crystal exploration: ocean jasper (nature connection)

I've spent time outside today with the damp earth and wild-dancing wind. I've said hello (again) to what was planted years ago, what was planted last month, then added some new herbs and flowers to this space. Hello, thank you, enjoy your stay.  

Being in nature, whether it's my little space amidst the urban landscape or vast places without trails, fills me with wonder and a sense of groundedness. It's a reminder that I, too, am nature, woven into the complex web, flowing and changing, in motion even as I'm still, still even as I'm in motion. I can breathe, I can experience, I can exist. And! I can feel held.

There's a lot of science backing spending time in nature, lists of studies touting the benefits. I don't think we need to know those studies to innately understand that it feels good. That it is good. 

But, hey, let's look at one. The National Library of Medicine (NIH) has a study in their database from Frontiers in Psychology. These researchers looked at 14 papers / studies that explore the impact of nature on the stress levels and overall wellbeing of college students, physiologically and psychologically. Both things that can be objectively measured and the resulting feelings / experiences. Even 10 minutes in nature had a positive effect on the individuals, with more time even better. The study is here (with the interesting parts toward the end). 

All crystals come from the earth, yet some have an earthier energetic feel and purpose. I'm not suggesting we replace time outside with crystals, but they can be companions in this journey. It's like seeing a loved one across the room versus being wrapped in their embrace. Sometimes we can't be outside. Sometimes even if we're outside, we'd benefit from a little something extra. Maybe we need nature to cocoon us in embrace, hold our hand, remain present in a tactile way.  

Ocean jasper is all about that. It is one of my favorite stones, and will likely be featured here much, much more. It's a form of chalcedony that often (but not always) has little orbs. GeoScienceWorld states that the orbs are formed from "a process of alteration and silicification of volcanic tuff and rhyolite flows."  

Ocean jasper, among other attributes, provides deep earth comfort. Earthy soothe and love. In my pocket, under my pillow, on my lap or in my hands as I lounge, I melt into that sweet, sweet cocoon.