The Cairn
A Cairn is a human-made pile (or stack) of stones. The word cairn comes from the Scottish Gaelic: càrn. Cairns are used as trail markers in many parts of the world, in uplands, on moorland, on mountaintops, near waterways and on sea cliffs, as well as in barren deserts and tundra. They vary in size from small stone markers to entire artificial hills, and in complexity from loose conical
rock piles to delicately balanced sculptures. Cairns may be painted or otherwise decorated, whether for increased visibility or for religious reasons. In modern times, cairns are often erected as landmarks, a use they have had since ancient times; but, since prehistory, they have also been built for a variety of other reasons, such as burial monuments and for defense and hunting, as well as ceremonial, astronomical, and other purposes. The building of cairns for recreational purposes along trails, serve to mark one's personal passage through the area. Modern cairns may also be erected for historical or memorial commemoration or simply for decorative or artistic reasons. I have created these cairns using the stones from various Minnesota shores such as Lake Superior, which is one of the five Great Lakes which are situated in the center of North America. The Anishinabe called them Gitchigami roughly translated as "Shining Big Sea Water." They have always been sacred, powerful and highly respected. I have been drawn to stones since a child. I have them everywhere; inside my house, in my garden; in my water; in my pocket; I wear them; I love them! Once I embarked upon my journey into the healing world, becoming a bodyworker and being exposed to amazing healing ways, stones just naturally were included in my process and I began to learn more and more about their healing properties. When I began creating the cairns, so many other stones also wanted to be a part of the process and included in order to assist you on your journey as well. I have used the semi-precious gem stones that have called to be used within some of the Cairn creations, and it is my assumption that over time, the variety will widen and many more healing opportunities will indeed open up. Creating these cairns has been meditative and intentional for me, holding the recipient in heart and mind during the creative process. Each cairn is one of a kind. Holding the power of the sacred Lake Superior Waters, the stones of this unique Cairn have also basked underneath the Moon and Sun and have been infused with Reiki Energy and anointed with the pure essential oils of Frankincense and Myrrh. It is my hope that the Cairn you choose will serve you in ways that resonate with your personal journey. It is no accident that you are drawn to a particular cairn. It holds specific energies, messages and properties that reflect you on your path. Whether you choose to enjoy the cairn as art, in ceremony, on your altar, as a meditative piece, or perhaps to mark a particular “personal passage” for you, may it serve to remind you of the importance of each and every step along the way.
