Crystal gazing

From ArticleWorld

As the name implies, Crystallomancy is a method of fortune telling by looking into a crystal ball. It is popularly known as Crystal Gazing. A vivid imagination and an innate physic sense are the chief characteristics of a gazer as the method is intuitive rather than structured. Other than the crystal ball, a polished quartz rock, a pool of water, a mirror or any reflective surface can be used for gazing.

Some claim that a direct connection to the other world can be established (in other words, the dead can be communicated with) in a crystal gazing session as the mind delves deep into the realms of the unconscious.

Origin

Crystal gazing is in existence since ancient times and forms a part of almost all cultures. Egyptians, Hindus, Greeks and Babylonians were all practitioners of this form of divination. The crystal ball was first used about Europeans 1500 years ago.

Technique

Solitude and dim lighting are the primary requirements for crystallomancy. Success cannot be achieved in a noisy and crowded room. Professionals sometimes light a candle next to the crystal ball for stimulation but it is not recommended for beginners. The ball should never be touched in an ongoing session. A calm and relaxed mind is an essential pre-requisite. Some enter a light trance-like state prior to the session. An undistracted mind may first see hazy images which will later take definite shape. The forms may either be actual or symbolic. Symbols are best interpreted through personal instincts but generalized meanings also exist. For example, the crown depicts power, the horse – a change and snake – knowledge. Gazing may reveal the past, present or future. Answers to specific questions can be got only through experienced gazers.