Pendulums: An Introduction | How to Use a Pendulum

Pendulum dowsing is a centuries-old practice used to gain insight into the unknown. The pendulum can be used to answer questions, find lost objects, and even predict the future. In this guide we will cover how to choose your pendulum and get started using it.

What is a Pendulum?

I'm so glad you asked! A pendulum is a weighted object attached to a cord or string, often made of crystals but can be fashioned from any small, symmetrical, non-magnetic item. A pendulum acts as a conduit of information, receiving and transmitting, and moves in response to questions asked of it.  

Pendulum dowsing has been around for thousands of years. It was used by ancient civilizations to locate water sources or buried treasures. It became popular again in Europe during the 19th century when it was used as a divination tool by doctors who were looking for disease-causing agents in their patients' bodies. Today, many people use pendulums as an everyday tool that helps them navigate their lives with clarity and ease.

 How Does Dowsing with a Pendulum Work?

There are many methods to communicate with your higher guidance, guardian angels, and spiritual teachers. One of these is pendulum dowsing.

A pendulum works by tapping into your intuition and sixth sense. The pendulum acts as a form of receiver and transmitter, from your higher guidance. As the pendulum moves, you gain answers in response to questions – it is best suited to use to answer "yes" or "no" questions. Some people describe the way a pendulum works as being like bringing together the rational and intuitive sides of you (the left and right sides of your brain). When these two elements are brought together, you’re able to make decisions using all the sources, rather than just one of them.

How to Find the Right Pendulum

There are so many options for pendulums available on the market for dowsing, but you don’t have to rush out to buy an expensive pendulum to see results. The type of pendulum you choose depends in part on what feels right for you. Many choose to use a crystal pendulum. Clear quartz crystals are popular choices due to their ability to bring clarity and help you to connect with your higher purpose. Amethyst crystals are often popular as well due to their ability to strengthen your spiritual connection and calm your mind—two things that can help you when using the pendulum for divination purposes. Ultimately though, whatever your favorite crystal or gemstone is can be used on a pendulum. 

Before Getting Started Using a Pendulum

Before you begin your divination journey using a pendulum, it’s important to cleanse it prior to charging it with your own energy. Cleansing can be done using your preferred method for crystal cleansing. Smoke cleansing is a popular modality, as is cleansing under water if the particular crystal will tolerate it, or using sound or sunlight. To charge your pendulum, enclose it in your hands. Spend a few minutes sitting quietly with it, with your eyes closed, focusing on sending your energy into your pendulum. 

Getting Started Using a Pendulum

This could go without saying, but it is imperative you approach divination of any kind with an open and accepting mind or it will not work. The string of your Pendulum should be held between your thumb and whatever finger feels most comfortable with your elbow slightly bent and stabilized on a sturdy surface. Allow the pendulum to hang in the air between your hand and the surface you are using upon which to rest your elbow. Decide and practice what each response of “yes,” “no,” and “maybe” should look like. Pendulum boards and pendulum mats are helpful for this but are not necessary. (Shop ours here.) Once you have demonstrated what each response will look like, ask aloud a few test questions, the answers to which you already know. Notice how the pendulum moves in response to each question. Some questions might earn a circular response while some an up and down or side to side motion. Take note of what response you receive for “yes,” “no,” and “maybe”. If you find yourself receiving inconsistent or incorrect responses, work again to program the pendulum.

What If My Pendulum Doesn't Work?

If you are tired or agitated, it's best to try again when you're feeling more grounded. Make sure you are asking clear and concise "yes" and "no" questions. If you have a busy mind or don't have the privacy you need to really concentrate, try again when the timing is better. Practice makes it easier and the more comfortable you are, the easier the answers will come. 

The main goal is to go into a divination session with a clear and open heart. This goes for Pendulum usage as well as any other method of divination. Shop our selection of Pendulums here! We also have a great selection of incenses and smudges for cleansing your pendulum. We also have some great resources if you would like to take a deep dive into the world of Divination. 

Thank you so much for stopping by, we wish you well on your journey into divination using Pendulums!