For most of us summer burns hot, in all ways. It’s a time of getting outside for the longest days and staying there for as many hours as possible.  Connecting with friends, lazing by the river, strolling on the beach, celebrations and family adventures plus time by the campfire.

During the summer season, we are naturally drawn to things that are cool.  We seek out a dip in the lake, a cold lemonade or iced tea, the fan or the AC turned on high. The days are full of high energy and brightness from sunrise to sunset.  Summer beckons more socializing, music and barbecues.

With respect to crystal energy and gemstones, while some days you may be drawn to the more traditional and empowering sunny stones of Citrine, Sunstone, Tigers Eye, Amber … you  might find that you actually need stones that bring cooling calming energy.

2  Ocean Jasper - Jasper of any variety is considered a supremely nurturing stone. With its slower vibration it is grounding and balancing. It can embrace and nurture a frazzled spirit. Ocean Jasper in particular is a stone of happiness.  It carries a delightful vibration and brings joy.  Most Ocean Jasper is found in Madagascar and comes from an underwater mine that is only accessible during certain tides. This stone is closely connected to the ocean and the cyclical pull of the moon. 

3.  Aquamarine - Aquamarine is a green-blue beryl.  In Latin aquamarine translates to ‘Water of the Sea’.  Considered to be a mermaid stone, it’s the ultimate crystal representation of cool waters and soft ocean breezes. Historically, it was carried by sailors as a talisman of protection on long voyages. Aquamarine is peaceful and soft.  Its vibration feels like you're floating on the water and being gently carried by the natural rhythm of the sea. This serene stone radiates an Aloha vibe.

4.  Moonstone - Moonstone is related to the zodiac sign Cancer and is also the stone of the Goddess.  Another water element crystal, moonstone brings fluidity, grace and ease. It’s especially good for heightening your intuition and tapping into lunar energy.  It can also open up your connection with the Divine Feminine.  Pairing it with Sunstone around the Summer Solstice is a wonderful practice for equalizing Yin/Yang.  I’ve traditionally worn this gemstone combination (Moonstone + Sunstone) for many years on the days leading up to and around the Summer Solstice as well as around the equinoxes. It helps to keeps me connected to the seasons and to mindfully seek balance with Moon/Sun, Feminine/Masculine, Dark/Light.

5. Amazonite - Just looking at the blue green colors of Amazonite has you thinking about shady banks where stress is carried away on the wind. This stone has powerful cooling properties,  particularly for the Throat Chakra and around communication. Amazonite worn as a necklace can help you stay mindful, and encourage you to consider another's point of view. It can also serve as a touchstone to remind you to think before you speak.  Amazonite works to cool fire in your words to impart a softer and truthful expression.

Other cooling stones you might like are: Amethyst, Pearl, Turquoise, Chrysocolla.

Balancing Lunar Practices

Some additional practices that you can work into your daily routine to keep things cool in summer include:

• Earthing:  Taking off your shoes and walking barefoot in the grass.  Making a habit of doing this daily, first thing in the morning in the cool grass will help connect you with the earths energy and balance and ground your mind, body and spirit.  Or you could take a long walk in the sand. If you are able to go barefoot for any point of time this summer, to take your shoes off and let the bottoms of your feet connect directly with earth energy, just do it!   This is a technique called earthing and it has a multitude of health benefits. It’s like you are filling up your cup with earth energy and that grounding continues to support you as you move through your day.

• Take a Quiet Moment:  Sit in silence for a few minutes outside.  Or drop into a meditation by the river or under a shady tree.  Take a moment to breath in the fresh air and just be with nature.  Try to wear or carry any of the stones listed above to support you on the long hot days.  

• Moonbeams:   Bask in the moonlight.  Sleep under the stars or simply kick back in your lounge chair or hammock in the dark.  Throw down a yoga mat in your backyard for a few minutes and enjoy the cool night air under the light of the moon. This practice is immensely cooling and if your barefoot you can get some earthing done at the same time.  :)