If you’ve ever been curious about the supernatural or looking for a new experience with friends, a Ouija board might have caught your eye. Often seen as a tool for communicating with spirits, the Ouija board has been a staple in paranormal lore for decades. But before you start summoning messages from beyond, it’s important to know how to use a Ouija board safely.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Ouija boards, how they work, and, most importantly, how to use them safely. Let’s dive in!
What is a Ouija Board?
A Ouija board, also known as a spirit board or talking board, is a flat board marked with the letters of the alphabet, the numbers 0-9, the words “yes” and “no,” and sometimes a “hello” and “goodbye” section. The board comes with a planchette, which is a small, usually heart-shaped piece that participants lightly touch with their fingers. The planchette moves across the board during a session to spell out messages.
How Does a Ouija Board Work?
The belief behind the Ouija board is that spirits or supernatural entities can communicate with the living through it. During a session, participants place their fingers lightly on the planchette, and it moves across the board to form words, providing answers to questions.
Skeptics argue that the movement is due to the ideomotor effect—a psychological phenomenon where a person makes motions unconsciously. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, it’s important to approach the experience with an open mind and respect.
Why not try Tarot, Pendulums or Runes?
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Ouija Board
Now that you understand what a Ouija board is, let’s break down how to use it:
1. Set the Right Atmosphere
- Location: Choose a quiet, private location where you won’t be disturbed. Many people prefer to use Ouija boards in dim lighting or candlelight for an added atmosphere.
- Group: A Ouija board works best with two or more people. Ideally, have 3-4 people, but no more than 6, to maintain focus.
- Calm Mindset: It’s important to approach the board with a clear mind. Avoid using it if you’re feeling anxious, upset, or skeptical.
2. Place the Ouija Board
- Lay the Ouija board flat on a sturdy surface such as a table or the floor.
- Ensure that everyone sits comfortably around the board, with their hands resting lightly on the planchette.
3. Clear Intentions
- Before starting, it’s essential to set your intentions. Focus on asking respectful, clear questions.
- Many users begin by asking the spirits to identify themselves before proceeding with any personal questions.
4. Ask Questions
- Start asking simple, open-ended questions. The planchette should begin moving, spelling out answers on the board.
- Be patient. The movement might take a few moments to begin.
5. Ending the Session
- When you’re ready to finish, ask the spirits to say goodbye. Always move the planchette to “goodbye” to properly close the session.
- Remove your hands from the planchette, and pack the board away with respect.
Tips for Using a Ouija Board Safely
While using a Ouija board can be an exciting and intriguing experience, safety is paramount. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable session:
1. Don’t Use the Ouija Board Alone
- It’s not advised to use the Ouija board by yourself. The presence of multiple participants helps to keep the experience grounded and ensures a collective energy.
2. Respect the Spirits
- Always approach the Ouija board with respect. Never ask disrespectful or provocative questions. This helps prevent unwanted or negative energies from being involved in the session.
3. Close the Session Properly
- Always make sure to close the session by saying goodbye and moving the planchette to the “goodbye” section. This ensures the communication is finished, preventing lingering spirits or energies.
4. Avoid Asking About Personal Matters
- Don’t ask about personal, sensitive, or deep matters that might cause emotional distress. Stick to light, general questions and keep the experience fun.
5. Don’t Play Under the Influence
- Alcohol, drugs, or any kind of mind-altering substances can make it harder to focus and may affect the session’s outcome, potentially attracting negative energies.
6. Trust Your Instincts
- If something feels wrong or uncomfortable during the session, end it immediately. Trust your gut feeling and don’t hesitate to walk away.
Ouija Board Myths: Debunking Common Misconceptions
Before diving deeper into the practice, it’s helpful to address some of the common myths surrounding the Ouija board.
- Myth 1: The Ouija board is dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.
- Fact: While the Ouija board can be unsettling, it’s not inherently dangerous. Many people use it safely when following the proper guidelines.
- Myth 2: The Ouija board can summon evil spirits.
- Fact: The board itself isn’t a direct portal to evil spirits. The energy you bring to the session plays a bigger role in determining the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ouija Boards
Q: Can I use a Ouija board if I’m a beginner?
A: Yes! Beginners can absolutely use a Ouija board as long as they follow the guidelines and respect the process. It’s important to start with simple questions and a calm mindset.
Q: Is there any way to protect myself during a session?
A: Many people use protective rituals, such as saying a prayer before the session or using salt to create a boundary. These rituals help set a positive tone and create a feeling of protection.
Q: What should I do if something feels wrong during the session?
A: If you feel uncomfortable or something unusual happens, immediately close the session by saying goodbye and move the planchette to the “goodbye” section.
Q: Is the Ouija board effective for communicating with spirits?
A: While many claim to have had experiences with spirit communication, the results are often subjective and vary greatly. Whether or not spirits are involved, the experience is largely shaped by the people involved.
Conclusion: Using the Ouija Board Safely
Using a Ouija board can be an exciting, mysterious experience, but it’s important to approach it with caution and respect. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a safe and memorable session. Always remember to set intentions, respect the process, and close the session properly.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, using a Ouija board can be a fun and intriguing way to explore the unknown, just ensure that safety is your priority!
Learn more about How To Communicate With Spirits
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