Yoga 101: An Introduction

Chances are, if you’re reading this blog post, you’ve at least considered trying yoga. Maybe you’ve seen pictures of people doing yoga poses on Instagram or in magazines and thought it looked cool but were too intimidated to actually try it. Or maybe you’ve tried a few yoga classes but felt like you didn’t really know what you were doing. Trust me, I’ve been there. I remember my first yoga class like it was yesterday. I walked into the studio, rented a mat, and tried to copy the woman in front of me. Needless to say, I was a hot mess. If only someone had told me then what I’m about

The Basics of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice that originates in India. The etymology of the word “yoga” has its roots in the Sanskrit word “yuj.” “Yuj” in English means “to merge or join” or “to unite.” Yoga is often defined as a union of the mind, the body, and the spirit.  Yoga, therefore, is the union of a person’s individual self with his or her universal self.

There are many different types of yoga, but they all generally include some combination of breath work, meditation, and physical postures (asanas). The breath work (pranayama) helps to control the flow of energy (prana) through the body. Meditation (dhyana) helps to still the mind and focus on the present moment. And the physical postures (asanas) help to strengthen and flex the body. 

The Benefits of Yoga

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to do yoga, let’s take a moment to talk about all the ways that yoga can benefit you. First and foremost, yoga is a great way to improve your flexibility. If you sit at a desk all day or tend to hunch over your computer, you probably have tight muscles in your shoulders and hips. Yoga stretches and lengthens these muscles, which can help reduce pain and improve your posture.

Yoga is also a great way to strengthen your muscles. While some forms of exercise like running or lifting weights build muscle by putting stress on them, yoga works by resistance—which means it helps your muscles grow stronger by working against your own body weight. This is especially beneficial for people who are looking for a low-impact form of exercise. 

In addition to improving your physical health, studies have shown that yoga can also improve your mental health. Yoga promotes mindfulness, which has been shown to help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. And because it improves your focus and concentration, it can also help improve cognitive function. 

Yoga has many benefits for the mind and body. It can help to improve your flexibility, strength, stamina, and balance. It can also help to reduce stress, anxiety, and tension headaches. And regular yoga practice has even been shown to lower blood pressure and improve heart health! 

Yoga is a practice that can be done by anyone, regardless of age, size, or fitness level. The key is to find a class or teacher that is appropriate for your level and needs. And Remember, there is no “perfect” way to do yoga- the goal is simply to show up on your mat and do the best that you can.

Yoga is an amazing practice with countless benefits for the mind and body. And it’s not as intimidating or difficult as it may seem at first glance. So what are you waiting for? Grab a mat and give it a try! Namaste.

Starting Your Crystal Collection

As gifts of nature, crystals have always held a special place in human societies all over the world. There is no wonder then that they hold spiritual, metaphysical importance – so significant that even science use them for the advancement of technology. Seasoned crystal collectors study their vibrations, their uses, and how they behave especially when used to aid in times of need.

For centuries, healing crystals are believed to absorb, keep, and transmit energies that can help send intentions when done correctly.  These are just but a few reasons why most people try to own a piece of crystal. Since they come in almost all forms, shapes, and sizes, there is always one that is readily available to those who aspire to own one. A small piece, no matter how little you may have spent on it, becomes precious because it becomes an extension of yourself. Remember, it is you – its custodian who will add value to it, expensive or not, how it makes you feel is all that will matter in the end.

Crystal experts will advise any beginner to relax and not worry when choosing a crystal. Most times, it is the crystal that will “choose” its new owner. We always advise new crystal owners to see and feel each stone, whether bought online or physically at The Mala Tree, it is best to get the crystal that attracts your attention. If it tugs your heart and warms your spirit – congratulations, you may have found your crystal.

But for those who need crystals to help them with specific intentions, one may always seek the advice of crystal experts such as The Mala Tree to guide them with crystals’ characteristics and metaphysical properties. Below are just some of the few ones that we always suggest to new owners:

Clear Quartz – as with a new place and phase, a new beginning should always start with a clean slate. A Clear Quartz acts as a cleanser and will do the job for almost anything – as a master healer, it helps one come better as it may assist one with health issues. It is also believed that this crystal amplifies one’s intentions, so keeping one is never a bad idea. It also does not pick up negative energies and it clears one’s space so it is a low-maintenance crystal.

Amethyst – in a fast-paced world where everything must always happen instantly, this crystal’s soft and relaxing energy will give one a sense of calm and proper disposition. In times of emotional crisis, the emotional support an amethyst provides may assist its owner as it gently offers spiritual protection and clears negative vibrations.

Citrine – the stone of abundance and manifestation, this crystal’s sunshine aura sends off positive vibrations as it showers its owner optimism and pizzaz. A good support stone, it will always give you that boost to move forward when things go awry. Placing it at the center of your living room or office desk will create a positive environment for these areas.

Rose Quartz – the stone of universal love has always been our favorite as it gives a sense of balance, love, and gentleness to its owner. It is also believed to heal one of the emotional traumas and promote inner healing. Worn near the heart or on the left arm, this crystal will always take care of the heart.

Aventurine  – The Mala Tree’s best-selling crystal is popular as it helps open doors for those who seek better opportunities. A wealth stone may have benefitted from its energy. A green stone, it also takes care of heart matters. So one should not wonder why this is a popular piece for new collectors.

Luck and healing, or anything that gives one a sense of comfort or security – however small or lowly is never a bad thing. So, we suggest you own a crystal today. Allow yourself to bloom in love and luck, and start your journey today. Visit us at The Mala Tree and take your pick!

Guide to Proper Crystal Storage and Placement

Knowing how to store healing gemstones and crystals properly is a sign of a caring, responsible and knowledgeable crystal user. This goes for whether you’re going out for your daily routine, traveling overseas, or even leaving them in your space or altar. Proper storage is also important if you want to let your crystals hibernate and protect them from outside energies as well. This knowledge is also useful when you find that a crystal’s energy is too much for you and you want to limit contact. This article will guide you to the proper storage of crystals whether at home or when traveling.

Packing and Storing your Crystals

  1. Cleanse your crystals. You must repel any negative energy before storing them away from the rest of the world.
  2. Sort your crystals. For organization, you need to arrange them by categories. Some example categories are by chakras, colors, or according to intentions they are responsive to.
  3. Draping your crystals. You need a material that would insulate your crystals from outside energies when storing them. Silk pouches are advisable. However, organic and handwoven fabrics work best for a resting crystal.
  4. Using the right storage. When traveling not only outside energies affect your healing gemstones and crystals. The bumpy ride can also bring physical damage to them. Using a wooden box with several compartments is the best option. Make sure the box is fit firmly with all the gemstones inside safe from shaking. There are great options provided in crystal shops. So make sure to pay a visit before leaving town with your crystals

Sharing Your Home with Crystals

Healing gemstones and crystals are just too beautiful to just hide away from sight. But still, risks of bumping them over or even theft are there. You can drape them with fabric or use wood and glass casings for safety. But the thing is when they are insulated by these materials, they hibernate and stop releasing vibration. You have to keep the storage open for them to function.

Moreover, given that each type of crystal vibrates with specific intentions, each can serve in different parts of your home or workplace according to each space’s function. Listed below are some crystals that could go well in a type of space and how to store — or display — them properly.

Garden

Immerse the flowers and herbs in your garden with the energy for growth. Green or yellow crystals that resonate with intentions for growth should do the trick. Examples of these are green aventurine, moss agate, or green jade.

Kitchen

It is entirely safe to place crystals beside foodstuff. So put some in your pantry or maybe accent your kitchen table with one. It is recommended that crystals that are attuned to cleansing and good health be placed in the kitchen. Selenite and apatite are your best pick.

Living Room

The living room is a place where you accommodate visitors. As such, different energies pass through and stay — even the negative ones. Keep the good vibes and filter out the negative with negativity-absorbing crystals. Create a happy atmosphere in this social area with angel aura quartz, amazonite, and citrine.

Bedroom

The bedroom is the most sacred space in one’s home. It is the site where your most personal healing gemstones and crystals reside when you take them off to sleep. As such, it is important to keep this room well-organized. A neat and orderly room resonates with positive energy. When storing multiple crystals here, it is important to keep in mind the guidelines listed above.

We hope you found this article helpful in your understanding of how to properly store and use crystals for healing. Remember that each crystal has its own unique vibration and properties, so it is important to select the right one for the right space. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create an energetically harmonious home or workplace using the power of crystals!

Self-Affirmation and the Power of Healing Gemstones and Crystals

There is so much power in positive words. It is a fuel that creates, sustains, and nourishes. On the other hand, negative words weaken and destroy. This is true when talking about love for others or the self. Whether you’re just starting your day or entering a new phase in life, what you say to yourself has a significant impact on the unfolding of things thereafter.

Putting yourself down can be a bad habit but being good to yourself through self-affirmation is a practice that you can develop. It is a ritual that can help unify your mind, body, and soul. With the help of healing gemstones and crystals, positivity toward the self can be amplified. This practice can help not just as an everyday ritual but also every time you feel that you’re surrounded by bad vibes. Below are three easy steps to boost your positivity through self-affirming words.

  1. Among the healing gemstones and crystals, pick the one connected with your intention. Hold it as you enunciate your intentions aloud. The crystal will hold your intent and will stay with you throughout the day.
  2. Breathe in deep and let the air out slowly. Release any tension your body has before saying self-affirming words. Do it three times.
  3. Afterward, speak the words aloud three times. Three represents the mind, body, and spirit. It is also the beginning, the middle, and the end.

A Crystal for Every Intention

There are particular healing gemstones and crystals that suit your intentions. Pick the right one for the effect you want to achieve. Listed below are some of the stones that are attuned to the affirmative states you want to arrive at. Also included are some words or phrases that are attuned to these positive states.

Amethyst for personal growth. Amethyst is a catalyst for spiritual growth and enlightenment. It will help you actualize your fullest potential whatever your goals are.  With its help, speak to yourself that you will become a better person today.

Carnelian for creativity. Carnelian taps into your inner creative spirit. It brings out the child in you that is full of dreams and imagination.

Citrine or Yellow Jasper for happiness. Citrine and yellow jasper emanate sun energy. They are full of happy vibes and positive energy. These stones balance the solar plexus chakra. As such, it greatly boosts belief and willpower.

Pyrite for passion. As the name suggests, pyrite resonates with Fire energy. It is a stone of action, vitality, and will. It is particularly helpful with intentions related to career and ambitions. It encourages and brings an uplifting mood in terms of career.

Clear Quartz for strength. Clear Quartz is an amplifier of energy or intent. As a crystal that is very responsive to whatever energy input it receives, it is great for the unification of your being — mind, body, and soul.

Rose Quartz for self-love. Rose quartz is the stone of universal love. Let it hug you with loving vibrations as you believe in yourself as a person filled with confidence, grace, and beauty.

Unakite for believing in the power of the now. Unakite is a source of personal power and inspiration for leadership. It is a crystal that clears your path from the blockages that came from past experiences. This will help you appreciate what you have at the present.

Whatever journey or challenge you are experiencing right now, with a positive outlook you will see things through. Words have the power to influence reality. Put this fact in your favor. Make it a practice to speak of self-affirmations to bring you growth, love, or healing. Gemstones and crystals will help you send your intentions to the universe.

Five Ways to Make Your Healing Gemstones and Crystals Work

No healing gemstone and crystals can magically turn your life around in an instant. Indeed, they are your companion on the path of happiness and betterment. However, they just don’t work by themselves. You have to work with them — this requires your time and commitment. With your energy entering the process, potentialities abound.

Make the most out of your healing gemstones and crystals. Its positive vibrations will emanate as long as you observe consistency and your energy is focused on your intentions. Listed in this article are five practical steps that will reflect this.

Consistency is key

Wear your crystal for a set number of days. It can be for 10 or 21 days but 40 days is the most recommended period. Bathing and sleeping are the two exemptions to this rule. Never skip not even for a single day. Otherwise, you have to restart the counting of days.

This period strengthens the energy bond between you and your crystal. Consistency is the key. Observing the duration instills in the crystal your intent. It also instills in you positive affirmations, powering your determination and opening yourself to the positivity that the Universe may bring.

Imbue the Crystal with Intention

Setting an intention to your crystals is like assigning a job. As with everything else, things get done when the direction getting there is clear. The same goes for crystals. The purpose you give is the one that it will send to the universe. This gesture reflects on you as it reinforces your determination to achieve your intent. In a sense, your relationship with the crystal is a partnership with a clear goal.

Cleanse Your Crystals Regularly

Your healing gemstones and crystals will pick up energy throughout your day. All the energy that accumulates will eventually dim its vibration making it less effective. It will work well if it’s in a clean state. Cleansing your jewelry can be done in several easy ways. Immersing it in sage or palo santo smoke, exposing it to the sun or moon for four hours, burying it in the soil for 24 hours, or placing it overnight beside quartz or selenite to recharge are some of the ways.

Be Mindful of Your Journey with the Crystal

This means that you should keep track of your journey. Document the life events while healing gemstones and crystals are with you. Use it as a reference for reflecting upon your progress. This includes not only the good times but also the down moments as well. Acknowledge life’s ups and downs. See the negative things as an opportunity opened for you to be better. You can write it down. Or maybe you can do audio or video logs. Use the medium that you are most comfortable with.

Believe in Yourself and the Stone will Do Its Magic

Believe in yourself.  You are the one who has the power to make positive changes in your life. You are the one who desires your intention to be heard by the universe. The crystal you have is your friend. It will accompany you through your journey. However, on its own, it doesn’t create magic. You have to be committed and determined for the magic to happen.  Do this and your crystal friend will take care of the rest.


The five practical steps we’ve outlined in this article will help you make the most of your healing gemstones and crystals. By being consistent in wearing, cleansing, and imbuing them with intention, you can create a powerful energetic bond that will open up positive potentialities for your life. Remember to be mindful of your journey with these stones, document your progress, and believe in yourself-the magic will follow.

Setting Your Intentions in Crystals

Are you in a phase of your life where you are starting with something new? Or perhaps there is a desire within you to open up to positive vibrations? Maybe, you just want things to be a bit better? Healing gemstones and crystals have the power to realize that. You can maximize their potential only through commitment and with a clear goal in mind.

Crystals work by receiving from you your intentions which then they broadcast to the universe. As with any message one sends, the clearer it is, the better. Set your goals and write them down. Pick one that you want to focus on. Let it be your intention. Let this article will guide you with the right healing gemstones and crystals perfect for your intention and making it work.

Picking the Right Crystals

There are crystals for good things you want to come into your life. Listed here are some intentions and compatible crystals. Once you are set with an intention, pick among them what suits you best. Ask your friendly neighborhood crystal shop if you want to learn more.

Balance — Hematite, Shungite

Clarity — Amethyst, Selenite

Creativity — Carnelian, Tiger’s eye

Good Health — Apatite, Selenite

Happiness — Carnelian, Amazonite, Citrine

Love — Malachite, Rose Quartz

New Beginnings and Inspiration — Chrysocolla, Moonstone

Peace of Mind and Protection — Black Tourmaline, Selenite

Tranquility — Amethyst, Blue Lace Agate

Wealth — Citrine, Pyrite. Aventurine

Setting Your Intentions

You have to work with your crystal to get results. Aligning your intentions to the crystal’s energy is the way to do it.

How? It is through the use of self-affirming words. First, be specific about what you want to achieve. Use ‘I am’ or ‘I have’ when saying your intentions. They help with making your intentions a reality. Don’t hesitate to say them aloud to make them resonate with the stone. Here below are some examples:

I am capable of loving and being loved!

I am filled with light!

I am balanced in mind, body, and spirit!

My heart is filled with joy and contentment!

I am successful with finances!

Ways to Receive the Crystal’s Energy

Here are three ways you can expose yourself to the energy of healing crystals and gemstones. Of course, it would be great if you could do all three as their energies reinforce one another.

Wear crystals as jewelry. Not only do they look nice, but wearing them also immerses you in their energy as long as you wear them.

Carry crystals in pockets or purses. Doing so will make it always accessible whenever you need to pause and reflect. During so, hold it in your hand and reconnect to its energy.

Installing them in a room. A crystal’s energy will emanate within the room where you place it. Also, it will serve as a reminder of the goal you attached to it through your intentions.

Time and Commitment

It is important to emphasize time and again that healing crystals and gemstones don’t work on their own. It needs your time and commitment to your goals. It needs your desire and will to help send your intentions to the universe.

You have to allocate a set period for your intention. This means being consistent in wearing or carrying your crystals and your mind focused on your goal. It is really up to you how long you are going to do this. But a long period, say 40 days, will ensure effectiveness. Never skip a day during that time. Otherwise, it’s recommended to start all over again.

Track your development during that period. Writing down any improvements will help you see it better. With your time and commitment, and with the help of your crystals, you can achieve what you desire!

So, if you’re looking to set some good intentions and need the right crystals to help make them work, look no further! This article has all of the information you need to get started. We’ve outlined which crystals are best for different intentions, and given some tips on how to use them most effectively. Remember that it takes time and commitment to see results, so be patient and stay focused on your goals. With these tools at your disposal, anything is possible!