Almost 1,000 years ago, there lived a woman who, in her time, already embodied what is now celebrated under the term holistic medicine. Hildegard von Bingen – Benedictine nun, visionary, healer, composer, author. And yes, one could say: the first influencer for natural rituals, self-care, and the power of the elements.
A voice with vision
Born in 1098 in what is now Rheinhessen, Hildegard was not only an abbess but also one of the first women in history whose writings on theology, medicine, and cosmology were preserved. In a world that gave women little space, she courageously formulated her insights – on the connection between body, mind, and nature. She wrote about nutrition, medicinal plants, life rhythms, and... gemstones.
What seems like a trendy topic to us today was a lived practice for Hildegard: The world was permeated by energy – tangible, healing, ordering.
Gemstones: Orderly forces of nature
In her medical writings, such as "Physica," Hildegard von Bingen describes the energetic effects of numerous gemstones. She was not only concerned with beauty or symbolism, but with viriditas—the green life force that permeates everything. She believed that certain stones—when used correctly—can strengthen people both physically and mentally.
Some examples from Hildegard’s world:
- Amethyst: against inner restlessness, to purify the mind.
- Rock crystal: for clarity and purification, both internally and externally.
- Carnelian: as an energy bringer, warming, vitalizing.
- Emerald: for balance, hope and an open heart.
Hildegard used gemstones in direct application – for example, placed in water or on certain parts of the body – always with the knowledge of the interplay between matter and spirit.
Rituals then – and now
Almost a millennium later, we once again long for what Hildegard expressed in words: small rituals that connect us with ourselves and nature. We might call it self-care or mindfulness. But the principle remains the same: pause. feel. strengthen.
Our Ritual Kits are modern translations of this ancient wisdom. They combine powerful gemstones with natural fragrances to anchor daily mini-breaks—inspired by women like Hildegard, who exemplified what self-care in harmony with nature can look like.
Calm Ritual Kit - I become light
For moments of peace and regeneration.
With rose quartz, blue aventurine, amethyst, citrine, amber and leopard jasper as well as a calming spray of ylang ylang, patchouli and jasmine.
A ritual for heart, mind and sleep.
Energy Ritual Kit - I fuel energy
For energy, clarity and presence.
With green aventurine, smoky quartz, citrine, carnelian and ruby as well as an activating spray with Bulgarian rose and geranium.
The perfect companion for the morning – or any new beginning.
Nourish Ritual Kit - I let go
For inner strength and self-connection.
With rock crystal, labradorite, black tourmaline, aventurine, heliotrope and jade, combined with a warming spray of juniper and clary sage (organic).
A silent impulse for grounding and protection.
Why Hildegard inspires us today
Hildegard von Bingen shows that a perfect world isn't necessary to have an impact. She lived in uncertain times – and yet still used her voice. Her texts combine spirituality with sensuality, down-to-earthness with transcendence.
Her view of gemstones is more than mere superstition—it's an expression of an understanding that brings us closer to a deeper understanding: that everything is connected. And that nature gives us everything we need if we're willing to listen.
Conclusion: More Hildegard, please.
What if we—like Hildegard—gave more meaning to things? The water we drink, the stones we touch, the words we speak.
Maybe now is the time to remember that.
With every ritual we create.
With every gemstone we carefully choose.
With every break we allow ourselves.