Long before EMF meters and Spirit Boxes were staples in paranormal examinations, garlands were used as a form of fortune telling, so that the curious about contact with spirits could come.
This simple device, usually consisting of a weighted object that is hung on an agreement, is believed by some to act as a guidance between the physical world and the spiritual empire. But how exactly can a pendulum be used during a paranormal investigation, and what are the theories and criticisms about this practice?
By keeping the end of the chain of the pendulum between their thumb and forefinger and letting the weight hang free, researchers believe that they can receive answers to their questions. They can start asking simple questions to determine the presence of spirits, such as “Is there anyone here with us?”
A change in the movement of the pendulum in response to a question is considered an indication of communication. The method includes suggesting specific movements for ‘yes’ and ‘no’ answers, such as swinging back and forth for ‘yes’ and from left to right for ‘no’. Moreover, asking for the pendulum to rotate with the clock or against the clock can offer further means of communication.
Based on the first answers, the Ghost Hunter can ask further questions to clarify or for confirmation. They can ask for more specific movements, such as asking the pendulum to swing in a certain direction to answer a question, or ask that the pendulum stops swinging as a form of control test.
An alternative method for pendulum communication includes the use of a pendulum on a fixed position to eliminate the possibility of unintended movement by the person holding it. If the use of this method, the standard must allow the pendulum to swing freely and it must be stable enough and vibration -free to prevent the movement of the pendulum from being influenced by environmental factors.
Although there is no scientifically validated explanation for how spirits can communicate through shuttles, there are various theories within the paranormal community that try to explain the mechanism behind this phenomenon. A theory is that spirits can communicate directly with physical objects through means that are not yet fully understood by science so that they can directly influence the movement of the pendulum. They can theoretically influence the pendulum by changing air flows around it or applying just touch -like force.
Another possibility is that the Spirit does not immediately move the pendulum, but instead influences the person, so that they move on subtle and involuntary ways to pass on the message of the Spirit. This effectively makes the participant a channel between the mind and the physical pendulum.
Pendulum sessions are similar to a few other commonly used forms of warning, which also depend on the principle that spirits can influence or control physical objects, or the researcher who uses those objects to convey messages. The most obvious of this is the Ouija board, where participants place their fingers lightly on the shelter, which then moves over the lot to spell messages.
Tipping table, automatic writing and rolling disasters are also comparable. Each method includes at least one person who holds or touches a physical object – a table, pen or rolling vessels – and waiting for the object moving, supposedly under the influence of spirits. These movements, or, in the case of automatic writing, everything that is written, are interpreted as answers to questions from the participants.
There is also the concept of the ‘human pendulum’, in which a person is closed with their eyes, acts as a pendulum himself and trusts subtle pushes or garlands that are interpreted as spiritual reactions.
Each of these methods shares the underlying starting point of shuttle sessions that spirits can use physical means to communicate with the living. However, they also share similar criticism and skeptical views, in particular with regard to the influence of subconscious expectations and the ideomotor effect.
Skeptics claim that the movement of Slinger is not evidence of the paranormal, instead they point to various psychological principles as an explanation. Such a principle is the ideomotor effect, that is when the subconscious thoughts or feelings of a person ensure that they make ignorant movements. When individuals hold a pendulum and concentrate on a question, their subtle, unconscious muscle movements can cause the pendulum to swing in certain directions. These movements are not consciously checked and can occur without the consciousness of the individual, so that they believe that the pendulum moves because of external, paranormal forces.
The expectations and beliefs of the participants, as well as the specific instructions given for interpreting the movements of the pendulum, can influence the results. For example, if a participant strongly believes that a spirit will communicate by moving the pendulum in a certain way, this expectation can unconsciously lead their muscle movements, leading to the expected result.
Some researchers recommend that the elbows of the participants rest on any surface during a pendulum session. This advice may seem harmless, but resting elbows on a surface can stabilize the hand and arm, reducing the risk of subtle, involuntary movements that can affect the pendulum. By preventing this stabilization, the setup makes it easier for the ideomotor effect to work.
Ghostjagers have the option to buy or make a shuttle. They will often choose one that makes sense for them. The key is to select a tool that makes you feel connected and that meets the basic requirements for pendulum work. If you are planning to make your own sling, you need a chain or series of approximately 15 to 25 cm, long enough for you to keep one end with the weight that hangs free. You must also decide what to use for the weight. This can be a crystal, metal, wood or small, relatively heavy object that can hang free. Crystals are often chosen for their metaphysical properties, but perhaps you should find one that has been drilled for the intention. Otherwise you should attach it to the wire or a strong glue.
If you prefer to buy a garland, you still have to take into account the weight of the pendulum, the material from which it is made and whether you should choose a rope or chain. Regarding where to buy, metaphysical, new age and crystal stores often have a selection of shoes. With personal shopping you can process the pendulum and choose one that resonates with you. Websites such as Etsy, Ebay and others also offer a wide range of sling. Also look forward to pendulas at traditional fairs, psychological exhibitions and alternative markets.
How to perform a sling session
The next step -by -step guide is intended to offer a rational approach to perform a pendulum, allowing researchers to minimize personal bias and maximize the integrity of the session.
1. Preparation
Find a calm, undisturbed location and do everything you can do to minimize external factors such as concepts or vibrations that can influence the movement of the pendulum. Take a moment before the start to free up your mind and concentrate on your intention for the session. This helps set up a mental state that is conducive to concentration and observation.
2. Define movement reactions
Clearly determine the meanings of different pendulum movements, such as back and forth for ‘yes’, in addition to ‘no’ and circular movements for ‘perhaps’ or ‘unclear’. You must speak aloud these definitions, so that all the spirits present are aware of it. Perhaps you also want to ask the spirits directly to define the movements yourself by asking: “Can you please give us ‘yes’ reaction?”
3. Perform the session
Hold the upper end of the pendulum chain between your thumb and forefinger. Let the weight hang free without touching a surface. For a more controlled and stable session you could consider resting your elbows on a flat surface to reduce involuntary movements, but ensure that holding your hand can still move the pendulum freely. Start asking simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions. Keep your questions as unbiased and simple as possible. Pay attention to each answer and base your next question on previous answers to clarify, verify and obtain more information. Approach the results with a balance between skepticism and open -mindedness.
4. Close the session
Once you have completed your questions, thank the pendulum, regardless of your belief in spirits, to symbolically end the session. This helps with mentally switching from the session.
Alternative method: blindfolded sling session
Consider a pendulum session for an added objectivity layer in which the person holding the pendulum is blindfolded and wore noise-suppressing headphones. This method is intended to reduce distortion and unconscious influence by preventing the holder from seeing the movements of the pendulum or hearing the questions from a team member.
