Divination Tools; Dowsing
”I know very well that many scientists consider dowsing as they do astrology, as a type of ancient superstition. According to my conviction this is, however unjustified. The dowsing rod is a simple instrument which shows the reaction of the human nervous system to certain factors which are unknown to us at this time” – Albert Einstein
Dowsing
Dowsing is a tool used to detect energies. Also called a water witching or rhabdomancy, dowsing uses a forked object that may be made of hazel, rowan, willow wood, or a y-shaped metal rod or dowsing pendulum made of metal, rock or crystals, suspended by nylon or silk thread. Dowsing rods may be Y-shaped or L- Shaped. It is used to detect water, minerals, treasure, archeological remains, and sometimes bodies. It first came into fashion during the Middle Ages in Europe.
Historically, in Europe it was seen as a form of occultism. However over the centuries, it has come to be known as a method for finding, metals, water, gems, and petroleum, among other materials. Dowsing is also used for spiritual and paranormal reasons. Research results are varied, and there are many skeptics who believe that dowsing is no more than a game of chance. Regardless, dowsing has had enough mainstream success and a build-up of tradition that it is considered an option for individuals and companies sourcing raw materials or detecting energy.
How Dowsing Works
A dowser grasps the rod, which is also called a dowser by its two prongs and may receive energy transmissions from the hidden object, causing involuntary muscular contractions which in turn will make the rod move. Some practitioners have been able to detect buried objects even by placing the rod or rods over a map. Although divination is not considered part of the process according to more scientific-style dowsers, there is a form of ‘spiritual dowsing’ that may detect energies in and around living organisms.
Dowsing is mainstream enough that it has been studied by scientists and some research validates the practice. The practice used by farmers, telephone mining, petroleum, natural gas, and other corporations that hunt for reserves natural resources. Even the United States Geological Survey (USGS) recognizes dowsing as a viable means to detect groundwater, for example.
Spiritual Dowsing
Spiritual dowsing was not discussed actively before the late 20th century. Spiritual dowsing is used to detect energies, such as those found in an auric field or even Ley Lines. Some believe that spiritual dowsing can detect universal energies, and beings from other realities. Sig Lonegren, 1985 published Spiritual Dowsing as a guide for ‘Travelers on the spiritual path who would like to see if dowsing can help them along their way.’” (Longren,1985). He discusses how dowsing may also be used to detect sacred ancient sights as well as a tool for healing and overall wellbeing.
A dowsing pendulum may be used to connect to the unconscious mind and the Akashic Records. The dowser or querent may ask a question and it is believed that the unconscious mind causes the nerves in our hands to stimulate subtle movements causing the pendulum to swing.
How to Dowse
- There is no exact method to dowsing and which tool is most beneficial. It also depends on what you are using the tools for. You may read about the topic or use your own intuition to guide you.<
- Acquire a quality tool of choice. It may range from a metal, stone, or crystal pendulum to forked metal rods, that is y-shaped or L-shaped. You may want to research the properties and benefits of various dowsing tools.<
- You may want to cleanse and calibrate the dowsing tool before beginning any exploration.<
- For spiritual dowsing, you may want to set a position for ‘yes’ and ‘no’ before asking questions or getting a ‘read’ on energy.<
- You may then want to establish a baseline of objective responses such as asking YES answer questions “Are my eyes brown?”, “Do I have brown hair”, “Am I female?”. Take note of the direction the tool swings for yes. Then ask some NO questions such as “Do I have a dog?”, “Do I eat liver?”, “Am I from Mars?”. Again, take note of the direction the tool swings for no. (Questions will be personal to you).<
- Get to know the tool before you start to use it in a directed manner. Be open to what you are learning.<
- Meditate and get in a clear and calm state.<
- If you are looking for something specific, you may want to visualize it in your mind’s eye.<
- Relax your muscles and wait for the tool to move.<
- As the dowsing tool moves, it may be ‘jumpy’ if you pass by a place that is particularly energetic and slow down if you go past it.<
- Use your discernment when engaging in this or any divination practice. As with any exploration, always seek out qualified professionals for medical, financial, emotional, and psychological support when needed.<
- Above all, like with any divination tool, be amused and have fun with it. At the very least, it is entertaining, but you may be surprised by the insights they provide.<
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