What is a Pendulum and How Do You Use It?

A pendulum is best described as a weight with a point at the end, which is suspended from a chain or string and is allowed to pivot or swing freely. Each pendulum is as unique as its owner and most individuals find that all pendulums swing in a particular method or direction when questions are asked.

It is rude to touch or use another person's pendulum without first asking for permission both from the individual and the pendulum itself. The pendulums work off of energy and there is a lot of controversy as to what energy is guiding the pendulum. Some people believe that spirits are guiding them, others believe that the person controlling or holding the pendulum is somehow guiding it. I personally believe that the pendulum is guided by someone, whether it be spirit or otherwise, but that the answers may change and that the pendulum can only tell you what it knows to be true right now.

Upon first receiving a pendulum, it's important to clear it, no matter where you got it from. If the pendulum is made out of stone, it can be soaked in salt water (sea salt and water) overnight or in the sun during the day. If the pendulum is made out of something else, feel free to clear it using white sage (burn the sage and hold the pendulum in the smoke until you feel it is cleared).

Next, ask the pendulum if you may use it. Simply say, "pendulum, may I use you". If you've used a pendulum in the past, you already know how it will respond to yes or no questions. You may have to ask it to show you yes. Even if you already know what your specific yes is, ask the pendulum to show you yes by saying, "pendulum, show me yes". Ask it to show you no and to show you maybe. Now, ask the pendulum if you may ask it some questions. If it swings to yes, begin asking one question at a time. Hold the pendulum steady with your dominant hand over the open palm of your other hand. Hold it at the top of the string or chain between your pointer finger and your thumb, holding it steady.

Ask your question and close your eyes. Allow the pendulum to begin swinging and when you feel its okay, take a look. What do you see? If you know your yes and your no and your maybe, you should have an answer. Eventually, you will begin to feel when the pendulum is uncertain. Sometimes it will hang there and it will not swing at all. You may wish to stop the pendulum in between each question. Do what feels right to you.