Protect Your Peace: Crystals for Chaotic Times

Obsidian is one of my favorite stones for the shadow work we’re collectively navigating right now. Shadow work sounds ominous, but it’s actually quite simple: pulling old wounds out of the dark and into the light so we can examine them — and heal.

With everything happening in the world, many of us are feeling old wounds bubble to the surface. It’s time to greet them with open arms. There’s no need to be afraid. These emotional ghosts have been wandering around in your head for years. It’s time to face them head-on.

Obsidian is a powerful ally here. It’s said to help us identify patterns — collectively, generationally, and personally. It also offers a strong layer of protection.

My personal favorite is our obsidian dragon. I have one that I adore. I bring her out to sit beside me when I journal. I write down my biggest fears on a piece of paper and burn them. Then I write a gratitude list. There is always something to be grateful for — even in the scariest, most apocalyptic moments.

This stone always makes me giggle because during one of my live sales, my community renamed it. We now call it the “Don’t Take Yourself Too F***ing Seriously” stone.

Honestly? Brilliant branding.

Orca agate offers protection from yourself. Because here’s the reality: none of us are making it out alive. (Probably a blog for another day about how little we talk about death in the U.S., but I digress.)

We get a finite amount of time here. And while we are collectively experiencing deep grief and sorrow right now, it is absolutely essential to experience joy.

I saw a quote recently: “Make joy your priority right now. It’s an act of rebellion.” I couldn’t agree more.

Our souls came here to evolve and experience every facet of human existence. We have collectively been holding our breath since 2020, and our little nervous systems simply can’t do that anymore. We have to learn how to truly live — even within the constructs of a crumbling patriarchy.

Laughter is medicine. Joy is necessary. You are worthy of both. They help us not only survive, but thrive.

Orca agate is a beautiful reminder of that credo.

How often do you think about your aura?

Honestly, I didn’t think about mine much at all until I took a fascinating workshop on empathic protection. Your aura is your energetic field — the space that extends beyond your physical body. Often it carries color, almost like a human mood ring. Aura photography has become popular lately, and I find it wildly interesting.

Horses, for example, have incredibly large auric fields, which is part of why equine therapy can be so impactful. (Fun fact: my 87-year-old father-in-law recently explored this modality after a casual family conversation turned into a deep research rabbit hole.)

When we’re regulated and aligned, our aura typically extends just a few inches beyond our body. When we’re in fear, it can either shrink or expand dramatically.

Labradorite — often praised for its mystical flash — is also deeply respected for its ability to protect and heal the auric field. When we’re dysregulated, we can energetically puff out like a pufferfish. Labradorite helps us gently draw that energy back in and shield ourselves from outside forces that are having a massive impact on our nervous system.

If you’re feeling completely burnt out and ready to hit reset, labradorite may be the gentle ally you didn’t know you needed.

It took me a long time to find the name for my business. When I landed on Totems and Tarot, the alliteration nerd in me squealed with joy.

Totems — for crystal totems. While I carry many types of crystals, my specialty is unusual and delightful animal carvings.

When I researched animals associated with protection this week, three rose to the top: wolves, owls, and ravens.

Wolves are fascinating creatures. They’re often portrayed as vicious, but research shows they avoid unnecessary conflict. However, when backed into a corner, they are not afraid to defend themselves. Loyal to their pack and highly intelligent, wolves are powerful symbols of guardianship. Whether you’re protecting yourself or someone you love, a wolf totem reminds you of the strength found in loyalty and love.

Owls teach us when — and how — to retreat. They move through the darkness with precision and grace. Associated with clairvoyance and psychic ability, they remind us of the quiet power of witchcraft and intention. Burning a candle at home may not solve world hunger, but never underestimate the power of focused intention and inner wisdom. Thoughts become things. Owls protect our spellwork and divination practices, helping us connect more deeply with the divine during times of need.

Ravens may fascinate me most of all. Incredibly intelligent, ravens are often seen as guardians of light. In Pacific Northwest Native traditions, there is a story that Raven stole the sunlight from the one who kept the world in darkness. Ravens remind us of our inherent magic and our responsibility to keep shining — even on the darkest days. They protect what is most sacred: hope and peace.