A client sought my insight on the Ouija board after learning her teenage son had participated in the “game” at a friend’s home.

Honestly, I find it challenging to even write about this topic, which reveals my genuine thoughts and emotions concerning it.

The Ouija board might appear as a harmless board game or an entertaining psychic instrument for spiritual exploration. Yet, there are substantial reasons to approach this supposed “game” with considerable caution, if not avoid it altogether.

In my experience as a spiritual counselor, I’ve assisted several clients over the years who engaged with the Ouija board and other questionable forms of spirit communication, including necromancy. Although interacting with the spirit world can provide significant opportunities for healing, growth, and connection, it is not something to be taken lightly.

Enhancing your intuition and spiritual connection is a beautiful and uplifting journey. It enables you to become more aware of the unseen and to reach out to your departed loved ones, ancestors, spirit guides, and angels. However, this form of communication and interaction requires respect, reverence, and sincere intention.

Well-meaning practices such as divination, psychic readings, and mediumship are fundamentally different from opening yourself indiscriminately, without safeguards, to any and all spiritual beings and energies.

When you recklessly open yourself through the Ouija board or other unchecked methods, you relinquish your ability to control who and what enters your energy sphere and interacts with your soul. It’s akin to throwing open the door to your aura and allowing a crowd of strangers inside, some of whom may not harbor the best intentions.

Never invite in a lesser evil, for greater horrors will inevitably follow in its wake ~ Baltasar Gracián

You lack a filtering mechanism, gatekeepers, safeguards, or protective barriers. This is precisely why I advise against using the Ouija board or any unstructured method for spirit communication.

Your departed loved ones, ancestors, spirit guides, and divine angels serve as protective buffers, permitting only those energies aligned with our highest good. When you reach out through them, you reap the benefits of their wisdom, discernment, and guarding. Without their presence, you might inadvertently attract lower vibrational entities into your life, which can adversely affect your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

The Mysterious Origins Of The Ouija

Also referred to as a spirit board, talking board, or witch board, the Ouija board is a flat, rectangular wooden surface inscribed with the Latin alphabet, numbers 0-9, the words “yes” and “no,” and sometimes “hello” and “goodbye,” along with other symbols. A planchette, typically a small heart-shaped piece of wood or plastic, serves as a mobile indicator to spell out messages from spirits during a séance. Participants lightly touch the planchette, which glides across the board, pointing to letters or symbols that form words.

Although the Ouija board is commodified as a board game, its true purpose was originally to facilitate spirit communication. Not much is known about its actual origins, except that it emerged during 19th-century spiritualism, a belief system rooted in diverse cultural and religious practices centered on communication with the spirit world and belief in an afterlife. Influences that may have set the stage include shamanism, where shamans act as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds, and mesmerism, which investigated the manipulation of an invisible force for healing through trance.

Early religious movements in the United States, like the Quakers, also encouraged direct personal experiences with the divine, while Enlightenment thinkers investigated the essence of the soul and consciousness. Additionally, ghost tales and folklore across cultures expressed a longstanding interest in spirits, laying the groundwork for spiritualism to emerge as a formal movement and belief system.

Factors contributing to the rise of spiritualism and mediumship in the mid-1800s included significant loss of life from wars, diseases, and industrial mishaps. Mass fatalities, quick industrialization and urbanization, along with substantial social transformations, fostered a sense of insecurity and erosion of traditional values. Spiritualism offered comfort and a sense of spiritual connection. It also responded to scientific progress and an emerging fascination with the esoteric.

The movement gained traction through prominent figures such as the Fox sisters – Margaret, Kate, and Leah – who communicated with spirits at their home in Hydesville, New York. Séances, table-turning, and automatic writing became common practices during this era, comforting a society grappling with short life spans, war, and pervasive grief.

As early as 1886, some spiritualists commenced using a “talking board” similar to the contemporary Ouija board, particularly at their gatherings in Ohio. In the late 1800s in Chestertown, Maryland, Charles Kennard, a businessman with a talent for seizing opportunities, along with E.C. Reiche, a coffin maker and undertaker, were inspired by early spiritualist boards and began collaborating to create their own edition.

When Kennard later moved to Baltimore seeking investors for his talking board innovation, he faced numerous rejections until local attorney Elijah Bond found interest in the project. With his sister-in-law, the renowned medium Helen Peters, Bond helped patent the board in 1891. Interestingly, it was tested and confirmed to function at the U.S. Patent Office before the patent was granted, adding to the allure and mystery of the Ouija.

During World War I, spiritualist Pearl Curran further popularized the board as a divining tool, altering its perception and application in spiritual practices. In modern times, it is advertised as a fun novelty item that connects the material with the immaterial. Although “Ouija” is a registered trademark of Hasbro (which acquired Parker Brothers), the term is often generically used to denote any similar talking board employed for spirit communication.

A small amount of knowledge about the occult can be perilous. Unless used for benevolent purposes, disaster will ensue. That is Cosmic Law ~ Clarence Upson Young

Engaging With Spirits Is Not A Game

Engaging with spirits, whether via mediumship, channeling, divination, or other occult practices, should never be taken lightly. It is a sacred art that demands preparation, respect, and protection.

When conducted properly, communicating with spirits can be enlightening, insightful, and healing. It can provide comfort and closure to those mourning the loss of loved ones. It can deepen our spiritual practice and enhance our understanding of karmic lessons and soul journeys. Moreover, it can grant us divine inspiration and guidance, along with insights into our futures and destinies.

This is not mere entertainment. If we approach spiritual communication with a careless mindset, we undermine the sacredness of the bond. Particularly, mediumship must be exercised with caution.

A responsible and seasoned medium understands how to distinguish between different types of energies and spirit entities, recognizing the significance of invoking protection before engaging with unseen realms. This cannot be achieved with a piece of cardboard and a plastic pointer.

Opening yourself to the spirit realm without adequate preparation and safeguards is potentially a perilous endeavor. It’s similar to igniting a match in a dense, dry forest. Once the flames take hold, they can swiftly spiral out of control, consuming everything in their path before you even realize the extent of the danger you’re in.

My Professional Experience With Victims

In my professional journey, I have assisted various clients who mistakenly treated the Ouija board as a harmless game or an amusing experiment to delve into the paranormal. Regrettably, they swiftly discovered that it was far from harmless. These clients approached me in distress, confusion, depression, anxiety, and fear, seeking ways to liberate themselves from the intrusive negative energies or entity attachments acquired by “playing” Ouija.

None of the entities encountered through the Ouija board were friendly spirits. Rather, they were all energies that thrived on fear, confusion, destruction, and chaos. Some clients reported nightmares, disturbances within their homes, mental health struggles, and even physical symptoms of distress.

Considerable spiritual healing and energy work were necessary to cleanse their energy fields and help restore a sense of tranquility. Many felt vulnerable and shaken, realizing that what they had perceived as merely a “game” had serious and real consequences. When you open yourself to the spirit world without protection or intent, you may become a magnet for energies you wish to avoid.

While the board is a constant presence in American pop culture, very little information is available about its origins…the history of the Ouija is as enigmatic as the operation of the board itself ~ Baynard Woods

The Significance Of Spiritual Protection

So, how can you safeguard yourself if you’re curious about exploring spirit communication in a secure and sacred manner? The essence lies in intention, preparation, and calling upon your guides.

Prior to engaging in any type of spirit communication, whether it’s divination, channeling, mediumship, or invocation, it’s vital to ground and shield your energy while setting a clear intention. Are you hoping to connect with a loved one who has passed on? Are you seeking guidance? Are you merely inquisitive about the spirit realm? Your intention serves as a filter, directing your energy toward a distinct goal or outcome. Without it, you may inadvertently expose yourself to various unwanted energies and spirit attachments.

In the most severe cases, it could even result in spirit possession. In such instances, a negative or hostile entity takes partial or full control over a person’s physical body, mind, or energy, influencing their thoughts, actions, and emotions in harmful manners. This can present as drastic shifts in personality, unpredictable physical symptoms, or a feeling of disconnection from one’s self.

Unlike healthy spirit communication, in which guides and loved ones connect respectfully, possession involves an intrusive force that seeks to influence or drain the individual’s energy, frequently causing distress, fear, and disruption to everyday life. Exorcising such an entity usually necessitates the assistance of a trained spiritual practitioner or healer to purge the energy and restore equilibrium.

Your guides provide a crucial layer of protection. These spiritual beings are aligned with your highest good and serves as gatekeepers, permitting entry only to energies that resonate with your path. Before attempting to make contact with any spirits, take a moment to invoke your guides. This can be done through prayer, meditation, or simply stating aloud that you seek their protection and guidance.

It’s also essential to construct a sacred environment for your spiritual practices. Whether it’s a dedicated room, a small altar, or even just a cozy candlelit nook, creating a space where you feel secure and centered establishes the right ambiance for the work ahead. Protective crystals, like black tourmaline or amethyst, along with visualization techniques, can also help shield you from negative energies.

While the Ouija board may present itself as an alluring avenue for exploring the spirit world, it carries significant hazards. Communicating with spirits is a sacred endeavor that requires respect, intention, and protection. If approached as a game or casual experiment, the repercussions could be harmful and enduring.

Safeguard yourself by honoring the sanctity of the process. Reflect on positive experiences, call upon your guides for defense, and ensure you are grounded and prepared before engaging in any spiritual work. This will enable you to explore spiritual realms safely while keeping your energy and home protected from unwanted influences.

The Ouija board is a device that has captivated and intrigued individuals for generations. Frequently viewed as a mere game, it has a profound history and greater significance that extends beyond simple amusement. In this article, we will delve into the captivating intricacies of the Ouija board, revealing its origins, uses, and the controversies that accompany it.

The Ouija board, also known as a spirit board or talking board, is a flat surface marked with letters, numbers, and other symbols. It typically features a movable indicator, referred to as a planchette, which is utilized to spell messages from spirits or other supernatural forces. The board is commonly employed in a séance or as a divination method.

The beginnings of the Ouija board can be traced back to the late 19th century during a time when spiritualism was on the rise. Spiritualism is a belief structure that posits that the spirits of the deceased can communicate with those still living. Initially, the Ouija board was marketed as a parlor game, however, it rapidly gained the reputation for its supposed capacity to connect with the spirit realm.

The contemporary version of the Ouija board was patented in 1891 by Elijah Bond, Charles Kennard, and William H.A. Maupin. Its popularity soared during World War I when many sought comfort and connection with their departed loved ones. Since then, the Ouija board has become a fixture in pop culture, featured in films, literature, and television programs.

While many regard the Ouija board as an innocuous pastime, others assert it can serve as a powerful medium for interfacing with the spirit realm. Some users claim to have received precise and meaningful messages from the board, while others dismiss it as nothing more than the result of subconscious movements or the ideomotor effect.

The ideomotor effect is a psychological phenomenon where a person makes unconscious movements without recognizing it. Skeptics contend that the movement of the planchette on the Ouija board is attributable to this effect, rather than any supernatural influence. They argue that the messages obtained are merely a reflection of the participants’ own thoughts and beliefs.

Regardless of skepticism, numerous reports recount eerie and unexplainable occurrences related to the Ouija board. Many users assert to have encountered spirits, secured accurate predictions, or experienced strange phenomena while utilizing the board. These narratives have ignited both interest and fear surrounding the Ouija board.

It’s vital to acknowledge that utilizing the Ouija board can be a profoundly personal and potentially intense endeavor. It is advisable to approach it with caution and respect. Some believe that the Ouija board can open channels to negative or malevolent entities and caution against using it without adequate knowledge or protection.

In conclusion, the Ouija board is much more than a simple game. Its roots in spiritualism, its claimed ability to connect with the spirit world, alongside the controversies it raises, establish it as a captivating tool for exploration and self-discovery. Whether you perceive it as a harmless pastime or a powerful gateway to the unknown, the Ouija board continues to fascinate and intrigue those willing to venture into its depths. Continue reading →

As a psychic medium, I frequently get asked various inquiries regarding the spirit world and what lies beyond this life.

Is there existence after this one? Where do souls go upon passing? How can we ascertain whether our departed loved ones are nearby? What are the signs that they are alright on the other side?

The first aspect I usually clarify is the essence of soul energy, consciousness, and the afterlife.

Everything consists of energy. We are pure energy, and energy is indestructible; it merely changes its form. Hence, death, as we perceive it, is nonexistent.

Our soul energy represents the core of our identity, a type of eternal energy that surpasses the physical form.

When we no longer require our physical vessel, our energy transitions to a new form. Some refer to this as heaven or the afterlife, but it’s essentially energy existing in a different state, at a higher consciousness level.

Our consciousness does not cease with physical death; rather, it transcends it, while our soul maintains awareness, memories, and connections to other souls. The soul’s journey continues; it develops and remains linked to all it has encountered in this lifetime.

Is there a notion of “hell,” “purgatory,” or a realm of “eternal punishment”? In my experience, no spirit has ever conveyed to me that they are in a “bad” place or that they are enduring any form of suffering or retribution.

Although physical life concludes for individuals, love and energy persist. Don’t be surprised if your cherished one in Heaven reaches out to reassure you that they are well ~ Melanie Beckler

Hence, the spirits of our passed loved ones continue to inhabit the spirit realm, preserving the ability to communicate with the living through subtle cues, dreams, and energy impressions. This ongoing consciousness explains why we can sense the presence of our deceased loved ones and receive signals, messages, and guidance from them, as they support and assist us from their new state of existence.

Typical Spirit Signs

Spirits enjoy making their presence felt through familiar, comforting signs:

Dreams: One of the most significant ways spirits convey messages is through dreams. In such dreams, the departed appear vibrant, joyful, and serene. During these dream visitations, we may interact or converse with them. Even deceased pets might appear in dreams or be sensed walking alongside you. These dreams often feel more intense and emotionally substantial than regular dreams, leaving a sense of tranquility or closure upon waking.

Discovering Objects: Spirits frequently leave small mementos, like coins or feathers, at meaningful times and in unusual locations. You might stumble upon a penny, dime, or quarter in the most surprising spots. Occasionally, you’ll gaze at an empty area only to find a coin there moments later. Feathers are another frequent sign, often found outdoors as if they fell from the sky, sometimes matching the color of a bird that your loved one cherished. Finding a heart-shaped rock can feel like a special gift from a departed loved one, with some people cherishing these rocks and carrying them as a connection reminder.

Object Movement: Spirits occasionally shift objects, perhaps knocking a book from a shelf or adjusting a picture frame just enough to catch your eye. This could be a book you were intending to read or a photograph of your beloved. You might even observe a picture frame tilting repeatedly. These playful acts intend to remind you that they are still present with you.

Apports: Objects that mysteriously appear or vanish. Apports can show up inexplicably and then vanish as swiftly as they came. They might materialize out of nowhere or thin air. These apports often bear personal or symbolic relevance to the recipient, like items from a deceased loved one.

Smells: Spirits may use familiar scents, such as a favored cologne or a fragrance tied to their life. For instance, a mechanic might signify his presence through the odor of gasoline or grease. A grandmother famed for her baking may evoke the scent of her beloved pies. These sensory experiences can also be regarded as clairvoyant moments.

Insects: Butterflies, dragonflies, ladybugs, and other insects have historically been seen as spiritual messengers. These delicate beings symbolize the connection between the physical and spiritual realms. When they appear unexpectedly or linger around us during significant moments, they serve as gentle reminders of the departed’s proximity, offering solace, guidance, or simply a reminder of their lasting presence.

Birds and Animals: Many notice signs involving a bird or animal associated with a particular loved one. These creatures may act in unexpected manners or appear unexpectedly during moments when reassurance is needed.

Music: Have you ever recognized a specific song on the radio or unexpectedly that evokes memories of a loved one? Spirits enjoy communicating via music. You might hear a song that holds significance for you both or a melody that suddenly reminds you of them.

Numbers: Observing recurring sequences of numbers like 111, 222, 333, or significant dates, such as anniversaries or birthdays, often indicates a sign from a loved one. These numbers appear repeatedly on clocks, license plates, receipts, and other unexpected locations to remind you of their presence.

Temperature Fluctuations: At times, spirits announce their presence through a sudden draft or warmth in the vicinity.

Electrical Anomalies: Flickering lights, gadgets switching on and off, or appliances behaving erratically can signify messages from the other side. These electrical oddities are often playful methods for spirits to inform you of their closeness.

Spontaneous Memories: You might suddenly think of them or recall a memory that appears random or even misplaced but relates to your loved one. These mental sparks emerge unexpectedly, serving as reminders that they remain with you. It’s reasonable to think that if they come to mind suddenly, they are indeed with you.

Signs from our departed loved ones are often subtle, prompting many to question whether they are genuine or merely figments of the mind. The straightforward answer is, if you find yourself pondering it, it is typically authentic. If it weren’t, you likely wouldn’t have noticed it initially.

A million different occurrences unfold throughout your day, and none attract your attention. When an otherwise mundane event suddenly captures your focus and prompts you to consider if it’s a sign from your loved one in spirit…it likely is ~ Melanie Jade Rummel

Spirit Interactions & Encounters

Can our deceased loved ones engage with us physically? Based on my experiences, they absolutely can and do. In truth, they may do so in numerous ways beyond merely sending us signs or messages through a medium like myself.

For instance, spirits sometimes gently touch our faces, heads, or backs! This sensation, typically felt by those who are receptive, is often a light touch. When this occurs, you might not realize it’s a spirit’s presence. Some individuals report experiencing similar sensations with departed pets, feeling the animal gently walk against their legs or around their heads while in bed, especially during moments of drifting in and out of sleep.

Other means of interaction may include physical manifestations, like apparitions or inexplicable object movements. Spirits may also announce their presence through sounds, scents, or tastes. For example, we might hear their voices, detect a particular fragrance linked to the deceased loved one, or taste their beloved dishes.

While spirits desire to reassure us of their ongoing presence, they also acknowledge the importance of our living fully in this reality. They do not wish for us to grow reliant on their signs or dwell in the past perpetually. If signs were constant, some might find it challenging to progress in their lives.

Spirits encourage us to embrace life and have faith that when our time arrives, we will reunite. Longing for signs continuously won’t compel them to manifest; you must relax, stay open, and allow them to occur naturally.

Grasping and Decoding Spirit Signs from the Other Side

The idea of spirits and the afterlife has intrigued humanity for ages. Many individuals believe that following death, our loved ones persist in communicating with us through various signs and symbols. These spirit signs, often regarded as messages from beyond, can offer comfort, guidance, and reassurance to those willing to receive them. In this piece, we will delve into the significance of comprehending and interpreting these spirit signs.

What are Spirit Signs?

Spirit signs are subtle signals or symbols thought to be sent by spirits from the other side. These signs can appear in different forms, like through dreams, synchronicities, physical sensations, or even animal behaviors. They tend to be deeply personal and may hold significant meaning for the recipient.

Understanding the Objective of Spirit Signs

The main aim of spirit signs is to provide comfort, guidance, and assurance to those mourning or searching for answers. They serve as a means for our departed loved ones to communicate that they remain with us, observing us, and offering their love and support from the other side.

Interpreting Spirit Signs

Decoding spirit signs necessitates an open mind and a readiness to accept the possibility of afterlife communication. Here are some suggestions to aid you in understanding and interpreting these signs:

1. Observe Patterns: Spirit signs frequently manifest in patterns or repetitions. Maintain a journal to track any recurring symbols, numbers, or events that capture your attention. Over time, you may begin to notice emerging patterns, which can help you interpret the conveyed message.

2. Rely on Your Intuition: Intuition is vital in understanding spirit signs. Trust your instincts and gut feelings when encountering these signs. Your intuition can be instrumental in comprehending the message and its relevance to your life.

3. Seek Insights from Others: If you’re having difficulty interpreting a specific spirit sign, consider seeking assistance from those experienced in spiritual communication. They may offer valuable insights and help you navigate the meanings behind the signs you receive.

4. Reflect on Personal Connections: Spirit signs often possess personal relevance. Contemplate your relationship with the departed loved one and any shared memories or experiences. This reflection can assist in grasping the context and meaning behind the signs you’re observing.

5. Keep an Open Heart: It is crucial to approach spirit signs with receptivity. Be open to the messages being conveyed, avoiding dismissing them as mere coincidences. Trust that your loved ones are attempting to reach out to you in their distinct manner.

Conclusion

Grasping and interpreting spirit signs can be a profoundly personal and transformative journey. By watching for patterns, trusting your intuition, seeking guidance, reflecting on personal bonds, and remaining open, you can begin to unravel the messages from the other side. These signs can provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of connection to our departed loved ones, reminding us that love transcends physical barriers and continues to thrive, even after death. Continue reading →