Upward Bound

This summer at Cal State Long Beach, I had the privilege of guiding Upward Bound students through an immersive experience that blended the art and science of gemology with the therapeutic benefits of holistic practices. Our time together was filled with creativity, discovery, and personal growth as we explored the fascinating world of gemstones, aromatherapy, color therapy, and more.

The Healing Power of Gemstones

We began our journey by diving into the therapeutic properties of gemstones. Beyond their beauty and rarity, gemstones have long been revered for their healing energies and spiritual significance. The students were captivated by the idea that these natural treasures could influence our emotions, well-being, and even our energy fields.

Each student chose a gemstone that resonated with them, whether it was the calming energy of amethyst, the love-attracting power of rose quartz, or the protective qualities of peridot. As they learned about the unique properties of their chosen stones, we discussed how these gemstones could be incorporated into daily life for emotional and spiritual support.

Crafting Jewelry and Candles with Gemstones

With their chosen gemstones in hand, the students embarked on a creative adventure, crafting their own jewelry and candles. This hands-on activity allowed them to connect with the gemstones on a deeper level, turning raw materials into personalized pieces of art.

The jewelry-making sessions were a flurry of creativity, as students designed necklaces, bracelets, and rings that not only reflected their individual styles but also embodied the healing properties of the gemstones. The candle-making workshop was equally engaging, with each student creating a custom candle infused with their chosen gemstone. We talked about how these candles could be used in meditation and relaxation practices, adding a layer of intention and healing to their daily routines.

Exploring Aromatherapy and Color Therapy

Our exploration of holistic wellness didn’t stop at gemstones. We delved into the world of aromatherapy and color therapy, discovering how scents and colors can influence our mood, energy, and overall well-being.

In the aromatherapy sessions, the students learned about essential oils and their various benefits. We experimented with different blends, creating custom body oils and sea salt scrubs that could be used for relaxation, invigoration, or emotional balance. The students enjoyed mixing their own scents, finding the perfect combination that resonated with their personal needs.

Color therapy was another exciting aspect of our journey. We explored how different colors can affect our emotions and energy levels, and the students were encouraged to choose colors that made them feel calm, happy, or inspired. This knowledge was then applied in our creative projects, from the gemstones and jewelry they chose to the vision boards they made.

Vision Boards, Grateful Journals, and Self-Care

One of the most meaningful parts of our time together was the creation of vision boards and grateful journals. These activities encouraged the students to reflect on their goals, dreams, and the things they were thankful for. The vision boards were filled with images, words, and colors that represented their aspirations, serving as a visual reminder of what they wanted to manifest in their lives.

The grateful journals became a daily practice, where the students could jot down the positive things in their lives, no matter how small. This simple yet powerful activity helped them cultivate a mindset of gratitude and positivity, which is essential for overall well-being.

A Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment

As we wrapped up our time together, it was clear that the students had not only gained a wealth of knowledge about gemstones and holistic practices but had also embarked on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The combination of gemology, aromatherapy, color therapy, and creative expression allowed them to explore new ways of nurturing their minds, bodies, and spirits.

Teaching this program was an incredibly rewarding experience. Watching the students’ creativity flourish, seeing them connect with themselves and each other, and witnessing their excitement as they discovered new ways to support their well-being was truly inspiring. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for gemstones and holistic wellness with such a bright and eager group, and I look forward to seeing how these young minds continue to grow and thrive.

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This blog captures the essence of our holistic journey into gemology and wellness. Whether you're a student, teacher, or simply someone curious about the healing arts, there’s so much to discover and integrate into your own life. The world of gemstones and holistic practices offers endless possibilities for personal growth, creativity, and well-being.