The Ouija board has fascinated and frightened people for over a century. A divination tool for some, a simple board game for others, a cursed object according to certain beliefs — the truth is far more nuanced. Here's everything you need to know about the Ouija.

The History of Ouija

Contrary to popular belief, the Ouija is not an ancient esoteric tool. It was patented in 1891 in the United States by Elijah Bond and marketed as a simple game for entertainment. At the time, spiritualism was very popular, and people sought ways to communicate with the spirits of the deceased.

The name "Ouija" is said to come from a combination of the French word "oui" and the German word "ja" — both meaning "yes." Other theories suggest the name comes from an ancient Egyptian word meaning "luck."

During World War I, the Ouija experienced an extraordinary surge in popularity as thousands of families sought to contact loved ones lost at the front. It was during this period that the board took on a more pronounced spiritual and esoteric dimension.

How Does Ouija Work?

The Ouija consists of a board on which are inscribed the letters of the alphabet, the numbers 0 to 9, as well as the words YES, NO, and GOODBYE. Participants place their fingers on a small pointer called a "planchette" and ask questions aloud.

The planchette then moves towards the letters or words to form answers. The big question is: who or what moves the planchette?

The Scientific Explanation — Most scientists attribute the movement of the planchette to the ideomotor effect: unconscious and involuntary muscular movements made by the participants themselves, without them being aware of it. Our brain anticipates answers and subtly guides our muscles.

The Spiritual Explanation — For believers, the Ouija allows for the opening of a communication channel with spiritual entities — spirits of the deceased, spirit guides, or other entities.

Myths About Ouija

Myth 1: Ouija is always dangerous

Many horror movies have contributed to creating a terrifying image of Ouija. In reality, the vast majority of people who use a Ouija board have no negative experiences. Fear itself can create anxiety and negative experiences.

Myth 2: Ouija necessarily attracts bad entities

According to experienced practitioners, the energy you bring to a session greatly influences what you attract. A session conducted with respect, clear intention, and energetic protection is very different from a session done out of unhealthy curiosity or to "test."

Myth 3: Once you start, you can't stop

This is false. You can end a session at any time by saying goodbye and sliding the planchette towards GOODBYE. This is an important and respectful step to close every session.

How to Use Ouija Safely

If you choose to explore Ouija, here are recommended practices by experienced practitioners:

Before the Session

• Purify your space — use incense, a salt lamp, or sage to cleanse the room's energy
• Set a clear intention — know why you are using the board and what you are seeking
• Never use alone — the presence of at least one other person is recommended
• Avoid a state of vulnerability — do not use the Ouija if you are anxious, depressed, or under the influence of substances

During the Session

• Remain calm and centered — anxiety and fear create negative energy
• Ask respectful questions — treat entities with respect
• Do not ask questions about death — questions like "when will I die?" are not recommended
• Maintain a critical mind — question what you receive

After the Session

• Always say goodbye — slide the planchette towards GOODBYE to close the channel
• Purify again — a little incense or salt to cleanse the space after the session
• Store the board face down — according to tradition, this prevents unwanted connections

Ouija as a Tool for Personal Development

Beyond the supernatural, some people use Ouija as a tool for introspection — similar to automatic writing. The movement of the planchette can reveal unconscious thoughts and desires that our conscious mind represses.

From this perspective, the Ouija is not a telephone for spirits but a mirror of our unconscious — a tool to explore the depths of our psyche.

In Summary

The Ouija is a fascinating tool rich in history and mystery. Whether you believe it to be a spiritual channel or approach it from a scientific point of view, the important thing is to approach it with respect, intention, and common sense. Like any esoteric tool, the energy and intention you bring to it determine your experience.

At Serenya, you will find Ouija boards and wooden tarot stands, as well as everything you need to prepare your esoteric space: incense burners, purifying salt lamps, and journals to record your spiritual experiences.