a step-by-step guide to beauty and health through crystal massage

Monika Grundmann

Crystal BalanceA step-by-step guide to beauty and

health through crystal massageBeauty from within through wellbeing

Our physical wellbeing reflects every aspect of our

lives and inner selves. As a result, massage is able to

influence us on every level – mind, body and spirit.

This holistic concept is fundamental to the Crystal

Balance method developed by Monika Grundmann.

It is a simple formula, simply applied, but it is not a

therapy in the medical sense. Its aim is to help our

bodies to relax and recover, encouraging our soul

and spirit to 'be themselves'. When we are truly

'ourselves', we are beautiful.

It is as simple as that.

Monika

Grundm

annC

RYSTAL BA

LAN

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EARTHDANCERA FINDHORN PRESS IMPRINT

Crystal Balance cover:cover 17/5/09 22:34

Crystal Balance

Crystal Balance 112:_ 17/5/09 22:40 Page 1

A step-by-step guide to beauty andhealth through crystal massage

Photography byInes Blersch

Monika Grundmann

Crystal Balance



Introduction by Michael Gienger 7

Crystal Balance 10

How can beauty be achieved through touch? 13

How did Crystal Balance originate? 16Do you need massage oils

to perform Crystal Balance? 17Combining crystals and oils 18

Serenity 19Security 19Regeneration 20Anti-stress 20Joy of Life 20In the Flow 21Fountain of Youth 21

Warm and cool crystals 23What is the best method of

warming the crystals? 24Creating the right atmosphere 25Choosing crystals 26

Relaxation 27Releasing stress and tension 28Achieving balance 28Regeneration 28Increasing energy levels 29Staying calm 29

Protection and boundaries 30Lifting depression 30Detoxing and purifying 30Stimulating lymphatic flow 31Improving circulation 31Improving your skin 32

Exercises 33Crystal Balance – the treatment sequence 37

Crystal Balance –the techniques 38

Preparation 40Protection 41Take the weight off her shoulders 42 A grounding foot massage 53Get to know each other better 58Reveal the true beauty 63Feel free! 72Warm sun in your tummy 74 Back on your feet 79

Contents


Crystals for beauty –the facts 86

The aim of Crystal Balance 88

Agate 89Amazonite 89Amber 89Amethyst 89Aquamarine 90Aventurine 90Blue Quartz 90Calcite, orange 91Chalcedony, blue 91Chrysocolla 91Chrysoprase 91Citrine 92Dumortierite 92Emerald 92Epidote 92Fluorite 93Halite 93Heliotrope 93Hematite 94Jasper, red 94Kabamba Jasper 94Magnesite 95Malachite 95Mookaite 95

Moonstone 95Moss Agate 96Nephrite 96Obsidian 96Ocean Agate (Ocean Jasper) 97Petrified Wood 97Prase 97Rhodonite 97Rock Crystal 98Rose Quartz 98Ruby-Kyanite-Fuchsite 98Serpentine 98Smoky Quartz 99Sodalite 99Sunstone 99Tiger Iron 99Topaz 100Tourmaline, black (Schorl) 100Tourmaline, green (Verdelite) 100Tourmalinated Quartz 101Zoisite with Ruby 101

Cleansing and care 102

The author 104Acknowledgements 105Addresses 106Bibliography 108


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Introductionby Michael Gienger

Beauty is an expression of wellbeing, joie devivre and inner harmony. This is not to saythat beautiful people are never sad or miser-able, but rather that a feeling of wellbeingand harmony helps the beauty that is insideus all to blossom and unfold. It is the rea-son that massage and treatments for well -being are said to ‘make us beautiful’ andbring our real, deep, inner beauty to light.

Holistic beauty therapist MonikaGrundmann knows just how to awaken thisinner beauty. She regards massage, or the‘art of touching’ (from the Arabic massa, totouch), as an important aid to achievingphysical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

This is because body, mind and spirit are allconnected, so anything that has a positiveeffect on the physical body will also have apositive effect on both mind and spirit. ‘Ofcourse, I cannot change the lives of myclients,’ she says, ‘but after a really effectivemassage, they feel able to approach life differently, in spite of all its problems,stresses and strains. And beauty nourishesbeauty – if we feel and experience beauty,we see beauty and become beautiful too.’

And when it comes to massages,Monika’s are beautiful indeed! She workswith the confidence and assurance thatcome from many years of experience andevery movement is well-judged and precise.While working as a self-employed beautytherapist, she also spent several years train-ing in shiatsu, reflexology, aromatherapymassage, colour and sound therapy, lym-phatic drain age massage, crystal healing,individual therapy and, most recently,Aurum Manus® therapy with Ricky Welch.Massage has played a constant part in herlife for the past 20 years.

Whatever part of the body she is workingon – muscles, tendons, joints, connectivetissue, lymph glands or skin, and even theless tangible reflex zones and meridians, toMonika the human body is like an openbook, in which she is able to ‘read’ not onlyphysical but also emotional and spiritualdisease.

It is from this intimate knowledge andunderstanding of the body that Monika has

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developed her massage methods, and forthe last ten years she has also incorporatedcrystals in her treatments. She explains,‘The interaction between massage strokesand the appropriate crystals enables me tobring about changes in a single massagesession that would otherwise only be possi-ble after four or five treatments.’ In spite ofsome initial scepticism on the part of herclients, most are willing to try her methodsand are quickly convinced.

Monika’s goal in using crystals in mas-sage is to improve the wellbeing of theclient, not just in the short term but rathermore permanently. She aims for a lastingeffect that will help her clients to cope withlife’s problems and challenges and dealwith them in a more relaxed and positivemanner.

Such a sense of wellbeing can only bebuilt on a foundation of inner harmony.But what exactly is this ‘inner harmony’?We think of something as possessing har-mony when its different parts are in balancewith each other – therefore, harmony canbe created by balancing out any excess orlack. This is why Monika calls her massagesystem ‘Crystal Balance’ – it promotes beautythrough a sense of wellbeing and harmonycreated by bringing into balance the differ-ent parts of a person’s nature and life.

As our state of mind – our mental atti-tude, approach to life and even mood – isoften reflected physically in our bodies,massage enables us to reach the body, mindand spirit all at the same time.

For Monika, it is this holistic approachthat forms the basis of ‘Crystal Balance’.

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It is why her back massage helps you to‘walk tall’, a facial massage encourages youto ‘show your face’ and a leg and foot massage helps you ‘get back on your feet’.

Monika deliberately keeps the use ofCrystal Balance simple. It is not intended tobe a therapy in the medical sense, butrather a treatment programme designed toaid the relaxation and recuperation of thebody, working in conjunction with the mindand spirit, encouraging you to ‘be yourself’!If we can be who we are, then we are beautiful. It’s as simple as that!

I am delighted that Monika Grund-mann is now publishing her ‘Crystal Bal-ance’ and is making it available throughseminars and training programmes. Hercrystal massage is tried and tested, and easyto learn and perform. Treatments can becarried out as easily at home as in a profes-sional setting by a beauty therapist or aspart of a therapeutic treatment. It’s not nec-essary to use all seven steps in a progressivesequence – they can be used individually if

time is short, or you wish to concentrate onone particular aspect, such as interactionwith the outside world, experiencing a senseof liberation or simply feeling ‘sunshine inyour tummy’. But the total body massage isbest of all. And what is beautiful makes youbeautiful …

Tübingen, Spring 2006Michael Gienger

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Crystal Balance


Beauty comes from within. When we areworn out through stress or lack of sleep ortrying to deal with life’s problems, a quickglance in the mirror can make us cringe –the face we see staring back at us reflects allour troubles. All our efforts to make our-selves look better seem a complete waste oftime. In my profession as a beauty therapist,I am often asked to come up with quick-fixsolutions to bring out the natural beautythat lies within all of us.

But this cannot be done with cosmeticsalone – inner peace and harmony areessential components of beauty. It is withthis belief in mind that I have, over theyears, developed the system of massage withcrystals that I now call Crystal Balance.

The word ‘cosmetics’ comes from theGreek word cosmein, meaning ‘orderingand adorning’ – which accurately describesthe nature of true beauty care. First comesthe ‘ordering’ – creating balance and har-mony within ourselves – and then comes the‘adorning’, the application of beauty prod-ucts. If we carry out the ‘ordering’ processcorrectly, then the ‘adorning’ process takeson a secondary, supplementary role ratherthan being the sole means of beauty care.

‘Ordering’ allows beauty to shinethrough our inner wellbeing rather thanthrough any external corrective treatments.In my daily work as a natural beauty thera-pist and health consultant, I do not set outto heal with crystals in the medicinal sense,but I have found that many people report

improvements after treatment, such as hav-ing fewer migraine attacks or digestiveproblems, or being able to cope better withstress. So it’s no wonder that this ‘beautycare’ produces better and longer-lastingresults.

I see Crystal Balance as a targeted pre-ventive method for maintaining health andbeauty. When I am performing a massage, Ipick up on the emotions and feelings of theperson being massaged and I consciouslyallow myself to flow totally into what myhands are doing.,

Everything I have learned during mytraining and years spent practising as a natural-health beauty therapist, even thingsI thought I had long forgotten, comestogether intuitively.

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Beauty comes from within


In this way, whatever my instinct tells me isrequired – colour, sound, aromatic oils,Bach flower remedies – flows into the treat-ment. This is one of the wonderful thingsabout Crystal Balance – everyone can do it.The way Crystal Balance is used depends onthe personality and individual circum-stances of the person receiving the massage– the practitioner can then use their knowl-edge and experience of other therapies toenhance and complement the treatment.This is true for both professional alternativepractitioners and those who simply like toshare massages at home with a partner.

How can beauty be achieved through touch?With an average total surface area of almosttwo square metres, the skin is our largest

sensory organ. It contains thousands of nerveendings that respond to stimuli such as pres-sure and temperature. These nerve endingsare particularly concentrated in the moresensitive parts of the body – for example,they are more concentrated on the face andhands than on the back. These sense recep-tors enable even the faintest and most subtleof sensory impressions to be relayed to thebrain at lightning speed. When we are beingtouched in a pleasurable way, a real cocktailof hormones, including dopamine, oxytocinand endorphins, is produced and pouredinto the bloodstream. These hormones giveus feelings of lightness and happiness, help-ing to produce an emotional ‘high’. Accord-ing to university studies, the network ofnerve endings in our bodies responds partic-ularly well to slow movement; but every-thing in modern life seems to involve speed.We rush here and there, moving rapidlyfrom one situation to another, bombardedby all kinds of sensory stimulation that ini-tially causes stress and ultimately leads to adulling and blunting of feeling and percep-tion. In sharp contrast, in Crystal Balancetreatment the crystals are passed across theskin with quiet, attentive movements, in cir-cles, by stroking, or with gentle pressure.The treatment reawakens our consciousperception and, even after just a short time,we being to relax. You only have to look atthe facial expression of a person receivingmassage – they look more open, relaxedand natural, and so much more beautiful!

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Crystal Balance, a total body massage


There is also a clear connection between ahealthy psyche and our immunity to stress-ful external influences. If we achieve a stateof peace and happiness within, we are lesslikely, for example, to succumb to depres-sion caused by our emotional environment,even if we have inherited a genetic tendencytowards depression.

Since it is not a ‘healing’ treatment, buta beauty care or wellbeing massage, CrystalBalance provides the best opportunities forimproving the relationship between peopleand their emotional environment – withoutthe heavy burden of expectation. It worksthrough touch and helps re-sensitize us tolife and the people around us. It helps makelife more beautiful for us – and so logicallywe become more beautiful, too!

I am often asked whether it is possible todo anything to prevent the appearance of

wrinkles, and I always give the sameanswer, explaining that there are ‘optimisticwrinkles’ and ‘pessimistic wrinkles’, andthat we will do our best to make sure thatour clients’ wrinkles are only the optimistickind. I have always thought that those oldpeople whose faces are covered in a networkof wrinkles simply radiate life experience,dignity, wisdom and beauty.

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A sense of wellbeing appears on the client’s face

Becoming more beautiful …


It still makes me happy to see how differentmy clients look after a session of CrystalBalance. Their features look softer, theireyes glow, their entire demeanour changes,their posture is more upright and they walkwith more confidence and a definite springin their step. It is achieving this feeling ofinner harmony that is the goal of CrystalBalance. This is what makes us ‘beautiful’!

The Crystal Balance method is designedin such a way that it can easily be incorpo-rated into a variety of wellbeing treatments.Over the years I have developed many differ-ent steps within the system and each stepcan be used separately as appropriate, suchas for treating the hands, feet, face, back orother specific parts of the body. I invariablycarry out a facial cleansing during mybeauty care treatments, but the wellbeingpart of the treatment is always individuallytailored to suit my client. I sense the

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Shining eyes

Crystal Balance; a system ofdifferent types of massage


individual needs of my client and thenput together the appropriate treatment session – rather like composing a musicalsymphony.

How did Crystal Balanceoriginate?Crystal massage has become an increas-ingly important element of the range oftreatments I offer as a beauty therapist andhealth consultant. I based the developmentof Crystal Balance partly on the knowledgederived from my training in crystal healingwith Michael Gienger and partly on thetried and tested traditional massage strokesthat I have learned over the last 15 years.Experience has shown that the results areeven better when, between the applicationsof crystals or massages with crystals, theclient is massaged directly with the hands.

This is why I have called this treatmentmethod ‘Crystal Balance’.

Not everyone has time for a full CrystalBalance session, which can last up to twohours, so if necessary I choose to leave outcertain steps or shorten the treatment asappropriate. But I always complete a fullsingle massage step, so I will treat, forexample, both legs for a slightly shorterperiod of time – but always both legs, neverjust one! Or I will treat the face only, or thefeet, the tummy or the back. It is alsoextremely important that the massage iscarried out harmoniously, calmly and withgreat care.

I would now like to introduce the sevenbasic steps of Crystal Balance Total BodyMassage, with the accompanying basicmovements. Once you have some experi-ence of using these basic steps, you can useyour intuition to respond to the individualneeds of the person being massaged – we’llcall this person your ‘massage partner’ andrefer to ‘her’, although it is equally suitablefor ‘him’! – and you can devise your owncrystal massage treatments.

During training sessions, my studentsexplore using elements of other alternativetreatments during Crystal Massage, such asacupressure, reflexology and meridiantreatment, but to explain these in detailhere is beyond the scope of this book.

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A massage with hands and crystal alternating


The Crystal Balance method has beendeveloped from the use of massage andcrystals in health and wellbeing. Each ofthe different sections from the Total BodyMassage can be used separately in indivi-dual treatments, such as for the back,hands, face or feet. You can also combineit with classic applications – foot care usingthe foot massage (see page 53) or cos-metic treatment using the facial and upperchest massage (see page 63 and 72).

Do you need massage oilsto perform Crystal Balance?One of the first questions people usually askat my seminars is whether crystal massageshould be carried out with or without oils.The answer is essentially both. There aresome situations where the surface tension ofthe skin should remain unchanged, eitherfor the therapeutic effect (for example, invital body massage), or for awareness anddiagnosis (for example, in reflexology). Formore on this, please see Michael Gienger’sCrystal Massage for health and healing(Earthdancer Books, 2006). However, usinga warm, good-quality oil during a CrystalBalance treatment can be extremely benefi-cial, as it helps the crystals to slide over theskin and also encourages and deepensrelaxation of the skin and the body.

I began to use both warm and cool crys-tals for massaging when I was training withMichael Gienger ten years ago in the use ofcrystals in holistic beauty care treatments.

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Separate individual massage elements within Crystal Balance


When experimenting with creams and oilsto ease the movement of the crystals acrossthe skin, I found that plant-based oilsturned out to be most suitable. I graduallydeveloped a combination of plant-based oiland certified organic essential oils for usewith crystals. My experience in aroma -therapy was of great help here – simple trialand error has enabled me to learn whichcombinations will achieve the best results.For example, I am still impressed by theresult that can be achieved by using rosemassage oil with Rose Quartz.

When an oil and crystal pairing is par-ticularly effective, my clients experiencedeep feelings of sensuality, joy and being atone with the world, of really opening upand being receptive to life. At such times thecrystal, the oil and the flower essences con-tained in the oil all seem to come together,

enhancing each other to produce an intenseexperience.

Preparing mixtures using aroma -therapy and essential oils is too wide a fieldto be covered in this book, but here is a briefinsight into what is possible using only crys -tals and a plant-based oil of your choice.

Combining crystals and oilsOils that have had crystals bathing in themfor a period of time seem to be particularlyeffective for a Crystal Balance treatment. If acarefully cleansed crystal is placed in agood-quality oil and left to stand in a warmplace, the oil will absorb information fromthe crystal and develop its own effects.

Using both the crystal and the oil inwhich it has been bathing enhances theirpotency and results in a very special mas-sage session.

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Massage oil, a sensual delight with added effect


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Blue Quartz,Dumortierite, Magnesite

White Agate, Nephrite, Serpentine

I find the following crystal combina-tions in massage oils to be particularlyeffective in Crystal Balance. You can pro-duce these mixtures yourself if you like, butI would recommend that you do this only ifyou have some background knowledge ofaromatherapy. These special crystal oil mix-tures, enhanced with different essential oils,

can be obtained from specialist suppliers inthe UK and US (see appendix p. 106).Choose the appropriate combination bylooking at the effect you wish to achieve(such as serenity, security, etc.), or, if youfeel more of a connection to the crystalsthemselves, by looking at the crystals usedin the oil-mixtures.

SerenityBlue Quartz, Dumortierite, MagnesiteEssential oils used: lavender, rosewood,tangerine, roman camomileThis oil promotes deep relaxation; it helpsyou to unwind and let go, put things intoperspective and find inner peace. It is awonderful oil to use for a massage after astrenuous day. It helps you to see life morepositively. It is also very good for stress-related skin problems.

Security White Agate, Nephrite, SerpentineEssential oils used: vanilla, sandalwood,benzoinThis oil helps you to feel secure and pro-tected, and strengthens self-confidence. Ithelps you to connect with your ‘centre’, pro-moting sensitivity and commitment. Itbrings harmony and inner peace. It alsohelps you to become more self-aware andcreative. A lovely oil also to use for thosewith restless, quick-tempered natures.


RegenerationEpidote (Unakite), Ocean Agate, Zoisitewith RubyEssential oils used: ravintsara, myrrh,litsea cubebaUse this oil to restore energy levels and tohelp you get back on your feet again. It aidsmental and physical recovery, enabling youto accomplish more and feel better equippedto cope with problems. It is especially goodat times of crisis for those who want to helpthemselves so that they can enjoy life to thefull once again.

Anti-stressAventurine, Magnesite, Smoky QuartzEssential oils used: sweet orange, rose-wood, lavender, ylang ylangThis oil is particularly good for helping youto deal with stress and feel more able to copewith problems. It helps you to face up tothings with an inner strength and calm. Itis also good for coping with life’s dailystresses and strains and helps you to over-come nervousness and anxiety.

Joy of LifeGarnet, Ruby, Rose QuartzEssential oils used: rose, sandalwood,rose geranium, bergamotAn oil that counteracts sadness and helpsyou to live life energetically, cheerfully, sensuously and joyfully, with courage andwith love.

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Epidote (Unakite), Ocean Agate, Zoisite with Ruby

Aventurine, Magnesite, Smoky Quartz

Garnet, Ruby, Rose Quartz


In the FlowBlue Chalcedony, Amber, SodaliteEssential oils used: white fir, geranium,palmarosaThis oil is particularly good for encourag-ing energy flow on a physical, emotionaland spiritual level. Many problems arisethrough ‘blockages’ on these levels. This oilis excellent for toxin removal and also forbeauty care.

Fountain of YouthChrysoprase, Green Fluorite, PeridotEssential oils used: juniper berry, sweetfennel, lemonOur feeling of wellbeing often depends onthe amount of toxins in our bodies. This oilis ideal for detox treatments and shouldalways be part of a detox cure. It helps makethe skin more beautiful, and, as with alldetox treatments, it not only helps the bodyto rid itself of toxins but also helps you torelease any negative behaviour patterns, sothat you feel freer and can become moreindependent.

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Crystal oils – special compositions for Crystal Balance made with

the above crystals

Blue Chalcedony, Amber, Sodalite

Chrysoprase, Green Fluorite, Peridot


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The sky really is the limit when it comes tocombining crystals and oils – just use yourimagination along with a touch of intu-ition. For example, why not try the oil called‘Happiness’, with Garnet, Ruby and RoseQuartz, to treat cold feet; or ‘Recovery’ atthe end of a long, sleepless night. You canobtain crystal oilsfrom specialistcosmetics andcrystal suppliers(for suppliers, seeAppendix) or youcan create yourown at home. Toproduce your ownoils, first place acleansed crystalof your choice(one that hasbeen rubbed vig-orously underrunning waterthen left to standon an Amethystdruse for a whole day for energetic charg-ing) in 50ml of good-quality plant oil.Jojoba oil is ideal, as it does not turn rancidtoo quickly. Then allow the crystal to bathein the oil for four weeks, in a warm, lightplace that is as free from environmentalstress as possible. After four weeks the oilwill have absorbed information from thecrystal and can then be used in a treatment.

You can leave the crystal in the dish con-taining the oil until all the oil has beenused up. A list of the various crystals andtheir properties can be found at the end ofthe book.

Important: Petroleum-based oils are notsuitable for use as base oils, as they do not

absorb informa-tion particularlywell and their con -sistency reducesthe effect of thecrystal to someextent. They arenot normally goodfor the skin; theymay even blockthe pores andcause a build-upof toxins. This iswhy you shouldalways use thevery best plant-based oils. I usejojoba oil as the

base for my crystal oils. It is a little moreexpensive, but it has the advantage ofalmost never going off. It also has almostno scent of its own, which allows the aromaof any essential oils that you add to comeout unhindered. If you find that you haveused up all your massage base oil, a good-quality olive oil from your kitchen cup-board will also work quite well.

Make your own crystal oil


Provided you use a good-quality oil, andnot too much of it, you should not need toworry about your client feeling too ‘oily’after a massage session. It is surprising justhow much oil the skin can absorb.

It is very pleasant and relaxing to havethe hair stroked back from the face during amassage. If you intend to do this, do ensureyou advise your client beforehand, so thatthey are prepared to have their hair touched(and their hairstyle possibly disturbed a little!). In the context of the treatment ses-sion and the benefits that your client willfeel, most will be happy for you to do this.

A Crystal Balance treatment is carried outwith oil that has been warmed. You willneed to use a good-quality plant-based oil(such as jojoba, sesame or almond), acombination oil that you have made your-self, or a ready-made crystal oil that youhave bought.

Warm and cool crystalsThe effects of the Crystal Balance treatmentare intensified when the oils and crystals arewarmed. Warmth enhances the relaxationprocess, and your client will be more recep-tive to the effects of the crystals. In somemassages, using cool crystals alongsidewarm ones can have a very useful andstimu lating effect.

However, I only use only warmed crys-tals to perform Crystal Balance, or crystalsthat are at room temperature, but nevercold ones. Crystals that have been kept atroom temperature will in any case feel coolto the client. I use cool crystals in specificareas only and usually only for a briefperiod, for example, around the eyes atthe end of a facial treatment. They feelextremely refreshing and, when used at theend of a massage, help wake the client upagain in a gentle and pleasant way. Theyalso encourage good circulation and oxygensupply to the tissues.

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Good-quality massage oil


What is the best method of warming the crystals? I have tried lots of different methods, buthave recently decided that warming them ina bath of oil over a small burner is still thebest way, as using electrical appliancesalways runs the risk of electromagnetic pol-lution. The Crystal Balance work trolley wasdeveloped during training sessions and isan extremely useful working tool. Tea lightscan be placed in containers and the amountof heat they give out can be controlled byadjusting their height individually. Thetrolley can be pushed around the treatmenttable quite easily with one hand while you

are massaging the client with the other.This allows you to remain in contact withthe client’s body throughout, which isimportant, as explained previously. Thecrystals, singing bowls and other treatmentequipment needed, fit neatly into the spacesdesigned specifically for them (sources arelisted at the end of the book).

For a complete Crystal Balance sessionyou need:

• Around 30ml of warm oil per dish.• Two warmed rod-shaped crystals for

the feet (just the blunt ends can beplaced in oil beforehand) and anothertwo crystal rods for the face.

• Two warmed palmstone crystals.• One or two crystal spheres.• A smooth crystal (for example, rock

crystal slices or tumbled crystals) orspherical crystal at room temperature,for stimulation.

• A dish for the crystal rods to be usedfor the feet and for the palmstonecrystals.

• A second dish for the crystal rods forthe face and for the sphere(s).

• Crystal Balance work trolley (for sources see appendix p. 106)

To begin with, while your collection ofcrystals and oils is still fairly small, youcan use fewer crystals.

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Equipment for Crystal Balance


Creating the right atmosphereThe easiest way to carry out a crystal mas-sage treatment is to have your massagepartner lying on a table that is accessiblefrom all sides. You can also carry out a mas-sage on the floor, providing you find thiscomfortable. As with all kinds of massage,warmth, calmness and a comfortable posi-tion for your massage partner are impor-tant. Make sure that you have everythingyou need easily to hand before you actuallystart the session.

One of the most important rules is,‘Always maintain contact with your partnerduring the massage session’. By this I meanthat one hand should always be touchingthe body, even if you are fetching an itemwith your other hand. You will thereforeneed to have the work trolley positionedfairly close to your massage partner so thatyou can easily access your equipment. Makesure also that there are enough towels orsheets within reach to cover up the areas ofthe body that are not being treated. Pleasantsurroundings and the right atmosphere will

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Getting the right atmosphere:• The room temperature should be as

comfortably warm as possible.• The lighting should be soft.• No mobile phones or telephones are

allowed! • No jewellery or watches, and prefer -

ably no spectacles, either for you oryour massage partner.

• A comfortable massage table or awell-padded but firm massage surface.

• Sufficient towels or sheets to coveryour massage partner.

• Warmed oils and crystals, ready forthe massage, but check that the temperature is no more than hand-hot (35°C).

• Soothing background music, providing your massage partnerlikes this.

Keep within easy reach during the massage:• The prepared work trolley.• Crystals warmed in oil.• Cool crystals (at room temperature).

After the massage:• Make sure there is plenty of water

available. (I have noticed that my clients frequently need to drink waterafter – and sometimes during themassage – and you may wish todrink water too.)

greatly increase the success of the massage.But the most important requirement for asuccessful treatment is your own attentive-ness and desire to achieve the best outcome– to help your massage partner achievewhat they want from the treatment.

During a training session in ‘IndividualTherapy’ with Rainer Strebel, I learnedanother valuable lesson. If you are able toconnect with your higher self and be in tunewith the needs of your client, provided youwork carefully and with concentration youwill find that the appropriate moves come toyou naturally and instinctively. I mentionthis by way of encouragement to any begin-ner who may be feeling a little daunted bythe vast array of crystals and oils available,and all the techniques that have to belearned.

Choosing crystalsIf you are using Crystal Balance for the firsttime, I recommend that you only use onetype of crystal initially with each massage,so that you can note the different effectseach crystal has. Later, when you have moreexperience, you will gain in confidence andbe able to enjoy using a combination ofcrystals to suit each individual. You can also‘dowse’ for the appropriate crystal usingkinesiology (muscle-testing), a pulse diag-nostic or a one-handed dowsing device. Ilike to use a one-handed dowsing rod, asmy client can be quite relaxed throughoutand does not have to do anything while I

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am testing. That is why I teach this methodof dowsing in my training sessions – andthere is usually a huge sigh of relief frompeople attending the course, who until thenhave been finding the vast array of availablecrystals totally confusing.

You should normally work with pairs ofcrystal rods, palmstones or spheres. I like torecommend Rose Quartz or Serpentine forthose attempting crystal massage for the firsttime, as both have a pleasant, gentle effect.

When you have more experience, choos-ing crystals that suit the needs of your clientwill help make your treatments more suc-cessful. Before you begin the massage, takethe time to talk to your client so that youcan gauge their wishes and needs. The sec-

tion that follows suggests which are the bestcrystals to use for each purpose. For ease ofreference, they are not shown here as rods,palmstones and spheres, but as tumbledcrystals. But you can choose the crystal thatis the most suitable and pleasant for themassage you are going to perform.

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Crystal sphere, rod and palmstones

Relaxation

Mookaite Nephrite Prase

Tourmaline,black (Schorl)

Aventurine Blue Quartz Chrysocolla Dumortierite Magnesite

Rose Quartz Serpentine


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Moss Agate Obsidian Smoky Quartz

Calcite Chrysocolla Epidote(Unakite)

Moss Agate

Agate Amazonite Amber Chrysocolla Mookaite


Amethyst Fluorite Magnesite

Moss Agate Nephrite Prase SerpentinePetrified Wood

Releasing stress and tension

Achieving balance

Regeneration


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Ocean Agate(Ocean Jasper)

Tiger Iron Tourmaline,green

Zoisite withRuby

Amazonite Aventurine Blue Quartz Chrysocolla Dumortierite

Magnesite Moss Agate Prase Serpentine Sodalite

Rock Crystal

Halite Hematite Jasper, red Obsidian


TourmalinatedQuartz

Tourmaline,green

Increasing energy levels

Staying calm


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Heliotrope Obsidian Serpentine Tourmaline,black (Schorl)

Amber Calcite, orange Citrine Sunstone

Agate Amber HaliteAventurine

Amazonite Amber Chalcedony, blue

Chrysocolla Chrysoprase Fluorite Halite

Aventurine

Protection and boundaries

Lifting depression

Detoxing and purifying


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Moss Agate Nephrite Ocean Agate(Ocean Jasper)

Tourmaline,green

Amber Chalcedony, blue Chrysoprase Heliotrope

Magnesite Moss Agate Ocean Agate(Ocean Jasper)

Sodalite

Hematite Jasper, red Mookaite Obsidian

Rhodonite Rose Quartz Tiger Iron

Aquamarine

Stimulating lymphatic flow

Improving circulation


I would like to point out here that the noto-rious problem of cellulite is really just oneof the body’s ways of safely storing wastesubstances (toxins) in the subcutaneouslayers of the tissue until they are eliminatedby the body’s natural detoxification process.The problem is that we allow ourselves fartoo little time for the body to rest and recu-perate these days – even while we areslumping on the sofa watching an actionfilm, our bodies are in a state of tension,which is not conducive to the detoxificationprocess. Our fatty tissue thus becomes a reg-ular ‘waste bin’; this is why new mothers

who are still breastfeeding should never goon a diet, as the dissolving of fat from thetissues will also dissolve out the toxins,which will then pass into the mother’s milk.Women, and even men, are beginning todiscover the first signs of cellulite at anincreasingly younger age, due to the ever-growing levels of stress in society, eating thewrong kinds of food and lack of exercise.

The important thing to bear in mindwhen detoxing and purifying the body’s systems is that you need not only to elimi-nate the waste substances from the tissues,but also to encourage the body to function

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Improving your skin

Chrysoprase

Dumortierite Fluorite Halite Kabamba Jasper

Agate Amethyst Aventurine

Rock Crystal

Chrysocolla

Ocean Agate(Ocean Jasper)

Prase Rhodonite Rose Quartz


efficiently on a daily basis so that toxins donot build up again.

Further ideas on all the above treatmentscan be found in the descriptions of crystalsat the end of this book. Crystals that are notavailable as rods, palmstones or spheres(for example, Amber, for use in the wonder-ful amber-oil massage) can instead be used

in the form of tumbled crystals or in othershapes, as long as there are no sharp edgesand they are pleasantly smooth to thetouch.

It takes at least ten minutes for the crystalsto reach the right temperature, so placeyour chosen crystals in the warm oil in goodtime before the massage session is to start.

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ExercisesThe following three exercises will act as apreparation for your first massage, helpingyou to become familiar with the differentshapes and the effects of the crystals. Theseexercises can be repeated occasionally tohelp improve and fine-tune your perceptionand dexterity.

Exercise 1With your eyes closed, first massage yourown face with a finger, then with a crystalrod. Look upon the rod as an extension ofyour finger, as if the rod actually containsnerve endings too. You will find that yourconsciousness is extended into the tip ofthe rod.

Exercise 1


Exercise 2Roll a crystal sphere slowly in the palms ofyour hands and note what you are sensingand feeling. Immediately afterwards, selecta sphere from another type of crystal andrepeat the movement. Do you notice the difference?

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Exercise 2


Exercise 3Using two palmstone crystals, massage yourown thighs in synchronized circular move-ments. Try holding the crystals in differentways and work out how they feel best. Alsovary the pressure and the speed and notehow the massage movements feel to you.

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Exercise 3


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The treatment sequence in Crystal Balance


Crystal Balance – the treatment sequenceThe treatment always begins and ends withthe feet. Even if I am only carrying out abalancing treatment on the face, I brieflymassage the feet too. This is to make an ini-tial contact with my client, and then to say‘goodbye’, as it were, after completing thesession.

When performing a total body massage,I begin with the client lying in a prone posi-tion so that I can massage the legs and backfirst and then the front of the body, begin-ning again with the feet, then moving to thehands and arms, the face, the top of thechest, the stomach and finally the legsagain. The natural flow of energy runs upthe front of the body from the feet to thehead and then from the head down the backto the feet again. Trying to massage in thedirection of this flow is difficult as thereleased energy is unable to flow freely if the‘exit’ is blocked, so I have found that I canobtain better results by first ‘opening up’ theback and then working on the front of the

body. Therefore I usually massage the backof the body using stroking movementstowards the feet. This ‘stroking out’ move-ment is an important part of the massage.Whenever I feel the massage is becomingdifficult, I see it as a signal that the backed-up energy has to be made to flow againthrough these ‘stroking out’ movements.

You will need the following crystals for theCrystal Balance session:

Two crystal rods.Two palmstone crystals.Two crystal spheres.(All the crystals should be of the sametype.)

Important: Always check beforehand thatthe crystals are the right temperature andnot too hot – the best way is with theelbow. Remember that the hands and feetcan generally withstand more heat thanthe more sensitive skin of the face.

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Crystal Balance – the techniques


PreparationBegin the Crystal Balance session with afootbath, gradually increasing in tempera-ture from 35 to 45ºC and lasting 15 to 20minutes. The footbath balances out theemphasis on the head and helps the clientto remain grounded. In addition, it pro-motes relaxation of the whole body, so thatthe client finds it easier to switch off fromeveryday matters and tune into the treat-ment. I use this time to chat to my clientover a cup of tea and establish what theywould like to gain from the treatment. Itoften helps to be able to ‘read between thelines’ when deciding which crystals to use

and choosing the right emphasis for thesubsequent massage session.

The Crystal Balance massage beginswith a footbath (temperature increasingfrom 35 to 45°C) which lasts 15 to 20minutes.

Chat with the client beforehand tohelp you decide what the emphasis of themassage should be and what type(s) ofcrystals to use.

Warm the crystals in good timebefore the session.

Offer the client a drink, and rememberto drink yourself too.

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Protection


ProtectionBefore you begin the massage, create a pro-tective boundary between you and yourmassage partner. My usual method is tovisualize a horizontal figure eight aroundmyself and my client, with me inside one ofthe loops of the eight and my client in theother. This means we are connected, butwithout mingling our energies. I also like tostart and end my crystal massage sessionsusing sound created either by a special alu-minium tuning fork or by a Tibetan singing

bowl, which I move about above my client.The client’s aura determines the tuning –with experience, you will be able to use anychanges in tone to identify which areas ofthe body have a ‘denseness’ that needsaddressing, and also get a sense of theemphasis that is required during the treat-ment. Use the tuning fork or singing bowlagain at the end of the session to ‘tone out’any energetic ‘leftovers’. You will notice thatthe tone now sounds quite different.

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Tuning fork and Tibetan singing bowl


Take the weight off her shouldersUse two palmstone crystals for the first partof the massage session. You can change thetype of crystal you use to suit the differentstages of the treatment (feet, legs, back,shoulders, neck).

While your massage partner is lying onher tummy, pour some oil on both legs.Spread it over her legs with flowing move-ments that carry on beyond the soles of thefeet, as if you were extending a line intoinfinity. Then begin the massage usingwarmed crystals (unless your massage part-ner has varicose veins, in which case usecrystals at room temperature). Cover theparts of the body that are not being treatedwith a towel or sheet to keep your partnerwarm.

Make sure the crystals are at the right tem-perature, then gently place one on the soleof the left foot. Then begin, first with lightthen with firmer pressure, to massage thesole of the foot with circular movements.Apply a little more pressure to the heels andthe balls of the foot.

Then massage the heel area with gentlepressure on both sides upwards and down-wards. Experiment a little with the way youhold the crystal until it feels comfortably‘round’ in your hand.

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Now draw the crystal a few times from rightto left across the heel and back.

Next, beginning with the Achilles tendon,stroke alternately from right to left, past theankle bone to the top of the instep and tothe tips of the toes. Lift the foot slightly forthis.

Repeat the movement on the other foot andthen lay the crystal back in the dish of oil,remembering to stay connected to yourpartner with one hand.

Move the other warmed crystal from theheel over the calf to the back of the knee(take care as this area is sensitive to heat)and alternately down the sides to either thebig toe or little toe and beyond.

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Now take both palmstone crystals and beginmassaging to the right and left of theAchilles tendon. Move the crystals up to thebuttock, with very little pressure, and then,with a little more pressure, back along theright and left sides of the leg. Repeat thismovement several times.

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Now, starting at the buttock, stroke the crys-tals down the middle of the thigh, downalong the calf and, with a bit of momen-tum, across the heel and the soles of the feetdown to the toes, just as if you were strokingout everything that is not required.

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Repeat this up and down massage severaltimes until the leg feels really relaxed. Whenyou reach the foot again, change to theright leg with a fluid motion. When doingthis, make contact with your right hand onthe right leg, while still maintaining con-tact for a moment with your left hand onthe left foot. Then proceed to massage theright leg in the same way.

After massaging the right leg, briefly lay thecrystals back in the warm oil (one handshould always remain in contact with yourpartner) and take up more oil. Spread thisover your partner’s back with broad, sweep-ing movements.

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Lay one palmstone crystal gently on thesacral area and then begin to massage withsmall, then increasingly larger figure-of-eight movements across the entire area ofthe lower back. The ‘knot-point’ of the figure-eight shape should always be thespine. Never exert any kind of pressurewhen passing over the spine.

Then continue with the figure-eight move-ments across the entire back right up to theshoulders. Again, pay attention never toexert any kind of pressure when passingacross the spine.

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Then stroke the neck, beginning to the rightand left of the spine, alternating aroundtwice on each side and moving downtowards the buttocks without exerting anypressure on the spine.

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After that, pummel and knead the entireback using two crystals, while once againensuring that you never ever work directlyon the spine. The pummelling motion ofboth hands should run together, rather likekneading dough. If you sense tension, gentle pressure or patting with the crystalwill often be helpful. Be sure to change sideswithout taking your hands away from yourpartner’s body.

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Next, carefully work on the muscles of theshoulders including the shoulder joint,which should be worked around withrepeated figure-of-eight movements. Gentlymassage the edge of the shoulder bladefrom the centre outward.

Now move along the neck with a lightlyapplied upward movement from the sixthneck vertebra to the right and left of thespine up to the hairline. Remain there for afew seconds. Allow the crystal to glide backand repeat this procedure about three times.Afterwards, massage this area gently andcarefully with your hands.

Finally, massage the neck and shoulders onboth sides, first progressing in slower circu-lar motions, then in more rapid movementsoutward along the arms. Always move thecrystal back gently to the neck.

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Continue with the stroking movementsdown the back. Begin on the right and leftof the spine with gentle pulling movementsright down to the buttocks. Repeat thisstroking out movement at least three times.

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Many people will feel a great sense of libera-tion if you also continue the movement overthe buttocks, down the backs of the thighsto the soles of the feet and beyond.

With this back massage alone it is possibleto balance the entire body. Along the backare so-called ‘Head’s zones’ (named aftertheir discoverer, Henry Head, 1893). Theseare reflex zones connected via a directnerve channel in the spinal marrow withall the internal organs. Crystal massagealong the back will stimulate and balanceout these zones.

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A grounding foot massageWe have a tendency to neglect our feet, butthey carry us through our lives and there-fore merit particular attention during theCrystal Balance session. In addition, most ofthe meridians – those energy channels thatrun through our bodies – end at the toes,while the entire body is reflected in the feet.

For this stage of the massage session yourmassage partner should be turned on herback and wrapped up warmly. Please makesure that her shoulders are well covered.You should now make sure that one handis working while the other hand supportsthe foot. For this stage of the session, youuse the crystal rods.

Oil the feet well with a good-quality warmedoil to begin with. Then massage the ankleon both sides of the foot in gentle circularmovements using the blunt end of the rod,followed by loop-like movements aroundthe ankle bones.

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Then use stroking movements with a lightdrawing action from the toes to the anklejoint (this supports the flow of lymph in thefoot and clears blockages).

Afterwards, massage the inside of the footfrom the toes to the heel with tiny circularmovements, without pressure, using theblunt end of the rod. In reflexology termsthis corresponds to the spine.

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SkullNeck vertebrae

Thoracic vertebrae

Lumbar vertebrae

Lower back and coccyx

Hip joint


Then, moving in a flowing action from theheel to the ankle joint, slowly stroke (aboutten times) the entire upper part of the footfrom the ankle joint to the tips of the toes.

Then massage the sole of the foot from theballs of the toes towards the heel. For thispart it is good to work with a warmed crystalsphere. The general rule is that the thickerthe skin, the more pressure you can exert.

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Of special benefit is the massage along theheel, which corresponds to the pelvic area.The movements should flow together,whether they are circular, spiral or a figure-of-eight shape.

Before changing back from the sphere tothe rod, press the sphere gently into theheel. You can support this grip by pressingto the rhythm of your breathing. Allow thesphere to sink in three times.

Afterwards, gently massage the inner edgeof the foot at pressure points spaced about1cm apart from the big toe to the heel.With this action, you are working on thereflexology zones of the spine again.

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At the end, the foot should be massaged andstroked again, by hand, gently and slowly.Finally, gently pull the individual toes.

Now wrap the left foot in a warm towel andproceed with massaging the right foot in thesame way.

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Get to know each otherbetterWe are able to take up and release largeamounts of energy through our hands.They are hugely, and intimately, involvedwith our contact with our environment. Inaddition, both the hands and feet possessreflex zones and meridian channels. Dur-ing massage it is noticeable that the secondhand relaxes far sooner than the first, as itis reflexively learning from the experienceof the first one. Nevertheless, the massagefor the second arm should last just as longas for the first. It is precisely at the wrists,elbows and shoulders that the flow of energyis often blocked. Therefore massage theseareas particularly thoroughly – but gently– even around the joints. During this partof the massage you will be using a crystalsphere with a diameter of about 3-4cm.

To begin with, place a little massage oil inyour massage partner’s left hand and on theleft arm and gently massage it in.

Then take a crystal sphere and massage,initially gently, then a little more firmly, thepalms of the hands, including the under-sides of the fingers.

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With one hand, roll the sphere in small circular movements, while your other handfirmly supports your partner’s hand. Movethe sphere in such a way that you are con-stantly circling around a different invisiblecentre. Observe your partner while you aredoing this and vary the pressure applied.

Beginning at the wrist, stroke the individualfingers right down to the fingertips and evenbeyond a little, as if you were simply draw-ing out the tension.

Now draw the sphere to the wrist and gentlymake figure-of-eight movements across thetwo little mounds which are visible belowthe folds of the wrist. This action is called‘sun and moon’.

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Turn the hand over and draw the spherefrom the wrist along the individual fingersand beyond (just as before on the palm ofthe hand).

Then begin to stroke along the lower armusing the sphere. Initially, this should betowards the elbow, around it and back.When you have practised this a bit, you canuse the sphere alternately in your right andthen left hand.

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Repeat the same stroking movements onthe upper arm. Pay special attention to theshoulder joint; keep on circling around it.

Following on from this, make long strokingmovements with your hand along the entirelength of the arm. Begin at the shouldersand move down towards the hands.

Next, knead the backs of the hands then thepalms of the hands again with movementsthat open outwards.

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To finish, carefully pull each of the fingers.

Wrap the left arm in a warm towel and massage the right arm in the same way.Please pay attention here to make sure thetransfer from one arm to the other is carriedout fluidly.

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Reveal the true beautyBy now your massage partner should belying there in a pretty relaxed state. If this isnot the case, check if something is not rightwith her. I have often noticed that at thispoint in the treatment the client may feelthe need to go to the toilet, but is em bar -rassed to tell me so. In order to avoid thissituation, I always tell her at the beginningof the treatment, when I am offering tea orwater, that it is quite normal and a goodsign that the body is beginning to get ‘intothe flow’ during the treatment.

Even in the summer I usually have a lightwoollen blanket ready for covering up ontop of the sheet, because, during theseintense treatments, the energy of the clientis very much ‘directed inward’ and she willeasily feel chilly. If anyone answers yourquestion as to whether they are warmenough with just ‘it’s OK’, then they areprobably too cold. Then I will always say,‘OK is not enough’, and they are usuallyquite happy to be covered up.

Less pressure is applied when working onthe facial area, especially at the temples.There we will be working with two crystalrods or with two tumbled crystals, used intandem, which is to encourage bringing thetwo halves of the brain into balance and isusually perceived as very relaxing. Pleasemake sure that the crystals are not too hotwhen using them for the facial massage!

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Place a little warmed oil on the face, neckand top of the chest. Distribute the oil withgentle, circular movements.

Using tumbled Blue Chalcedony crystals,begin massaging the neck with very deli-cate, stationary circles from the ear lobes tothe hollow of the collarbone, workingdownwards about a finger’s width at a time.Avoid the area around the thyroid cartilage(Adam’s apple). Repeat this movementthree times. Together, this massage tech-nique and the effect of the Blue Chalcedonywill stimulate the lymph flow and prepareyour partner in an optimal fashion for thefacial massage.

Now place the blunt ends of the crystal rodsat the bridge of the nose and gently drawthem up across the head as far as possible.Then stroke down behind the ears and ondown to the shoulders. Follow this with thesame movement from the centre of the eye-brows and finally start from the outer edgesof the eyebrows.

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Then stroke the forehead, starting from thecentre, towards the temples and beyond.Start on the eyebrows with the first strokingmovements and end at the hairline (orwherever it would be…). Work your wayfrom the eyebrows, moving upwards by afinger-width at a time. The gentle strokingmovements across the forehead shouldextend down almost to the table or surfaceon which your massage partner is lying.

Then hold the rods by the blunt end so thatthey are lying flat on the forehead. Usingrotating alternating movements, massagethe entire width of the forehead through tothe hairline.

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Next, for a moment, fix on the acupressurepoint between the inner corner of the eyeand the inner edge of the eyebrows. Thispoint lies on the bladder meridian and alsohelps promote a deeper level of relaxation.

Now draw the rod (with slight pressure inthe direction of the forehead) several timesacross the eyebrows towards the temples andallow the movement to peter out behindthe ear. Attention: No pressure should beapplied to the temples.

Then place the rods directly on the templesand move them in an extremely delicatespiral movement towards you. This actionhelps with the releasing of pressure fromthe head area.

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Now, starting at the bridge of the nose, mas-sage the entire area of the cheeks in small,figure-of-eight movements down to the chin.

Please pay special attention to the musclesof the jaw in front of and below the ear.Even tight circles will encourage the releaseof much tension here.

After that, roll the rods from the top down-ward across the cheeks several times.

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Now massage the lower jaw in small circu-lar movements, beginning from the centreof the chin to the jaw joint.

Afterwards, massage the upper jaw withsmall circular movements from under thenose and under the cheekbones towards thejaw joint.

The following action is called ‘Yin-YangBalance’. Place the rod tip gently on thepressure point above the upper lip in thedimple and the other rod tip horizontallybelow the lower lip. Remain in this positionfor about 10 seconds and then very gentlychange the rods, so that the rod that wasinitially at the top is now at the bottom andvice versa.

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Finally – as at the beginning – set the lymphflow of the neck in motion once again withthe tumbled Chalcedony crystals.

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At the end, lay two flat Rock Crystal slices onthe eyes for about 30 seconds, or gentlystroke the area around the eyes with thecool crystal.

After that, stroke the entire face once morein a fan-like movement with the hands.

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Tip: In cases of severe tension in the mus-cles of the jaw, placing a piece of SmokyQuartz, which is as flat as possible, on thearea in front of the ear and then placing atuning fork at a level of 240Hz on the crystalhas proven to be very beneficial.

After placing the tuning fork in thisposition two or three times, the vibratingeffect will cause the surrounding tissue torelax. Repeat this procedure on the otherside. The result with one of my clients wasamazing. She looked quite different andeven noticed this herself. She had a muchsofter facial expression and then told methat, during the treatment with the tuningfork, much of what had been causing herstress had simply ‘flown away’ on thesound.

Rose Quartz has proven very effective forthe facial treatment. With Rose Quartz theskin actually looks ‘rosier’, with improvedblood circulation, and is softer and morerelaxed. For the massage I use ‘Joie deVivre’ oil with the vibrational energy ofRose Quartz and also pure rose oil (orrose massage oil). I refer to particularlyextended Crystal Balance facial massagesessions with Rose Quartz and rose oil as‘Rose Quartz harmony’.

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Feel free!Bad posture and internal tension cause themuscles between our ribs – the muscles thatessentially influence our breathing – to betense most of the time. During my treat-ments, especially with the massage of theupper chest area, I often find that my clientssuddenly breathe in deeply, as if they havejust been liberated from a tight bandaround their chest. Their breathingbecomes freer and a deep sense of wellbeingfloods in. I usually massage the upper chestwith well-warmed crystal rods or crystalspheres and warm oil. The warmth causesthe muscles to relax even more easily.

Initially, massage the entire upper chestfrom the centre of the sternum upwards andoutwards to the shoulders, alternating incircles and stroking, first by hand, then withthe rods.

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Then try to find the areas between the ribsand stimulate them with rhythmic, point-like movements towards the outside. Thepressure points end under the collarbone.

At the end, stroke once again with the handsas if you were trying to pull the breast cageapart, always moving along the course ofthe ribs from the sternum towards theshoulders.

Please ensure, when massaging, to workbetween the ribs (particularly pleasant)and not on the ribs (particularly unplea-sant)! Mookaite and Moss Agate haveproven to be especially beneficial for thismassage.

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Warm sun in your tummyDo you know that feeling of warm sun shin-ing in your tummy and feeling just so goodand relaxed inside? The solar plexus has acentral role to play in expressing our joie devivre. Unfortunately, we pay far too littleattention to the ‘tummy’, apart from moan-ing about rolls of fat. But the fact that thetummy is of great significance is expressedin using such expressions as ‘good feelings’,or having ‘a good feeling inside’. So, let ourtummies have a share of what they deserve– warmth and stroking of the best kind!

In most cases I use Mookaite spheres for thetummy massage. However, particularlygood alternatives, especially for women, aremassage with Malachite (in cases of crampand tension in the lower tummy area andfor encouraging sensuality) or Moonstone(for that gut feeling and during menstrua-tion), as well as Emerald (for strengtheningthe immune system, for harmonizing thegut and for general regeneration).

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At the beginning of the massage, distributewell-warmed oil in circular stroking move-ments across the tummy (clockwise).


Then lay the warmed sphere on the navelfor a few seconds. Afterwards, gently movethe sphere about three times clockwiseacross the tummy, taking into considerationthe course of the intestine.

Massage the entire tummy with small,rolling movements with the crystal sphere,about three times along the course of thelarge intestine. Please be very sensitive andempathetic; observe where the movement ofthe sphere appears to be more pleasant orless pleasant for your partner and vary thepressure accordingly. It is generally better toease up on the pressure in the area of thebladder.

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In order to render the tummy area reallyfree, and as a happy ending, so to speak,begin at the navel and move in dynamic butlight movements several times in a spiral,circling movement, clockwise, across thestomach.

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Now draw the sphere away from the body,as if also intentionally taking away any-thing that is burdening the person, andthen lay aside the sphere.

Afterwards, stroke the tummy outward withyour hands, as if you were intending toopen it up to receive everything that is beautiful in life.

Then use your hands again to move acrossthe tummy gently, in the way in which youwould do yourself when you have eatensomething particularly enjoyable.

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Depending on whatever impulse comes toyou, choose a suitable palmstone crystal(I usually go for the Orange Calcite) andbriefly lay it on the navel to fill up thetummy with sunlight and warmth.


Back on your feetIn order to get your partner ‘back on herfeet’ again, massage once more along thelegs with the crystal spheres or the palm-stone crystals. Work with one or two crystals,treating either one leg after the other, or, ifyou only have a little time at your disposal,work on both legs at the same time. Duringthis massage, you will once again connectwith the detox meridians, especially of thebladder, kidneys, liver and gall bladder, sothat, right at the end, the act of ‘letting go’is stimulated again in every respect.

On the upper sides of the thighs, allow thepalmstone crystals to glide parallel from theknee upward, and then draw them, to theright and left, along the side, into the backof the knees. Repeat this movement aboutthree times.

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Circle around the knee from all sides(Amber is the first choice of crystal for kneejoint problems).

Then, with the palmstone crystals, startingto the right and left of the ankles, glidealong the upper side of the calf to the knee,then back, pulling on both sides to the tipsof the toes.

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Draw the palmstone crystals from the thighsalong the sides to the tips of the toes, onealong each side of the leg. If you like, youcan imagine that, as you are strokingdownwards, all those things that are nolonger of any use to your partner are leavingher body, while at the same time freshenergy is flowing in.

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Gently knead the whole leg from the ankle,upward, and back with flowing movements.

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Afterwards, circle around the ankle bones.

Then draw outward from the ankle bones tothe toes.

At the end, once again stroke the legs inlong movements, using your hands.

Encircle the backs of both feet with yourhands and gently pull.

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It is very important to offer your massagepartner something to drink after the treat-ment and to point out to her that sheshould drink at least two to three litres ofstill water a day during the next few days(we should always do this, anyway,but…). Depending on which crystal youhave worked with, the Crystal Balancemay visibly support the detoxification ofthe body; thus, if too little fluid is takenyour partner may feel unwell or experi-ence headaches – the so-called ‘toxicheadache’.

Then, right at the end, securely hold bothheels in your hands. During a particularlyintense treatment session, you may havebecome so involved with the massage thatyour energy has become intermingled withthat of your massage partner. In which case,now is the time to draw back and separateyour energies again. You may also like tosay a little mental ‘thank you’. It is a gift toreceive a massage, but the trust of thosewho submit to it is also worthy of thanks.

Allow your massage partner to rest for awhile, covered up, and take a closer look ather. Maybe she has a little smile on her lips,which was not there before, or the facialmuscles are visibly more relaxed, and thenetwork of little wrinkles is less pronouncedthan before. Maybe your partner will get upfrom the treatment with a realization andsense of her own beauty that she would nothave had without the massage. Doesn’t shereally look ‘more beautiful’? This is reallywhat the Crystal Balance is all about: toawaken that inner personal beauty andbring it out into the open. It is intended toreawaken that love of one’s self and to acti-vate self-healing energies. The effects of thecrystals in combination with intense physi-cal contact never cease to amaze me. I wishyou much joy and pleasure with trying itout, and you will see that you, too, as theperson giving the treatment will feel morebalanced afterwards, just as the personreceiving it.

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Your massage partnershould always drink

enough after a massage


Massage brings out our inherent beauty


Crystals for beauty –the facts


The aim of Crystal BalanceThe aim of Crystal Balance is to createbeauty through hands-on treatment andrelaxation. Of course, the use of the crystalsduring the massage can and will, in addi-tion, bestow positive effects on the physical,mental and spiritual levels. This can also beencouraged through wearing the crystals inquestion after the massage.

Changes in the skin, reddening, pimples,allergies and other types of manifestationsof the skin show us that the body is out ofbalance. Thus, for example, problems withthe digestion often manifest as eruptionsaround the mouth area. The followingextract from a text on Chinese medicineshows how general changes in the skin canbe viewed in another light:

‘What the kidneys do not eliminateis eliminated by the intestine.

What the intestine does not eliminate is eliminated by the skin.

What the skin does not eliminatewill kill us.’

A real challenge for me as a natural beautytherapist is to get to the bottom of any skinproblem that lasts for a considerable amountof time. There is a wonderful opportunityfor using the crystals to support this harmo-nization process. The following crystals inparticular have proven to be effective forbeauty care and for use in Crystal Balance.You will find further properties and uses ofcrystals for the body, mind and spirit in theliterature section in the appendix.

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Extending and deepening the effects of the massage through wearing

the crystals afterwards


AgateAgate helps you feel comfortable in yourown skin. It protects and supports you whenyou feel out of sorts. Its distinctive bandsand layers correspond to the different layersin our own skin. As a result it is particularlyeffective at harmonizing and resolving anumber of dermatological problems.

AmazoniteIts positive effect on the autonomic nervoussystem also helps with skin conditionscaused by nervous problems (they are farmore common than you might think!).Amazonite balances mood swings and has acalming effect.

Amber Amber is extremely effective as a warmamber-oil massage and it works positivelyon the joints, helps lift moods and providesa real sense of inner wellbeing. As a wound-healing resin from trees, it provides elast -icity as well as protection in cases of dry,irritated skin.

AmethystAmethyst is particularly effective at purify-ing and cleansing the skin, and combatingreddening. It is very good for making facetonics for use on skin impurities androsacea and also good for the intestines. Ifyou are suffering from a tension headache,stroke the affected area of the head with anAmethyst druse to help relieve it (seeMichael Gienger, The Healing Crystal FirstAid Manual published by Earthdancer, aFindhorn Press Imprint). Massaging the

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soles of the feet with an Amethyst druse isextremely pleasant. Cleanse the energies ofhealing crystals by placing them on an Ame -thyst druse (see the section on Cleansingand Care, page 102).

AquamarineThis works quickly to combat streamingeyes. Massage the eyes gently with cool tum-bled Aquamarine or use an eye compressmoistened with Aquamarine gem water.Aquamarine helps combat allergic reac-tions in the skin, the mucous membranesand the respiratory system (for examplewith hay fever). It also relaxes the facialfeatures.

AventurineAventurine combats inflammation and isideal for skin eruptions and allergies. Itstrengthens the connective tissues andrelieves pain. It is effective for sunburn and

sunstroke, particularly in conjunction withPrase.

Tip: Today fewer people spend hourssunbathing, but sunburn or sunstroke suffered when walking or on holiday can berelieved by drinking Prase or Aventurinewater. Put the crystals in a carafe of waterfor a few hours and then take regular sips.Aventurine water is extremely effective whenused as a facial toner, freshly prepared on aregular basis.

Blue Quartz Blue Quartz lowers blood pressure and hascooling and soothing effects, making it theideal crystal for people who are highly agi-tated and stressed. Blue Quartz has a calm-ing and relaxing effect.

Note: At an exhibition, I gave a BlueQuartz crystal to a woman who was verynervous, had problems sleeping and wasunable to relax properly. Shortly afterwards,she called me in an anxious state to say thatshe had treated one of her own clients withcrystals, and the client had fainted. As Ispoke to her it became clear that she hadenthusiastically tried out the Blue Quartzmeant for her on an exhausted client withlow blood pressure. This demonstrates just

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how powerful crystals can be! However, sinceusing them herself she has slept really well.

Calcite, orangeGenerally, Calcite has a very stabilizingeffect, while the beautiful blue variety tendsto stimulate and balance the lymph flow.The yellow-orange variety is vitalizing anduplifting. It has a positive effect on the for-mation and development of bones. It is alsoexcellent for massaging children. In addi-tion, the Orange Calcite is very well suitedfor the ‘warm sun in your tummy’ aspect ofCrystal Balance.

Chalcedony, blueThis crystal helps eliminate water retention(oedema), acting as a powerful stimulanton the lymph flow. It helps to expel dis-solved toxins. I like to use this crystal forlymph drainage, especially on the lymphglands in the neck. Chalcedony is also goodfor detoxifying.

ChrysocollaThis is one of the typical anti-stress crystals;it balances mood swings and helps you keepa cool head. When used to massage thelower back it is effective for menstrual problems. It stimulates the regeneration oftissue, thereby helping to heal burns andscars. It is also effective for tense musclesand tissues in which toxins have becomedeposited.

ChrysopraseThis crystal dissolves toxins from the tissuesand eliminates them via the lymph chan-nels. It is one of the most effective detoxi -fying crystals, and it is also helpful for treat-ing fungal infections and neurodermatis.

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CitrineUnfortunately, genuine Citrine is not cheapand is also hard to find as a sphere. How-ever, it is particularly effective at liftingmoods, reawakening inner happiness andcombating feelings of depression. It is alsoused successfully in an Aurum Manus®

massage for treating tinnitus andmigraines.

DumortieriteThis is known as the ‘take-it-easy’ crystal,so-called because it calms the nervous system, helps with headaches caused bymetabolic disturbances and works on skinproblems and emotional upsets. It is a powerful crystal when used as a supportduring addiction recovery. It induces feel-ings of relaxation and contentment.

EmeraldEmerald is an ‘all round health-giving crystal’, and even Hildegard von Bingensaid it could heal all the complaints thatplagued humans. Emerald helps withinflammations of all kinds, especially inconnection with intestinal and respiratorycomplaints, and is also effective on skinproblems linked with these. Emerald has adetoxifying effect, fortifies the liver and stabilizes the nerves; it also helps alleviatefeelings of fuzziness in the head (as if slightpressure were being exerted on it, similar tothe sensation caused by a rather tight hat),headache or neck ache and even epilepsyand other disturbances in brain function. Itis particularly helpful for people seeking anew direction in life.

EpidoteThe body needs to regenerate immediatelyfollowing an illness or after a period of timeduring which the body has been drained of

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energy. Epidote is one of the most powerfulcrystals for convalescence. It speeds up thehealing process, rebuilds and strengthens.After a massage, I like to supply the clientwith a crystal as a pendant on a chain totake home.

FluoriteI use this crystal to massage clients whowant to regain control of their lives, espe-cially wives and mothers looking to ‘findthemselves’ again. It also helps withchronic tension and with allergies that canoften arise. It is one of the best ‘learningcrystals’, and because clients frequentlycome for a Crystal Balance session before anexam, it is my first choice for such a mas-sage. I often give them a piece of tumbledcrystal or a pendant to take home.

HaliteWhen worn about the body, this trans -parent, cubic crystal salt helps to processelectro-smog. It also helps reduce head -aches and banish worries. When moistenedand then passed over the forehead andneck, Halite can improve the distribution ofenergy in the body, and it protects and puri-fies the energy field. It also improves thegeneral appearance of the skin. When usingHalite in a massage, make sure you grind itfinely and mix with oil, or choose a piecewith a completely even surface.

HeliotropeWhat echinacea is to healing with plants,Heliotrope is to crystal healing. It strength-ens the immune system and is effective inmassages if your massage partner feels sheis catching a cold or something similar.

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Used at the correct time it may supportthe immune system and act as an anti-inflammatory. I have also found that it iseffective if worn for several days after a massage.

HematiteI rarely use this crystal for massage becauseit has a particularly powerful stimulatingeffect due to its very high iron component,and my clients generally need peace andrecovery rather than stimulation. However,it can be employed quite effectively in mas-sages to awaken the inner spirit. It shouldnot be used for inflammations, as it wouldexacerbate them. You should also be awarethat evening massages can be too stimula -ting, leaving the person ready for actionrather than sleep.

Jasper, redWith its iron content and distinctive redcolouring, Jasper resembles Hematite, but isa little gentler. A massage with Red Jasperhelps you tackle tasks with energy andenthusiasm. In winter, in particular, it has awonderfully warming effect and helps toovercome prolonged feelings of weaknessand tiredness. However, it is not suitable forthose of nervous or heated dispositions, asthey would probably leap up from the massage couch and head off at speed …

Kabamba JasperKabamba Jasper is a relatively new crystal,extremely effective at opening up the poresand thereby encouraging detoxificationthrough perspiration. It is good to usebefore a sauna or to assist when total bodydetox treatments are to be employed. The

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most recent research suggests that it has animmune-strengthening effect, especially forflu epidemics.

MagnesiteWith its magnesium content, this crystal isused for deep relaxation, stress reductionand the prevention of cramp in the calves. Italso combats rosacea and is good for angryred patches and other reddening of the skin.It encourages relaxation of the muscles andcombats nervousness and stress.

MalachiteThis crystal is used for all forms of cramp. Itis especially helpful for complaints in thepelvic area and for menstrual problems. Inaddition, Malachite encourages sensualityand a desire for adventure. It also helpsrelease unexpressed, pent-up feelings, andyou need to bear this in mind during amassage. Any negative comments and minorcomplaints you may hear are unlikely to be

directed against the person giving the mas-sage, but are simply ways of ‘letting offsteam’ and indications of a process of emotional cleansing. Malachite also has aphysically purifying effect and is thereforegood for rheumatic complaints.

MookaiteThis crystal brings spiritual balance,strengthens the immune system, provides asteady energy and encourages purificationof the blood. It is an outstanding crystal forthe spleen and for bringing harmony to thestomach organs. Mookaite helps to keep uscentred and maintain a balance betweenour outer activity and inner calm. It is abalancing crystal – especially when usedduring a Crystal Balance treatment!

MoonstoneMoonstone is the crystal to use for condi-tions resulting from hormonal changes.This is especially the case for girls and

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women during puberty, menstruation andthe menopause, or after giving birth. Moon-stone also regulates the hormones of otherglands, thereby improving the quality ofsleep, for example, and helping with sleep-walking if used during a new moon andworn constantly for an entire moon cycle.

This crystal’s connection with the moonis particularly evident in massage. It ismuch more stimulating around the time ofthe full moon than at a new moon. The dif-ferent qualities of the various moon phases,are particularly apparent with the use ofMoonstone. It also strengthens powers ofintuition and empathy.

Moss AgateOn a spiritual level, Moss Agate relieves feel-ings of weight, pressure and emotional bur-den. Since these emotions are often felt ‘onthe chest’, it is my favourite crystal for useduring a ‘Feel Free’ Crystal Balance treat-ment on the upper chest area. Moss Agate isused during crystal healing because of itsdissolving or loosening effect, and is oftenemployed for coughs and colds, which oftenmanifest in the chest area.

NephriteThis crystal is particularly effective on thebladder, kidneys – the body’s ‘waterworks’.As a green crystal, it also helps to detoxifyand strengthen the liver, or unblock it. InChina it has long been used for balancingyin and yang. It seems to have a harmoniz-ing effect, by stimulating those who arelethargic or calming down those who areoverexcited. For example, it may give a lazyperson a proverbial ‘kick in the pants’ andthe impetus to act but equally allow theworkaholic to feel able to take a holiday.Nephrite first supplies the necessary balanceand later introduces a deeper equilibrium, aharmony between peace and activity. In ourtimes of extremes, Nephrite is an importanthealing crystal.

ObsidianObsidian improves blood circulation andenergy supply to cool and numb parts of thebody. It helps heal cellular disorders andgives relief from shocks and old traumas. As

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a result, it is a good crystal to use for persis-tent pain or sluggish healing. It is a vol-canic glass and as such can be very stimu-lating. You should use it briefly, but alsorepeatedly, in massage.

Ocean Agate (Ocean Jasper)This crystal tones the tissues, encourageslymph flow and detoxification and stabi-lizes the immune system. It encourages cellular regeneration and can, therefore, beeffective with cysts and tumours as it helpshinder growth. It can also be used for alldegenerative skin complaints.

Petrified WoodThis is particularly good for people who‘don’t have both feet on the ground’, so tospeak. It helps bring them back down toearth and to place their feet firmly back onthe ground once more. I also like to mas-sage the stomach area with Petrified Wood

because it stimulates the metabolism. It isworth trying out in cases of ex cess weightcaused by a lack of ‘grounding’.

PraseThis crystal is excellent for treatingswellings, skin irritations and reddening,especially after sunburn. In order to treatlike with like, the crystal should be warmedslightly before use in treatment. It also hasa calming, harmonizing effect.

RhodoniteThis ‘first aid’ crystal helps the skin healafter acne treatment and when supported byBlack Tourmaline it is effective at healingscars by stimulating the regeneration ofnew cells.

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Rock CrystalRock Crystal firms up the skin and connec-tive tissue, energizes and refreshes bothbody and spirit, and brings new vitality andclarity. Its efficacy is increased when usedon a face mask. At the end of my treatment,I like to place a Rock Crystal on the ‘thirdeye’ (the point between the eyebrows) for afew minutes.

Rose QuartzThe skin really does look ‘rosy’ after a mas-sage with Rose Quartz! It promotes gentleblood circulation and is one of the bestintroductory crystals for Crystal Balance,due to its vitalizing and rejuvenating effect.It is a good crystal for general indulgenceand pampering.

Ruby-Kyanite-FuchsiteThis crystal combines three minerals,which makes it particularly interesting formassage. It helps with stress by dissolvingtension and brings relaxation coupled withthe necessary strength but without excessivestimulation. Positive results have been notedon some heart problems, as well as withnarrowing of blood vessels. However, whenused in massage, Ruby-Kyanite-Fuchsite hasproven to be particularly effective on stubbornback complaints especially in the lowerback area and on the lumbar vertebrae.

SerpentineThis crystal encourages commitment anddedication, but also brings a sense of pro-tection. It balances excessive acid, helpswith nervousness and stress, brings a sense

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of peace and helps combat negative ener-getic influences. It is one of the crystals I usemost in massage.

Smoky QuartzOn the one hand this crystal helps us copebetter with problems and worries and on theother it dissolves tension. Smoky Quartz isparticularly effective at treating extremetension in the muscles of the back and thejaw. I have also had much success by givingmy client two large tumbled crystals to holdduring the treatment.

SodaliteSodalite has a similar effect to Blue Quartz,and is cooling and calming. It also encour-ages the body’s ability to absorb fluids and isthus a very interesting crystal for problemswith dry skin. Care should be taken withpeople who have low blood pressure.

SunstoneThe name of this crystal reflects its proper-ties. It allows us to perceive the brighter,more positive aspects of life and helps usadopt a life-affirming and joyful attitude –to discover our own personal sun, as it were.Sunstone has a harmonizing effect on theautonomic nervous system and is one of thebest crystals to use for depression. It is awonderful crystal but is hard to find as asphere. A massage can be carried out with alarge tumbled crystal (which are unfortu-nately also quite rare).

Tiger IronTiger Iron is a Hematite-Jasper-Tiger Eyemineral and harmonizes the various effectsof these minerals. Like all gems that con-tain iron as a mineral substance, it has anenlivening and dynamic effect. The ironcontent is helpful with pale skin and darkrings under the eyes if these occur througha lack of iron in the blood. In addition,gems containing iron encourage theabsorption of oxygen into the blood. It is

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important to watch out for signs of nervous-ness, excessive energy and lack of sleep andto stop using the crystal if these occur.

TopazThis is a very beautiful crystal which pro-motes self-confidence, strengthens our abil-ities and has a positive effect on the nerves.It is extremely expensive, making it almostimpossible to find as a sphere, palmstone orrod. Care should be taken with dark blueTopaz, as it is usually irradiated. The bluerthe colour, the more likely it is to have been‘treated’ in such a way. The natural blue ofTopaz is never darker than sky-blue.

Tourmaline, black (Schorl) I find that the positive effect Black Tourma-line has on neural conductivity makes itone of the best crystals for healing scars.The older the scars, the longer the healingtakes, so I always advise placing small

Tourmaline rods in the direction of the flowof the relevant energy meridians at the ear-liest opportunity and then to massage withthe crystal as well. It is also one of the bestand most protective crystals, particularlyagainst unwanted external influences, aswell as radiation damage, which, unfortu-nately, almost always shows up in my tests.Wearing this crystal may at least providesome relief if you try, at the same time, tokeep the radiation stress (from mobiles,digital cordless phones, etc.) to a mini-mum. After massaging with a Schorl crystalI always sense that a missing protectivelayer has been replaced. A total body treat-ment using small Black Tourmaline rods isalso interesting to perform and encouragesthe flow of energy.

Tourmaline, green (Verdelite)Practically unobtainable as a sphere, palm-stone or rod, Green Tourmaline is still animportant detoxifying crystal. It encouragesthe flow of energy and neural conductivityand is also particularly effective when usedto help heal scars.

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Tourmalinated QuartzMinuscule needles of Schorl embeddedwithin the quartz are a feature of Tourmali-nated Quartz, especially in Rock Crystal orin Milk Quartz. The effect is similar to thatof Schorl. In addition, it connects forces inlife that are apparently contradictory (lightand dark) and strengthens the nerves.

Zoisite with RubyThis crystal is a powerful regenerator and itsRuby content also lends strength and thecourage to make a new start. Its compo-nents are even more dynamic than those ofEpidote. Zoisite with Ruby also strengthensfertility and potency, so I recommend thatpartners massage each other with this crys-tal when required. I believe it is alwaysworth trying, and crystal massage does,after all, promote feelings of togethernessand harmony!

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Cleansing and careThe rods, palmstones and spheres used inCrystal Balance should be cleansed thor-oughly after each massage. First remove theremnants of the massage oils and rub thegems dry. Try using the Amethyst-Frankin-cense Cleansing Lotion, which removesalmost all traces of the energies absorbedduring the massage by the crystal/s. It canalso be used to cleanse the body too andmakes an excellent shower lotion.

Next, the crystals should be cleansed ofthe energies and information they haveabsorbed during the massage. For this pur-pose, hold the crystals under running waterfor a minute or longer and rub them vigor-ously with the fingers. You will find that thesurfaces of the crystals, which will often feela little ‘soapy’ at first, are more resistantafter a while, and the fingers do not glideover them so easily. This indicates thatabsorbed energies have been removed.

Remove the crystals from the water andplace them on an Amethyst druse. TheAmethyst will free the crystals of anyremaining ‘foreign’ information picked upfrom your massage partner and, a fewhours later, the massage crystal will be‘fresh and new’ again.

Store your massage crystals with care. Aglass cabinet is ideal. Alternatively, wrapthem in soft fabric and keep them in small,lined boxes – shops selling crystals some-times pack them in suitable boxes.Although crystals may often appear ‘lifeless’

to our eyes, I make a point of treating themlike good friends and helpers, for whoseeffects and support I am very grateful. Manyof the crystals with which I have worked in aspirit of ‘cooperation’ actually becomeclearer and more beautiful – somethingthat has also been noted by my clients andby other people. Perhaps the gain in beautyis a mutual affair and what is given is alsoreceived. In any case, I enjoy their beautyand the beauty that, thanks to them, I seeblossoming and unfolding under my handstime and again. I hope the readers of thisbook will have similar experiences withcrystals and Crystal Balance. I bid youfarewell with a traditional Native Americangreeting,

‘Walk your path in beauty!’


Cleansing the crystals

Remove ‘foreign’ informationon an Amethyst druse


The author

Even as a child, Monika Grundmannwanted to be a massage therapist. However,after leaving school she fell into an officejob and belatedly completed her beautytherapy course while working. She soonrealised that her interest lay not just in thephysical, but in all aspects of the body – theperson as a whole. She studied psycho -physiognomy and completed her trainingas a non-medical practitioner. As a result ofher training in the use of cosmetics MonikaGrundmann was already very experiencedin the power of touch, but she wasnow searching for a way to use touch asa positive influence on the whole person. Shelooked at Shiatsu, aromatherapy massage,Bach flower remedies, colour and soundtreatments, and other areas, but training incrystal therapy with Michael Gienger finallybrought her a better understanding of gemsand their healing properties. She then beganincorporating crystals in her own treatmentsin various ways.

Even before the birth of her daughter in1999, she had been formulating a way touse crystals to improve the wellbeing of herclients and had already been encouragingMichael Gienger to write a book on the subject. However, the time was not yet right.In her search for a way to combine the tech-niques she had learned in a more focused,

practical way, Monika Grundmann under-took training in ‘Individual Therapy’ withRainer Strebel, which helped her discoverthe final piece of the jigsaw. The concept of‘Crystal Balance’ was now complete.Inspired by the book, Crystal Massage forHealth and Healing (published by Earth-dancer an imprint of Findhorn Press in2006), she felt it was now time to pass on allher tried and tested knowledge. This book isa culmination of the ten years she spentdeveloping the concept, which she alsonow shares with others in seminars andtraining courses.

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Acknowledgements

I would like to express my heartfelt thanksto all those who supported me while I wasworking on this book. Thanks to MichaelGienger for his committed support alongthe way as publisher, editor, picture editor,friend and patient teacher. Thanks also goto Walter von Holst for all those long, late-night telephone discussions and for sharinghis experiences with crystal healing. Thanksto Ines Blersch for her outstanding pho-tographs, the artistic concept and her abilityto set beauty in the right light; also toJens Volle for all his tireless and attentive co -operation in the photo studio; to Alexandrafor her patience with the long hours ofphoto sessions and to Stefan Fischer ofFischercasting, Stuttgart, for finding Alexan -dra. I would also like to thank Laurin’sGarten in Balingen, Peter Lind and BeaDiederich in Idar-Oberstein; the ‘Kristall-shop Stuttgart’ and the Marco Schreiermineral trading company in Ludwigsburgfor the beautiful massage crystals; RickyWelch for the Aurum Manus® massage; andHans Halsbeck for the meticulous dowsingtests performed on my crystal massageoils, as well as Farfalla in Uster (Switzerland)for preparing the oils for me. I would liketo thank Erwin Engelhardt for his adviceon cleansing crystals, and especially onfrankincense essential oil.

Very special thanks go to Fred Hageneder forall his graphic work, as well as for combin-ing the photos and text into a successfullayout, and of course I would also like tothank Andreas Lentz, my publisher, formaking this book possible in the first place.Crystal Balance could never have been created without my teachers, whom I haveto thank for my knowledge about massageand my holistic knowledge of humankind;thanks also to my clients and creative students, who have all contributed to thedevelopment of Crystal Balance. Thank youto Birgit Morrison, who spent manyevenings with me as my massage partnerand kept encouraging me to continue onmy path. Finally, and with all my heart, Ithank my mother, who quietly and gentlysupported me all the time, made the impos-sible possible and was always there for mewhen I needed someone most. This bookwas written for all of them and for mydaughter, Paula. For us all I wish that physical contact might become an integralpart of our lives again and that we willallow ourselves to be touched by Life.

Monika GrundmannHeilsbronn, Spring 2006

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Addresses

Crystal Balance Monika Grundmann

Introductory courses, seminars and trainingin Crystal Balance, Crystal Sound Massage,Crystal Beauty and various other kinds of crys-tal massage can be booked directly with theauthor, as well as weekend introductorycourses in crystal healing and dowsing.

At present, the seminars are available inGermany and Switzerland. It is possible toarrange international bookings. International training in Crystal Balance withMonika Grundmann in English is planned.Information about dates and venues can befound on: www.crystal-balance.com

Introductory courses, seminars, trainingand materials for working with Crystal Bal-ance and wholesale and retail suppliers:

Ausbildungs-Institut und Praxis für Edelstein-Massagen und Edelstein-KosmetikEdelstein-Balance®

Monika GrundmannBauhofstr. 1491560 HeilsbronnGermanytel +49 (0)9872 - 2999fax +49 (0)9872 - 2606www.crystal-balance.com

Suppliers

Suppliers of the Crystal Balance work trolley, Amethyst-Frankincense CleansingLotion and other accessories for CrystalBalance can be found on: www.crystal-balance.com

Crystal Balance Oil manufacturer

Farfalla Essentials A.G.Florastr. 18 8610 UsterSchwitzerlandtel +41 -44-905 99 00fax +41-44-905 99 09www.farfalla-essentials.com [email protected]

International distributors of Crystal Balance Oils

US and Canada:www.naturaleurope.com

All other countries: www.crystal-balance.com

106


Further seminars and training

Reflexology with crystalsInstitute, practitioners, lectures, seminarsand training in reflexology and with crystalrods.

Ewald Kliegel Rotenbergstrasse 15470190 [email protected]

Crystal massage and crystal healing

Consultations, seminars, basic andadvanced training in crystal healing, crystal massage and related fields.

[email protected]

Non profit organisation for researchand application of crystal healing:

Steinheilkunde e.V.www.steinheilkunde-ev.de

More on crystal healing can be found on: www.steinheilkunde.de

More useful addresses, which were notavailable at printing, can be found on:www.crystal-balance.com

107


Bibliography

Michael Gienger, The Healing CrystalFirst Aid Manual, A practical A to Z ofcommon ailments and illnesses andhow they can be best treated withcrystal therapy, published by Earthdancer,a Findhorn Press Imprint, in 2006

Michael Gienger, Crystal Power CrystalHealing, published by Cassell Illustratedin 1998

Michael Gienger, Healing Crystals, The A-ZGuide to 430 Gemstones, published byEarthdancer, a Findhorn Press Imprint,in 2005

Michael Gienger, Crystal Massage forhealth and healing, published byEarthdancer, a Findhorn Press Imprint,in 2006

Michael Gienger, Gem Water, How toprepare and use more than 130crystal waters for therapeutictreatments, published by Earthdancer,a Findhorn Press Imprint, in 2008

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This book introduces a spectrum of massage possibilities using healing crystals. The techniqueshave been developed and refined by experts, and this wisdom is conveyed in simple and direct

language, enhanced by photos. Any interested amateur will be amazed atthe wealth of new therapeutic possibilities that open up when employingthe healing power of crystals.

Michael GiengerCrystal Massage for Health and Healing112 pages, full colour throughoutISBN 978-1-84409-077-8

All the important information about 430 healing gemstones in a neat pocket-book! Michael Gienger, known for his popular introductory work ‘Crystal Power, Crystal Healing’,

here presents a comprehensive directory of all the gemstones currently in use. In a clear, concise and precise style, with pictures accompanying

the text, the author describes the characteristics and healing functions of each crystal.

Michael GiengerHealing Crystals

The A - Z Guide to 430 GemstonesPaperback, 96 pages

ISBN 978-1-84409-067-9

This is an easy-to-use A-Z guide for treating many common ailments and illnesses with the help of crystal therapy. It includes a comprehensive colour appendix with photographs and

short descriptions of each gemstone recommended.

Michael GiengerThe Healing Crystal First Aid ManualA Practical A to Z of Common Ailments and Illnesses and How They Can Be Best Treated with Crystal Therapy288 pages, with 16 colour platesISBN 978-1-84409-084-6

O T H E R B O O K S B Y E A R T H D A N C E R



Adding crystals to water is both visually appealing and healthy. The water becomes infused withcrystalline energy. It is a known fact that water carries mineral information and Gem Water provides effective remedies, acting quickly on a physical level. It is similar and complementaryto wearing crystals, but the effects are not necessarily the same.

This book explains everything you need to know in order to beginpreparing and using Gem Water, and provides important information onwhich crystals to use and which to avoid. The concept may appear simpleat first, but you need to apply it with care, and the book explains all thefacts you need to know before getting started.

Michael Gienger, Joachim GoebelGem WaterHow to prepare and use more than 130 crystal waters for therapeutictreatments Paperback, 96 pages, ISBN 978-1-84409-131-7

Using this guide the reader will discover which of the 360 crystal elements is associated with theposition of the sun at the time of their birth; learn about the relationship between birth charts,

crystals, and planets; and find out how personal crystal elements are con-nected to numerology. The book also explores Marc Edmund Jones’s key

words, Sabian symbols, and Jane Ridder-Patrick’s healing body points,ultimately teaching the readers how to reach a higher life potential.

Marina CostelloeThe Complete Guide to Crystal Astrology

360 crystals and sabian symbols for personal health, astrology and numerology

Paperback, 224 pages, full colour, with 360 images ISBN 978-1-84409-103-4



Revealing the dynamic bond between man and tree, this inspired yoga handbook offers adetailed review of the ancient wisdom of Kundalini Yoga and unveils the inner power of trees, as well as their unique characteristics and energies. Yoga exercises based on this wisdom areprovided, each of which operates by fostering a connection with the inner essence of a

different tree, from birch and lime to elm and rowan. With full illustrations and step-by-step instructions.

Satya Singh, Fred Hageneder Tree Yoga: A WorkbookStrengthen Your Personal Yoga Practice Through the Living Wisdom of TreesPaperback, two colours, 224 pagesISBN 978-1-84409-119-5

There are two types of angels: those with wings, and those with leaves. For thousands of years,those seeking advice or wanting to give thanks to Mother Nature have walked the ancient pathsinto the sacred grove. Because today sacred groves have be come scarcer,and venerable old trees in tranquil spots are hard to find when we needthem, Earthdancer is pleased to present this tree oracle to bring the tree

angels closer to us all once more.

Fred Hageneder, Anne HengThe Tree Angel Oracle

36 colour cards (95 x 133 mm), plus book, 112 pagesISBN 978-1-84409-078-5


Publisher’s note

The information in this volume has been compiled according to the best of our knowledgeand belief, and the healing properties of the crystals have been tested many times over.

Bearing in mind that different people react in different ways, neither the publisher nor theauthor can give a guarantee for the effectiveness or safety of use in individual cases. In thecase of serious health problems please consult your doctor or naturopath.

Crystal BalanceMonika Grundmann

First edition 2008

This English edition © 2008 Earthdancer GmbHEnglish translation © 2008 Astrid MickEditing of the translated text by JMS Books LLP

Originally published in German as Schönheit durch BerührenWorld Copyright © Neue Erde GmbH, Saarbruecken, Germany2006

Original German text copyright © Monika Grundmann 2006

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reprinted orreproduced or utilised in any form or by any electronic, mecha-nical, or other means, now known or hereafter invented,in cluding photocopying and recording, or in any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing fromthe publisher.

Cover Photography: Ines BlerschCover Design: Dragon Design, GB

Photos: Ines Blersch, StuttgartAssistance: Jens VollePhoto Model: Alexandra

Hair and Make-up: Petra Ucakar, StuttgartCasting: fishercasting.de, Stuttgart

Typesetting and graphics: Dragon Design UKTypeset in Garamond Condensed

Printed and bound in China

ISBN 978-1-84409-132-4

Published by Earthdancer, an imprint of:Findhorn Press, 305a The Park, Forres, IV36 3TE, Scotland.www.earthdancerbooks.comwww.findhornpress.com

For further information and book catalogue contact: Findhorn Press, 305a The Park, Forres, IV36 3TE, Scotland.

Earthdancer Books is an imprint of Findhorn Press.

tel +44 (0)1309-690582 fax +44 (0)131 777 [email protected] www.earthdancer.co.uk www.findhornpress.com



Monika Grundmann

Crystal BalanceA step-by-step guide to beauty and

health through crystal massageBeauty from within through wellbeing

Our physical wellbeing reflects every aspect of our

lives and inner selves. As a result, massage is able to

influence us on every level – mind, body and spirit.

This holistic concept is fundamental to the Crystal

Balance method developed by Monika Grundmann.

It is a simple formula, simply applied, but it is not a

therapy in the medical sense. Its aim is to help our

bodies to relax and recover, encouraging our soul

and spirit to 'be themselves'. When we are truly

'ourselves', we are beautiful.

It is as simple as that.

Monika

Grundm

annC

RYSTAL BA

LAN

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Crystal Balance cover:cover 17/5/09 22:34 Page 1

a step-by-step guide to beauty and health through crystal massage

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