Crystal Clear
Story by: Charmaine Seow
Pictures by: Charmaine Seow & Nam Yi Wen
Crystal Cubes is not what most people might envision a crystal store to look like. Located at Adelphi, the store is brightly-lit and filled with racks of healing crystals. The floor is covered in a carpet of artificial grass, which adds on to the “natural” feel of the store, and a smoky, but oddly comforting, scent is diffused in the air.
I later learned that it’s the scent of Palo Santo, a tree bark that is said to cleanse energy.
Nam Yi Wen, 33, welcomes me warmly from her spot at the counter. My eyes immediately gravitate to the tattoos of dogs on her left arm. She is also not what most people might think a “crystal seller” would look like.
Crystal healing has regained traction amongst the younger generation in recent times. Practitioners believe crystals provide emotional and physical benefits by improving the body’s flow of energy and protecting us from negative energy.
As part of her job, Yi Wen recommends crystals for customers through an energy reading service. She reads their aura and what their energy feels like, before recommending something to help them “open up” their hearts or better yet, discharge negative energy.
“It comes as an intuition, but it’s very draining for us so we can’t read everyone. And some people aren’t ready to face what we have to say. They just want to shop for their own crystals,” says Yi Wen.
For those looking to get into crystals, she suggests Black Tourmaline or Black Rutile for their protective and grounding properties.
As for how to use them, Yi Wen explains, “There is no specific way to utilise crystals but we recommend wearing them, like in the form of bracelets, so they are always in contact with your skin for better flow of energy.”
Those who prefer not to wear accessories can hold onto the crystal to meditate, or display them in different parts of the house to facilitate movement of energy.
“I’ve seen customers become happier,” Yi Wen reflects. “Maybe because of crystals, or maybe because they got to talk to someone.”
However, there are also skeptics who argue that the crystals are a “pseudoscience” and that its effects are a placebo effect.
“Different people heal differently,” emphasizes Yi Wen. “I don’t think crystals can do miracles. It’s more of a vitamin, or a supplement. You borrow the energy of the crystal to help you feel better.”
Who knows, you might find that crystals work for you too!
