for my husband when placed on a sore shoulder or back. I have used it to reduce tension in my life. I find that I am calmer when I wear jade.
Kunzite: Emotional Support. I use this stone to help my mind and my emotions be in sync.
Lapis: Understand the mind. Expanding your viewpoint. It is good for connecting the heart and the mind when worn over the heart.
Leopardskin Jasper: Bring what one needs. Note that it doesn't necessarily bring in what you want. However, it is a wonderfully supporting stone.
Mahogany Obsidian: Decision making. It has been helpful in healing my gums as well.
Malachite: Bring harmony into one's life. I have done many meditations with malachite to gather knowledge on gemstones and on myself.
Moldavite: Grounding stone. Really puts one in their body. This is extremely strong -- you may wish to try black onyx for grounding first. It is rumored that it helps you talk to other sentient beings (humans and whales and dolphins). I haven't tried this.
Grey Moonstone: Helps one accept other stone's powers by cleansing blocks. This can be hard to wear.
Orange Moonstone: Helps one accept other stone's help by comforting you. This is less powerful than white - but helpful when one really needs a certain stone.
White Moonstone: Helps one accept other stone's help through highlighting the others effects. I like this moonstone the most. When worn by itself is balances yin/yang.
Moss Agate: Get in touch with nature. Plant knowledge.
Mother of Pearl: Protection; Know mother's love. This stone is a great protective stone.
Black Obsidian: Grounding stone. I gaze into it for a very short time (1-5 minutes) each day for 3 days when I need insight into a problem. I use black obsidian when I have been unable to understand what aquamarine has been trying to show me. This is a very strong stone. I use it sparingly.
Black Onyx: Helps one to change bad habits. This is great when used in a necklace. I have found it helps people notice their chakras when placed on each chakra. (This can be done one chakra at a time.) It is a great grounding stone.
Mexican Onyx: Helps one sleep better. For more details, see my Sleeping Better therapies.
Black Opal: See self as Soul. I find this stone is great for helping one see the possibilities of how one can be all they can be. This stone seems to strengthen bones too.
Opal: See possibilities; discover a broader view. I use opal to see all the possibilities in a situation. I find it very freeing when I feel blocked in a situation. Some people find this stone very hard to wear. I find it wonderful. A little opal can go a long way.
Fresh Water Pearl: Enable one to accept love. See the good parts of oneself so you can love yourself and others more.
Peridot: Brings the energies from in the aura to the physical body. This is useful after energy work -- however, one needs to be certain that they are bringing in the new energy -- not the stuff they are trying to purge. Use with caution. If you muscle test (or use a pendulum), test for it.
Poppy Jasper: Gain a positive outlook. I find that I am very happy when I wear this stone.
Frosted Quartz: Balance. I often place this over the chakras or wear it around my neck. It is wonderfully soothing.
Rose Quartz: Emotional balance. Very good for expressing and soothing emotions. Try to find undyed rose quartz. I find that gold doesn't mix with rose quartz.
Rhodonite: Emotional support. Helps one take the next step emotionally.
Rhodocrosite: Change. Gives one confidence while making desired changes. Very supportive. One can make large changes very quickly with this stone.
Ruby: Love; Open the heart. It allows me to overcome fear. Carrier of the red ray. Also here...
Sapphire: Mental clarity. Clear mental garbage. Carrier of the blue ray.
Sodalite: Protects from external negative energy. I use it by computers to help reduce the damage from EMF.
Sunstone: Enhances contemplations. I find my meditations are clearer when I wear this stone. Also, I remember my dreams more. I use it for a few days in a row when I find I have not been remembering my dreams.
Sugilite: Absorbs garbage from wearer's aura. I feel lighter when I wear this stone. It uplifts me and gives me more energy.
Tanzanite: Changes. Uplifts and opens the heart.
Green Tourmaline: Promote male balance and physical healing. I do not recommend this for females (use emerald or aventurine).
Pink Tourmaline: Promote female balance and protection.
Tree Agate: Introspection. Helps one view themselves with more clarity and see the world through a broader viewpoint.
Unikite: Balances physical/emotions.
Unknown: Discover the properties of unknown stones for yourself. Find out what is true for you. Keep your stone with you as much as possible for a week. Place it next to your bedside when you sleep at night; wear it or put it on your desk during the day. Pay attention to your moods, your interactions with others, and your dreams. Do you have any insights? Try asking the question, "What does this stone do?" before going to sleep. It may help your unconscious/higher self/your inner guide tell you what the stone does for you.
The body needs all 7 color rays: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Each color ray is associated with one or more (depending on which reference you use) of the chakras.
By using the color ray that supports a particular chakra, you can speed healing of the associated areas and organs.

I update this chart regularly with more information.

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
Free Health-Related Newsletter ~ Cleaning Gemstones ~ Buying Gemstones
Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

Ayurvedic Gemstone Properties
I have had mixed results with Ayurvedic medicine. Using Ayurvedic toothpaste has gotten my teeth and gums to be healthier than they ever were when using conventional brands of toothpaste; using oil before showers occasionally has really helped my skin. The recommended foods haven't worked great for me -- but I think that is due to me seeming to switch doshas fairly often. However, I know others who always have great results.

Uses of Gems:
For healing: Amethyst, Bloodstone, Pearl
(I find pearl draining unless used with other stones. I would not use it for physical healing unless you have an over abundance of energy. I would use it for emotional healing)
To experience subtle effects of energy: Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Ruby
To attract creativity: Bloodstone, Pearl
For receptivity: Agate, Beryl
(I use Citrine or Cape Amethyst)
To provide general protection: a Beryl, Lapis Linquis
(I use Sodalight or Mother of Pearl)
For protection against cold: Carbon Steel
(I haven't used this. I would try Rose Quartz.)
For protection against anger: Pearl, Opal

Ayurvedic Birthstone chart
January: Garnet
February: Amethyst
March: Bloodstone
April iamond
May: Agate
June: Pearl
July: Ruby
August: Sapphire
September: Moonstone
October: Opal
November: Topaz
December: Ruby
Traditional, Modern, and Mystical Birthstones

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
Free Health-Related Newsletter ~ Cleaning Gemstones ~ Buying Gemstones
Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
Free Health-Related Newsletter ~ Cleaning Gemstones ~ Buying Gemstones
Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

Cleaning Gemstones
There are many ways to clear crystals of negative energy. Here are some suggestions:
Outside method: Place in sunlight (see sunlight chart below), moonlight or rain (see water method) for up to a day. Placing the stone on or near a plant often quickens the process.
Crystal method: If the stone is small small, place it on a quartz or amethyst cluster. The cluster should be dedicated to this purpose with a clear intent. Clean your cluster every month or two in rain or sunlight if possible. Amethyst geodes work well too. This is a great way to clean necklaces!
Sage tea method: hathor@primeline.com uses sage tea to cleanse hers. This is very effective with less possibility of damaging crystals. Since there are many crows and other birds who love bright shiny objects where she lives, she found out the hard way that setting crystals outside to wash in the rain and bask in the sun (or moonlight) was not going to work for her.
Take fresh sage if available and brew a pot of light tea; allow it to cool. Place your crystals in a bowl (use glass if possible) and pour the cooled tea over them. Hathor leaves hers in the sage tea overnight. Then remove them and rinse with clean, pure water. Since there are chemicals in most water systems you may prefer to use a gallon of distilled water.
If you can safely place crystals outside for nature to cleanse that is perfect, though you'll need to be able to distinguish which stones cleanse best by moonlight and which stones cleanse best by solar.
Smudge method: Pass stones through the smoke of a scented incense such as sweetgrass, frankincense, sage or Dragon's Blood. Passing them through a candle flame also works.
Water method: Place stones under alternating hot and cold running water for 5 minutes (or in the rain for many hours). I place stones in a plastic strainer and then alternate the hot and cold running water from the sink. It is good to have a water filter on your tap to filter out chemicals. This is quick and easy but has drawbacks: some stones loose their coatings when they get wet. Use caution with lapis, malachite and sodalight as they may get damaged faster. Cleaning these stones in the sun or moonlight works fine. [Note: Stones really like the rain. It cleans much better than the usual water method when the weather cooperates.]
Homeopathic method: Some homeopathic solutions clean gemstones as well. I've successfully used NET (alcohol-free) homeopathics to clean stones. Other alcohol-free brands may work as well.
Sea salt method: use 1 cup of sea salt to 2 cups natural spring water. Place stones in the salt, and let them soak for the better part of the day. If the day is sunny, let them dry in the sunshine for a few hours, or if you have lunar stones, lay in the moonlight on a windowsill through the night. BEWARE: polish may be removed using this method.
Sand method: when all else fails or you are having a hard time cleaning something, bury it in moist sand (or soil). No wrappings. It will get gems clean but be aware that the polish is often removed when this method is used.
Mirror Method: Place the gemstones on a mirror over night to clean them. (Thanks Ro!)
Light Method: Bathe your gemstones in imaginary light and/or sound until clean. I only use this method when I am in a hurry.
Freezer Method: Place stones in freezer overnight.
Stones damaged by sunlight (there may be more):
Aventurine: translucent types often loose color
Amethyst: becomes paler
Apatite: pink variety fades
Aquamarine: becomes paler
Beryl: brown or orange types may change to pale pink
Celestite: fades in direct sunlight
Citrine: may change color
Fluorite: green and purple types change color
Rose Quartz: becomes paler
Smokey Quartz: becomes paler
Kunzite: becomes pale or loses color
Sapphire: should be cleansed in moonlight

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
Free Health-Related Newsletter ~ Cleaning Gemstones ~ Buying Gemstones
Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

Buying Gemstones
There are many ways that dealers treat gemstones. The savvy buyer asks lots of questions and hopefully tests the results. Here are some treatments to look for:
Irradiation: This is the worst treatment used. Gemstones loose any therapeutic properties once they are irradiated. It is *very* common to irradiate aquamarine, topaz, emerald, and diamond, as well as other stones. Irradiation treatment brings out color and removes imperfections. Some dealers don't even know if they are selling irradiated stones. Honest ones will tell you. If you can feel energy from gemstones -- it will be either very scattered or dead when a gemstone is irradiated.
Dye: This is the most common treatment used. On clear stones, cracks often appear as darker areas of the stone. On others, sometimes there is a residue that rubs off -- or white patches. Almost all lapis and rose quartz are dyed. Amethyst and citrine are often dyed. Dyed stones are much weaker with the exception of black onyx which is dyed in normal processing.
Coatings: Jasper is often dipped in petroleum products to bring out color and to seal it. Unfortunately, this makes it weaker. Sometimes you can tell by smell. Energetically, it feels dampened.
Fake stones: Some dealers will try passing off fake stones instead of natural ones. There are fake stone equivalents for most gemstones on the market. Always ask what type of stone something is if you are not certain. Honest dealers will tell you. If a stone looks too perfect it may be fake, irradiated or dyed. Avoid laboratory products (also known as synthetics).

Other things to look for:
Quality of stone. Is it good color, good clarity and desired shape?
Quality of cut. Are there chips, dents, and imperfections in the stone? For beads, Are stones the same size and shape?
Quality of drilling. If buying beads, how big of hole is there?
Length of strand. If buying unstrung beads, be certain your strand is a full 16 inches.
Visiting Gem & Jewelry Shows exposes you a wide variety of gemstones. You can compare several gemstones in one viewing and also get educated by many dealers. To locate the show nearest you, go to Gemstone and Jewelry Shows.

To learn how to appraise the quality and value of diamonds, see Jewelry Mall's Diamond Buying Guide.

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
Free Health-Related Newsletter ~ Cleaning Gemstones ~ Buying Gemstones
Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

The Best and Most Reliable Gemstone Reference
Here is my favorite Gemstone Therapy reference.

Gemisphere Luminary by Michael Katz
Publisher: Gemisphere
US/Canada toll free: 1-800-727-8877
503-241-3642 (voice) ; 503-241-9673 (fax) www.gemisphere.com

Gemisphere (formerly Golden Age Institute) has a catalog which is really nice. It features nice pictures of each necklaces as well as its therapeutic properties. They offer very good classes and home study courses are available.
Below is a list of books I have found useful ordered by my evaluation of their value. (Lnks to Amazon.com for quick, reliable service - and discount prices!)

Gemisphere Luminary - by Michael Katz
This is my favorite reference. Everything about these gemstones works as described. This information has helped me make desired changes as well as help others.

The Crystal Wisdom Kit - by Stephanie Harrison, Barbara Kleiner (Contributor)
Enter the enchanting world of crystals and discover how they can enhance and change your life. Kit contains a 112-page illustrated book, 12 crystal tumblestones, 3 casting wheels, and drawstring pouch for storage.

Love Is in the Earth: A Kaleidoscope of Crystals - by A. Melody
This is an extremely comprehensive book. There are hundreds of stones explained in detail. Additionally, it explains crystal configurations, programming crystals, and practical applications.

Love Is in the Earth - Mineralogical Pictorial: Treasures of the Earth - by A. Melody
A companion book for Melody's "Love is in the Earth."

Aora Gemstone Oracle; Cards to Explore the Crystal Realms With Book - by James Mc Keon (Illustrator), Noreen Levi (Illustrator)
A fun way to learn about gemstones featuring colorful gemstone cards. Learn how to use your intuition to discover what stone to wear.

Gem Elixirs and Vibrational Healing - by Gurudas
Though I have not found gemstone elixirs to be very effective, the many descriptions of the gemstone properties are quite accurate.

Crystal Wisdom - by Dolfyn
This is a good reference book for anyone involved with crystals. It gives great details on various forms and types of crystals.

Crystal Enlightenment: The Transforming Properties of Crystals and Healing Stones - by Katrina Raphaell
A comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide to the use of crystals and gems for internal growth, healing, and balance in your daily life. I find that using Gemstone crystals needs MUCH more practice and knowledge than gemstone spheres.

Crystal Healing - by Katrina Raphaell
Second book in the series. Very well written.

Crystalline Transmission: A Synthesis of Light - by Katrina Raphaell
Third book in the series. Very well written too.

Spiritual Value of Gem Stones - by Wally Richardson and Lenora Huett
Very sweet book that goes into the spiritual properties, healing properties and energies of gemstones.

Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem, and Metal Magic - by Scott Cunningham
Good references, good explanations, and nice pictures.

Healing With Gemstones and Crystals (Crossing Press Healing Series) - by Diane Stein
Learn how to choose gemstones and work with chakras.

The American Indian: Secrets of Crystal Healing - by Luc Bourgault
Crystal healing methods from the Apache and Cherokee tribes. This is a very helpful and informative book.

Complete Crystal Guidebook: A Practical Path to Self Development, Empowerment and Healing
Currently on back order at amazon -- a very nice quartz crystal therapy book.

Mantras, Yantras, & Fabulous Gems...healing secrets of the Ancient Vedas - by Howard M Beckman
This is a book oriented towards vedic medicine and gemstones. Very interesting.

Ancient Astrological Gemstones & Talismans : The Complete Science of Planetary Gemology - by Richard S. Brown
This book explores a little-known branch of gemology dealing with India and its system of astrological gemology.

Ancient Secret of the Fountain of Youth - by Peter Kelder
Though not a gemstone therapy book, this book features 5 exercises designed to balance the chakras. These exercises work extremely well. I use them every day. Practice at your own pace. What a wonderful healing book.

The Power of Gems and Crystals: How They Can Transform Your Life - by Soozi Holbeche
Recommended by others; not reviewed.

Crystal Power, Crystal Healing: The Complete Handbook - by Michael Gienger
Recommended by others; not reviewed.

Crystal Medicine - by Marguerite Elsbeth
Recommended by others; not reviewed.

Crystal Co Creators - by Dorothy Roeder
Recommended by others; not reviewed.

Did I miss your Favorite Gemstone Therapy Book?
Loretta Elaine's Gems for Friends is always looking for new healing resources. If you know of a book that is truly wonderful, please send me the name and author. webmaster@gems4friends.com Thank you!

Disclaimer ~ Crystal and Gemstone Therapy Overview
Therapeutic Gemstone Properties ~ Ayurvedic Healing Gemstones
Free Health-Related Newsletter ~ Cleaning Gemstones ~ Buying Gemstones
Gemstone Therapy Books ~ Gemstone Therapists ~ Other Gem Therapy Sites
Specific Therapies: Chakra ~ Change ~ Intuition ~ Sleep ~ Gemstone Egg
Related Resources

Gemstone Therapists
Here are gemstone therapists that I personally recommend. They do not pay me to have their name placed on this list. Your experience may differ.

Gemstone Therapists

Ariel Argon
Located in Ventura County, CA
Holistic healing which incorporates gemstone therapy
Ariel Argon's Web Page
1-805-660-8056

Pat Burkitt
Located in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Very supportive gemstone therapy for humans and animals; Colorworks
1-505-471-4965

Lorraine Venner
Loretta Elaine's Gems For Friends
Located in Northern California (San Francisco Bay Area)
This is my web page. I have been doing this work for over 8 years.
Gemstone therapy, Bioenergy Balancing and several other modalities.
Lorraine Venner's Gem Work

Diamond Therapists

Diamond therapy is a form of energy medicine that utilizes subtle powerful energies to heal injury, trauma, and diseases on all levels: physical emotional, causal, and mental. It is holistic and non-invasive in nature. Therapeutic diamonds are used almost exclusively to create highly customized healing frequencies that access, heal, and integrate core issues. Therapeutic diamonds work through specific places in the body and are actively manipulated by the therapist.

Mindy Canter
Located in Northern California (San Francisco Bay Area)
Individual appointments are available for therapeutic diamond and gemstone therapy.
For more information call:
1-415-388-8059
Diamond Therapy Testimonials

mcanter@infoasis.com

Linda Lile
Located in Southern California
One of my teachers. Truly special diamond therapies.
1-805-649-5355 (voice and fax)

Pat Piorkowski
Located in Branford, CT
Diamond/gemstones/Reiki master and teacher
1-203-287-1760

Bioenergy Balancing Therapists

I grew leaps and bounds by working with the following Bioenergy Balancing therapist. Out of gratitude, I'm including her in this section.
Marja West
Located in Northern California (San Francisco Bay Area)
Extremely effective; she does phone consultations.
My husband no longer has allergies as a result of her work;
We have had success on breaking lifelong patterns as well.
Marja West's Web Page
1-415-563-9904

Related resources

Sculptor3 - software for daily affirmations, goal setting, and much more!

The Sidereus Foundation - Expert Energy Healing & Self Help
Quantum Logic - Reality Creation; Superb, Original & Acclaimed
Trainings & Manuals by Silvia Hartmann, PhD

New Age Harmonics Astral travel , Remote View, Lucid Dream, Clairvoyance,
and a whole lot more. This site has links to an amazing
quantity of information and other sites.

Managing Your Mind - Introducing a quick and affordable self-help program that Clears Mental Blocks, Inspires Natural Motivation, and Produces Lasting Personal Change. This program is rated #1 for Increasing Self-Esteem and #1 for Self Therapy with Yahoo, InfoSpace, MSN, AltaVista, Ask Jeeves, Netscape, Overture, Lycos, HotBot, and many others.

Loretta Elaine's Gems For Friends

Gemstone Therapy Essential Oils Feng Shui Flower Essences
Affirmations Herbs Massage Free Classifieds
Free Newsletter Achieving Goals Link Us About Us Suggest Site

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Copyright © 1995-2003 Loretta Elaine's Gems for Friends All rights reserved. www.gems4friends.com
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posted April 07, 2003 03:26 PM         

I started a similar topic on stones in Free-For-All, but have posted your topic for people to come over here, since you have such amazing info!! Great job.

Here's one site I found that also offers info on healing properties of stones: http://www.crystals.uk.net/healing-stones.html

posted April 08, 2003 04:20 PM         

Funny, I just asked that in the Free-for-All thread, and so I'll quote myself!

quote:

---

I prefer to choose my rocks and stones personally -- I visualize the use for which I want a stone (personal use for healing or clairvoyance work, or to give to a friend who needs encouragement or energy), and frequently get a certain feeling out of some of them, and those are the ones I choose. Does anyone else do this?

---

I have responded occasionally to stones I've seen online, but not quite in the same intense way as the tactile, using touch. But your idea makes me think: since theoretically a person can work to detect vibrations from a picture, it's possible. I don't see why it can't be done in other ways than the three-dimensional. If the person focuses and visualizes, then even eBay images can resonate for them! I don't know what spiritual beliefs you have, but you can work with spirit guides or your Higher self or angels, to help you choose what's right for you.

posted April 20, 2003 07:24 AM         

Gentle Diagnoses
Floral Essence Diagnosis
For emotional, mental and spiritual difficulties
that affect physical well-being.

Marie Louise Damask Rose

Floral essence diagnosis helps patients and practitioners find a remedy that will act best on specific symptoms. There are four methods used to make a diagnosis. The most common method is known as rational selection. The patient reads a list of remedies and selects the ones that meet her needs. The intuitive selection method is based on instinct. The patient selects a remedy that simply "feels right" when the practitioner places it in her hand. With the kinesiology method, the patient holds the remedy to her thymus gland; her other arm is held straight out. The practitioner presses on her arm to determine if the remedy makes the patient stronger. During radiesthesia, the patient holds a particular remedy, and the practitioner swings a pendulum over her hand and asks if this is the suitable floral essence. The direction of the pendulum's swing then gives the answer.

Diagnostic Observations
A practitioner uses one or more of the four standard diagnostic methods and
observes this patient closely.
The practitioner will note the patient's tone of voice,
body language and facial expressions.
To assess the patient's psychological state, the practitioner then asks' questions
To evoke various emotional responses and gain insight into a patient's
coping mechanisms.

The Diagnosis:
The therapist and patient use one or more of the diagnostic methods to determine which floral-essence remedies to use. Generally, therapists recommend using between one and five remedies at one time. The patient discuses the results with the practitioner. As the uses the remedies and works through particular emotional issues, she may return periodically for follow-up diagnoses, continuing the process a few more times. Each time, new floral essences may be added or discontinued until the patient has reached a balanced emotional perspective.

The role of the therapist's thoughts
The therapist must have a clear and balanced state of mind during a diagnosis; unfocused or worried thoughts can influence the outcome.

The viewpoint of mainstream medicine
Mainstream physicians do not recognize these diagnostic techniques, although flower essence practitioners rely on them to make diagnoses and the essences are often used in conjunction with allopathic treatment because emotional issues are not generally addressed in mainstream medicine care.

Other Diagnostic Tools

Since floral essences help address blocked emotional states, it's important to explore your subconscious feelings. Here are a few ways to do that. Think about a fairy tale with which you identify. The characters in these stories often represent archetypal feelings, which are embodied in the floral remedies (below). Also, identify dominant emotions in your life and think about your reactions when you're tired or making a decision-that's when you are closest to your true nature. Select a remedy that can impart the qualities you need most.

Meditation

Meditation can supplement floral essence remedies. Close your eyes and focus on the floral essence's healing power and your opportunity to change. As you inhale and exhale deeply, repeat the floral essence's affirmations several times in your mind.

A Little Lore

The French priest Abbe Boule first coined the term radiesthesia. Derived from the Latin word radius and the Greek word aesthesis, the name literally means to 'sense radiation,' or energy. Ancient cave drawings and Egyptian hieroglyphs depict people using willow branches to accomplish this diagnostic method, as well.

Daisy
THE 39 FLORAL ESSENCE REMEDIES

Agrimony: joyfulness Mimulus: courage
Aspen: fearlessness Mustard: courage
Beech: tolerance Oak: strength
Centaury: self-determination Olive: regeneration
Cerato: intuition Pine: self-acceptance
Cherry plum: composure Red chestnut: positive outlook
Chestnut bud: readiness to learn Rescue: emergency support
Chicory: selfless love Rock Rose: steadfastness
Clematis: creative idealism Rock water: flexibility
Crab apple: perspective Sclerantus: decisiveness
Elm: reliability Star of Bethlehem: healing
Gentian: faith Sweet chestnut: release
Grose: hope Vervain: self-discipline
Heather: empathy Vine: inspirational leadership
Holly: love Walnut: new beginnings
Honeysuckle: living in the present Water violet: humility
Hornbeam: vitality White chestnut: tranquality
Impatiens: patience Wild rose: inner motivation
Larch: self-confidence Willow: personal responsibility

Come count the rain with me.
Mitakuye Oyasin & Namaste
MaryLee
HHP, CCHT, CMT, Ret. LPN,
Reiki Master, Native Medicine Woman & Crone http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheHealingDen http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheHealingDen-2
Please visit this sister site: www.EnchantedSpirit.com/?source=1391

posted April 21, 2003 10:41 PM         

Psychics do not have a monopoly on insight. There are many signs that we
can read to make sense of any life situation at any moment. Signs are
everywhere. The Divine delights in sending us messages 24 hours a day. The
Divine is earnest and responsive to your concerns.

The unfolding of each day holds meaning and significance. Each day is a
personal movie before your eyes, yet you may not know how to find the
meaning or the answer to your question. Remember those childhood pictures
where the challenge is to find twenty-eight hidden objects? Listen and
watch for those keys and you will find an answer.

You must train your heart as well as your eyes. You must recognize that
there are little miracles popping up in your day, special messages to be
opened. Opening the heart opens your eyes to these messages from the
Divine. The magic will return to your life as you begin to recognize that
you are in constant dialogue with the Divine Intelligence.

Our dream world is filled with metaphor. Few of us recognize that daily
events are also imbued with meaning. The following are signs to look for
during the day that you can draw insight from. Every activity in life is a
living metaphor containing guidance and insight that is available to you
right now. The next time you need guidance, call on the flow of your daily
life for answers. The more the Divine knows you're paying attention, the
more these letters to your soul will start appearing in your daily life.

1. Highways And Byways

Pay attention to what you see while you are driving. What you find in the
road may be an indication of what's in your life's path. You might see a
pillow in the road which can mean you need more rest. A dead deer on the
side of the road might say that you are neglecting your inner power that
comes from gentleness. Also, accidents usually are way of telling you to
slow your life down. Pay more attention to the road.

Walking down the sidewalk is an excellent way to receive messages. Suppose
you are feeling alone with no one to talk to about the ups and downs in
your relationship. If you just had someone to talk to, all might seem
better. While walking through the park, you find a single blue glove on a
grassy slope. You return home to find a phone message that a friend has
called to say "just wondering how you are." Gloves are often a sign that
help is coming, a helping hand.

2. Overhearing A Conversation

What you hear in a particular conversation can be a divine broadcast meant
for you. Let's say you want to change jobs soon, but you are uncertain
about such a drastic change. You are sitting in a local coffee shop reading
the local newspaper and you hear two men talking about their work
frustrations. One says he's had it. He's going to open up his own business,
finally, after dreaming about it for sixteen years. You can hear the
excitement, enthusiasm, and determination in his voice. The Divine is
fanning the fires of your own enthusiasm.

Events that we witness also give us a preview of what's coming around the
corner. You are riding your bike home and you see two women on the corner
yelling at each other. You hear from your college-aged sister that evening.
She sounds upset because a girlfriend of hers is dating her ex-boyfriend.

3. Déjà Vu

There are some people we meet where there is an immediate connection, the
groundwork has already been done. You talk like you've known each other for
eons (and you probably have).

Also, when you see someone who reminds you of someone else, even if there
are some distinct physical differences, it is significant. This could mean
you are thinking of each other, you can feel it, even if you are in
California and he is in Massachusetts. Distance is not a factor. Thought
knows no distance.

Parallel events are another way to experience this. You have an old friend
in St. Louis who said she was thinking about moving back to your area. You
are making a turn back to your house and you see a moving truck backing
into a driveway. The woman who steps out of the truck looks just like her.
As you get closer, you realize it's not her. That night (surprise!) she
calls giving you her new local phone number and address.

4. Songs In Your Head

Ever wake up with a tune playing in your head? Let's say it's "Amazing
Grace." You wonder why it's playing over and over in your head. Then, you
hear it on the radio, twice, and two different renditions. You are sweating
over finances, the rent is due in several weeks. You don't have the whole
amount and you don't know how you'll come up with it either. Carpentry jobs
are at a lull, it's at the end of the season and winter is approaching.
You've been lucky to bring in even part-time income. In the mail, you
receive a notice from an old boss, that he's directing a building project
and is recruiting quality carpenters for the job. Amazing grace, indeed.

5. Animals Are Teachers Too

Watch animals and you'll know you have a divine teacher near you to learn
from. Ever spend an afternoon with cats and watch them play with yarn? Can
you play like that? How much joy is there in playing fetch? A lot.

If an owl appears in your backyard (like one did in my backyard), take
notice. A wise visionary teacher has just appeared. (See Dreams, Signs and
Symbols in the June/July edition.)

And squirrels aren't silly gatherers either. Learn how to save up for
winter from the squirrels while still finding time for a game of chase
among the branches.

6. What's The Condition Of Your Inner House?

Did your bathroom just flood? Water refers to your emotional state. Check
in on your emotions. You may be on emotional overload. Time to rebalance.

Cracks in your roof. Maybe it's time to repair the roof and look at some of
your attitudes in your mental roof. Does your frame-of-mind work for you or
against you?

Junk in your backyard. How long has it been since you've reviewed your
family history or done a personal evaluation? Is it time to examine and
throw out what's unused and overused in your personal life?

7. Out Of The Blue

These are signs that seem especially out of place. These events have no
rational reason for occurring, but they happen just the same. They have a
true signature of a Universal message because they stick out in some way.

You receive a letter addressed to you at your current address. But you
don't know the senders at all. They are traveling around Europe and want
you to send them your new address since they are under the impression you
are moving. Six weeks later you find yourself moving to a new location.

You retrieve your voicemail messages like you always do. One of your
messages is a recording of a conversation between two people. You don't
know them. You don't understand how your phone could have recorded this
message, but it is about money owed. Come to think of it, a friend of yours
does owe you some money. You've wondered if your friend would be able to
pay you. In the conversation on your voicemail, money is exchanged, paid up
with interest. You later receive notice that the person who owes you money
will be able to pay you after all.

You are trying to decide whether or not to take a certain job. It might not
be as secure because it's by contract and you're used to a steady paycheck.
You're driving and you spot a bumper sticker saying "Wrong way Safeway."
The conflict over whether Safeway should be able to build a store in the
neighborhood has found expression in a bumper sticker. So too has a
personal message from the Divine: The safe way is the wrong way.

These are only a few keys to look for when you need guidance or a preview
of the near future. They are free, but they do require your attention.
There are many forms of insight. Start practicing paying attention to some
of these. See what fits. And ask for more signs.

Copyright © 1997 New Vision Psychic Services. All rights reserved.

posted April 26, 2003 04:33 PM         

Spin Wheels ~ An Overview on Chakras

We are spiritual beings composed of energy. Inside every one of us
there is a network of nerves and sensory organs that interpret the
outside physical world. At the same time, within us resides a subtle
system of channels and centres of energy, which look after our physical,
intellectual and emotional spiritual being. Their function is to
vitalize the physical body and to bring about the development of our
self-consciousness.

According to Tantric philosophy, chakras represent these points of
energy. Chakra is the Sanskrit word for moving wheel and are vortexes
of energy present in the ethereal body and in related locations of our
physical body. There are seven major chakras and they function as
pathways for energy to be taken in, metabolized and sent to the major
nerve center nearest each one. They are located along the line of the
spinal column and are composed of high frequency energy strands that the
spiritual eye perceives as light. The life force is channelled to the
physical body and its organs via the nadis and meridians and enters the
body through the chakras. The functioning of the chakras reflect
decisions we make concerning how we choose to respond to conditions in
our life. We open and close through these valves when we decide what we
think and what to feel, and through which perceptual filter we choose
the experience the world around us.

In any study of the anatomy it is important to understand the
significance of the chakra system. The chakras exist on all levels of
the aura and serve as linking mechanisms between our auric field and
physical body. The universal life force, or kundalini, is said to enter
the aura through the chakras through the top of the head, and is
filtered down to the other chakras, each of which transforms the energy
into the precise usable form of energy for the function it controls

When all the chakras are `whirling' open, bright and clean, then our
chakra system is balanced. When a chakra becomes blocked, damaged or
muddied with residual energy, then our physical and emotional health can
be affected. Most of us react to unpleasant experiences by blocking our
feelings and stopping a great deal of our natural energy flow. This
affects the maturation and development of the chakras. Whenever a
person blocks whatever experience he is having, he in turn blocks his
chakras. When you have chakra blocks you slow down the Chi, the life
force, and the spiritual connection. You may feel depressed, out of
touch, like you lost something, tired, unable to think clearly or may be
listless. You may get angry for no reason, be afraid, be unsure of
yourself, lack self-confidence, be unhappy without a direct understood
reason, and have a general negative outlook on life. All of these are
indications that you have a problem to resolve that is chakra based.
Most major illnesses and ailments are also chakra based. On a spiritual
level, we choose the body we are in this time, or Spirit chooses this
body for us, for a reason and for lessons to be learned.

Chakra work and maintaining balance is not easy or painless. We often
think we have resolved an issue mentally when there may still be
emotional garbage attached to the chakra. When we raise to the new
physical vibrational level and settle in, we truly begin to understand
what parts of us are to be embraced or released. But when you can
incorporate all those things and healings into the focus of the problem,
then you achieve true balance.

(Source Unknown) Received from another group~

Love Jade