To Help Baby Sleep: Crystals and Nursery Feng Shui

About a week ago, I was really going through it with my 8 month old. It was around the time of the Solar Eclipse and transiting Mercury retrograde was tightly opposite his Natal Saturn, which alluded to teething being an issue. The Eclipse factor just amplified whatever was brewing beneath the surface. By day 4 of continued distress, compounded with the rhythm we had found feeling like a distant memory, and sleep deprivation nearing the vibe of the long-gone 4th trimester, I was over it. Yet somehow I was still hanging on, like any mom does, relying on a stamina reserve I didn't even know I had in me.

During that time, one of my favourite long distance friends/humans and unequivocal healer, Georgie, reached out and mentioned she felt like Quinn's crib needed to be re-positioned. She asked me to intuitively check in and see how that landed with me, suggesting that maybe the current position wasn't helping his slumber nor easing his growing pains. When I went back to his room with her loving suggestions in mind, I felt she was onto something. What came to mind was inevitably adding crystals curated for his current challenge, as well as looking into harmonizing his space. His nursery was pretty established already: He recognizes it to be a serene place of safety, love and comfort. But it's important to bear in mind his constant growth and the inevitable evolution of what his safety and comfort looks like, over time. 

I did some research on Feng Shui for a nursery, using some of the books I personally own and a few quick Google searches, and the following alludes to what I came upon. 

1- Feng Shui is the notion of wind-water so these two elements (astrologically speaking to the mind and our intuition) are at the centre of any decor-scape. The goal is for the sacred Chi to properly circulate so that beneficial energy is our harmonized mainstay. 

2- Soft, neutral and simple colours are ideal as they create a soothing effect that allows for restful slumber. Avoid black and white contrast and items that have any sharp edges. It's best to keep decor to a minimal and incorporate touches that are made of natural fibres like cotton and silk, and wood. 

3- Place the crib/bed against at least one wall, and ideally not under a window. Make sure that the space around and under the bed, are clutter-free and open so energy can flow. If possible, keep the foot of the bed directed towards the door. 

4- Keep daylight or natural light, shining in where possible as this invites in the much needed Yang energy. Leave the door uncluttered so that it can swing open and closed, easily.

5- Pictures of animals, even in the form of a charming illustration, should always be non-predatory. 

The crystals I gathered to help encourage Quinn's restful and peaceful sleep are this selection, below. I personally love Selenite as it cleanses and purifies in a way that's very light-filled and positive. I decided to incorporate a Selenite bowl and wand, lining them up horizontally with the crib's frame, to keep the continuity of energy in maximum flow. 

1- Petrified Wood. A natural and grounding stone, this one felt really necessary for Quinn's needs. I also like that it speaks to the notions of Feng Shui and the materials used in his room decor. This stone helps major transformations (of which there are many in a growing baby's life) feel less daunting. It diminishes the survival instinct and instead encourages security and safety around anything that feels uncomfortable. And whatever it aids, it helps it stick. So when baby sleeps, it's for good!

2- Prehnite. Inner knowing. This stone support our heart's will. It will activate whatever needs encouragement and send it waves of support. In the context of a nursery this means peaceful vibes are restored, and calming energetic waves are felt. The light green blue hue too, felt instantly soothing.

3- Howlite. The stone of patience and the cool and collected mind. An overactive mind is the enemy of a deep, peaceful sleep. Even at a young age we can go to bed with our minds filled with the overbearing energy of the day and it can be hard to shake. Quinn has his natal Mercury on his ascendent which makes him very prone to overthinking and resistant to cognitive relaxation. Wanting to support his overactive mind to find peace and serenity when it's time to sleep, Howlite felt like a great crystal ally to neutralize whatever thoughts, if any, unnecessarily keep him from finding a sound sleep. 

The Ritual. At bedtime, Quinn and I spend a few moments, holding the crystals in his hands. This fosters his intuitive connection with their magic and properties and it aids them to do their work as they feel into his energy. After I've tucked him in, I gently place the stones into the Selenite bowl, and slide them under the crib, setting the intention as I do so that they come to his sleep aid and destress any growing pains his body may be going through.