Ouija Board Basics

By Psychic Tree - Ext. 886417

The Ultimate Guide to Safely Using Talking Boards

The lights are turned off, the candles are softly flickering, and you and your friends lean in close around an Ouija board in the hopes of interpreting otherworldly messages. We've all had experiences with them before—some of us have had a childhood sleepover ruined by a spooky encounter, while for others, they may have served as the catalyst for a favorite horror movie plot.

However, the history of the game, how to use it correctly, and, more importantly, how to avoid trickster spirits or entities with malicious intent are often far less well-known to us. Whether you are an experienced spiritual seeker or a curious beginner, understanding the basics of the Ouija board is essential.

Before we explore the origins and proper use of Ouija boards, let's set the stage for safe and informed exploration. This comprehensive pillar guide provides the ultimate breakdown so you can safely enjoy the supernatural adventures of talking boards rather than cursing the day you let one into your home.

The Fascinating Origins of the Ouija Board

Despite pervasive myths that ancient, mystical versions of the Ouija board existed thousands of years ago (with some claiming it was used in the days of Pythagoras in 540 B.C.), there is virtually no evidence that the talking board existed before the 1800s. The actual invention of the game corresponds directly to a massive boost in the Spiritualism movement during the mid-to-late nineteenth century.

During this era, psychics and mediums first used "talking boards" to legitimize their services and communicate with the other side. The Ouija board officially became a household name when it was first marketed in the Baltimore area in the 1890s by Charles Kennard, who decided to capitalize on this growing cultural phenomenon and transform the mystical practice into a parlor toy.

Where did the mysterious name come from? While initially thought to be an ancient Egyptian word for "luck," the etymology actually comes from combining the French and German words for 'yes' (oui and ja ). The trademarked name "Ouija" directly translates to "yes, yes," which Spiritualists believe beckons spirits to engage and communicate.

The board was widely popularized throughout the U.S. and Europe by the Spiritualist and novelist Pearl Curran, who attributed her six novels and volumes of poetry to the spiritual guidance she received from the Ouija board. It reached its absolute pinnacle of popularity in 1994 among teenagers ages 10 to 14, as the 2nd most popular game for that age group.

Suggested Further Reading: To dive deeper into the controversies, patent battles, and the tragic death of the man who brought the board to the masses, check out our dedicated historical article: Ouija: Source of Historical Debate.

How Does a Ouija Board Work? Science vs. Spirit

When the planchette begins to glide across the board, spelling out names and answering questions, the immediate question is always: Who is moving it?

From a scientific standpoint, skeptics attribute the planchette's movement to the ideomotor phenomenon. This psychological concept, supported in part by psychologists of the era who coined the term "automatism," suggests that the users are making subtle, unconscious muscle movements that push the planchette, driven entirely by their own subconscious expectations and thoughts.

However, from a spiritual and metaphysical perspective, the board acts as a conduit. For those with intuitive gifts, the board is a tool that allows external spiritual energies to channel through the users, guiding their hands to spell out messages from the beyond. Because of this open doorway, many Spiritualists and mystics strongly caution against using the Ouija as a mere parlor game.

Preparing for a Session: How to Properly Set the Mood

A board with a planchette might seem pretty self-explanatory—you just put your hands on it, right? Not quite. To get the absolute most out of your Ouija board experience, preparation is key.

• Dim the Lights: It is all about the atmosphere. Dim the overhead lights and light a few candles to create a calm, focused environment.
• Eliminate Distractions: Make sure to turn off cell phones, televisions, and any other electronic distractions that may interfere with your and your partner(s)' ability to concentrate.
• Use Manifestation Objects: If you are trying to channel a specific spirit, place objects associated with that spirit around the board to help manifest their unique energy.
• Stay Sober: Always respect the souls you are communicating with. Using an Ouija board under the influence of drugs or alcohol lowers your spiritual defenses and invites chaotic energy.

Step-by-Step Guide: Navigating the Board Safely

Once your environment is prepped, it is time to place your fingers lightly on the planchette. Keep these fundamental rules in mind as you begin:

1. Be Patient and Polite

Spirits may take some time to manifest, or they may not manifest at all on your first try. Don’t let this discourage you from trying an Ouija board. Be incredibly patient and always remain respectful.

• Start Simple: While asking questions, keep them simple at first (e.g., "Is there anyone here who wishes to speak?"). Give the spirit and the board ample time to warm up.
• Avoid Dangerous Questions: Stay away from questions such as “When will I die?” In the event the spirit is playing tricks, they may try to worry you wrongfully.
• Remain Skeptical: Remember to take everything the board shows you with a grain of salt. Just because a message shows up doesn't always mean it's the absolute truth!

2. Know Who You Are Talking To

When you open a Ouija board, you are essentially opening a spiritual phone line. You might get a benevolent spirit, an ancestor, or a spirit guide. However, researchers warn that spirits on the lower astral plane are drawn to the board's easy entrance, and these spirits can be deceptive and dangerous. You may encounter a mischievous poltergeist, a roaming specter, or a purely malicious entity.

Suggested Further Reading: Familiarize yourself with the exact types of entities that might come through by reading 5 Types of Spooky Spirits.

3. Maintain Control of the Session

If you find that the board is answering in crude, obscene, or vulgar ways, it is time to take immediate action. Slide the planchette to “Goodbye” and close the board.

One of the most common ways a spirit takes advantage of users is by exploiting their inability to maintain strict boundaries. Be respectful, yet firm. Remember that you are an active part of the experience, not just a passive vehicle. Play your role and play it well by dictating what kind of energy is allowed in your space.

How to Properly Close a Ouija Board

The most crucial rule of Ouija board basics is knowing how to end the session. Failing to close the board properly can leave a spiritual doorway open, allowing negative energy to linger in your home.

The Closing Checklist:

1. Politely inform the spirit that you are ending the session.
2. Thank the spirit(s) for their communications.
3. Firmly and deliberately slide the planchette to the word “Goodbye” at the bottom of the board.
4. Remove your hands, take the planchette off the board, and pack the game away.

Suggested Further Reading: Did you forget to say goodbye? If you find that a spirit has decided to take up a more permanent residence in your space after a session, you may need to learn how to help a Ghost Move On.

Conclusion: Enter the Spirit Realm with Care

Respect cannot be emphasized enough while dealing with the spiritual realm. If you and your partner(s) remain respectful and humble throughout your Ouija experience, the chance for a traumatic experience with a malicious spirit is significantly lessened.

If you are looking for a way to spruce up your evening with friends and family, or are merely curious about connecting with the spiritual realm, consider using a Ouija board—but always do so with care, pure intent, and utmost respect!