Is the Ouija a fascinating game for harmless fun...

or a dangerous gateway to the unknown?

Your fingertips lightly touch the edge of the planchette. Your friend does the same on the opposite side. You consciously move the planchette in circles around the board to get it "warmed up." Then you ask your question. No response at first. Then slowly the planchette begins to move, seemingly on its own - at least you're not trying to move it. Sliding from one letter to the next, the planchette spells out its answer. And it seems to fit. More questions are asked, and with increasing speed the Ouija provides its responses, letter by letter. Seemingly with significance. Sometimes with dark significance.

What's behind the Ouija? How does it work? Is it, as the manufacturer suggests, a harmless game? Or is something more sinister involved?

In a recent poll 65 percent believed the Ouija to be a dangerous tool. While a majority of respondents (41 percent) believed that the board was controlled by the users' subconscious, 37 percent believed it was controlled by spirits, and 14 percent feared that it was under the influence of demonic spirits.

The Ouija board as we know it dates back to the late 1800s when at the height of the spiritualist movement it was a popular parlour game. But how do you use a Ouija board safely?

Lets face it, lots of people are terrified of Ouija boards but there really is no reason to be as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. Hollywood really does have a lot to answer for!

First of all remember that there is one question you mustn’t ask:

“Is there anybody there?”

The reason for this is quite simple – of course there is! But by asking the question you are relinquishing control of the board to the spirit world and whoever wants to take control of it.  This is a bad thing!

So, this is what you do do….

Anyone can use a Ouija board – contrary to some websites and books it does not take two to Ouija.

Most practitioners suggest using the board at night when, they say, less interference is in the atmosphere.

Create some atmosphere. The Ouija is more fun if you darken the room and light some candles. Turn off the TV and any music to minimize distractions.

Place the board on a table or flat surface – lying on the floor is not a good way to conduct yourself.  Remember you need to show respect to the Spirit World.

Place your fingers lightly onto the planchette, pointer or whatever you are using to move across the board and spell out you messages.  Remember that any medium is suitable whether it be a ring, a shot glass or proper wooden planchette.

Next, move it. Purposely move the planchette around in a circle on the board for a moment or two to get it 'warmed up.'

Don't let the board control the session. You should begin by announcing that the session will only allow an experience that is positive or toward a higher good and that negative energies are not welcome.

Begin simply. Start with a simple question, one that requires a yes or no answer.

Be patient. You might not begin to get answers right away. Give the board a chance to 'warm up.'

Be polite. When the board starts working, thank the board or entities for showing up and communicating with you.

Don't ask stupid questions. Avoid questions such as, 'When am I going to die?' If the board answers, 'in 6 months,' you might just worry about it needlessly.

Don't ask for physical signs. Many experienced users warn against asking for physical signs that the 'spirit' is real or present.

Don't believe everything the board tells you. Just as with any other source of information, don't accept whatever the board says to be the truth or accurate.

Close the board. This is an important step. When you're done with your session, slide the planchette to 'GOODBYE' and then say the following:

“Spirits that have been with me/us this time, I /we thank you for your presence but your time here is at an end. Thank you and Goodbye”.

Then remove your hands. (If you have already removed your hands from the board this is ok – you must still close the board using the above steps.)

Useful Tips:

Have someone write down the answers.

Sometimes the letters spell out very quickly and it's difficult to keep track of what's being said. Someone else with paper and pen can write down the message as it comes.

Ouija sober. You'll get better results if you haven't been drinking or smoking.

Maintain control. If the board starts giving rude, vulgar, obscene or otherwise disagreeable responses, break off the session immediately by closing the board.

Good Luck! And remember, ghosts and spirits cannot hurt you no matter what they say on Most Haunted!