Chinese medicine specifies three methods of using stones, called Shi Men San Fa/Stone Gate Three Methods. As we pass through this gateway, we learn three fundamental approaches:
· topical application, when we use the stones as massage tools, place them on the body, wear them as jewelry, bathe in a stone elixir, or use an elixir as a wash for skin conditions or as an eyewash;
· internal application, when we soak stones in water to make elixirs or waters to drink; and
· intentional application, where we use the stones as jewelry, in meditation, or in qigong, or we place them strategically in our homes and offices using principles of fengshui.
In any stone treatment, the approach we choose can be as simple as massaging a sore muscle or as sophisticated as a stone “acupuncture” treatment. The approach we choose depends on our level of understanding, and our understanding grows with experience.
There are many factors involved in selecting stones and choosing a method of application. Any of the suggestions in this section, or in the materia medica, are only that—suggestions. Regardless of the stone or method we use, the most important criterion for our choice is clear intentionality.
Determining a Strategy
Whether we are applying stones topically or using them internally, we must first have some understanding of the underlying cause of a condition in order to combine the appropriate stones. Is the condition acute? Is it chronic? Is it constitutional?
· Acute conditions warrant the use of stones from the section of the materia medica that describes stones affecting the Defensive/Wei Qi level of the body’s energy, such as calcite or tourmaline.
· Chronic conditions warrant the use of stones from the sections of the materia medica that describe stones that affect the Nourishing/Ying Qi or Source/Yuan Qi levels of the body’s energetics, such as apatite, moonstone, opal, or sodalite.
· Constitutional conditions warrant the use of stones from the section of the materia medica that describes stones that affect the body’s Source/Yuan Qi, such as emerald, ruby, or sapphire.
Is the level of illness physical, mental or emotional, or spiritual? Will the treatment address the physical or etheric body?
· For physical illness, choose stones that are turbid or opaque. If emerald is the choice, it should be a dull, dark, non-gem-quality stone. Physical illness requires that the stones touch the body or be used in an elixir to be ingested.
· For mental or emotional conditions, choose stones that have a color or chemical that relates to Blood. For example, hematite contains high amounts of iron and nourishes and invigorates the Blood. Pink rhodochrosite contains manganese to affect Heart Blood; hold a sphere to quickly calm the feeling of agitation in the chest.
· For spiritual conditions, choose gem-quality stones to place on the body or wear as jewelry. In a stone layout for a spiritual condition, stones can surround the person without actually touching the body.
Developing a Formula
The term formula applies to any combination of stones, whether for topical, internal, or intentional application. A formula is intended to satisfy a particular strategy, and different stones have specific roles to play. There is a principal, an associate, a transformer, an enhancer, and a harmonizer. Three or four stones in a formula are sufficient to satisfy a strategy. Adding more stones sends too many messages to the body and can cause confusion about one’s treatment priority. (In a stone layout, the actual number of stones placed on the body can be more than three or four, but the different types of stones should be limited to three or four.)
The Principal
The principal stone addresses the primary symptom. These stones have a strong effect. We might choose a stone with aluminum to clear Heat; or for topical use, we might use a copper-containing stone, such as malachite, to move Qi. Both aluminum and copper have the potential for toxicity. Use such stones for only a short time.
The Associate
The associate stone supports or reinforces many of the functions of the principal stone. If the principal addresses all the symptoms, adding an associate is not necessary. If new symptoms develop during treatment, the associate stone can be added.
The Transformer
In herbal medicine, this role is called the assistant or envoy. It is responsible for directing the effects of a formula to a particular location or fulfilling a particular intention. In stone medicine, we call this stone the transformer. This role is always filled from the Chalcedony family, including the agates, agate-jaspers, and jaspers. Stones in this group are not used as principal stones. These transformative stones address the stagnations and deficiencies we have in our lives due to our lack of clarity about what we truly need. They encourage change.
The Harmonizer and the Enhancer
A formula may also benefit from a harmonizer or an enhancer. The harmonizer helps the stones in the combination to work well together, a strategy used when one or more of the stones in a combination have very strong therapeutic effects, such as black tourmaline. The enhancer makes a formula’s effect stronger, a strategy to strengthen the therapeutic effects of a combination of stones. In stone medicine, harmonizers and enhancers are usually the clear or colored quartz crystals, but clear topaz is also a good candidate. Quartz crystals are not used as principal stones.
Formula Examples
High Blood Pressure
To develop an elixir for someone with high blood pressure that “runs in the family,” the combination needs to address the chronic nature of the condition with a hard Source/Yuan-level stone. Hypertension is an excess condition, so the overall intention of the strategy is to reduce the condition by using turbid stones. For the purposes of this example, assume that the condition arises from the Liver. Green stones resonate with the Liver.
A good choice for the principal stone is a dull, turbid emerald. It not only addresses the condition of high blood pressure but also addresses the fundamental “excess” cause, such as rising Liver Fire. We don’t really need an associate stone in this case.
For the transforming stone, use a turbid green-colored stone such as green jasper. It addresses high blood pressure by cooling Heat in the Blood.
To harmonize the formula, use a turbid quartz crystal, for example smoky quartz, which helps consolidate Essence/Jing in the lower region, further supporting the intention to lower the blood pressure.
Back Spasm
For another example, let’s consider a topical application combination for a person with an acute recurrence of a chronic back spasm. Have the person lie on his stomach. Before working directly on the spasm, place associate stones, perhaps fishtail selenite, fluorite, or calcite, in the palms of his hands and on the bottoms of his feet, to encourage the movement of energy away from the spasm site. These are Wei-level stones to address the acute flare-up of the condition, and they help release Wind and/or generate Fluids to soothe the Sinews. Now place a transforming stone, perhaps green jasper, above or below the spasm, with several small terminated quartz crystals surrounding and pointing away from the spasm as enhancers.
Finally, choose the principal stone to massage the area of spasm, perhaps malachite or another copper-containing stone, to move the Blood to expel Wind.
Topical Application
Using stones topically means that the stones are in direct contact with the body. In a professional setting, this can be defined as placing stones on the body as a treatment in itself, or as an adjunct to acupuncture or massage. It can also include using stone massage tools to invigorate the Qi and Blood by rubbing sore muscles or specific points. Simply holding a stone can be therapeutic. During a talk therapy session, the client can hold a stone in his hand to help ease anxiety, and at the same time the therapist can hold a stone to maintain her stability or for energetic protection. Taking a bath that includes stones can also be a method of topical application.
In any of these situations, however, stone medicine requires consistent application. Once-weekly treatments may sometimes be adequate, but daily use brings more benefit. To maintain such consistency, there are a variety of methods that will help lengthen the effect of a therapeutic treatment:
· In a professional setting, the acupuncturist or massage therapist can tape small beads to specific acupuncture points to continue the effects of a particular treatment strategy. (See the caution about tape.)
· A psychotherapist, or perhaps a layperson caring for an aging family member, can recommend a stone to wear as a pendant or bracelet.
· A person with a chronic pain condition that is accessible for self-massage can use a stone to rub on the painful area several times a day and during painful, sleepless nights. Rolling a small sphere is especially effective in this case.
A Nightly Ritual
One very effective way to utilize the stones on a regular basis is to initiate a nightly ritual with stones recommended by a professional or chosen according to your own knowledge. For eyestrain, you might place small slices of agate over your eyes, or you might put azurite “blueberries” on the inner corner of the eye/UB-1. For chakra balancing, simply apply appropriately colored stones to the front of the body while lying in bed.
Another simple method is to hold a stone throughout the night. This is an excellent method to help you understand the nature of a stone deeply. From time to time, you might notice that some deep habit pattern has begun to shift, and with the noticing, you may realize, “Ahh! It’s the stone that doing that. It’s that sheet silicate structure helping me peel off layers.”
Jewelry
Topical application includes wearing jewelry for physical or emotional conditions. The stones used for this kind of jewelry should be opaque or translucent, as compared to the faceted gemstones used in the intentional application discussed later.
Jewelry for stone medicine is best when set in such a way that the stone directly touches the skin. Many stones have more effect when they interact with the warmth produced by the body. Any stone—whether opaque or transparent, rough or polished, faceted or natural—can be used for jewelry. Jewelry can affect physical, mental, and emotional health.
Necklaces
A necklace has stones or beads completely circling the neck. It can be of any length, from a choker to a string of beads reaching the center of the chest.
A choker, or a string of beads touching the central notch at the base of the throat/CV-22, affects the sensory organs, changing our perception of the world. For example, a short pearl necklace addresses dryness or sensitivity of the eyes. A short necklace changes the way we interact with the external world.
Longer necklaces are less about change and more about an acknowledgment and affirmation of what is already being perceived.
Pendants
The point at the center of the chest, CV-17, has many functions. It is the Mu point for the Pericardium; it has a strong relationship to the emotions. As the Central Altar point, it benefits the gathering of Qi in the chest region. It regulates the Qi, affecting the diaphragm and the chest to allow for improved breathing. It treats Rebellious Qi, manifesting in such conditions as coughing, nausea, vomiting, and esophageal constriction. It is the meeting place of the Conception Vessel with the Spleen, Kidney, Small Intestine, and Triple Heater meridians.
Because of these functions and connections, any stone placed at the center of the chest affects a variety of health conditions over time. A pendant of lapis lazuli nourishes Blood and Yin. Blue chalcedony and moonstone nourish a hormonal Yin deficiency and Qi deficiency. Wearing a pearl at CV-17 calms the Shen. Wearing aventurine at CV-17 benefits women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome, as well as people who are chronically angry.
Rings
In our society, rings are a symbol of accomplishment—think graduation or wedding rings. Rings can be worn on any finger; the choice can be made based on the idea of polarity.
· The thumb is balancing or regulating.
· The index and middle fingers attract the energies needed for resolution of a situation or condition.
· The fourth and fifth fingers are about affirmation and acceptance. (The middle finger also affirms.)
In the Primary Channel system, the only meridians that travel to the fingers are associated with Metal and Fire.
· Metal: The thumb is associated with the Lung channel and the index finger with the Large Intestine channel. Rings on these fingers will affect respiratory or digestive conditions.
· Fire: The little finger is associated with the Heart, the fourth finger with the Triple Heater, and the middle finger with the Pericardium channel. Rings on these fingers will affect issues manifesting in the chest and emotional conditions.
The choice of finger can also be based on Six Division meridian energetics.
· Taiyang/Bladder–Small Intestine: the little finger
· Shaoyang/Gall Bladder–Triple Heater: the fourth finger
· Yangming/Stomach–Large Intestine: the index finger
· Shaoyin/Heart–Kidney: the little finger
· Taiyin/Lung–Spleen: the thumb
· Jueyin/Liver–Pericardium: the middle finger
Typically, rings are set in metal. Consider the effects of the metal on the overall strategy. The Ayurvedic style of setting, which allows the stone to touch the skin of the finger, is best. Gold tonifies and is best for the fourth and fifth fingers to strengthen the function of the related channels, and silver disperses for the index and middle fingers to support letting go.
Earrings
The ear is associated with the Essence/Jing and the Kidney. Earrings are best used for curriculum challenges or for deep conditions that require a change of perception, to change how a person hears and sees the world.
Earrings set in gold are tonifying; set in silver they are dispersing. If possible, wear stones that admit light or sparkle directly on the lobe and touch the skin. Dangling earrings can be opaque stones.
Ears are commonly pierced on the reflex point associated with the eyes. Piercings along the cartilage of the ear associate to the spine and brain.
Earrings affect the brain. Wear earrings to affect glandular conditions that involve the pituitary, such as hypo- or hyperthyroidism.
Bracelets
Bracelets are best for attracting the lesson of learning to “handle” life. They are appropriate for Bi/Obstruction syndrome, to draw arthritis and other pain conditions out of latency.
Depending on how they are made, bracelets stimulate both the Yin and Yang aspects of the wrist. Different stones can be strung together to affect the Yin channels/Organs on the inner wrist and the Yang channels/Organs on the outer wrist.
Source points for the Yin Organs of the Lungs, Pericardium, and Heart are located on the crease of the inner wrist. Source points for the Yang Organs of the Large Intestine, Triple Heater, and Small Intestine are located on the crease of the outer wrist. Source points have a direct relationship to their respective Internal Organ; they are usually used to move stagnation, as well as to tonify their respective organs. (See “The Source Points” in appendix 2.)
There are other points further up the wrists that benefit from the stimulation of a bracelet rolling up and down on the wrist, such as the Luo point of the Pericardium.
Wearing Jewelry on One Side
The energetic polarity of the genders plays a role in determining where stones should be worn or affixed when only using one side of the body.
To affect postnatal conditions—that is, issues related to managing ordinary health conditions and emotional challenges—the left side of the body is yang and the right side is yin. Men are fundamentally yang; they benefit most by holding a stone in the left hand or affixing it to the left wrist, to interact with their Yang Qi. Women are fundamentally yin, and they benefit most by holding a stone in the right hand or wearing a bracelet on the right wrist, to interact with their Yin. When the “gender hand” is mentioned in the materia medica, these are the placements that are meant.
To affect inherited or constitutional conditions associated with Prenatal Qi, the gender is not important. The polarity of Prenatal Qi is the opposite of Postnatal Qi: left is yin and right is yang, for both men and women.
Localized Treatment for a Penetrating Therapeutic Effect
A localized treatment allows the vibrations of a stone to be absorbed directly into the area of the body where it is placed, such as over a rash or a painful joint. Alternatively, with an understanding of acupoints or chakras, we can develop a strategy to motivate an energetic shift.
Taping stones to points or areas of pain is a useful method for localized treatment. In this case, the tape itself is a consideration. Some people have extreme sensitivity to one brand and are fine with another. If the tape causes a skin reaction (usually occurring on the front of the body and on the inner aspects of the arms and legs), remove the stone, let the skin heal, and then try another brand. The length of treatment using this method varies. Generally, when the tape comes off the skin it’s time to move on to another stone and another point. Avoid the use of heat when taping a stone to the skin.
Soft stones can be pulverized into powder, mixed with an appropriate medium, and applied over joints, scars, or fractures. Stone powders can also be incorporated into cosmetic creams.
Mediums for Plasters or Poultices
Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is a liquid form of stone. It is convenient to use. It holds the powder in place effectively.
Clay
Clay absorbs water and is thus useful for conditions of Dampness and swelling. It comes in different colors. Green resonates with the Liver and is useful for neurological conditions. Red associates with Blood and Heat.
For example, wrap a swollen, inflamed joint with red clay and jasper to break up accumulation, or pulverize calcite and mix with red clay for swollen knees and ankles.
Avoid using clay with stones that have a high water content, such as opal. The clay can pull the water out of the stone.
Sand
The effect of sand is opposite that of clay: it hydrates the body. Combine small pieces of opal and moonstone with sand, wrap as a poultice, and apply it to the throat for hyperthyroidism or hot flashes. This combination nourishes Yin.
Other Methods
Traditional methods include combining stone powder with sesame oil, egg white, or honey. Sesame seed oil resonates with the Essence/Jing level and with the Bone. The use of sesame seed oil or petroleum jelly is preferred over honey, which melts when contacting the skin, or egg white, which flakes off the skin when it dries.
Stones for Plasters and Poultices
The stones used for plasters and poultices must be soft enough to pulverize. Calcite and gypsum are relatively easy to crush using a brass mortar and pestle. Use them in a plaster for clearing Heat.
Some of the copper-containing stones are also quite soft, and they are especially beneficial for fractures or torn ligaments. Azurite in particular is relatively soft and brittle. Combine the powder with a medium, such as sesame oil (to resonate with Bone) or petroleum jelly, or make a paste with water or vinegar (which astringes the effect of the plaster), and apply over the fracture. Leave it in place during the night and take it off during the day. Change the mixture daily. (This is best for an uncasted hairline fracture.)
Making and using plasters is labor-intensive and messy. A simpler method is perhaps simply to tape small stones on areas of pain. Powders have more surface area, however, and at least in the case of black tourmaline, research has proven that the smaller the particle size, the more far-infrared radiation is emitted. Using the plaster may be labor-intensive, but if the case is serious, it’s worth it.
Massage to Stimulate Circulation of Qi and Blood
Use stones to massage, rub, or scrape particular points or areas of the body to stimulate the circulation of energy. Massage tools are made from many different stones, but any smooth stone that is comfortable in the hand and on the body can be used. For massage or gua sha (see below), choose stones that move Qi and Blood, such as aventurine, jasper, malachite, or obsidian.
Use these stones to massage areas of the body that are tight and uncomfortable or to treat specific energetic channels, such as the muscle bands that run adjacent to the spine (Leg Taiyang/Urinary Bladder channel), or points, such as the cuticles of the digits/Jing-Well points, to release Heat or Wind from a channel or region of the body. For example, rub a tiger eye wand on the medial corner of the big toe cuticle (Spleen channel) to help release emotional stagnation from the Blood/Ying level. Alternatively, massage the cuticles of all the toes with amazonite or malachite to release Wind in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Use common sense with massage. Strong pressure can be applied to the large muscle groups, but use only gentle pressure for delicate parts of the body, using the stone to stimulate the skin and bring Qi and Blood to the surface.
Gua sha is a popular technique in Chinese medicine to release Wind or break up Blood stagnation. Typically, a porcelain spoon or other tool with a smooth edge is applied with strong pressure to large muscle groups, especially on the tops of the shoulders and adjacent to the spine. It is not unusual to have reddish or purplish marks appear on the skin, an indication that blood in the area is stagnant. Using a stone gua sha tool usually does not cause bruising but only brings a rosy pinkness to the skin. Stones bring their unique characteristics to gua sha, such as crystal structure and color, and have a different therapeutic effect than using a porcelain spoon.
Choosing stones for topical application brings attention to qualities such as how a stone responds to heat or how it directs and conducts energy.
Directionality and Circuitry
Terminated Crystals
Stones with clean, unbroken points guide energy in the direction of their terminations. Placing such crystals on the body with the termination pointed toward the head directs energy upward. Pointing them toward the feet directs energy downward. A double-terminated stone directs energy in both directions; it is bioregulating.
Common examples: Beryls, quartz crystals, selenite, topaz, tourmaline
Appearance
Some stones have visible lines of directionality, even if they don’t have terminations. These lines encourage directionality in order to move energy.
Common examples: Some flints, selenite
Water Content
The movement of energy can be affected by the amount of water contained in a stone. Water is an excellent conductor of energy. Holding stones with high amounts of water, or placing them under the feet during a massage or acupuncture treatment, enhances the movement of energy throughout the body.
Common examples: Apophyllite, enhydro quartz, opal
Heat
Dark stones absorb and retain heat very efficiently, as do stones with iron in their chemical composition. Heat affects the molecular structure of a stone. Placing a heated stone on the body causes its vibrational effect to penetrate more deeply into the anatomy.
Common examples: Citrine, diopside, hematite, red jasper, tiger eye
Stones can be heated by several methods:
· with a far-infrared lamp directed to heat stones placed on points or areas;
· with moxibustion; or
· in a warming unit, perhaps a crock pot, with some water. The stones can be quite warm when you remove them. It might be necessary to put a towel between the stones and the receiver’s skin until they cool down a bit. The stone might retain heat for twenty to thirty minutes, depending on the temperature in the room.
For personal use, place a stone under hot running water to heat it up before placement.
Consider heat as part of the therapy for conditions of deficiency or Cold. For example, place heated stones on:
· the low back for sharp, fixed pain
· the center of the abdomen for poor digestion or low energy
· the lower abdomen for Cold in the Uterus, causing infertility or painful menses
· the medial end of the crease behind the knee/LR-8 to tonify Blood Moxibustion will direct heat more deeply:
· into a point to loosen up Blood Stagnation and nourish deficiency
· into the spine to activate the Governor Vessel/Sea of Yang, if we deem the area is relatively deficient
Do not apply heat of any kind if a stone is taped to the skin.
Stone Layout
A non-acupuncturist might be intimidated by the prospect of constructing a treatment protocol incorporating the usage of the major meridians. There are other ways of understanding the body’s energetic mechanisms, equally valid and simpler to grasp.
The Major Regions
The three major regions of the body are the head, the extremities, and the torso.
· The head grants us access to Heaven.
· The legs connect us to the Earth and allow us to take steps toward our goals; the arms and hands manage the details of how we accomplish our goals.
· The torso brings Heaven and Earth together.
A simple layout to balance the circulation of energy and to bring Heaven and Earth together as one is to place stones at the top of the head/GV-20/Hundreds of Meetings, under the feet/KI-1/Bubbling Spring, and on the center of the chest/CV-17/Central Altar. This treatment helps the receiver to become more grounded.
If the intention of a treatment is to address a purely physical condition, placing stones directly on the body is important. If the intention is to affect a more energetic or spiritual condition, such as to purify the aura, the stones can be placed around the body. The farther out from the body the placement, the more subtle the effect.
A simple layout to affect energy is a Star of David treatment. Place a terminated crystal pointing upward at the top of the head and another one pointing downward below the feet. At the level of the shoulders and knees, place additional terminated crystals directed upward on one side and downward on the other, to direct energy in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, depending on our intention. This layout creates an energetic field around the body, conferring on the receiver a feeling of wholeness and completion.
The same layout can be used for someone with low blood pressure, with all the terminations placed pointing toward the head, or for a person with high blood pressure, with all the terminations pointed toward the feet.
Point Combinations
Recipes for point combinations include points in several locations to encourage the movement of energy. Place stones both locally, that is, on the torso or directly on an area of pain, and distally, on the digits, where energy is very active. (Keep in mind that these distal points only affect Qi, not Blood or Essence.)
To disperse excess energy manifesting as headache or injury, place the local stone first, and follow with the distal stone. To attract energy to an area of deficiency, first place the distal stone, then place the local stone.
The Head
The Vertex/GV-20/Crown Chakra
The top of the head is the most yang part of the body. It is associated with Fire; the trigonal crystal structure resonates with the top of the head. The point located at the top of the head is called Bai Hui/Hundreds of Meetings/GV-20. This point is important in meditation practices; it should be approached with reverence and caution. There are other points adjacent to the crown that can be used more safely.
When there is too much Fire at the top of the head, common symptoms include insomnia, irritability, high fevers, high blood pressure, and vertigo, to name a few. Stones with a cooling nature and trigonal crystal structure, such as blue lace agate or calcite, are appropriate for placement on head points to cool excessive Heat.
Sometimes symptoms occur in the head because there is too little energy or blood reaching the upper region. Examples are dizziness upon standing or poor vision with anemia. Meteorite is very yang in nature and contains high amounts of iron to nourish Blood. Hold a meteorite or place it over the occipital lobe to increase circulation to the head.
Forehead
The forehead is associated with Fire and the trigonal crystal structure. Headaches and sinus conditions are typical of symptoms associated with this region. Blue lace agate is again an ideal choice for this area.
Cheeks
The cheeks are associated with Earth and the cubic crystal structure. Sinus conditions are typical in this area. They are an example of Dampness trapping Heat.
An important point located on the cheeks is called Quan Liao/Cheekbone Hole/SI-18. It is located in the depression under the cheekbone, below the outer corner of the eye. This is the meeting place of all the Yang Sinew Channels. It is a Liao point, or a bony hole that allows pathology to seep into deeper levels of the anatomy to be held latent.
Fluorite is a choice for placement on areas of sinus pain, or directly on SI-18, to stimulate Wei Qi to soften and release accumulations, perhaps in combination with barite to dry Dampness.
The Extremities
The arms and legs are our means of engaging with the world. When we engage outwardly with the world, we extend the lateral aspects of our legs and arms. These lateral aspects are yang. When we draw inward, the medial aspects of our legs and arms converge toward the chest and abdomen. These medial aspects are yin.
These actions are governed by the Sinew Channels, the energetic pathways that move Defensive/Wei Qi through the musculature of our bodies. When we wake up in the morning we open our eyes, activating the point at the inner corner of the eyes, Jingming/Bright Eyes/UB-1. This point is associated with the Leg Taiyang/Urinary Bladder Sinew Channel. Taiyang further activates when we stand up and begin to walk, extending our heel forward with a straight leg, the body posture illustrating Leg Taiyang.
When we reach with a straight arm toward a doorknob or our toothbrush, we are activating Arm Taiyang. Along the way, we might turn a corner or twist the waist, activating Leg Shaoyang. Lesser Yang/Shaoyang further activates when we turn the doorknob with a straight arm.
When we stop or sit or grasp our toothbrush, we are activating Yangming. Bringing the toothbrush toward the mouth is Taiyin. Opening a jar requires the muscular action of rotation with a bent elbow; this is Shaoyin. Jueyin does not have movement; it is immobile.
All of these channels begin at the cuticles of the digits, at the Jing-Well points.
These points are easily accessed by massaging the cuticle of the appropriate toe or finger with a stone. If there is an obvious area of redness or elevation near the cuticle, working this point in particular will be helpful to release excessive Heat in the channel (a rounded shape absorbs the excess energy).
Generally, leg points and channels are used for relatively acute or mild conditions. The arm points and channels are used for relatively chronic or severe conditions. They are used to reinforce an application to a local area. For example, for an occipital headache the local application is at the base of the skull, part of the Leg Taiyang/Urinary Bladder channel; massaging the little toe cuticle is the distal application.
All the Yang channels converge at the head. Taiyang converges at the eyes. Shaoyang converges at the ears and temples. Yangming converges at the nose and mouth.
The Yin Leg Sinew Channels (Kidney, Spleen, and Liver) converge at the lower abdomen just above the pubic bone/CV-3.
The Yin Arm Sinew Channels (Heart, Lung, and Pericardium) converge at the lateral aspect of the torso, about one hand’s width below the armpit/GB-22.
The Torso
The Back
Yang energy travels up the back toward the head and face. Some of the important points along the back include the Governor Vessel points on the spine, most especially:
· at the base of the neck, in the depression below the C7 spinous process (C7 is the “big bone” between the neck and upper back)/Great Hammer/Da Zhui/GV-14 (behind the base of the throat)
· on the low back in the depression below the L2 spinous process, a little above the waist/Mingmen/GV-4 (behind the navel)
Other important points are the Bladder Shu/Transporting points, located adjacent to the spine.
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THE JING-WELL POINTS OF THE SINEW CHANNELS |
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Toes |
Fingers |
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Little toe/UB-67/Leg Taiyang |
Little finger (lateral aspect)/SI-1/Arm Taiyang |
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Fourth toe/GB-44/Leg Shaoyang |
Fourth finger/TH-1/Arm Shaoyang |
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Second toe/ST-45/Leg Yangming |
Index finger/LI-1/Arm Yangming |
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On the bottom of the foot, in the hollow behind the ball/KI-1/Leg Shaoyin |
Little finger (next to the fourth finger)/HT-9/Arm Shaoyin |
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Big toe (medial aspect)/SP-1/Leg Taiyin |
Thumb/LU-11/Arm Taiyin |
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Big toe (next to the second toe)/LR-1/Leg Jueyin |
Middle finger/PC-9/Arm Jueyin |
These points direct energy toward specific Internal Organs.
Placing stones on the back is appropriate for relatively acute conditions, to invigorate Yang Qi to expel pathology from the body.
In general, treat points on the back to encourage engagement with the world.
The Front
Yin energy converges toward the front of the body, at the chest and abdomen. Important points on the front of the body include the Mu points, which are points of accumulation associated with specific Internal Organs. Jasper is one of the most effective for placement on the Mu points to break up chronic accumulations that are affecting a particular Organ.
Other important points are along the Conception Vessel trajectory, located on the midline of the abdomen, chest, and throat, ending just above the chin. Of these, the most important points are:
· the navel/Spirit Barrier/Shen Que/CV-8
· on the midline of the abdomen, midway between the navel and the “V” where the ribs meet the base of the sternum/CV-12
· the center of the chest/CV-17
· the central notch at the base of the throat/CV-22
Many stones in the materia medica are suggested for these points, depending on the intention of the treatment.
In general, treat points on the front of the body to encourage introspection.
The Throat
Yang Qi moves upward from the back into the neck and face. This Qi allows the sensory organs to receive information from the world. Yang Qi also animates the facial muscles to express our inner feelings. Use points on the throat for any condition that involves communication.
If a person is too expressive or volatile, use a choker-type necklace with cooling stones such as sodalite to stabilize such a condition. For a shy, inexpressive person, use warming stones for the necklace, perhaps tourmaline.
The Border between the Front and the Back
Defensive/Wei Qi is very active at the boundaries between the front and back of the body.
On the sides of the chest: An important point on the side of the body is called Armpit Abyss/GB-22. Defensive/Wei Qi enters this point at night to initiate the process of sleep and to support the musculature and membranes of the internal terrain. It is the meeting point for the Yin Arm Sinew Channels. To find the point, follow a horizontal line formed by the nipples to a point about one hand’s width under the armpit.
On the sides of the abdomen: Another important point is called Dai Mai/GB-26. To find this point, trace a line bilaterally from the navel toward the sides of the torso to meet the lower ribs. This point can be used to affect the Belt Channel/Dai Mai, either to promote its holding capacity or to release pathology.
On the throat: The sternocleidomastoid muscle defines the border between front and back. The point Welcoming Humanity/ST-9 is located anterior to this border, lateral to the Adam’s apple where the carotid artery pulses. Put a stone on the throat for difficulty using the facial muscles, to treat poor sensory perception, or to address an inability to use the facial muscles to express oneself.
The Root and Node Theory
The earliest tradition of Chinese medicine, recorded in the Shang Han Lun, uses a concept of the circulation of energy called the root and node theory. This theory posits that all energy travels from the digits (the root) toward the head and torso (the nodes). All the Yang channels converge at the head. The Yin arm channels meet at the chest, and Yin leg channels meet at the lower abdomen.
Another fundamental concept is that pathogenic factors traveling with the energy inside the channels create “accumulations and gatherings,” or Juji. These accumulations concentrate in the nodes of the head, chest, and lower abdomen, impeding healthy functioning.
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COMMON AND EFFECTIVE POINTS FOR STONE PLACEMENT |
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Point |
Context |
Actions |
Sample Stones |
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The Front |
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The navel/Spirit Barrier/CV-8 |
Our original scar; testament to our life in the physical realm, no longer at one with Spirit |
Treats lower blockage |
Agate-jasper (landscape, rainforest, sandy) |
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On the midline of the lower abdomen at the upper border of the pubic bone/CV-2 |
Meeting point of the Conception Vessel with the Liver channel |
Treats lower blockage |
Moss agate and sandy jasper |
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On the midline of the lower abdomen, a thumb’s width above the upper border of the pubic bone/CV-3 |
Mu point of the Bladder |
Treats lower blockage |
Moss agate and sandy jasper |
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On the midline of the lower abdomen, approximately midway between the upper border of the pubic bone and the navel/Gate of Origin/CV-4 |
Mu point of the Small Intestine |
Treats lower blockage |
Moss agate and sandy jasper |
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On the midline of the abdomen, midway between the navel and the “V” where the ribs meet the base of the sternum /Central Receptacle/CV-12 |
Mu point for the Stomach |
Treats middle blockage |
Dendritic agate Ocean or rainforest agate-jasper |
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The center of the chest/Central Altar/CV-17 |
Mu point of the Pericardium Sea of Qi |
Treats middle blockage |
Aventurine (green) |
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The central notch at the base of the throat/Celestial Chimney/CV-22 |
Meeting point of the Conception Vessel with the Extraordinary channel Yin Wei Mai (see chapter 17) |
Treats upper blockage Affects the sensory organs Benefits the throat and voice Directs Rebellious Qi downward |
Agate (blue lace) |
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The Back |
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On the lower spine below the base of the tailbone/Long Strong/GV-1 |
Governor Vessel channel, through which Yang Qi flows |
A grounding point to solidify the effects of a treatment |
Hematite |
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On the low back in the depression below the L2 spinous process, slightly above waist level/Gate of Destiny/GV-4 |
This is the point where Mingmen Fire combusts Kidney Essence and Kidney Qi combined by the moving Qi of the Kidneys, to disseminate upward along the spine (through the Bladder Shu points) and be deposited into the Internal Organs most associated with our destiny |
Recycle Yang Qi to the lower region to clear Heat in the upper region |
Aragonite |
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The base of the skull at the indentations on the occiput lateral to the spine/Celestial Pillar/UB-10 and/ or Wind Pool/GB-20 |
UB-10: affects the sensory portals |
Treats upper blockage Expels/eliminates Wind Benefits the head and eyes Clears the sensory portals |
Amethyst Chalcedony Flint Smoky quartz Blue or red tiger eye |
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The Head and Face |
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Inner corner of the eyes/Bright Eyes/UB-1 |
Meeting point of the Bladder, Small Intestine, Stomach, Gall Bladder, and Triple Heater channels with the Governor Vessel and with the Extraordinary channels Yin and Yang Qiao Mai (see chapter 17) |
Expels Wind and clears Heat Benefits the eyes |
Apophyllite |
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In the depression on either side of the nostrils/“Welcome Fragrance”/LI-20 |
Meeting point for the Large Intestine and Stomach channels |
Treats upper blockage |
Amethyst |
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In the depression under the cheekbone, below the outer corner of the eye/Cheekbone Crevice/SI-18 |
Meeting point for the Leg Yang Sinew Channels |
Affects all the sensory orifices |
Barite |
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The Hands and Feet |
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In the center of the palm/Palace of Effort/PC-8 |
Encourages the movement of energy from the chest and abdomen to release stagnation |
Treats middle blockage |
Amethyst |
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In the depression on the bottom of the foot, behind the ball/Bubbling Spring/ KI-1 |
Jing-Well point for the Kidney channel |
A grounding point to solidify the effects of a treatment |
Hematite |
· Accumulations (Ji) can be substantial or energetic; Counterflow Qi is an example of energetic accumulation. Accumulations are of six types: food, Qi, Blood, Phlegm, Heat, and Fluid stagnation.
· Gatherings (Ju) are always substantial—they are a mass of some kind—and are usually seen as the result of long-term accumulations.
Upper Blockage
When accumulations concentrate in the head, Yang Qi is affected. With Yang Qi inhibited in its movement, symptoms of pain or nodules can develop anywhere in the musculoskeletal system. Chronic sinus conditions are often a precursor to structural pain, such as pain in the head, arms, legs, waist, spine, or neck. The early Chinese medical specialty of rheumatology, wai ke, always prioritized clearing the sinuses before working to clear musculoskeletal pain. Stones that can be used to clear an upper blockage include blue lace agate, amethyst, snowflake obsidian, rose quartz, and sodalite, among others.
Middle Blockage
When accumulations concentrate in the chest and/or abdomen, Yin is affected, in particular the Internal Organs. Rebellious Qi symptoms typical of a middle blockage include coughing, wheezing, hiccups, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms might be the sensation of pressure in the chest after eating, abdominal rumbling, abdominal distension, chest pain, and sore throat. (The throat is the connection between the head and the chest.) Stones that affect a middle blockage could include the aventurines and jaspers, peridot, and green tourmaline.
Lower Blockage
When Yang Qi accumulates in the lower region, it produces Heat and causes movement, usually leading to leakage of some kind such as diarrhea or incontinence. When an accumulation becomes substantial it can lead to constipation. When there is insufficient Yang Qi the passages of elimination close off, causing difficult urination or defecation. Sandy jasper, variscite, and/or zincite help resolve lower blockages.
Even though the Shang Han Lun is an herbal tradition, the root and node theory offers a practical approach to placing stones topically to break up the accumulations in the major regions of the head, the chest and middle abdomen, and the lower abdomen. In a stone layout, with the receiver lying prone or supine, placing stones on or near the midline of the torso is easier than attaching small stones with tape to specific acupuncture points on the extremities.
There are other strategies to keep in mind when using blockage treatments.
Invigorate Qi
Blockages seal off energy. The main junction of Qi in the body is the chest, specifically the center of the chest at CV-17. Over time, as more accumulations concentrate in this region, the chest becomes a major area of blockage, causing a host of potential health conditions especially affecting the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Yang Qi trapped in the chest also causes irritability and restlessness, affecting the emotions. Stones that invigorate Qi include clear quartz crystal, malachite, topaz, and tourmaline.
Recycle Yang Qi to Mingmen
A general approach to break up blockages is to arouse Yang Qi to move them. Yang Qi is rooted in the Governor Vessel. Mingmen/GV-4, the point on the low back in the depression below the L2 spinous process (a little above waist level), is important for the movement of Yang Qi up the spine, where it eventually reaches the top of the head/GV-20/Hundred Convergences. Many stones have the action of “recycling” Yang Qi to Ming-men. They act like magnets, pulling trapped or excess Yang Qi toward the low back. Aragonite, the beryl group, and purple fluorite are examples.
To summarize, some of the best areas for stone placement are on the midline of the torso, on both the front (for relatively chronic conditions) and the back (for relatively acute conditions).
Anatomical Levels
The stones chosen for a topical treatment resonate with a specific layer of the anatomical terrain. Even though topical application involves placing stones directly on the skin, with frequent treatment it is possible for a stone’s therapeutic effects to be eventually absorbed through the layers of anatomy, finally to affect the deep, constitutional level of the body. With this understanding, we can choose stones to promote greater absorption or, conversely, to release to the exterior.
Wei Level/Qi
At this level we are treating external pathogens, boundaries, immunity, and instinctual functioning.
Skin/Lungs
Stones that address the Skin and Lungs include blue lace agate, dendritic agate, moss agate, tree agate, amethyst, Apache tears, apophyllite, aquamarine, green aventurine, azurite, barite, white calcite, red calcite, chrysocolla, danburite, brown fluorite, green fluorite, gypsum, leopardskin or zebra/dalmation agate-jaspers, brown jasper, green jasper, obsidians, onyx, opal, selenite, serpentine, stilbite, and brown tourmaline.
Sinews/Liver
Stones that address the Sinews (including the nerves) and Liver include pink agate, red agate, alexandrite, amazonite, azurite, chrysoprase, dioptase, dumortierite, green jade, larimar, lepidolite, and stilbite.
Ying Level/Blood
At this level we are treating the Blood and internal conditions, including digestive, mental, and emotional issues.
Flesh/Spleen
Stones that address the Spleen and Flesh (including connective tissues) include green agate, moss agate, amazonite, honey calcite, dolomite, yellow jasper, prehnite, sapphire, and zircon.
Blood Vessels/Heart
Stones specific to treating the blood vessels and the Heart include pink agate, red agate, green aventurine, red aventurine, azurite, azurite-malachite, barite, bloodstone, bronzite, cavansite, chalcedony, charoite, chiastolite, chrysocolla, dioptase, dolomite, malachite, and sugilite.
Yuan Level/Essence
At this level we are treating skeletal, hormonal, and constitutional issues, including curriculum challenges and temperament as well as autoimmune conditions.
Bone/Kidney
Stones that address the Kidneys and Bone include alexandrite, amazonite, apatite, aquamarine, aragonite, azurite, barite, bronzite, black calcite, green calcite, white calcite, celestite, chalcopyrite, chrysocolla, diopside, dumortierite, emerald, blue fluorite, purple fluorite, garnet, hemimorphite, labradorite, malachite, onyx, opal, peridot, rhodochrosite, sugilite, and zoisite.
Marrow/Kidney
Stones that address the Kidneys and Marrow include blue lace agate, bronzite, chalcopyrite, purple fluorite, lapis lazuli, magnesite, malachite, onyx, peridot, titanium quartz, sapphire, sugilite, blue tiger eye, and blue topaz.
Common Conditions
Pain
The quality of pain helps define the pathogenic factor.
· Wind is moving. Pain that moves around or that radiates is described as Wind. It might also be accompanied by spasms or cramps. Treat Wind qualities of pain with Taiyang zonal points, using the little toe (for a relatively mild condition) or the little finger (for a more severe condition). Fishtail selenite is a sample stone.
· Cold is constrictive. Cold pain is tight, sharp, and localized. Treat Cold pain with Taiyang zonal points, using the little toe (for a relatively mild condition) or the little finger (for a more severe condition). Fluorite is a sample stone.
· Heat is expansive. Hot pain can throb and feel distended. Treat Hot pain with Yangming zonal points, using the second or third toe or the index finger. Calcite is a sample stone.
· Dampness is heavy. Damp pain is usually achy in quality. Treat Damp pain with Shaoyang zonal points, using the fourth toe or finger. Barite is a sample stone.
Headaches
Headaches can occur in different zones of the head. Terminated quartz crystals pointed downward are appropriate, with colors chosen to resonate with the affected zones. Aventurine can be used for headaches in any zone.
· Sinus headaches occur in the frontal/Yangmingregion of the face, in the forehead, and around the nose and/or the cheeks. Citrine resonates with Yangming. Place crystals on the forehead and sinus regions to treat sinus headaches.
· Occipital headaches occur at the base of the skull (Taiyang). Place smoky quartz below the occiput, in the indentations lateral to the center line/UB-10 or in the depression at the inner corner of the eyebrows/UB-2.
· The typical migraine occurs at the temples (Shaoyang). Place or rub a turbid blue or green quartz crystal on the area of pain.
When treating headaches based on the quality of pain, utilize the following:
· For a gripping headache (Taiyang), use a warming stone such as fluorite or meteorite to invigorate Yang.
· For a throbbing headache (Yangming), use a cooling stone such as calcite to release Heat.
· For a splitting headache (Shaoyang), use a cooling stone that also addresses Dampness, such as sodalite or green aventurine, for its ability to regulate both Qi and Blood.
Internal Application
Internal application refers to internalizing the health benefits of stones by drinking water. Chemical composition is a very important factor for internal application (see chapter 10). The instructions in “Developing a Formula” discussed earlier are also pertinent to internal application.
There are three methods for preparing water for drinking: elixirs, stone waters, and decoctions.
Elixir
This method allows the vibrations of the stone to be absorbed into water and taken internally. Elixirs have a systemic effect for deep, chronic conditions. Stones are rich in minerals, but only the very soft stones such as calcite will actually dissolve and leach mineral content into the water.
Generally, stones we choose for elixirs need to be relatively hard (for example, lepidolite with large amounts of mica is not appropriate) and clean. Polished stones are ideal. Rough stones are usable but can leave material in the water that needs to be strained out. There is no absolute period for the duration of treatment; everyone is different. A week to ten days is typical to begin with, with subsequent assessments.
In addition to the vibrations from the stone, the water itself has an effect on the treatment. If the intention is to discharge something held deeply in the body, distilled water works well because it has no chemical composition to compete with the energetic messages from the minerals in the stone combination; distilled water will help the elixir draw the pathogenic factor out. If the intention is to tonify, spring water provides more hydration and support to Yin.
Making an Elixir
The stones used in the elixir can be raw or polished, but they need to be free of any matrix. These are the general instructions to follow in making an elixir, beginning with cleansing the stones.
1. Put stones in a small cup. Fill the cup with water and place it under a steady drip of water for one to two hours. (Softer stones such as calcite only need to be cleansed for thirty minutes.)
2. Put stones in a glass and cover with naturally sparkling mineral water. Let soak for thirty minutes. Discard the water.
3. Put stones in a 1-quart glass jar. Fill the jar with spring water or distilled water. Let soak for eight to twelve hours. Do not refrigerate. Cover the jar with an index card or paper towel (metal lids can impart a metallic taste).
4. Twice a day, pour 4 ounces of the water into a glass and drink it. Replace the same amount of water in the quart jar. The duration of treatment can start at seven to ten days, with further assessment based on the response. (Replacing more than one-half of the water at one time is too dilutive, weakening its effect.)
If an elixir takes on an odd taste, discard it and start a fresh batch.
Elixirs can also be used externally as a wash or spray for skin conditions. They can also be used as an eyewash or in a neti pot; for this purpose, only use distilled water.
Stone Water
Elixirs can be quite strong in their effect, and they become stronger with time. A gentler method of ingesting stone medicine is to prepare stone “water.” This is very simple but effective. It is best to use a relatively soft stone such as calcite. Put the stone in your water glass. As you drink, continually refill the water. The vibrations from the stone never have the chance to intensify in the water. This is especially appropriate for a person with excessive appetite, or for a smoker with a chronic cough, in which case including blue lace agate is beneficial.
Decoction
Boiling herbs in water is called decocting. This is a traditional method for preparing herbal formulas. When using stones, boiling them in water creates a strong concentration of minerals. This method is not recommended unless you have the requisite training and experience in preparing herbal medicines.
A milder version of a decoction is a tea. Simply pour a cup of boiling water over a stone and drink it warm. This is most appropriate for an acute condition, using Wei Qi stones (see chapter 15), in particular fluorite.
Intentional Application
The intentional method of application is best used for working with the temperament to affirm or validate who we believe ourselves to be, and with the curricula of the Nine Palaces to attract the aspects of life that we feel are missing. To optimize this use, an understanding of crystal structure (see “Crystal Structure and Sacred Geometry,”) and how it resonates with the different personality types (see chapter 8) and the Nine Palace lessons (see chapter 4) is essential. The methods best suited to intentional application are wearing stones as jewelry and placing specimens or sculptures in the home according to the principles of fengshui.
Jewelry
Wearing jewelry for intentional purposes is not a fashion statement. The jewelry needs to be worn consistently for a long period in order to be effective.
Stones capture light. Light represents the immaterial, the Spirit/Shen. Wearing stones as jewelry brings light into the materiality of our Essence/Jing. As it moves through the stone, the light is influenced by the stone’s color and crystal structure, bringing those qualities into our energetic anatomy either to help us be fully who we are or to help us change. The external light mingling with the stone interacts with the light our own body emits, bringing new possibilities for growth. For these reasons, transparent stones are best for jewelry using the intentional application.
Every time we put on our jewelry, we anoint ourselves. We cultivate our awareness of the qualities represented by the color and/or crystal structure of the stone, and we become more refined. If our intention in wearing jewelry is to affirm ourselves, the jewelry can be hidden; it is only for us to know about. Wearing a pendant touching the center of the chest/CV-17 affirms who we are. Such a pendant is best when set in gold and worn under the clothing. We don’t need the world to see what we know in our heart. If, on the other hand, our intention is to attract something that is missing, we need to show the world what we are looking for.
Guidelines for the different forms of jewelry, and how to wear them, are included in the section on topical application earlier in this chapter.
Intentional Placement of Stones in the Home
We all face challenges in each of the palaces at some time during our lives. There is always, however, one keynote theme that is generally pervasive throughout our life. The magic square is a useful method for homing in on this central theme and provides information for utilizing stones as healing agents in various sections of our living spaces.
Legend tells us that while walking along the River Lo one day, the emperor Fu Xi came upon a tortoise with unusual markings on its shell. The markings were interpreted as numbers, and the numerological relationships ultimately came to be the basis of philosophical discussion as well as a major tool for the practices of divination and fengshui.
The square is considered magical because each line, whether vertical, horizontal, or diagonal, adds up to 15 (see fig. 11.1). Further attributes are assigned to the square, for example giving compass directions (the Chinese compass is opposite to ours), Five Element associations, and broad age ranges based on a cycle of 10 (or if preferred, the cycles of 7 and 8), which make it more applicable to the Nine Palaces and fengshui.
Each of the Nine Palaces is associated with a number in the magic square. The center of the square is the position of the most important palace or lesson a person is learning in this lifetime; where the palaces are positioned within the square is based on a mathematical calculus using the person’s birth year, based on the Chinese calendar.
Once the palaces are arranged in the square and it is understood which quadrant contains which palace or curriculum, we can place this personalized magic square grid over the plan of the person’s home. We can then use appropriate stones in the various sections to move the energy of that palace. For instance, if prosperity is the person’s fundamental lesson, he could place a specimen of lapis lazuli or labradorite in the center of his home. He could also place a bowl of tumbled tiger eye in the southeast or south direction of the house to encourage the flow of wealth.
Figure 11.1. The magic square template
The calculations and application of the magic square to fengshui and healing is intriguing and a study beyond the scope of this book. Those who are interested in exploring this topic further might find these websites helpful: Nine Star Ki Free Training (www.9starki.com/free_lessons.htm) and Four Pillars & Feng Shui (www.fourpillars.net/fourp.php).
Duration of Treatment
There is always the question of how long a particular formula, application, or elixir should be used. There is no definite answer. It depends on the health condition, the person, and the stones in the combination.
Generally, an acute condition will respond within three to five days. A condition involving the Blood takes at least three months to resolve, but the choice of stones may need to change during that time. A constitutional condition will take even longer to resolve.
Stones containing potentially toxic minerals or metals, such as copper or aluminum, need thoughtful use. Beryl and ruby contain aluminum but they are very hard (8–9 on the Mohs scale) and pose little concern. Moderately hard stones (6–7) are also probably safe but still require attention. For example, black tourmaline contains aluminum; its hardness is 7.5. Black tourmaline is a very powerful stone. It stimulates the immune system to expel pathogenic factors, and it should only be used for a short period.
Any stone that contains potentially toxic chemicals and that has a hardness of less than 6 (for example, sodalite) should be used in an elixir for only weeks, not months.