Talk to Spirits, Not Trouble: How to Use a Ouija Board Safely

A Ouija board, also known as a spirit board or talking board, is a flat surface with letters, numbers and symbols. You place your fingers on a small pointer called a planchette, and it’s believed to move in response to spiritual energy, spelling out messages from beyond. Many people use the Ouija board to connect with spirits, ask personal questions or explore the unknown.

Even though I’m kind of a sceptic, the Ouija board has always been a source of fascination and caution. The allure of possibly communicating with another realm is powerful, but you have to know how to use it responsibly. The key is to approach it with respect, awareness and preparation.

 

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Risks and Rewards: What You Need to Know

Using a Ouija board can be an interesting experience, but it comes with real risks. According to a 2009 survey by the Pew Research Center 18% of Americans believe they’ve had a paranormal experience. Many of such encounters are linked to Ouija board use. Common risks are:

• Unsettling or frightening experiences: You may feel you’ve contacted a negative or unknown entity.
• Emotional distress: Especially if you’re anxious or highly suggestible, a Ouija session can trigger fear or confusion.
• Psychological influence: The ideomotor effect — unconscious movement — can make you believe you’re contacting spirits when the movement is actually involuntary.

But many people also report positive outcomes:

• Personal insights: Asking deep or spiritual questions can give you reflection and clarity.
• Bonding with others: Shared experience during a session can create a connection.
• Curiosity and exploration: Safely exploring the unknown can be enriching and fun.

Getting Ready: How to Prepare for a Ouija Session

Preparation is key. Before using a Ouija board, I always make sure the environment is quiet, calm and free from distractions. Here’s what I recommend:

1. Choose the right space: Pick a peaceful location, preferably indoors, where you won’t be disturbed.
2. Set your intention: Think about why you’re using the board. Are you seeking guidance, closure or just exploring?
3. Get your group together: It’s generally safer and more effective to use the Ouija board with two or more people.
4. Ground yourself: Meditation or deep breathing can help you centre yourself. Some people light candles or incense to create a calm atmosphere.
5. Know the rules: Always start with a protective ritual, like saying a prayer or envisioning white light. Never use the board if you’re feeling emotional or fearful.

Essential Rules for Safe Ouija Use

Here are the golden rules I follow for safe Ouija board sessions:

• Never use the board alone. Having others present provides support and balance.
• Always say goodbye. Ending the session properly is key. Move the planchette to “Goodbye” and thank any spirits contacted.
• Don’t ask dangerous questions. Avoid topics like death, curses or predicting the future as these can attract negative energy.
• Be respectful. Treat any entities you may contact with politeness.
• If things get uncomfortable, stop immediately. Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, it probably is.

 

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Signs It’s Time to End the Session

During a session, watch for warning signs that suggest it’s time to stop:

• The planchette starts moving rapidly or erratically.
• The board spells out scary or aggressive messages.
• Participants feel cold chills, unease or sudden fear.

In these cases, calmly end the session by moving the planchette to “Goodbye”, close the board and consider cleansing the space — some people use sage or crystals for this purpose.

Post-Session: Reflect and Cleanse

After using the Ouija board, I always take time to reflect on the experience. Write down what was communicated and how you felt. This helps separate imagination from insight.

Some also like to cleanse the space, especially if the session felt intense. This can be as simple as opening windows to let fresh air in or more ritualistic, like burning sage.

 

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Endnote: Respect the Tool, Respect Yourself

The Ouija board is not a toy — it’s a tool that needs thoughtfulness, preparation and respect. Used responsibly, it can be a powerful way to explore spiritual questions and connect with others. But it’s just as important to know its boundaries and not become too reliant on it for answers.

For me, the most important lesson is this: you are in control. The board doesn’t have power over you — it’s your mindset, intention and awareness that shape the experience. Whether you’re a believer, sceptic or somewhere in between, approach the Ouija board with caution, curiosity, challenge, and care.