Here’s How Healing Stones Can *Actually* Benefit Your Mental Health – Verywell Mind

We all have at least one friend or family member who is particularly inclined towards new age, spiritual, holistic, and alternative methods of healing. Some practices (think yoga, meditation) are rooted in science and can do a world of good, others (astrology, tarot reading) are still up for debate.

Healing stones, also known as healing crystals or gemstones, are one of these alternative healing methods that don’t have enough medical research behind it to be deemed a legitimate modality of clincal treatment. However, when used in conjunction with established medical practices, they can be a comforting supplementary practice for some.

Healing stones are believed to hold properties that can promote mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Different stones, such as obsidian, jasper, and quartz, are thought to have certain energies and benefits.

What’s All the Hype About?

Healing stones have grown in popularity in recent years. In addition to their viral popularity on TikTok and Instagram, the trend is also linked to a growing interest in complementary and alternative health practices.

The main explanation for their validity is the millions of years of pressure they endured to become the stones they are today. In other words, there is theoretically a massive amount of stored energy within these rocks. Geologically speaking this is accurate, but medically speaking the jury is out.

Another popular, more abstract argument for their validity as a healing tool is the power the user bestows on them. That is, using them to set positive intentions for your well-being and letting the power of placebo or positive psychology do the work.

“Since the pandemic, there has been a cultural shift in overall wellness and holistic practices,” explains Chloe Panta, a transformational coach and author of “Untapped Magic.”

She continues, “People want to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being, and that is at the forefront for a lot of our lives. It is a priority now, and many individuals are seeking alternative routes to health instead of mainstream medical routes.”

History of Healing Stones

The use of healing stones for wellness dates back thousands of years and can be traced to cultures throughout the world. Ancient Greek, Egyptian, Chinese, Greek, and Native American cultures are a few that have used healing gemstones for various purposes.

New-age holistic healing practices have helped revive interest in these gems and stones. Modern uses often combine ancient traditions with modern complementary and alternative health practices as a way to promote well-being.

For many people, the idea that these beautiful stones might possess healing properties is an appealing one. Despite a lack of scientific evidence supporting their purported effects, such stones and crystals have taken off thanks to social media, word of mouth, and online retailers.

Are Healing Stones and Healing Crystals the Same?

Healing stones and healing crystals are interchangeable terms referring to gemstones, minerals, or crystals that are purported by some to hold metaphysical healing properties.

The specific terms practitioners use can vary, but the underlying meaning is the same.

“There is no distinct difference from using the term healing crystals, gems, or healing stones. I use them interchangeably, and it depends on personal preference,” Panta explains. “The focus remains on the perceived energetic qualities of the minerals in the crystals and their impact on our well-being.”

Common Types of Healing Stones and What They’re Used For

There are a number of popular healing stones, each with its own uses and purported benefits. Once again there is minimal research to back up these statements, but it doesn’t hurt to think optimistically about them.

Amethyst

Proponents suggest that amethyst possesses calming energies, which is why it is often incorporated into meditative practices. 

“Amethyst is a stone I personally keep in my office. Its benefits include promoting a calming environment, relieving stress and anxiety, and is an excellent tool to use in meditation to promote ease, calm, and flow,” Panta says.

Clear Quartz

This healing stone is known for its versatility. It is thought to help improve intentions and energy. It is often used to help people gain clarity in their thoughts and to magnify the effects of other gemstones. 

“Clear quartz is an everyday crystal that someone can carry around with them in their pocket,” Panta suggests. “It’s a powerful stone, known for promoting enhanced clarity and promoting spiritual growth.”

Rose Quartz

This pink healing stone is believed to boost connection, harmony, love, trust, and comfort. 

“Known as the ‘love stone,’ rose quartz can promote self-love, compassion, and emotional well-being. If you or someone you know is going through a breakup, needs to heal emotionally, or cultivate self-love, this is the perfect stone to help open the heart chakra and attract positive relationships into your life,” Panta says.

Citrine

If you are trying to amplify your creativity or self-confidence, citrine might be the stone to try. Proponents suggest it is linked to success, confidence, and wealth. 

“This crystal is known for bringing in abundance and success into your life. It is believed that this crystal can enhance personal power, creativity, and attract positive energy. It’s the perfect stone to keep in your home, office, or to take with you to bring positive vibes all around,” Panta explains.

Obsidian

This healing stone is thought to have protective properties. It may be used to promote strength, block negativity, and help people connect with their authentic self. 

“One of my personal favorites,” Panta says. “Obsidian is a powerful stone that is known to repel negative energy and act as a protective shield against negativity and toxic people. It has grounding energy, which means it absorbs any negative atmosphere around you.”

Jasper

Proponents suggest that jasper can absorb negativity and promote feelings of self-confidence. It is thought to have a grounding effect that can help combat feelings of stress and help people feel more empowered.

“There are many different types of Jasper, such as Ocean Jasper, Picture Jasper, and Red Jasper, to name a few. They each have different healing properties such as protection, calming properties, and emotional strength,” Panta explains.

How to Use Healing Stones to Benefit Your Mental Health

There are a variety of ways that people use healing stones to benefit their mental health. 

Wearable Jewelry

Healing stones and crystals can also be worn as jewelry, just as necklaces, earrings, or bracelets. In addition to being stylish and beautiful, wearing these stones allows you to keep them close all day, which may help maximize their possible benefits.

Visualization

Visualization can be a powerful tool for achieving goals and managing stress. One way to incorporate healing stones into your visualization practice is to imagine the healing energies of the stone aiding in your mental well-being. 

For example, you might visualize a stone’s energy bringing you a sense of calm and peace. As you focus on this mental imagery, you may find that your mind and body become more relaxed.

Meditation

Meditation has been shown to have a range of mental health benefits. 

Environmental Placement

You can also place healing stones in your environment, such as around your home or workspace. The goal is to help create a more positive, harmonious, and balanced space. As an added bonus, these objects can also function as attractive decor to give your space a boost—which might also lift your mood and energy.

Intention Setting

You can also use healing stones to help you focus on certain intentions. An intention is an aim you hope to achieve, which is then followed by focus and purposeful action. You might opt to use a stone or crystal associated with your intention—such as focusing on qualities like confidence, strength, or calmness—and using it as a focal point to help you stay committed to your path.

This can play a powerful role in your mindset. When you feel inspired, energized, and focused, you’re better able to tackle the challenges that life sends your way. Using healing stones to set intentions may also help you cultivate a healthier, more positive mindset.

What the Research Says About Healing Stones

While healing stones are part of holistic healing traditions, it is important to recognize that there is little scientific evidence to support their use and effectiveness. 

The Power of the Placebo Effect

Research has found that while many people have heard of healing stones, willingness to use them hinges on personal beliefs about the impact that gemstones might have on health.

The use of stones, crystals, and minerals for healing purposes is generally regarded as a pseudoscience. Critics suggest that any benefits people experience are most likely attributable to the placebo effect and the power of suggestion.

Healing Stones May Still Have Benefits

That said, engaging in activities that you find relaxing and enjoyable is beneficial for mental health. Having hobbies, such as collecting healing stones and crystals, can help relieve stress and instill confidence. 

Healing stones may be most effective when they are used in conjunction with other wellness practices that have been shown to have mental health benefits. Meditation and mindfulness are a couple of good examples.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), meditation and mindfulness can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and combat feelings of anxiety and depression. Incorporating healing stones into such practices may help promote such effects by improving your focus.

Using healing stones and crystals while practicing mindfulness and meditation may help you focus your mind. This may maximize the beneficial effects of these mind-body practices.

Complementary Medicine Fills an Unmet Need

Some experts have also noted that the growing interest in complementary and alternative treatments such as healing stones indicates that people are seeking something they aren’t getting from mainstream medicine. 

Rather than dismissing people’s genuine beliefs in the power of these practices, these experts suggest that healthcare providers should find ways to incorporate greater empathy and understanding into their patient care.

Where to Get Healing Stones

You can purchase healing stones online or in retail shops. A few sources include:

• Online retailers
• Local crystal shops
• Artisan markets and craft fairs
• Holistic health and wellness stores
• Gem and mineral stores

No matter where you buy them, it’s important to do a bit of research first. Make sure that your healing stones are ethically sourced to avoid contributing to environmental or social problems.