Pendulum
                   
by Kelsey Patel and others
Pendulum is an small weight suspended on a cord or chain. It has been used from ancient times in dowsing. It is used to obtain information which is not normally available. A pendulum can be improvised with an everyday object, such as a key chain, a nail or a ring on a string. However, a professional pendulum is best because it is weighted and balanced to be more sensitive and to swing more freely. This makes it more effective.
     It is believed the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Chinese used pendulumts for divination. There is evidence the Oracle of Delphi answered questions using a pendulum.
    A pendulum, as a tool, can be used to connect to your higher-self by asking questions to help guide, clarify, and raise your awareness. The pendulum itself is simply a small object attached to the end of a string, and can be made out of wood, crystal, gemstone, glass, or metal.
     Feel free to consult your pendulum whenever you feel the need. or want to—just like any other divination practice.  You can use the pendulum to help you with any problem, troubling situation, or something fpr which you need more clarity. Just remember that the pendulum can only answer "yes" or "no" questions. So make sure to phrase questions in a way that can allow you to get a clear answer. Vague questions can result in senseless responses.
    There is nothing evil or unspiritual in using a pendulum. It is the thoughts of the dowser that determine the value of the use of the pendulum. It is wise to get the permission of someone you are going to dowse for. 
   Choosing the right pendulum is like choosing the right crystal—there is no right or wrong. Trust your intuition and allow yourself to be shown which pendulum is right for you. When you pick up a pendulum, how does it feel? Focus on the feeling, and you will know which one is meant to be yours. If you're into jade crystals, for instance, and you see a jade pendulum, go for it.

                                           How to use a pendulum

     After you've used your intuition to pick out the pendulum that's perfect for you, you're ready to consult the tool for guidance. Here are proven tips for actually using it.

   1. Cleanse: As with crystals, pendulums need cleansing too. Cleanse the pendulum with sage, outside under a full moon, soaking it in sea salt if the material or crystal is water and salt friendly, or simply by holding it under cold tap water,

    2. Prep your questions:  Have multiple questions to ask. When looking for clarity or guidance around a situation, have more than one question prepared about the topic to help you gain as much insight as possible and as much guidance, Remember, the pendulum might not always work.  Sometimes a pendulum will not want to answer or not be open to answering a particular question at that time. This can be shown as a separate directional swing or the pendulum might simply remain still.
   
3. Learn how the pendulum moves: It's key to learn what is 'yes' and what is 'no,' before asking the pendulum a question. Take a moment to find a comfortable seat and quiet your mind. Take a few deep cleansing breaths to open up and clear your mind, body, and spirit. Holding the pendulum in your dominant hand with the chain or top link between your thumb and index finger, ask 'show me yes' and 'show me no,' or 'what does yes look like' and 'what does no look like.' When you do this, the pendulum will either swing vertically, horizontally, or in circular motions. Take note as to what each answer looks like—for instance, if it went up and down vertically when you said 'show me yes,' that is how it will respond in an affirmative way to your question. You could also ask 'show me neutral' if you want that option too,
    
4. Start with what you know: To get the pendulum going, ask questions you already know the answer to. For example, ask if your name is, and 'do I live in (the name of your city). This can help you connect with the pendulum and get to know its directional swings and how it will communicate with you.
     
5. Remain open: Using a pendulum is all about being at ease. Just as going through a meditation, try to simply allow the pendulum to communicate freely with you. The more open you are to receive, the easier you and the pendulum can communicate. And remember, like any practice, you can enjoy the experience and trust in your ability to connect because you already have your own answers. It's just a tool that's merely there to help you get closer to your own intuition. After all, you have your own inner truth.