Avoid Spirit "Hitchhikers"

Having involvement in paranormal investigations, there are certain dangers all investigators should be aware of when going out into the field. In dealing with forces we do not fully understand, these dangers go beyond physical safety precautions we must be aware of in locations. What I am referring to are the spiritual implications in our attempts to communicate with the deceased and inhabiting the locations earthbound spirits reside. The most common danger and phenomena paranormal investigators experience are what is commonly referred to as "hitchhikers" or "tag-a-longs". Some spirits are not bound to a location, and can attach themselves to an investigator following them home. This is something we must be cautious and aware of as some of these spirits may have some negative intentions or could even be a malevolent spirit. I'd like to discuss some methods investigators can use to protect themselves and thwart these "hitchhikers" from being able to follow us.

Prayer

Prayers before and after investigations I feel is extremely important and empowering to us as human beings, even if it's silent and to ourselves. We have to remember that in dealing with being on a spiritual level, our best protection is finding our defense on the spiritual level as well. The exact belief system or any theology you follow doesn't matter, as basically ever religion has some prayers for protection. But most importantly is not the words that are spoken in prayer, but rather your faith in these words. You must believe wholeheartedly in the strength of your higher power's ability to transcend anything that may try to harm or follow you.

Relics and Symbols

There are some physical objects that can effect the spiritual realm as well, and we should definitely utilize them when needed. Whether these items be a Catholic rosary, Buddhist mala, Native American medicine bag, or any sacred symbol from any religion; these items hold power to protect us. What makes these objects so effective are both the spiritual vibration and power of faith they symbolize and hold within them. Many of us wear various symbols on necklaces, but we can carry these symbols anywhere on us to keep us safe.

Pictures

One method I often teach to everyone I know in the field is carrying a picture of a loved one who has passed on. Many involved in the field are very technical and scientific based individuals, so the traditional spiritual methods just don't feel comfortable to them. Most of us have lost a loved one whether it be a grandfather, grandmother, parent, etc. and there is power in asking for them to watch over us. The spiritual power of our ancestors seems to be lost in western culture, but is embraced in many belief systems. Before going on an investigation, ask for your loved one to be with you, watch over and protect you while carrying their picture. This method is so effective because of the sense of empowerment it gives us, but more importantly it gives us a very personalized connection to the Divine and the other side.

Salt

A personal favorite method I use is carrying some salt in my pocket. Salt is seen as a powerful symbol of purity and life in just about every belief system which makes it a universal cleanser of sorts. Simply carry some salt in your pocket whether in some kind of container or just loose in your pocket. When the investigation is complete, everything is packed away and you are about to get into your vehicle. Take the salt out of you pocket and cast it on the ground before you and either say a prayer, or make some kind of empowering statement. Just like with the prayer method, what is said is not nearly as important as your belief in the words that are spoken. Even a simple statement along the lines of "nothing is allowed to follow me", or "I am protected" is sufficient and can be effective.

"Hitchhikers" can be encountered in any investigation setting, from cemeteries to residential cases. So this is a real danger for all investigators no matter what we do. I hope these methods and explanations are found to be helpful and informative to others. I know there are other methods, but I just wanted to share the ones I personally use and have found to be effective. Those of us taking part in the paranormal field do so because of a passion and love for the field. But we must also be aware of all the dangers we may encounter and ways we can keep ourselves and our colleagues safe.