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Black Obsidian Scrying Mirrors
How to Use Black Obsidian Scrying Mirrors
Before we talk about what a scrying mirror is and how to use it, we must first understand the nature of Obsidian itself. Obsidian is formed from volcanic glass when molten lava is quickly chilled upon making contact with cooler air or water. Mysterious and powerful, it does not have a stable crystal structure, so is not technically a crystal, but it is still included in many crystal collections due to its fierce energy.
Black Obsidian History
Lustrous Obsidian is rich in silica, one of the main components of Clear Quartz and many other crystals, and is typically an opaque black. There are other Obsidians available that have a silver, rainbow, or golden sheen as well as reddish brown Mahogany Obsidian and Snowflake Obsidian that’s peppered with white specks. This is due to trace minerals or air bubbles that become trapped in the lava as it cools.
Obsidian is brittle and can be easily broken and shaped into tools or weapons with razor-sharp edges. Which is exactly what early human civilisations did for thousands of years. Evidence found in South Africa indicates that it has been in use for nearly two million years before homo sapiens (or modern humans) existed. It is named for the Roman explorer, Obsidius, who “discovered” it less than 2000 years ago.
Obsidian had another very special use besides tool making. Many ancient civilisations used it as a mirror, one of the first of its kind. It was especially important to Ancient Mayan and Aztec peoples and they used black mirrors and tools in many of their spiritual rituals. Tezcatlipoca, an Aztec deity whose name means ‘smoking mirror,’ was often depicted with an Obsidian either in his headdress, on his chest, or in place of his right foot as if it were an extension of his leg. It’s possible that Obsidian was first used as a scrying mirror during these very rituals.
Black Obsidian Healing Properties
Obsidian is associated with the root chakra and is an excellent stone to use for grounding whenever you’re feeling disconnected from the earth or reality. It is a stone of protection and is said to protect against negative energies by absorbing them and blocking any negative vibes that might be lurking nearby. Additionally, Obsidian is a stone many turn to when they feel they are lacking clarity and want to get to the truth of a situation or task Scrying is divination using a mirror or another reflective surface. The term originates from the word descry which means to catch sight of.
What is Scrying?
The word ‘scrying’ comes from an Old English word, ‘descry,’ meaning ‘to catch sight of,’ or ‘to make out dimly.’ In the simplest terms, scrying is peering into a surface, usually one imbued with mystical energy, to see images or symbols that you then interpret meaning from. Scrying is traditionally depicted as a form of fortune-telling, a way of peering beyond the present into the future to see what lies ahead.
It calls to mind an image of a fair ground fortune teller, hooped earrings, unusually dressed, hands rubbing its surface or swirling around it in the air. Maybe the wicked queen and her magic mirror in Snow White was made of Black Obsidian?
A more modern school of thought has taken hold and many now view scrying as a tool of self-reflection, much like Tarot. So, instead of seeing future riches or doom, you’re more likely to gain a new perspective on someone or something by peering into the depths of Obsidian’s reflective surface and yourself. Under this school of thought, it could be said that the symbols and images you see, are manifested by you as you struggle to resonate your understanding between your conscious and unconscious.
What Do I Need to Scry?
As its name implies, ‘to catch sight of’ , you must seek, you choose something you can focus your gaze upon and black scrying mirrors are an ideal material. Other popular items include crystal balls or scrying bowls for water scrying in combination. You’ll also need a candle to use as a source of natural light.
Scrying also required the ability to enter a light trance-like state. Those that regularly meditate or do other mindfulness exercises might find it easier to slip in and out of a trance state. If you’re new to scrying or mindfulness, be patient; the brain is like any other muscle, it will come with practice and it will become easier. Anyone can learn to scry if they are willing to devote the time to it.
How to Scry With a Black Obsidian Mirror
It is widely believed that it is best to scry at night as the practice is closely tied to the energy of the moon. Plus a calm, dark night is perfect for focusing as there are fewer distractions around. Whether you are inside or outside, it’s best to find a dark, quiet place with as little light as possible.
Make sure the time you choose is one when deliveries aren’t expected and your phone is off so nothing can distract you.
Make sure you have your scrying mirror, candle, and if you’d like to journal your experience, a journal and pen. Light your candle (incense too if preferred) and place it out of your direct line of sight but where it is still visible on the surface of the black mirror. Try different arrangements with your candle. Some of us prefer to place the candle immediately in front of their mirror or even stare directly into the candle. It’s a personal choice and what you prefer best.
Start by Sitting Quietly and Clearing your Mind
Focus on your breathing. In and out. In and out. Each time try to breathe more slowly deeply filling and emptying your lungs. Let the thoughts of your day and to-do lists drift away. It’s okay if they come back, let them move across your mind's eye and drift away again. (This bit does take practice)
Peering into the Abyss
Once you begin to feel a sense of calm and relaxation that indicate you are entering a more trance-like state. Now it is time to focus your gaze upon the Obsidian scrying mirror. If your eyes were closed, slowly open them. If they were already open, shift your gaze to the inky black surface.
Maintain a soft gaze that allows the mirror to remain just slightly out of focus. Keep an open mind and make a mental note of whatever ideas, flashes of inspiration, or objects come up for you. It’s okay to not understand them in the moment, you can revisit them later.
When you’re first starting out try to maintain this state for at least 15 minutes. As you grow more comfortable, you can scry for longer periods which may allow you to reach further inside yourself and gain greater insights.
End Your Session
You can end your session when you choose to. There are no rules how to end your session. I personally like to close my eyes and give thanks and gratitude before blowing out the candle and slowly beginning to move out of my seated position. Be careful at this point, Scrying can leave you feeling light headed.
If you journal, write down what you saw or any thoughts that came to you during your scrying session. It’s best to write things down while your thoughts are still fresh.
Self Reflection and Growth
If you’re a bit skeptical of the magical aspects of working with crystals and scrying, there are several very non-magical benefits of practicing self-reflection. Self-reflection leads to a greater sense of self-awareness.
A heightened sense of self-awareness makes it easier to make decisions, allows you to communicate more clearly and honestly, can lead to less stress and anxiety, improve your sleep, and strengthen your relationship with others.
When Scrying you also reach a mediators state which is also beneficial for the brain.
Birthstone -Sagittarius
Planet - Jupiter
Element - Fire
Chakra – Base
Obsidian Tips
- Look into obsidian to see your true self and your future
- Give obsidian – the mirror of the soul – as a symbol of wisdom
- Wear obsidian for protection from accidents and to dispel unkind thoughts
- Keep obsidian with you to promote understanding when learning new skills and concepts
- Meditate with obsidian to allow its male energy to stimulate your dynamic masculine side
- Place obsidian by your bed to help release trapped tears from past events
- Place obsidian by your front door to eliminate negative thoughts and emotions from entering
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