How to (Safely) Use a Ouija Board – Four Steps to a Positive Séance Experience

Most people who use a Ouija board do so without incident. However, taking reasonable precautions--such as the ones outlined in this article--will help ensure you have the best possible experience during your Ouija session.

It is important to remember that a Ouija board is simply a tool. It is not alive and cannot act on its own. Any message or movement that comes from the board is the result of the energy and intention of the people using it.

Still, many people have reported disturbing or frightening occurrences in connection with Ouija board sessions. There are real risks associated with attempting spirit contact, and Ouija board users should take them seriously. With that in mind, here are four simple steps you can take:

First, it is important to have only positive intentions when using the board. There are many good (or at least benign) reasons for using a Ouija board, including talking to spirit guides and practicing your mediumship abilities. Lots of people dabble in spirit communication because they’re skeptical or curious about the spirit world—and that’s okay, too, as long as you are a sincere seeker.

On the other hand, any negative energy or intent can lead to negative experiences. Calling upon known violent or malevolent entities is asking for trouble. So is summoning spirits for the purpose of threatening or harassing them. Why do you want to use the Ouija board? Take a moment to reflect on your intentions, and be aware of your own energy when using the board. If you're using the board with others, check in with them, too. If anyone is feeling angry, very frightened, or intoxicated from drugs or alcohol, then now is not the time to use the board. Like attracts like, and lower-type spirits could be drawn to chaotic energies within your group.

Second, it is important to protect yourself spiritually before you contact any spirits. There are a few simple ways to do this. First, you can visualize yourself surrounded by white light. This will create a barrier between you and any negative entities. Second, you can perform a cleansing ritual. This can be as simple as sprinkling your area with salt water and/or burning a cleansing incense. You can also say a prayer or recite a protective spell. (An example is asking your gods or guardian spirits to only allow messages that are true and for your highest good.) By taking these precautions, you will ensure that you are safe and protected during your spirit communication.

Third, it is important to be respectful of the spirits you may contact through the board. These are beings with their own energies and intentions. In many cases—like living humans—their behavior will depend on how they are treated. Approach spirits as you would a guest in your home and expect similar courtesy from them. If any spirits become angry or abusive, dismiss them and end the session immediately.

Lastly, it is important to end the session on a positive note. Thank the spirits for their time and guidance and close the session in a firm, respectful way. Store the Ouija board out of sight, and only use it when you are mentally and psychically prepared for spirits to interact with you. This will help to ensure that any negative energy is kept at bay. It will also discourage any spirits you may have contacted from interrupting your daily thoughts and activities.

Follow these guidelines and you should have a safe and positive experience using a Ouija board. May your next séance be fun and enlightening!