Health & Wellbeing

How To Use The Ouija Board

A window into the subconscious, a telephone to the spiritual world or just new age hocus-pocus? Since it's earliest incarnations, the Ouija board's been called a lot of things. Join us, as we explore the secrets of this mysterious gateway to the unknown. Enlarge

How To Use The Ouija Board

A window into the subconscious, a telephone to the spiritual world or just new age hocus-pocus? Since it's earliest incarnations, the Ouija board's been called a lot of things. Join us, as we explore the secrets of this mysterious gateway to the unknown.

Step 1: Begin

Ouija séances should be held far away from any distractions. And there's no limit to the number of people who can participate. All that matters is the attitudes of those present. Some people believe performing an opening ritual heightens the Ouija experience. So try reciting poems or speaking power words if that's your thing.

Step 2: Ask

Now that your minds are truly focused, two to three people should place their index and middle fingers, lightly but firmly, on the planchette. The name "Ouija" is rumored to be a combination of the French and Dutch words for "yes" - as if eager to answer your most burning questions. Only one person should ask one question at a time and keep it simple at first. Questions like, "Is anyone there?" or "What is your name?" are good ones to start off with.

Step 3: Wait

You must to be patient. It may take several minutes for a spirit to come through.

Step 4: Beware

Ouija legends warn against allowing spirits to move your planchette backwards through the alphabet or numbers. If they do, they can escape from the board. Superstition says to turn the planchette upside down if this happens to keep the spirit from escaping.