Ouija boards are an intriguing device that have been used for centuries to connect with the spiritual realm. However, they also have a reputation for being dangerous, and it is important to use them with caution. In this article, we will share some tips on how to safely use a Ouija board. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risks and maximize the benefits of using this fascinating tool.
The first rule of using a Ouija board is to never use it alone. Always have at least one other person with you, and make sure that you are both in a safe and comfortable environment. It is also important to set some ground rules before you begin. Decide how long you will use the board, and what questions you will ask. Once you have started, do not let go of the planchette until you have finished. If you feel uncomfortable at any time, stop using the board and seek help.
In addition to these general guidelines, there are some specific things you can do to protect yourself while using a Ouija board. First, be aware of the dangers of negative energy. If you feel like you are being contacted by a negative entity, stop using the board immediately. Second, never use the Ouija board to ask questions about your future. This can lead to inaccurate or misleading information. Finally, always cleanse the board after you have used it. This will help to remove any negative energy that may have attached itself to the board.
The History and Allure of the Ouija Board
The Ouija board, a mysterious and captivating object purported to facilitate communication with the spirit world, has captivated the imaginations of individuals for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century, a period marked by widespread interest in spiritualism and the occult.
In 1890, Charles Kennard, a businessman from Baltimore, Maryland, along with Elijah Bond, a former lawyer, were experimenting with a toy called the “Talking Board.” Kennard, seeking to improve the board’s functionality, reached out to his friend William Fuld, a printer. Together, they designed the first commercially produced Ouija board and patented it in 1891. The word “Ouija,” derived from the French and German words “oui” and “ja” (meaning “yes” in both languages), was selected as the name of the board.
The Ouija board quickly gained popularity, becoming a fixture in parlors and séance rooms. Its simplicity and accessibility made it an attractive tool for those seeking to connect with the supernatural. However, as its popularity grew, so too did skepticism and controversy. The board’s alleged ability to communicate with spirits was met with both fascination and derision, and its use was denounced by some religious and scientific communities.
Despite the controversy, the Ouija board remains a popular object of curiosity and fascination. Its allure lies in its capacity to evoke a sense of mystery and the unknown. Whether used for entertainment, exploration, or experimentation, the Ouija board continues to captivate the imaginations of those who believe in its power to bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual realms.
Safety Precautions Before Using a Ouija Board
1. Keep a Clear Head
Never use a Ouija board under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as this can impair your judgment and make you more susceptible to negative influences.
2. Set Boundaries and Respect Spirits
Before starting a Ouija session, establish clear boundaries and rituals. Begin by stating that only benevolent spirits are welcome and that any negative entities must leave. Use respectful language and avoid challenging or provoking spirits. It’s essential to remember that you are inviting spirits into your realm, and they should be treated with courtesy and respect. Failure to do so may result in a negative experience or malicious consequences.
Establishing clear boundaries is crucial, as it sets the tone for the session and helps ensure that it remains a positive and controlled experience. Begin by grounding yourself, taking a few moments to center your thoughts and connect with the present moment. Clearly state your intentions for the session, emphasizing that you only wish to communicate with benevolent spirits. It is essential to approach the experience with a respectful and open-minded attitude, acknowledging the potential power and sensitivity involved.
3. Safeguard Your Energy and Limit Sessions
Ouija boards can be emotionally and energetically draining. Limit sessions to a reasonable length, typically no longer than 60 minutes. Take breaks as needed and cleanse yourself and the board after each use. This can involve smudging with sage, using crystals, or simply taking a few moments to meditate and clear your mind.
Preparing Your Surroundings and Participants
Choose a Suitable Location
Select a quiet, private room where you won’t be interrupted. It should be well-lit and comfortable, creating a relaxed and undisturbed atmosphere.
Gather the Right Participants
Invite only those who are open-minded, respectful, and emotionally stable. Avoid inviting individuals who are easily scared or prone to excessive skepticism.
Establish Clear Ground Rules
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Respect the Planchette | Treat it gently, moving it only with two fingers to avoid breaking it or damaging its surface. |
| Stay Focused | Maintain attention and avoid distractions. If you lose focus, the session may become chaotic or inconclusive. |
| End the Session Properly | Before ending, say goodbye to any spirits present and thank them for their presence. Always end on a positive note. |
Establishing Ground Rules and Communication Protocols
Before embarking on a Ouija session, it is essential to establish clear ground rules and communication protocols to ensure a safe and respectful experience. Here are some key considerations:
Number of Participants
Limit the number of participants to a small group, typically between 2 and 4 people. Too many participants can result in confusing or conflicting communication.
Physical Contact
Ensure that all participants are physically touching the planchette. This creates a circuit that facilitates communication. Avoid placing only one finger on the planchette, as it may lead to erratic movements.
Respect and Boundaries
Establish that the session is intended for respectful and responsible communication. Disrespectful or malicious questions or actions towards the spirit should be avoided.
Duration
Determine the duration of the session in advance. Avoid excessively long sessions, as they can become draining and disruptive to the participants’ energy.
Safety Protocols
Create a safe exit strategy in case the session becomes uncomfortable or overwhelming. This could involve a designated safe word or gesture that all participants agree upon.
Consent
Ensure that all participants have given their consent to participate in the session. It is important to respect individual boundaries and comfort levels.
Respect for the Spirit
Treat the spirit with the same respect and courtesy you would extend to any living being. Avoid using mocking or disrespectful language.
| Ground Rule | Communication Protocol |
|---|---|
| Limit participants to 2-4 | All participants touch the planchette |
| Respect and boundaries | Establish a safe exit strategy |
| Respect for the spirit | Use respectful language |
Initiating Contact
To begin a Ouija board session, participants should gather around the board and rest their fingertips lightly on the planchette. One person should take on the role of the moderator, who will guide the session and ask questions. The moderator should start by greeting any spirits that may be present and asking them to make themselves known by moving the planchette to the “yes” or “no” spaces on the board.
Asking Questions
Once contact has been established, participants can begin asking questions to the spirit. Questions should be clear and concise, and participants should avoid asking leading questions that suggest a specific answer. It is important to be respectful and to refrain from asking questions that could potentially be harmful or disrespectful to the spirit.
5. Closing the Session
When the session has ended, participants should thank the spirit for communicating and politely ask it to leave. The participants should then remove their fingertips from the planchette and place it in the “goodbye” space on the board. Some believe that it is important to say a prayer or perform a ritual to close the session and protect themselves from any lingering spirits.
| Sign | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Yes | The planchette moves to the “yes” space. |
| No | The planchette moves to the “no” space. |
| Goodbye | The planchette moves to the “goodbye” space and remains there. |
| Spirit’s Name | The planchette moves to letters on the board to spell out the spirit’s name. |
Interpreting Messages and Responding Appropriately
When using a Ouija board, it is crucial to interpret the messages received with caution and respond appropriately to ensure a safe and respectful experience. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this process effectively:
Understanding the Nature of Ouija Communication
It is important to recognize that Ouija boards are not scientific instruments but rather tools for exploring the subconscious mind or connecting with external entities. Messages received should be approached with skepticism and considered as potential insights or suggestions rather than absolute truths.
Establish Clear Boundaries
Before beginning a session, it is essential to establish clear boundaries with the entities or spirits you may encounter. Politely request respectful communication and specify that you will only engage in conversations that are positive and productive.
Trust Your Intuition
When interpreting messages, pay attention to your intuition and gut feelings. If something feels uncomfortable or unsafe, do not hesitate to end the session immediately.
Seek External Support
If you experience any disturbing or unexpected messages, it may be helpful to seek support from a trusted friend, family member, or spiritual counselor. They can provide an outside perspective and help you process the experience.
Respect the Entities
Treat the entities or spirits you encounter with respect and gratitude. Even if you do not believe in their existence, it is essential to show courtesy and avoid engaging in negative or disrespectful behavior.
Closing the Session Appropriately
When you are ready to end the session, thank the entities for communicating and politely request that they leave. It is believed that ending the session on a positive note can prevent unwanted spirits from lingering.
| Signs of a Negative Entity | Recommended Actions |
|---|---|
| Aggressive or threatening language | End the session and seek support |
| Demanding personal information | Refuse to provide the information and end the session |
| Asking to harm yourself or others | End the session immediately and seek professional help |
Closing the Session Respectfully and Safely
When you’re finished with your Ouija session, it’s important to close it respectfully and safely. Here are seven steps to follow:
1. **Say goodbye to the spirits.** Thank them for their time and presence, and let them know that you’re closing the session.
2. **Move the planchette to the “Goodbye” position.** This is usually the center of the board, or a designated area that says “Goodbye” or “End”.
3. **Close the Ouija board.** Fold it up or put it away in its box.
4. **Wash your hands.** This will help to remove any residual energy from the session.
5. **Ground yourself.** Take a few deep breaths and focus on your body. Feel your feet on the ground and your breath in your lungs.
6. **Protect yourself from negative energy.** You can do a psychic protection exercise or visualization, or pray for protection.
7. **Take a break from using the Ouija board for a few days.** This will give you time to process your experience and to avoid becoming too attached to the spirits.
| Reasons for closing a session early | Steps to close a session early |
|---|---|
|
|
Dealing with Negative or Unwanted Entities
While Ouija boards are generally considered harmless, it’s important to be aware of the potential for negative or unwanted entities to interfere. Here’s how to handle such situations:
Recognizing Negative Entities
Negative entities may manifest through unusual behaviors, such as:
- Erratic movements of the planchette
- Incoherent or threatening messages
- A sense of unease or oppression in the room
Protecting Yourself
Before using a Ouija board, take precautions to protect yourself:
- Clear your space of negative energy with sage or crystals.
- Set boundaries and make it clear that you will not tolerate disrespect.
- Have a designated “goodbye” phrase to end the session.
Ending the Session
If you encounter a negative entity, end the session immediately:
- Say your goodbye phrase and move the planchette to “Goodbye.”
- Close the board and place it away safely.
- Cleanse the space again with sage or crystals.
Seeking Help
If you continue to experience negative effects after using the Ouija board, consider seeking help from a medium or paranormal investigator.
Potential Risks and Considerations When Using a Ouija Board
9. Mental and Emotional Effects
Ouija boards have been known to induce various mental and emotional reactions, including:
| Emotional Effects | Mental Effects |
|---|---|
| Heightened anxiety and nervousness | Confusion and disorientation |
| Depression and mood swings | Difficulty concentrating |
| Delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations | Nightmares and sleep disturbances |
It’s important to note that not everyone who uses a Ouija board experiences these effects, but they are a potential risk that should be considered before engaging. Additionally, those with pre-existing mental or emotional conditions may be more susceptible to these effects.
Respecting the Ouija Board and Its Spiritual Implications
Before embarking on your Ouija board journey, it’s crucial to approach it with respect and cognizance of its spiritual implications. Embracing these guidelines will foster a safe and meaningful experience:
1. Acknowledge the Ouija’s Spiritual Nature
Recognize that the Ouija board is not a game but a tool that may connect you to spiritual realms. Treat it with respect, knowing that you are engaging with an enigmatic force.
2. Choose Participants Wisely
Only invite individuals who are respectful, open-minded, and comfortable with spiritual exploration. Avoid participants who are intoxicated, skeptical, or solely seeking entertainment.
3. Set Clear Intentions
Before starting, establish your intentions. State why you’re gathering and what you hope to achieve. This clarity will help guide the session and make it more focused.
4. Establish Boundaries
Define rules and limitations for your Ouija session. Determine the questions you will ask and the length of the session. Respect these boundaries to maintain a safe and controlled environment.
5. Hold Regular Cleanings
After each session, cleanse the Ouija board and planchette to remove any residual spiritual energy. You can do this using salt, incense, or a cleansing crystal.
6. Trust Your Instincts
Pay attention to your inner voice and intuition. If something feels off or uncomfortable, end the session immediately. Trust your gut feeling to ensure your well-being.
7. Be Respectful of Spirits
Communicate with spirits with respect and kindness. Use polite language and avoid asking frivolous or disrespectful questions. Remember, you are interacting with beings from another realm.
8. End Sessions Gracefully
When it’s time to close the session, thank the spirits for their presence and bid them farewell. Properly store the Ouija board and planchette to prevent lingering energies.
9. Seal Your Intentions
Once you’ve ended the session, take a few moments to reflect and seal your intentions. Visualize the session’s results fading into the void, releasing any attachments or outcomes.
10. Explore Further with Caution
If you feel drawn to explore the Ouija board further, proceed with caution. Attend workshops, read reputable books, and connect with experienced practitioners to deepen your knowledge and understanding.
How To Safely Use A Ouija
The Ouija board is a flat board marked with the alphabet, numbers, and the words “yes” and “no.” It is used for divination, or communication with spirits. The board is typically used by two or more people, who place their fingers on a planchette, or small heart-shaped pointer, and ask questions. The planchette is said to move around the board, pointing to letters and words to form answers.
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Ouija boards can actually communicate with spirits. However, many people believe that they can, and they use Ouija boards for a variety of purposes, including seeking guidance, finding lost objects, and contacting deceased loved ones.
If you are interested in using a Ouija board, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your safety.
- Never use a Ouija board alone. Always have at least one other person present.
- Do not use a Ouija board if you are pregnant or have a history of mental illness.
- Do not use a Ouija board if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Do not use a Ouija board in a dark or secluded place.
- Do not ask the Ouija board questions that could put you or others at risk.
If you follow these guidelines, you can help to ensure that your experience with a Ouija board is safe and enjoyable.
People Also Ask About How To Safely Use A Ouija
What is the history of the Ouija board?
The Ouija board was invented in 1890 by Elijah Bond and Charles Kennard. It was originally marketed as a parlor game, but it quickly became popular for use in spiritualist séances.
How does the Ouija board work?
The Ouija board is said to work by allowing spirits to communicate with the living. The spirits are believed to move the planchette around the board, pointing to letters and words to form answers.
Is it dangerous to use a Ouija board?
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Ouija boards are dangerous. However, some people believe that they can be used to open a doorway to the spirit world, which could lead to negative consequences.
What are some tips for using a Ouija board safely?
If you are interested in using a Ouija board, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your safety. Never use a Ouija board alone, do not use it if you are pregnant or have a history of mental illness, do not use it if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, do not use it in a dark or secluded place, and do not ask questions that could put you or others at risk.
