6 Tips for a Successful Ghost Hunt
So you think a space is haunted and want to check it out. Whether it's someplace in town, a cemetery, or even your own home (like mine!), there are some things to keep in mind before embarking on a ghost hunt*. Keep reading to find out what they are, so you can better prepare for a successful investigation.
#1 BE RESPECTFUL
This is so important, it's underlined so you won't forget. Get permission bfore stepping onto land that isn't yours, preferably in writing. Respect the property you're on, the people around you, and - most important - the spirits you interact with. Just like with us living folk, those beyond the veil may or may not feel like chatting or being sociable. Or worse - you could poke a grumpy ghost and then some ahem not-so-pleasant things could happen as a result. So mind your manners, don't trash the place, and if something doesn't feel right, consider it time to back off.
#2 PROTECT YOURSELF
Never investigate alone. There's safety in numbers so always have at least one other person with you, if not more. Group hunting can be an amazing experience! Respect goes hand in hand with self-protection, as mentioned above - you don't want to be angering any spirits lest they seek retaliation. Most spirits are harmless, but you never know what you might come across. Better safe than sorry. You can carry talismans that hold special meaning to you, such like a cross, crystal, or any symbol that resonates with you on a personal level. It's also a good idea to state your purpose out loud before you begin, something like, "Only those who mean no harm may enter this space and/or interact with me." You might feel silly at first, but plenty of experts will tell you this works more often than not. At the end of your investigation, remember to say very clearly that nothing has permission to follow you home. You can also cleanse with smoke (or infused water, if you're sensitive, by flicking it into the air) to help rid yourself and the area of anything negative that might have come through. Rosemary, cedar, or pine are good herbs for this purpose.
#3 RESEARCH
Take your time to research and learn about the area you'll be investigating. It can be helpful to know the history and the people who lived there before you begin. The internet is your friend but take advantage of the resources available at your local libraries. They house a plethora of information you might not otherwise get. And don't be afraid to talk to the neighbors and community in the surrounding area - you might be surprised just how much knowledge people are willing to share!
#4 PREPARE
All you really need for a ghost hunt is an open mind, but it never hurts to have some equipment on hand to make it easier and more comfortable for yourself and the potential spirits around you. The basics: flashlights if it's dark, with extra batteries (sometimes the energy gets drained during heightened activity), bug spray if you'll be outdoors, and a notebook or voice recorder to keep track of what's happening, like a diary you can revisit at a later date. Of course, there are tons of items you can purchase to level up your hunt, such as EMF readers, digital thermometers, and thermal cameras if you have the budget and the resources. But a lot of that stuff, while nice to have, isn't necessary in my opinion. A basic camera will just as easily capture things the naked eye can't see as a more expensive one with infrared capability.
#5 BE PATIENT
Sometimes things happen, sometimes not. You can (and should!) always try again!
#6 HAVE FUN!
What's the point of doing this if you're not having a good time? A proper paranormal investigation can take hours and test your patience. If that's not something you're willing to endure for the potential outcome, then maybe consider a different activity. But if you keep an open mind and surround yourself with others who are just as hyped for the experience, you can have the time of your life. So relax, let go of any preconceived expectations, and have some fun. Happy spirits might catch on to your energy and join you!
Happy hunting!
*Jake from The Inn-Sitter would chew me out for calling it a "ghost hunt." Rather, I should say "paranormal investigation." And he's not wrong - the level of research and analysis that goes into a proper search goes far deeper than a simple root around for ghosties. To read more about Jake and his process, check out The Inn-Sitter, available wherever books are sold!
