Categorieschakras
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Chakras Explained

Welcome to this fortnight’s blog – Chakras Explained. The concept of chakras originated in ancient India, specifically within the traditions of Hinduism and was later incorporated into practices like Buddhism. The earliest known mention of chakras can be found in ancient Indian texts called the Vedas which were composed between 1500 and 500 BCE. The precise time of their discovery or origin is difficult to determine as they emerged as part of a broader spiritual and philosophical tradition over thousands of years. Today we are going to explore in a little more detail the seven main chakras and how we can keep them balanced.

What are Chakras?

According to some Eastern spiritual traditions, Chakras are believed to be energy centers or wheels of energy within the human body – particularly those found in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Tantra. The word “chakra” comes from the Sanskrit language, meaning “wheel” or “disk.” There are generally seven main chakras that are commonly discussed, and each is associated with a specific location in the body and has its unique qualities and characteristics. Here is a brief overview of the seven main chakras:

     

      • Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Located at the top of the head, it is associated with spiritual connection,higher consciousness, and enlightenment.

      • Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Located between the eyebrows, it is associated with intuition, insight,and spiritual awareness.

      • Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Located in the throat area, it is associated with communication, self-expression, and truth.

      • Heart Chakra (Anahata): Located in the center of the chest, it is associated with love, compassion,forgiveness, and emotional well-being.

      • Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Located in the upper abdomen, it is associated with personal power,confidence, and self-esteem.

      • Sacral Chakra (Svadhishthana): Located in the lower abdomen, it is associated with emotions,sensuality, creativity, and sexuality.

      • Root Chakra (Muladhara): Located at the base of the spine, it is associated with stability, grounding, and the basic needs of survival.

    It is believed that when the chakras are balanced and in harmony, they contribute to our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Sometimes our chakras may be come out of alignment which can lead to physical discomfort or illness, emotional imbalances, lack of energy flow, feeling disconnected or unfocused, and difficulty in maintaining healthy relationships or a sense of purpose. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to realign your chakras and bring the balance back:

       

        • Meditation: Focus on each chakra individually, envisioning its color and affirming its qualities.

        • Yoga: Practice poses that stimulate and activate specific chakras.

        • Sound therapy: Listen to specific frequencies or use chanting to harmonise chakras.

        • Aromatherapy: Use essential oils associated with each chakra during meditation or baths. You can read more about this in our previous blog.

        • Crystal healing: Place gemstones or crystals aligned with each chakra on the corresponding areas.

        • Mindfulness: Pay attention to your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, addressing any imbalances.

        • Reiki or energy healing: Seek the assistance of a qualified practitioner to clear and balance your chakras. Check out www.reikisurrey.co.uk and take a look at our directory for a practitioner near you. If you can’t find a local practitioner, why not consider distant healing with one of our listed practitioners.

      All of the above are great ways to keep your chakras in alignment and nicely balanced. If you feel you are in need of a little balancing, choose one or two things from the list to try. See how your body feels and responds afterwards.

      We’ve Got You Covered

      We have a great selection of chakra products available both in store and online for you to purchase. If you are looking for something specific, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01372 878606, or pop in and we’ll be more than happy to help.

      If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

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      CategoriesAromatherapy Energy Clearing & Feng Shui Tips & Advice
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      Aromatherapy

      Welcome to this fortnights blog. Today we are taking a look at aromatherapy. Aromatherapy has ancient origins and can be traced back to several ancient civilizations. The practice of using aromatic plants and their extracts for healing purposes can be found in the traditions of ancient Egypt, China, India, and Greece. The Egyptians were known for their use of aromatic substances in religious rituals and embalming practices. In India, the use of plant essences and aromatic oils is deeply rooted in Ayurveda. The Greek physician Hippocrates also utilised aromatic plants for their therapeutic properties. The term “aromatherapy” was coined in the 20th century by René-Maurice Gattefossé, a French chemist, who extensively studied the medicinal effects of essential oils. Since then,aromatherapy has gained popularity as a complementary therapy worldwide.

      Benefits of Aromatherapy

      Aromatherapy is a holistic healing practice that utilises the aromatic properties of essential oils to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Some of the benefits of aromatherapy include:

         

          • Stress relief: Certain essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang, have calming properties that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.

          • Mood enhancement: Aromatherapy can uplift mood and improve emotional well-being. Citrus oils like lemon and bergamot are known for their energizing and mood-boosting effects. A favourite of ours at Quest is May Chang.

          • Improved sleep: Essential oils like lavender and chamomile can help promote better sleep by inducing a sense of relaxation and easing insomnia symptoms.

          • Pain relief: Some essential oils possess analgesic properties and can help alleviate pain and discomfort. Peppermint and eucalyptus oils are often used for relieving headaches and muscle aches.

          • Enhanced cognitive function: Certain scents, such as rosemary and lemon, are believed to enhance concentration, memory, and mental clarity.

          • Respiratory support: Essential oils like eucalyptus, tea tree, and peppermint can provide relief from respiratory issues, congestion, and promote easier breathing.

          • Skin care: Many essential oils have beneficial effects on the skin. Tea tree oil, lavender, and frankincense are often used for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and healing properties.

        It’s important to note that while aromatherapy can offer various benefits, individual experiences may vary, and it’s essential to use essential oils safely and consult a qualified professional for guidance if required.

        How to Enjoy Aromatherapy

        There are so many wonderful ways to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy in your own home. One of the simplest ways is to dilute a few drops of your chosen oil into a diffuser, which creates a beautiful scented mist and can a powerful way to lift your mood. You could also try adding a few drops of your chosen oil to a warm bath to create a relaxing and aromatic experience – perfect for releasing daily stresses. If you enjoy massage, why not try adding a few drops with a carrier oil. Just remember to perform a patch test first.

        If you aren’t sure about using essential oils, there other things you can try. For example, incense, scented candles and reed diffusers all make excellent alternatives. Don’t be afraid to explore all options until you find the one that is right for you.

        We’ve Got You Covered

        At Quest, we have so many wonderful aromatherapy options for you. In store we have a wide selection of essential oils (our own brand and Star Child), diffusers (electronic and tealight burners), scented candles, incense and incense burners. So, if you’ve been thinking about exploring aromatherapy, look no further. Below is just a small selection of items we have available. As always, remember, if you aren’t local to Epsom, we can still offer advice over the phone on 01372 878606.

        We’ve got online meditations, workshops and in-person courses running. Please contact us on 01372 878606 if you’d like to book or require any further information.

        If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

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        CategoriesCrystals Educational Tips & Advice
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        Healing Benefits of Copper: Harnessing the Power of a Timeless Metal

        Today we are taking a look at copper and its healing properties. Copper is a versatile and timeless metal that has been revered for its healing properties for centuries. Known for its distinctive reddish-brown hue, copper is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers a range of therapeutic benefits. In our blog this week, we will explore the healing potential of copper and its ability to promote physical well-being, relieve pain, and support overall health.

        Copper has been used in healing for centuries by various cultures around the world. Here are a few of the reasons why:

        • Pain relief: Copper is often used as a natural remedy for pain management. It is believed that wearing copper jewellery or using copper-infused products can help alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness. The presence of copper close to the skin is thought to help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, thus providing relief.
        • Anti-inflammatory effects: Copper is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties. It is thought that copper ions released when in contact with the skin can help reduce inflammation and swelling. This makes copper a potential option for managing conditions like rheumatism and arthritis, where inflammation plays a significant role.
        • Energy balancing: In alternative healing practices such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, copper is associated with balancing the body’s energy systems. It is believed that wearing or using copper objects can help restore energy flow and promote overall well-being. Copper is thought to interact with the body’s energy fields and facilitate a harmonious balance.
        • Antimicrobial properties: Copper has been known for its antimicrobial properties for centuries. It possesses the ability to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This makes copper useful in preventing infections and promoting wound healing. Copper-infused bandages or surfaces are increasingly being used in healthcare settings to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections.
        • Emotional well-being: Copper is associated with emotional healing and is believed to have a calming effect on the mind. Copper jewellery or objects are often worn or used in meditation practices to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance emotional balance.

        It is important to note that while these healing properties of copper have been observed anecdotally and in traditional practices, scientific research is still ongoing to validate these claims. Copper should not be seen as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you are considering using copper for healing purposes, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an experienced practitioner to understand its potential benefits and any associated risks.

        In conclusion, copper offers a range of healing benefits that have been recognised and utilised for centuries. From reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing to supporting brain health and enhancing energy flow, copper’s therapeutic properties make it a valuable ally in promoting physical well-being and overall health. Whether worn as jewellery, or integrated into everyday products, copper allows individuals to harness the power of this remarkable metal and experience its healing potential.

        We’ve got you covered…

        Whether you are looking for copper bangles, or something a little more unique, like our Meru Pyramids, then look no further. In store, we also have a number of natural copper pieces available for purchase. If you are interested in the natural copper, please give us a call on 01372 878606.

        If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

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        CategoriesEducational Spirituality
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        Divine Inspiration

        Divine inspiration refers to the belief that certain individuals are inspired or influenced by a divine force. This concept can be found in various religions, where it is believed that God or other deities have directly or indirectly guided or influenced certain individuals. Divine inspiration is also associated with creativity, where artists and writers may experience a moment of inspiration that feels otherworldly and beyond their own capabilities.

        In religious contexts, divine inspiration is often linked to prophets, who are believed to have received messages or visions from God. These messages may be in the form of scripture, prophecy, or teachings that are considered to be holy or sacred. For example, in Christianity, the Bible is believed to have been divinely inspired by God and is considered to be the authoritative text for the faith. Similarly, in Islam, the Quran is believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by the angel Gabriel.

        In addition to religious texts, divine inspiration can also be attributed to religious leaders, saints, and mystics. These individuals are believed to have had direct experiences of the divine and have been able to communicate these experiences to others. For example, in Hinduism, the ancient sage Vyasa is credited with composing the epic poem the Mahabharata, which is believed to have been divinely inspired.

        I looked in temples, churches and mosques. But found the Divine within my heart.

        Rumi

        Beyond religion, divine inspiration is often associated with creativity and the arts. Many artists and writers describe moments of inspiration where they feel as though they are receiving ideas from a source outside of themselves. This can manifest in various ways, such as a sudden burst of inspiration, a dream or vision, or a feeling of being guided by an unseen force. Some artists may even describe their work as a form of worship or a way of connecting with the divine.

        While the concept of divine inspiration is often associated with religion and creativity, it can also be applied to other areas of life. For example, some people may describe a feeling of divine inspiration when they are making important decisions or taking action towards a particular goal. They may feel as though they are being guided by a higher power or that their actions are part of a larger, divine plan.

        Divine inspiration tends to come when we have a quiet moment; whether that’s in the morning upon waking or when we are out in nature. Divine Inspiration can come through as images, words, feelings or just an inner knowing. The more we learn to embrace the silence, the greater the opportunity of experiencing Divine inspiration.

        If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

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        CategoriesEducational Energy Clearing & Feng Shui Tips & Advice
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        Benefits of Sound Healing

        Healing

        Sound Healing may be very ‘on trend’ at the moment in the wellness and well-being circuit, but it’s by no means new. Using sound as a medium for healing is something that has been around for thousands of centuries. It helps to move us from a place of imbalance to balance, by realigning the body’s vibration. Scientific evidence has shown that sound therapy goes far beyond playing our favourite ‘feel good’ tracks. The vibrations created by the use of sound can have significant benefits on our physical health. Just take a look at the list below to see what conditions can be improved by their use.

            • Sleep Disorders

            • Aniexty

            • Depression

            • Stress Management

            • PTSD

            • Depression

            • Pain Management

            • Mood Swings

            • Aches and Pains

            • Lowers Blood Pressure

          Energy Clearing

          As well as the multiple health benefits, did you know you can use sound for energy clearing too? Yes, that’s right! Whether you choose to use a singing bowl, tingshas, bells or simple clapping, sound can help you to clear away stagnant or negative energies from your home or workspace. So how do you do it? Take a look at our top tips below:

              • Open windows to invite in fresh chi (life force energy)

              • Start at your front door and move in a clockwise direction around the home/space

              • Use a sharp sound like Tibetan bells, Tingshas or clapping to break up the unwanted energy

              • Follow with a softer sound from singing bowls or calming music

              • As you play imagine a bright healing, sparkling light filling the space

              • Remember to set a new intention for the space too – this is a very important step!

            Once complete, your space should feel elevated and uplifting!

            Other Uses

            So what else can you use sound for? Well, it’s a great way to start or end a therapy or treatment session, as it aids deep relaxation and cleanses the aura. It’s also a marvelous tool to add to your daily mediation practice, as it helps to clear and balance the mind, body and soul.

            We’ve Got You Covered

            As always, here at Spiritual Quest, we’ve got you covered with our amazing range of sound products. We have everything from Tibetan singing bowls, continuous sound tingshas, bells, crystal singing bowls and even a wide range of calming music CD’s. Many of these products have just arrived following Carolina’s aka The Soul Coach’s recent travels to India. 

            If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

            Subscribe to our newsletter!

            CategoriesEducational Spirituality Tips & Advice
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            Forest Bathing

            In light of the beautiful new Spring energy we now have around us, we thought ‘forest bathing’ would be the ideal topic for this fortnight’s blog. Forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980’s and is referred to there as ‘shinrin-yoku’ (shinrin meaning forest and yoku meaning bath/bathing). So what is it? Well, it’s the practice of slowing down by fully immersing yourself in nature. We all know that spending time out in nature is good for the soul, but studies into forest bathing have shown how spending two hours ‘mindfully’ in a forest can have immense benefits on our health. If you take a look at the list below you’ll see just how beneficial it is.

               

                • Decreases blood pressure

                • Lowers the stress hormone cortisol

                • Promotes relaxation

                • Enhances mindfulness

                • Improves mental health, attention and mood

                • Boosts creativity

                • Strengthens immunity

                • Promotes good sleep

              As we walk slowly through the forest, seeing, listening, smelling, tasting and touching, we bring our rhythms into step with nature.

              Dr Qing Li

              How to Forest Bathe

              Forest bathing is a fully immersive experience. One that invigorates all your senses and allows you to consciously connect to nature. To get the maximum benefits, it’s important that you switch off from technology. So turning off your phone and popping it in your bag or pocket is a must!

              As you walk through the forest, allow your senses to guide you. What can you see? Notice the different colours and shapes around you. What can you hear? Tune into the birdsong, the rustling of leaves and the gentle creak of the branches overhead. What can you feel? Run your hands over the trunks of the trees, leaves and twigs and notice the different textures. What can you smell? It might be the sweetness of the rain, or the earthy smells of the ground, or even the delicate perfume of spring blossoms. Don’t forget to take a break! Find a bench or a fallen tree to sit on, and reflect on how the forest makes you feel. Really notice it in the very core of your being. At this point, taking some long deep breaths, will send a message to your body that it safe. Notice how relaxed this instantly makes you feel. Really embrace the stillness of this moment and you might be surprised by the amount of wildlife you notice whilst you take this time for yourself.

              And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.

              John Muir

              Finally, don’t worry if you don’t have 2 hours to spare, you can start with a time you feel comfortable with and build it up. Remember, anytime spent in nature will have positive benefits. If you aren’t local to a forest or woodland, you can do the same in a park or even your garden. It’s all about taking the time to really connect and experience all nature has to offer.

              We’ve Got You Covered

              Here at Spiritual Quest, we always have you covered. Whether it’s handpicked products or inspiring workshops. Take a look at these carefully selected products and upcoming workshops. Remember, if you can’t find what you are looking for, give us a call or pop in and we’ll be more than happy to help.

              If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

              Subscribe to our newsletter!

              CategoriesSpirituality Tips & Advice
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              Self-Care

              At Spiritual Quest we believe it’s important to take time to check in with ourselves. We understand that life can be busy and things can get in the way, so here is a gentle reminder from us to you, to take a little time today and reflect on your self-care. You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’ many a time. Think about it…from the moment we wake, we are continuously giving our energy to family, friends, work and life in general. If we don’t take time to replenish ourselves we can effectively ‘burn out’. The good news is that there are lots of things you can do to improve your self-care and overall well-being.

              The Seven Pillars of Self-Care

              We think the simplest way to look at self-care is to imagine seven pillars: emotional, mental, physical, spiritual, environmental, recreational and social. Each of these representing a different aspect of your life that needs to be nurtured. Let’s explore these a little more…

              Emotional – Relates to your ability to acknowledge, process and reflect on your feelings, or matters of the heart. By strengthening your emotional pillar you begin to understand yourself better; giving you the strength to deal with set backs or challenges, as well as developing healthy emotional responses.

              Mental – Mindset is everything! Creating a positive mindset through mindfulness techniques can have a significant impact on our stress levels. It can also increase our creativity and knowledge.

              Physical – Probably the one that most people think of when they hear ‘self-care’. This pillar covers everything from exercise, nutrition, hygiene and sleep.

              Spiritual – Something that we at Spiritual Quest are huge advocates of…your spiritual growth. It’s the practices that allow us to nourish our soul; giving us purpose, direction and bringing meaning to our lives.

              Environmental – Our living and working environments can have a huge impact on our head-space. Take a look at your environment. How do they look or feel? If they are cluttered, there’s a good chance that’s how you’ll feel too. Take time to clear these spaces and it’ll help bring you the clarity you need.

              Recreational – As we age, we often forget about the little things that used to bring so much joy. Taking time to nurture your inner child with hobbies and activities that re-energise, will help you escape from day to day stresses and allow you to enjoy the simple pleasures in life once more.

              Finally, Social – Our connections with others are so important for our self-care. Building positive, meaningful relationships with people who ‘get you’, can have an overwhelming impact on your life. Surround yourself, as much as you can, with people who bring you a sense of self-acceptance and belonging.

              Take a moment to reflect on the points raised above. Think about what your current self-care practice looks like and what pillars you think could do with a little nurturing. Next, we’ll talk you through some very simple ways you can improve your self-care regime.

              How to improve your self-care regime

              There are so many wonderful things you can do to support and strengthen your pillars of self-care. It’s about finding the things you enjoy and those you know you’ll be able to easily incorporate into your life. Below is just a small selection of the things we like to do at Spiritual Quest to support our self-care.

                 

                  • Daily meditation

                  • Connecting with nature by going for a walk, or spending time in the garden/park

                  • Gentle exercise – Qi Gong, yoga, swimming and hitting the gym are favourites here

                  • Journalling

                  • Listening to music

                  • Bathing with Himalayan bath salts

                  • Spend time on hobbies and interests

                  • Spending time with family and friends

                  • Connecting to higher powers through spiritual and/or religious practice

                  • Clearing the clutter – Let the spring clean commence

                  • Eating regular nutritious meals and drinking plenty of water

                  • Rest and getting a good amount of sleep

                  • Disconnecting from technology and social media for a little time each day

                We’ve got you covered

                Here at Spiritual Quest we have everything you need to enhance your self-care practice from amazing well-being products to courses and workshops designed to inspire you to lead a more meaningful life. Take a look at these wonderful products and workshops we have coming up. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Pop in, browse online or give us a call on 01372 878 606 and we’ll be happy to help you.

                If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

                Subscribe to our newsletter!

                CategoriesEnergy Clearing & Feng Shui
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                The Wealth Corner

                According to Tibetan Feng Shui, each area of your home corresponds to a certain aspect of life such as career, relationships and health. The Bagua is a tool you can use to identify the different areas of your home. Your home is a representation of your life, so if a certain area is untidy, full of clutter or needs decorating, then you may find that the aspect of life the section represents is out of balance too.

                The Wealth Corner is found in the upper left hand side corner, with your back against the door. You can use the bagua on a particular room or the house as a whole. This area is all about wealth, prosperity and abundance – and includes not just material wealth, but prosperity of all kinds. It also has strong links with self worth, as our ability to receive wealth and abundance is influenced by how we value ourselves.

                The first step when working with Feng Shui is clutter clearing. If the section is untidy, with broken objects or undecorated walls, then this can influence the wealth in your life. Think about what it could represent metaphorically e.g. a dusty area could suggest that you don’t manage your finances regularly enough. Work on the section, getting rid of anything that no longer works or repainting the walls. Once you’ve done this, you can start thinking about incorporating items that will help enhance your wealth and abundance. Try adding the following:

                The Chinese Money Frog has been used for centuries to bring in financial abundance. In Chinese folklore, the legendary three-legged toad is thought to have the ability to produce gold and silver coins from its mouth. This toad lived on the moon with Liu Hai, the God of Wealth.

                A Wealth Charm includes Chinese symbols that represent prosperity and good luck. Chinese coins called I Ching signify success and wealth – the circular shape represents heaven whilst the inner square is earth. The idea is that by harnessing these two, you will be successful. The red eternal knot signifies longevity and vitality.

                There are several crystals that represent abundance and prosperity. Try placing a cluster or a few tumblestones in this section to promote these energies!

                If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

                Subscribe to our newsletter!

                CategoriesSpirituality
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                The Year of The Rabbit

                On the 22nd January, we leave the Year of The Tiger and enter the new year: the Year of The Rabbit. So what does this year have in store for us? Let’s find out!

                The rabbit is known as one of the most gentle and tender out of the 12 animals, which is a dramatic difference to the roaring tiger and is why this year might start off a bit abrupt as we adjust to this slower pace. The year 2022 was designated as ‘yang’, the active principle of Chinese philosophy so, combined with the tiger energy, we would have felt vitality, positivity and enthusiasm. However, this combination also leads to restlessness and burn out.

                The year 2023 will be ‘yin’, and the rabbit will encourage a much more gentle pace. It will be a time for rest and reflection, and will give you an opportunity for contemplation. But this doesn’t mean it’s a year of downtime, as rabbits are quick and clever when needed. They can adapt to their environment and make decisive decisions based on their situation and threat level. With this energy, you can work towards your goals in a steady, confident manner and will be able to overcome any obstacles in 2023 with a clear and calm head.

                The yin nature will also heighten the qualities of the rabbit, helping you be more receptive, intuitive and accepting. The idea of yin and yang is that opposite forces complement one another to offer harmony and balance overall, so if you feel a bit burnt out after 2022, this year will help restore your energy levels and bring balance back into your life.

                Chinese Astrologers have a few tips on how to harness the rabbit’s energy:

                • If you’re used to tight schedules, you may find your routines soften and relax throughout the year. This may take some adjustment at first, but it’s a good thing so let it happen!
                • For career and financial success, try to start things as early as possible in the year. This will give your ideas and intentions time to blossom in an organic way.
                • Rabbits are incredibly social and affectionate creatures, so it’s the perfect time to strengthen relationships and build new ones. If you’re single, you may have more chances with romantic potentials. Love is important to rabbits, so embody the traits of someone who makes a good partner – be affectionate!
                • The rabbit is associated with peace, prosperity and longevity in Asia – so above all, this year will bring hope. Remember this as you progress through the year.
                • Those who celebrate the Chinese New Year will incorporate motifs of the animal in their homes and businesses so add rabbit ornaments, like the ones below, to remind you of the rabbit’s energy.

                We hope The Year of The Rabbit will be a successful year for you!

                The Chinese Lunar Calendar is based on 12 animals, each with their own attributes and energy. To find out more about how the calendar came about, read our blog here.


                If you like what you’ve read and would love more magic in your daily life, sign up to our newsletter, pop into store or visit us online at  www.spiritualquest.co.uk – Quest is a close, family run business that has been open for over 17 years – we have cultivated a shop & wellbeing centre filled with beautiful crystals, magical energies & lots of love and laughter!

                Subscribe to our newsletter!

                CategoriesTips & Advice
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                New Year, New Resolutions

                With the New Year comes new resolutions. It’s a time where we look back on the previous year, think about what’s happened and create new goals that we want to reach. Whatever you’re feelings are towards resolutions, it’s actually a really beneficial practice and can change our lives for the better. Maybe you want to exercise more, start meditating, set up a new business, read more books. The list is endless! But people (myself included) tend to give up on resolutions fairly quickly!

                I think we set resolutions that are so different from our current lifestyle that we get overwhelmed, over committed and give up easily. And this is okay, as long as your happy. But chances are, you’ve set these New Year resolutions because you want to achieve something. And we can obtain anything we set our minds on, we just need to work towards it slowly rather than headfirst.

                I suggest you don’t make New Year’s Resolutions, but ‘Life Resolutions’ or even ‘Daily Resolutions’ instead. This is because you can change your life anytime you want. Although the energy around the New Year is perfect for setting your intentions, you can start on any day you want. It doesn’t have to be a Monday, it doesn’t have to be on the 1st. It can be any week, any day, any hour! By doing this, you are far more likely to stick at your intentions and can work towards the ultimate goal.

                There’s always a powerful energy around the new year, and whilst you don’t you need to set your goals straight away, it is a good time to reflect on the last year. Think about everything that’s happened: what have you learnt? What have you let go? What have you discovered about yourself? What do you want in life? What do you not want in life? Really think about all these aspects in detail. They’ll give you all the information you’ll need when you’re ready to set your intentions.

                When you’re ready, set your intentions – whether they are yearly/monthly/weekly/daily. For example:

                For the next hour I WILL stay off Facebook and answer work emails.
                For the next day I WILL meditate for 10 minutes.
                For the next week I WILL spend at least two hours a day with my family.
                For the next month I WILL exercise each week.
                For the next year I WILL live more in the present moment.

                By creating resolutions like the above, it will be easier to see your progress and you’ll get a boost every time you achieve it. This will then motivate you to carry on, and create new resolutions once you’ve completed them. Even by writing ‘I will’ is going to have a big impact on your outlook of your resolutions as you’re not putting any doubt into your mind that you won’t be able to achieve it.

                Another way to stick with resolutions is to visualise what you want to achieve and how this will feel. For example, your resolution may be to find a new job. Take some time to really think about what this means. See it in your mind and make it as colourful as possible. What will changing your job feel like? What environment will you be working in? What will you physically be doing? Use all your senses. The clearer the visualisation, the quicker the manifestation. This will encourage you to stick with your resolutions as you’ve seen it, felt it, smelt it, heard it.  If you feel yourself straying from your resolution, visualise it again. Remind yourself what it feels like.
                 
                Try these techniques instead and see how much quicker you reach your goals!

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