How to Cleanse and Charge Your Crystals

Crystals have been cherished for their beauty and metaphysical properties for centuries. To maintain their energetic effectiveness, it is essential to regularly cleanse and charge them. This process not only helps to remove any negative energy they may have absorbed but also revitalizes their natural power, restoring the crystal to its pure state, ready to channel or amplify energy once more.

IMPORTANCE OF CLEANSING AND CHARGING CRYSTALS


Crystals can absorb energy from their surroundings—both positive and negative. Over time, the build-up of negative energy can dull their vibrancy and reduce their effectiveness in energy work, meditation, manifestation, or healing practices. After cleansing, it’s beneficial to charge them to revitalize their powers. Just like us, crystals need a little boost now and then to perform better. The good news is that both processes are easy to perform— all you need is a little time, some natural light and willingness.

 

METHODS FOR CLEANSING CRYSTALS

Here are four simple ways to sweep away negativity from your crystals. Choose the one that suits you best, or try all four to find the one you find most satisfying.

RUNNING WATER   • One of the simplest ways to cleanse crystals is by holding them under running tap water. This method works best for hard stones like quartz.
Avoid using this method for softer and porous crystals like • Selenite • Pyrite • Calcite • Rough Black Tourmaline • Malachite • Angelite.

SALT OR SALTWATER SOAK  • Salt is a powerful absorber of unwanted energy. Immerse your crystals fully in a bowl of saltwater for a few hours or even days, ensuring they are completely submerged. Alternatively, you can place them in a jar of salt. After soaking, rinse them under fresh water.

SMUDGING  • Using the smoke from herbs like sage or palo santo can effectively cleanse your crystals. Smudging is an ancient ritual where the smoke acts as a purifier, carrying away stagnant and low vibrational energies. This method is safe for all types of stones. Simply pass the crystal through the smoke until you feel it has been purified.

BURYING IN THE EARTH  • Burrowing crystals in the ground provides a natural and thorough cleansing process. The earth, much like walking barefoot on grass or soil to cleanse your spirit, has a potent capacity to absorb unwanted energies and infuse calming, grounding vibes. This method not only cleanses but also re-energizes your stones, making it particularly effective after intense energy work. Bury your crystals a couple of inches underground for up to 24 hours for thorough cleansing. Agate, Jasper, Tiger Eye, and Citrine respond particularly well to this type of cleansing.

 

CHARGING CRYSTALS

Once your crystals are free of unwanted energies, it’s time to fuel them with energy, and exposure to natural light is the best way to do that.

SUNLIGHT  • Placing crystals in direct sunlight can charge them with vibrant solar energy. You can put them on the ground if you have a garden, but a windowsill works perfectly too. Be cautious with some crystals, as extended exposure can fade their vibrant colors, particularly in stones like amethyst. It’s also good to note that heat can alter some crystals; but usually, only extreme heat is required to transform color, such as Amethyst needing 250 degrees Celsius to become translucent. Giving your amethyst a brief “sunbathing” session certainly won’t ruin the stone.

MOONLIGHT  • Charging crystals under the moonlight, especially during a
Full Moon, is a gentle yet powerful way to enhance their properties. This method is safe for all crystals and is particularly effective for stones connected with intuition and emotional healing, such as Moonstone and Selenite.

 

FREQUENCY OF CHARGING AND CLEANSING


The frequency of cleansing and charging your crystals depends on their use and environment. Some recommend charging crystals monthly or after intensive use—such as after a healing session. It’s important to regularly clean all the crystals you wear and to always cleanse and charge any new crystals you acquire or receive as gifts.

 

PROGRAMMING YOUR CRYSTALS


After cleansing and charging, programming your crystals can help align their energy with specific goals. Hold the crystal in your dominant hand and focus on a clear intention, such as love, clarity, or protection, to activate its energy in harmony with your desired outcome. This ritual not only personalizes your crystal but also enhances its supportive abilities in your life. While programming is not necessary, it is a beautiful way to align yourself with your crystal’s energy and take a moment to remind yourself of what you need from them.

 

Regular cleansing and charging ensure that your crystals remain vibrant and at their peak. Through these practices, you maintain the crystals’ ability to uplift and support you, turning them into powerful allies in your personal growth journey.