Navigating New Horizons: My Journey with Hashimoto's, Adrenal Fatigue, and Breast Health

As I sat down to pen this chapter of my life, I was reminded of the intricate tapestry woven from threads of uncertainty, resilience, and the promise of healing. At 52, a single mom to two teenagers, I never expected my path to lead me through the labyrinth of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, adrenal fatigue, and the stark reality of a breast lump scare. Yet, in the midst of it all, I find solace in the newfound understanding that every step forward is a testament to the strength within.

It began with the discovery of a lump in my breast, a moment that plunged me into a whirlwind of fear and apprehension. Days blurred into weeks as I navigated a maze of tests and consultations until the lump was deemed a cyst – a fleeting moment of relief overshadowed by the looming specter of broader health concerns.

In the months preceding this pivotal moment, I found myself grappling with a myriad of symptoms that seemed to darken every corner of my life. Fatigue became my unwelcome companion, weight gain an unyielding adversary, and brain fog a constant fog obscuring clarity. Mood swings and irritability added an extra layer of complexity, leaving me feeling adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

It was a moment of surrender that led me to seek answers from my healthcare provider, and the diagnosis of Hashimoto's and adrenal fatigue was both a reckoning and a beacon of hope. As I stand at the threshold of my recovery journey, I take solace in the knowledge that medication marks a first step towards restoration. I am also having an evaluation with an homeopathic practitioner which offers a glimmer of light in the darkness, a beacon guiding me towards balance and renewed vitality.

These are all merely a stepping stones on the path to healing. Embracing lifestyle changes is the cornerstone upon which my journey is built. Stress-reducing practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises have become my allies in the battle for adrenal health, offering sanctuary amidst life's tumultuous storms.

Yet, amidst the chaos, there is clarity. I've come to understand the intricate dance between my physical health, mental well-being, and the choices I make each day. Prioritizing self-care has become my guiding principle, guiding me towards activities that nourish my body, mind, and spirit. From prioritizing rest to nourishing myself with wholesome foods and embracing gentle exercise, every action is a testament to my commitment to healing.

As I gaze towards the horizon, I do so with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. Though my journey is just beginning, I am emboldened by the knowledge that every step forward is a victory, every choice an affirmation of my resilience. To anyone else embarking on a similar journey, I offer these words of encouragement: you are not alone. Together, we can navigate the uncharted waters of recovery with courage, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of healing.

The 8 Best Crystals For Aries: Unlock Your Strength & Passion

SUMMARY

Personality Traits: As an Aries, you are known for your bold ambition, fierce energy, and confident leadership, often displaying a dynamic and gregarious heart in all aspects of life.

Challenges: You might struggle with stubbornness and frustration, needing to balance your fiery nature with patience and softer energy in relationships.

Top Crystals for Aries: Carnelian, Red Jasper, Clear Quartz, and Citrine are ideal for you, enhancing your natural drive, providing emotional stability, sharpening focus, and attracting abundance.

Using Crystals: Wear Aries crystal jewelry to maintain balanced energy throughout the day, use palm stones for meditation, carry stones for an energy boost, and place them around your home for protection and balance.

As the first sign of the zodiac, Aries is brimming with active power. Those born under the banner of Aries are ever bold, blessed with ambition, and take being a fire sign to a new level when it comes to passion and confidence. Aries are known for a fierce energy that applies itself to every angle of their life - from work to relationships; they are born leaders who stride forth with fabulous determination. While they can be stubborn and easily frustrated, they bring their gregarious heart, their positive energy, and their dynamic approach. The best crystals that can support Aries as they stomp through life with the same energy as their ram house signal are those that can temper big moods, lend patience, and bring softer energy to those close-knit relationships in a way that doesn't douse the fire. We take a closer look at some of the best crystals for Aries.

Benefits of Using Crystals for Aries

All zodiac signs can benefit from balancing their energy levels, natural vibrations and making the most of their positive traits and negative traits thanks to the use of crystals. Crystals can be a powerful way of amplifying and channeling energy and can bring healing, guidance, and support when welcomed into your daily life. As Aries tend to have fiery energy, they can use softer crystals to help them take it down to a chiller level. But powerful crystal energy isn't just about smoothing out the wrinkles - it can also be used to amplify positive traits that make Aries such a special person. By using crystal synergy that aligns with the natural energy of those born under the sign of Aries, you can create a dynamic dreamy, uplifting energy that works for this bright and bold astrological sign.

Choosing the Right Stones

Finding the right stones and the best healing crystals to suit an Aries means knowing which gemstones align with an Aries's natural energy. Working with crystal healing always relies on a spark of intuition as it's a soul pursuit more than a logical one. However, if you aren't clear about which stones you are drawn towards, you can look to zodiac stones, chakras, colors, and birthstones to help you find a beautiful stone that will serve you in the ways you need. 

Consider Your Needs and Goals

One of the best ways to choose the right stones is to think about where you are in life and what energy you want your crystal to bring. Aligning your crystal choices with personal aspirations to overcome challenges or to boost a personal growth area is one of the most effective ways of getting the most out of your crystal magic. For example, some powerful stones can raise energy levels or spark creative energy, whereas others can bring you a sense of calm and work as a natural tranquilizer. Others can assist with emotional healing and can open the heart space, and others can center you during difficult times. Whatever healing power you are seeking, there is sure to be a crystal out there for it. 

The Best Crystals for Aries

With a riot of stones to choose from, Aries can find crystals that align with their approach to life and, rather than dampen that fiery spirit - supports it wholly. One of the most enchanting things about Aries is their passion for life, and their beautiful bold energy, so finding stones that support the lower chakras and match that energy can amplify those intrinsic strengths. Another excellent choice for Aries is seeking stones that can cool hot tempers, assist with emotional balance and clarity of mind, and clear up communication matters. Here are some of the best crystals out there for Aries. 

Carnelian

A stone of courage and bold color, Carnelian is the crystal of choice for Aries who want to boost their natural drive and chase their ambitions with ease. Also ruled by the planet Mars, Carnelian's bright and fiery energy also works on the root chakra and the sacral chakra to ensure that you stay firm and steady and connected to heady visions of passion and play. Wearing a Carnelian bracelet will keep you more curious than fearless, and the Carnelian meaning helps you hit your goals. 

Red Jasper

Radiant Red Jasper is another glorious grounding stone that supports the energy of Aries in all the right ways. This comforting root chakra stone assists with emotional stability, which can be great for mental health. The meaning of Red Jasper also centers around strength and vitality, so it can be a perfect pick-me-up when energy levels and even your physical strength are low. Wearing a Red Jasper bracelet also brings protective properties and a delirious dose of courage for boosting productivity.

Clear Quartz

Clear Quartz is known as the master healer and has huge amplifying qualities. The meaning of Clear Quartz is centered around sharpening focus and helping you achieve mental clarity. This can be the perfect set of skills to dial up for Aries - especially when they are set on following their dreams and chasing their goals. Wearing a Clear Quartz bracelet can also keep you centered and purify negative energies so that you step forward with positive vibes.

Citrine

The golden warmth of Citrine is a magnet for attracting abundance and the perfect assistant for all those Aries out there who want to manifest their dreams into reality. The meaning of Citrine is the merchant's stone as it is considered to be lucky in ancient times. It's also a gem that fills you with positive healing energy and chases black moods away. For all those Aries that are dealing with the drama of their sometimes fiery personality, wearing a Citrine bracelet can help center you in the light.

Amethyst

Soothing Amethyst is a balm for those born under the Aries sign. This pure chill crystal is a perfect match as it helps temper the hot energy of Aries with gentle energies instead. Known for clearing worries, balancing moods, and assisting in spiritual growth, Amethyst stones are truly one of the best gems for encouraging higher focus from a more spiritual place. Wearing an Amethyst bracelet can help this fiery sign to step back and check that they aren't sacrificing their spiritual well-being with their drive.

Garnet

Garnet is a glowy red stone that can be the perfect match for the passion of all those bold fire signs out there. This radiant gem is also a stone of courage, fire, and light. The meaning of Garnet is to connect to the root chakra and also the sacral chakra so it assists in keeping you solid even when the powers of passion are pulsating. Wearing a Garnet bracelet instills you with confidence and taps into that deep survival instinct which helps you to make the right choices for your emotional wellbeing.

Bloodstone

The planet of action Mars may also rule Bloodstone, but rather than aggressive energy; it brings a solid grounding energy that helps Aries to keep both feet on the floor. With its solid stance, the meaning of Bloodstone can then assist Aries in boosting their courage and can cleanse negative energy from their aura. Wearing a Bloodstone bracelet also means this powerful healing crystal can keep a sense of clarity when it comes to decision-making and make these choices from a place of careful consideration rather than agitated boundless energy. 

Peridot

The bright green color gem of Peridot can make for a perfect Aries stone thanks to its gentle light and its sense of sweet spring harmony. Also considered to be a stone of luck and joy, Peridot works with the heart chakra and can calm the frayed corners of those Aries out there battling with explosive tempers. Wearing a Peridot bracelet can help Aries stay aligned with their purpose and focus all while staying connected to a sense of harmony and happy moods.  

How to Choose and Cleanse Crystals for Aries

Picking the right crystals for Aries can mean leaning into your intuition and acknowledging your own strengths and weaknesses. Crystal healing relies on connecting with yourself, knowing your intentions, and connecting with cosmic energy. This can all be done on a gentle, intuitive basis or simply by selecting stones that match your personal preferences. Once you have your gemstones, you want o make sure you keep them charged and cleansed so they can work at the top of their vibration game. Here are some ways you can cleanse and charge your Aries crystals. 

• Hold them under running water for a few moments to disperse any built-up energy

• Place under moonlight or (depending on the stone) in sunlight

• Bury them within the earth for a couple of hours

• Use sage smudging to cleanse 

• Place in the company of other crystals known for cleansing and charging properties, such as Selenite or Clear Quartz.

How to Incorporate Crystals into Daily Life for Aries Individuals

• Wear Aries crystal jewelry to carry your intentions all day and to nurture balanced energy and soothing vibrations wherever you go.

• Use palm stones and worry stones by holding them in your hand and meditating on decisions.

• Carry Aries stones in your pocket when you need an extra boost of energy.

• Place Aries crystals around your home for protection and balance.

• Use Aries stones for chakra cleansing by placing aligning stones on chakra points during meditation or rest.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Using Crystals for Aries

Crystal healing can go hand in hand with your astrological chart. For all those Aries out there who want to strike more balance and softness in their daily routine, working with these gemstones can help you find that sense of joy. By selecting stones that work with your natural strengths, you can elevate positive qualities, welcome healing on a deeper level, and find your footing even when your impulsive nature kicks in.

Crystals For Beginners: 12 Stones You Must Have

Crystals For Beginners: 12 Stones You Must Have

Find yourself drawn to the sparkling shades of crystals? Curious about gemstone healing? We have the lowdown on how to get started in the wondrous world of crystal magic. 

Discover the power of crystals 

• Use for daily balance and well-being

• Cleanse blockages from the chakras

• Stay connected to your soul magic

Alchemy is alive and well when it comes to stone magic. For all those who have wondered all about the how, why, and which when it comes to crystals, I am here to map out the best starter crystals to get you going on your journey. Crystals come in a thousand shapes, styles, and colors but more than just being pretty to look at, they also come with a whole host of healing properties and can be used in your daily life to help bring a sense of balance and well-being.

There are crystals for clearing chakras, crystals for protective measures, crystals for self-care, crystals for emotional energy, and crystals for attracting all that you desire and more. You just have to choose one that works with your own systems of power. You may be wondering how you would even know which crystal was the right one for you, but this is where we take out very first lesson in working with crystals. It’s all about learning to trust yourself and letting your intuition guide you. If we learn to tap into that well of wisdom, we know exactly what we need for our own self-care and we know where in our wellness journey we are rising and where we may be falling. Taking this knowledge and finding crystals that can help strengthen our strengths and build resilience in places we may have fragility is a glorious act of self-care just in itself.

You will probably find that there is more than one crystal out there calling your name and that’s totally cool. Building a crystal collection is a joyous thing and means that we can draw on different crystals to meet our moods as rarely is anyone riding through life at a constant speed. Don’t feel afraid to experiment with crystals and see which stones connect to your spirit.

Crystals are enticing. They are a potent reminder that we are willing to show up and make choices to get the inner work done. Flowering into your best self is work and takes recognition and effort. This doesn’t mean we need to throw ourselves headfirst into healing, but it can mean taking small steps and crystals can help facilitate that. They are a visual representation of our intention. They are a talisman of care and compassion to ourselves and others. And they are a wonderful way we can stay connected with our own soul magic and the wider world that hangs out there in the cosmos. It’s time to discover the universe both inside and out, it’s time to kickstart your own crystal collection.

The Must-Have Healing Crystals 

As mentioned, the best way to pick crystals that work for you is to use your intuition and see what draws you in. Sometimes, your eye will automatically rove towards a certain shape or color of crystal, other times your curiosity is sparked by the name or something within connects when you hear about the healing properties – a tiny whisper inside that says yes. We understand that with so many crystals out there it can be overwhelming to choose one which is where this beginners guide to the most popular crystals comes in handy. We have chosen a selection of first crystals that are easy to get hold of, gentle to work with, and can be a great way of getting your healing stones collection up and running. Here are some of the best crystals for beginners:

1) Clear Quartz 

• The master healer

• Brings clarity and amplifies energy

Also known as the Master Healer, you can see immediately why Clear Quartz is at the top of our must-have list for beginner crystals. The Clear Quartz stone is one of the most popular crystals thanks to its purist point of view and its ability to bring a sense of clarity, raise your vibrations, and work on your self-esteem. This quartz crystal is known for aiding spiritual growth, clearing out negative energies, and providing a long-term pick me up along with emotional stability for those who may be struggling. Clear Quartz also spring cleans your aura and is a major amplifier. It’s an ace crystal to have in your collection as it amps up the energy of your other crystals.

2) Amethyst 

• Nurtures calmness and contemplation

• Helps with sleep

Amazing Amethyst is a stone you are sure to recognize. The violet and purple quartz is easily noticeable and known for its connection to the crown chakra. The crown chakra is our highest energy point and the way in which we connect with higher plains and the universe on a spiritual level. If all that sounds a little lofty, fear not. Amethyst is also a stone that nurtures deep contemplation, a calm frame of mind, and an everlasting sense of serenity. It also aids in decision making too. On the physical level, those who struggle with sleep will find Amethyst helps to gently shut down your mind so you can rest easy. It also boosts immunity and takes care of migraines too. For those who crave calmness and positivity, Amethyst is your perfect starter stone.

3) Rose Quartz 

• Encourages self-love

• Deepens all kinds of relationships

Pretty in pink and known for helping to grow your sense of self-love, Rose Quartz is a beautiful beginner crystal for all. This sweet stone is a heart chakra healer. It helps to soothe old wounds, breaks down walls that no longer serve you, and grows your capacity for trust and unconditional love. What we mean when we talk about love isn’t just the romantic flourish of another, but our whole spectrum of relationships – including how we care for ourselves. For those who want to work on deepening bonds, building compassion, turning away from co-dependency, and working on their own ability to self-soothe, the rosy glow of this crystal is a great choice. 

4) Lapis Lazuli

• Clears the throat chakra

• Encourages self-expression

The wise Lapis Lazuli is part of the more mystical crystal set but is still a greater starter stone for those who want to tune into their own intuition and perhaps even nurture hidden psychic gifts. Lapis Lazuli is beautiful in blue and is a crystal with a long history of being loved by pharaohs, goddesses, and artists. It has a certain sense of serenity that helps you to sit comfortably in your own thoughts at the same time as nurturing self-expression. Lapis Lazuli connects with the throat chakra which helps us to share our truth with the world. When our throat chakra is clear we can communicate our needs with bright confidence. Along with working the throat chakra, you can also use Lapis Lazuli for connecting with your own wisdom and the wisdom of the universe. It’s a great accompanying stone for tarot and other spiritual exploration. 

5) Carnelian 

• Connects to the root chakra

• Rich in vitality

Soaked in sunset colors, one glance at the Carnelian stone and it seems to stir up all your energy. Carnelian is a member of the Chalcedony family and is one of the most stimulating starter stones you could wish for. With its fiery oranges and reds, you want to turn to Carnelian whenever you are feeling in an energy slump as this stone will pick you right back up. Carnelian is rich in vitality and not only does it bring the fizz and crackle of mental clarity but it also turns up the volume on your physical energy too. Like many of the red fiery stones, Carnelian connects to the root chakra and helps to strengthen our sense of safety and grounding. It also links up with the sacral chakra tapping into intimacy and desire. For those who want to bring their warrior spirit out to play, the Carnelian is a stone that sees you right.

6) Hematite 

• Famed for its protective powers

• Known for courage

A harder crystal in shades of silver and black, Hematite is a crystal that can be wielded like a shield. This iron-rich stone was something of an obsession back in ancient Greece. They believed that it had incredible healing powers and could protect everyone from warriors on the battlefield to women in the birthing bed. These days, we recognize that Hematite is a strength bringer. It roots us right down, taps into our survival instinct, and helps us to overcome all that we fear and to call on courage. Whatever you need courage for; whether overcoming addiction, cutting out toxic people, finding your voice or learning to push outside your comfort zone, Hematite is your guiding star to get you there.

7) Moonstone 

• Full of feminine power

• Invites us to embrace change

Speaking of guiding lights, another gorgeous glimmer of hope and wellbeing can be found in the magic of the Moonstone. For those who feel the need to have a highly feminine crystal in their collection, the pale pearly glow of the Moonstone is a must. Considered to be a gemstone of inward vision, the luminous Moonstone serves to remind us that just like the phases of mother moon in the sky, everything runs in cycles and we must learn to move and adapt with these changes. In a physical sense, t is a great stone for those wanting to get in touch with their bodily wisdom and find their own flow. It also helps with all kinds of reproductive and fertility issues. In an emotional sense, the Moonstone helps us to move into new phases and invites us to accept all that we cannot change. It also helps to settle hormones and keeps us connected to the cosmos.

8) Black Obsidian 

• Helps with grounding

• A truth seeker stone

Every starter gemstone kit needs to have a protector of the realm and this happens to be the deep and dreamy Black Obsidian. Whether you are an empath who needs a little protection from feeling everyone’s feels or if you simply want a way to stay grounded and out of the way of toxic emotions and negative energy, then this is the stone for you. Not only does Black Obsidian keep you protected but it also connects with your root chakra so you can build those skills that help you to protect yourself. It is also a truth seeker stone that works with you to find your pathways of authenticity and to unravel the layers to get down to the core.

9) Selenite 

• Highly spiritual 

• Brings clarity and vision

A saintly stone that shimmers in angel hues, the Selenite gem is all silk and goddess energy. This stone also goes by a handful of other names such as Satin Spar and Desert Rose. It is known for glowing clarity and vision, radiating peace, and providing protection for your energetic fields and space. Selenite can be a great stone for conducting energy and also reminding us that we can create our own sacred space in our body, our mind, and our soul. It instantly helps to shed anxieties and worries and encourages healthy insight so you can bloom into your beautiful sense of being. Selenite is also a solid starter stone for those wanting to explore pathways into higher plains and connections with other entities. 

10) Pyrite

• Protects against EMFs

• Inspires confidence

Taking its name from the Greek word for fire, Pyrite is also known by the nickname of Fools Gold. Similar to gold in looks, Pyrite is all energy and is awesome at keeping negative vibes and EMF effects at bay. Pyrite is a great stone for building up strength and stamina not just in the physical sense but emotionally too. It helps people to move out of stagnant and depressive energies and invites confidence levels to soar. Those who aim for leadership roles love Pyrite. It’s a glorious glimmering stone for reviving the light of lost dreams and it also helps bring back creative energy to the solar plexus and the sacral chakras. 

11) Black Tourmaline 

• Creates a barrier against negative energy

• Keeps you stable in body, mind and soul

Another warrior stone to turn to when you need protection from electromagnetic fields, Black Tourmaline is hugely powerful and having it in your collection is like wearing a cloak of protection. When you have the raw and raucous Black Tourmaline close by you better bet that no negative energy is going to enter your forcefield. This stone can get you grounded in seconds and when our root is tethered to the floor we no longer need to worry about external forces shaking our foundations. This fact alone can be a huge boost in power and keep us stable in body, mind, and soul.

12) Citrine 

• Brings luck and prosperity

• Lends light and life

We all need a shot of sunshine on our person and fortunately the bright energy of Citrine can bring that radiant light to even the darkest days. Citrine is also known as the merchants stone, in homage to its luck and luscious prosperity. This stone wants you to succeed and is going to provide you with everything you need to make that happen. For starters, its warm energy basks you in a feeling of brilliance which in turn grants you the confidence to go out and seek all your wildest dreams. It’s also a good stone to have close by if you suffer from chronic fatigue or any other energy-draining ailment. Citrine is a life-giver and a light bringer and grants you all the optimism you need to shine. 

How to use gemstones 

• Wear them

• Welcome them to your home

• Use in meditation

Now you have your awesome selection of starter gemstones the next step is knowing how to use them to get the best of their energy. One of the best ways to use your crystals is to look for gemstone jewelry. Having gemstones placed directly on the skin means that these potent healing stones can get straight to work on providing protection, cleansing your chakras, and aligning with your intention. If you don’t want to wear gemstone jewelry then there are other ways to bring the healing powers of crystals to light. You can place tumbled stones on your windowsill or in your workspace, you can create crystal grids for all-round healing, and you can use worry stones as tools in mindful meditation.

How to cleanse & recharge your crystals

• Cleanse regularly 

• Charge to restore power

It’s important to keep your crystals cleansed and charged regularly to make sure that they get a chance to dump out all of that negative energy they have been collecting. Cleansing and recharging should be done after particularly heavy reiki or healing sessions or every few weeks depending on what’s been going on in your world. You can cleanse by simply running your crystal underwater for a few moments. If your crystal feels particularly delicate or doesn’t do well with water you can also choose smudging with sage or palo santo. To recharge, place your crystals beneath the full moon or in a slant of sunlight. Again, delicate crystals can be placed in soil, brown rice, or be placed with other quartz crystals who can help to build that energy back up.

Crystals can have the power to change your life. They encourage us to be gentle with ourselves, to practice self-care, and to carry intention with us wherever we go. Gemstones provide a gateway into building ourselves up and working to align our body, mind, and soul. For all those beginning their journey with crystals, we salute you and wish you all the joy in the world on this awesome adventure. 

Which crystal are you going to choose first? Share your starter crystal faves with me in the comments.