By far most paranormal investigation teams are science based and looking for proof of the paranormal. Part of this may be because of all the TV shows, and many just emulate these techniques and theories. The one good thing TV has done for this field is it has brought paranormal to the mainstream. It has made it much easier for the general public to talk about experiences, letting go some of the taboo.
On the other hand, if a family or individual is having an issue with paranormal activity in their home; the list of teams, researchers and investigators to sift through is now enormous. Some teams have experience while others do not. Some are purely technical and can only offer proof of a clients claim, while others use spiritual and/or psychics and mediums to try and help resolve the haunting. So how does a member of the general public choose a team for help? Should they automatically think the teams on TV are experts and ask them for help? This is a problem I feel can damage the credibility of our field in the long run.
Coming from a family involved with helping others with the paranormal on a spiritual level (even before "paranormal investigating" was a term). I seriously question the morality of purely technical teams (and those with little experience) getting involved with residential cases in which the family or individual is frightened. Or the nature of the haunting is negative. In these cases what can a purely technical team provide as a positive outcome to help the family? They can capture evidence to validate the clients claims, but how is that going to help with the problem of dealing with the haunting? The family or individual is still scared and has to live in the environment.
I feel it's almost like telling the family "Well, thanks for not lying about your experiences here, and thanks for this evidence we now get to keep and use to promote ourselves. Good luck with that." This has even been portrayed on TV shows, where a family has to go through multiple teams before they find one who can actually help them. This is why unity in our field is absolutely essential...
I'm not saying technical teams should never be involved with residential cases. But I do believe it is paramount if you are a purely technical team, to network with other teams who either have more experience and contacts, or have spiritual tools that may be able to resolve a haunting. I personally wish that paranormal investigating would shift from the objective of proof, to understanding the causes and nature of this phenomena. That might not make great TV, but the focus of an outcome should be on helping others living or deceased, before anything else.
Para Zen Master: Informative and inspirational blogs on various spiritual subjects, the paranormal and the nature of our involvement in the field. Non-judgmental (there are more than enough blogs like that. But rather open-minded, with the main goal being to provoke thought in others.
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Showing posts with label Paranormal Investigating. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Paranormal Investigating. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Why Many Paranormal Teams Do Not Use Psychics
Paranormal research and investigation has become a very fact based and evidence driven field, with a main focus on either debunking or providing solid proof that paranormal phenomena exists. With this being true, many wonder why more teams do not use psychics, sensitives, or mediums to help point investigators in the right direction, and provide helpful insights and information. I'd like to go over some of the reasons teams choose to not use psychics. Which I've discovered much of the scientific paranormal community are hesitant to express openly, not wanting to offend anyone. As a medium involved in paranormal investigating for years, I am a strong advocate for finding a technical and spiritual balance in this field. But the many concerns regarding this subject are valid, and should be addressed.
One of the biggest concerns scientific researchers have is finding a psychic who is able to contribute in a way to help obtain evidence. For example, go into any paranormal chat room and ask "Who here is a sensitive?" Or just log on to Facebook and search psychics. The amount of people claiming to have abilities is enormous, with various and sometimes confusing titles describing what they can do. I believe psychic abilities are inherit in all people, but the skills and caliber of performance can vary greatly. It would also be very naive to think that some are not charlatans or exaggerate their abilities. So how can scientific investigators sort through the seemingly endless list of individuals, to find a psychic who can be of service to them? To try out every claimed psychic would be very time consuming and could also compromise an investigation and the teams reputation. So simply put, it's a chance not all teams are willing to take.
Because of the very nature of psychic abilities, it isn't something that can be proven, measured, or reproduced consistently to the scientific and skeptic mind. This being the case, investigators have no way of proving or disproving the information passed on by the psychic if the insights are vague. A great concern is investigators do not want to go on a wild goose chase following the impressions of a psychic with no physical evidence to back it up. Or to be told a place is haunted, yet absolutely nothing happens during the investigation. It's important to remember that a scientific team's objective is to capture evidence. So the only use they see for a psychic is providing detailed information that can be researched and proven, or leading investigators to capturing physical evidence. But not all those with extra sensory abilities can produce information in this way.
For sensitives of every variety wanting to be involved in paranormal investigating, I feel it is important to soul search and ask oneself, "How can my abilities be used to help an investigation team?" You have to be honest with yourself and consider the expectations of those who may not have a full understanding of your ability. The skills and abilities we posses are all different, and some may not be tailored for this field as much as others. I like to use the metaphor of musical talent when it comes to psychic abilities. For example: I may be great at playing the guitar and piano, but not so good at singing. While someone else may be a great singer, but not so good at the guitar. We both are able to read music, but the skills we have in performing are different. The metaphor gets even deeper when you ask questions like, "How proficient are you at playing the guitar?"
For sensitives interested in paranormal investigating, my advice is to study and learn the technical side of the field. Having a greater understanding of equipment, various techniques, and the data scientific investigators are trying to obtain can make you a great asset. Cross training is so important, because you should be an investigator first, and your abilities can be a great added bonus making you more valuable to a team. Don't let a single aspect of who you are create a one dimensional skill set in the minds of others. Just being involved in a field like the paranormal, most scientific investigators believe in psychic phenomena. Having skeptical minds they just need some working proof of what you say you can do. Showing that there is much more to you when it comes to investigating than your sensitivities is a great start to building trust, and showing your commitment to the field.
To scientific teams who have entertained the thought of utilizing a psychic, but unsure if it would be beneficial to their team, my advice is to not completely rule out what could be a great asset. Look for sensitives who have a good reputation, endorsed by trusted people you know, or can provide testimonials from either the general public or other investigation teams. Ask them for a reading, or simply test by bringing them to an undisclosed location known for activity, or having no activity at all and see what they say. This test doesn't have to be during an actual investigation if you have concerns with clients, it could even be held outdoors. Yes, it may take some time before you discover the right person you believe will work well with your team, but in trying out different psychics you can learn theories and techniques used by the spiritual practitioners in the paranormal field, as well as possibly finding someone who could play a pivotal role in many of your cases.
The line between technical and spiritual investigators does not have to be so defined. It seems everyone has to just pick a side and stick with it. Though the two sides seem to work toward different outcomes of an investigation, there is still a great deal we can learn from one another. Technical teams still have to rely on spiritual resources as solutions to severe cases; and the spiritual investigators rely on technical tools to provide tangible evidence clients want to see. This is a prime example of how we may be different, but still need one another. I believe we will see more unity in all facets of the paranormal community, if our focus shifts from proof and collecting evidence, to understanding the causes and nature of this phenomena. Even though we may never obtain definitive answers to the mysteries of the paranormal, it will take the combined efforts of both the spiritual and technical members of our field to make any true progress.
One of the biggest concerns scientific researchers have is finding a psychic who is able to contribute in a way to help obtain evidence. For example, go into any paranormal chat room and ask "Who here is a sensitive?" Or just log on to Facebook and search psychics. The amount of people claiming to have abilities is enormous, with various and sometimes confusing titles describing what they can do. I believe psychic abilities are inherit in all people, but the skills and caliber of performance can vary greatly. It would also be very naive to think that some are not charlatans or exaggerate their abilities. So how can scientific investigators sort through the seemingly endless list of individuals, to find a psychic who can be of service to them? To try out every claimed psychic would be very time consuming and could also compromise an investigation and the teams reputation. So simply put, it's a chance not all teams are willing to take.
Because of the very nature of psychic abilities, it isn't something that can be proven, measured, or reproduced consistently to the scientific and skeptic mind. This being the case, investigators have no way of proving or disproving the information passed on by the psychic if the insights are vague. A great concern is investigators do not want to go on a wild goose chase following the impressions of a psychic with no physical evidence to back it up. Or to be told a place is haunted, yet absolutely nothing happens during the investigation. It's important to remember that a scientific team's objective is to capture evidence. So the only use they see for a psychic is providing detailed information that can be researched and proven, or leading investigators to capturing physical evidence. But not all those with extra sensory abilities can produce information in this way.
For sensitives of every variety wanting to be involved in paranormal investigating, I feel it is important to soul search and ask oneself, "How can my abilities be used to help an investigation team?" You have to be honest with yourself and consider the expectations of those who may not have a full understanding of your ability. The skills and abilities we posses are all different, and some may not be tailored for this field as much as others. I like to use the metaphor of musical talent when it comes to psychic abilities. For example: I may be great at playing the guitar and piano, but not so good at singing. While someone else may be a great singer, but not so good at the guitar. We both are able to read music, but the skills we have in performing are different. The metaphor gets even deeper when you ask questions like, "How proficient are you at playing the guitar?"
For sensitives interested in paranormal investigating, my advice is to study and learn the technical side of the field. Having a greater understanding of equipment, various techniques, and the data scientific investigators are trying to obtain can make you a great asset. Cross training is so important, because you should be an investigator first, and your abilities can be a great added bonus making you more valuable to a team. Don't let a single aspect of who you are create a one dimensional skill set in the minds of others. Just being involved in a field like the paranormal, most scientific investigators believe in psychic phenomena. Having skeptical minds they just need some working proof of what you say you can do. Showing that there is much more to you when it comes to investigating than your sensitivities is a great start to building trust, and showing your commitment to the field.
To scientific teams who have entertained the thought of utilizing a psychic, but unsure if it would be beneficial to their team, my advice is to not completely rule out what could be a great asset. Look for sensitives who have a good reputation, endorsed by trusted people you know, or can provide testimonials from either the general public or other investigation teams. Ask them for a reading, or simply test by bringing them to an undisclosed location known for activity, or having no activity at all and see what they say. This test doesn't have to be during an actual investigation if you have concerns with clients, it could even be held outdoors. Yes, it may take some time before you discover the right person you believe will work well with your team, but in trying out different psychics you can learn theories and techniques used by the spiritual practitioners in the paranormal field, as well as possibly finding someone who could play a pivotal role in many of your cases.
The line between technical and spiritual investigators does not have to be so defined. It seems everyone has to just pick a side and stick with it. Though the two sides seem to work toward different outcomes of an investigation, there is still a great deal we can learn from one another. Technical teams still have to rely on spiritual resources as solutions to severe cases; and the spiritual investigators rely on technical tools to provide tangible evidence clients want to see. This is a prime example of how we may be different, but still need one another. I believe we will see more unity in all facets of the paranormal community, if our focus shifts from proof and collecting evidence, to understanding the causes and nature of this phenomena. Even though we may never obtain definitive answers to the mysteries of the paranormal, it will take the combined efforts of both the spiritual and technical members of our field to make any true progress.
EVP Efficiency
Working with various paranormal investigation teams, I have seen a variety of theories and techniques when it comes to performing an EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) session. Some have proven to be quite effective and make the evidence reviewers job much easier. While others seem to make little sense and border on being laughable. I'd like to discuss some of these differences and what I have learned to be the most basic and methodical approach, proven to be effective.
The first thing an investigator should consider is the history of the location. This gives us an idea of time period and what type of people previously inhabited the investigation site, and are possibly still present. One of the biggest mistakes I've seen investigators make, is asking questions as if they are trying to communicate with some other worldly being. Just as we are souls encased in a human form, spirits are no different, other than no longer having a corporeal form. Speak to them as you would to anyone else, asking simple questions in a respectful manner. Never refer to them at "it" or use inappropriate language. The saying "you'll catch more flies with honey" holds true in this instance too. Being polite and respectful, you are more likely to receive intelligent responses than being rude.
Reviewing history also gives us an idea of what languages were spoken by those who lived there. If you are investigating a location where everyone had only spoken French for example, should we expect intelligent responses to our questions in English? This is where preparation comes into play. Through online resources, research and memorize some basic questions in the native language of those who previously dwelt at the location. Even if you receive a recorded response you don't understand at first, with some research you may find an intelligent response to your question. Keeping in mind the culture of spirits you are trying to make contact with can greatly increase your chances of capturing evidence.
During EVP sessions especially in larger groups, everyone should remain aware of all sounds and think from the perspective of the person who will be reviewing the recorder. Probably the biggest yet common mistake investigators make is whispering. It's a human response trying to be quiet to help everyone hear, but it makes the reviewers job so much more difficult. Having to discern who's voice it is, and what is being said. It's important to always speak at a normal tone, and a good practice at the beginning of the session to state where it is taking place, and have all those present state their name so everyone's recorded voice is easy to identify.
A moment of silence between questions is something that seems to vary from team to team as well. A common mistake is when more than one investigator is present, one will ask a question then the other will talk or as a question right after. When going over the recordings looking for EVPs, how can anything possibly be found? Spirit voices can be difficult at times to hear, and we want to make sure we are not talking over them. I feel it's important for the group to discuss and observer a set amount a silence between each question. It doesn't really mater if it's 10 seconds or 20 seconds; what's most important is that there is a consistent moment of complete silence between question.
Depending on the location, environment, and the amount of investigators, there is also the factor of sounds beyond our control. Some of these various noises are dogs barking, a loud truck driving by, an investigator tripping on something, or even someone's stomach growling. Sometimes these sounds are just ignored and left for the person going over the recorder to figure out. To ensure nothing is confused with a paranormal sound, I feel it's important that when these instances occur, someone should make a clear statement right after describing the source of the noise. This is a great practice to try and get into the habit of.
These are just some of the common mistakes, as well as effective methods I have discovered through personal experience. As sessions unfold, keep the mindset as if you are the evidence reviewer. The basics of conducting an efficient EVP session is rather simple, as long as we remain constantly aware of ourselves and our environment. .
The first thing an investigator should consider is the history of the location. This gives us an idea of time period and what type of people previously inhabited the investigation site, and are possibly still present. One of the biggest mistakes I've seen investigators make, is asking questions as if they are trying to communicate with some other worldly being. Just as we are souls encased in a human form, spirits are no different, other than no longer having a corporeal form. Speak to them as you would to anyone else, asking simple questions in a respectful manner. Never refer to them at "it" or use inappropriate language. The saying "you'll catch more flies with honey" holds true in this instance too. Being polite and respectful, you are more likely to receive intelligent responses than being rude.
Reviewing history also gives us an idea of what languages were spoken by those who lived there. If you are investigating a location where everyone had only spoken French for example, should we expect intelligent responses to our questions in English? This is where preparation comes into play. Through online resources, research and memorize some basic questions in the native language of those who previously dwelt at the location. Even if you receive a recorded response you don't understand at first, with some research you may find an intelligent response to your question. Keeping in mind the culture of spirits you are trying to make contact with can greatly increase your chances of capturing evidence.
During EVP sessions especially in larger groups, everyone should remain aware of all sounds and think from the perspective of the person who will be reviewing the recorder. Probably the biggest yet common mistake investigators make is whispering. It's a human response trying to be quiet to help everyone hear, but it makes the reviewers job so much more difficult. Having to discern who's voice it is, and what is being said. It's important to always speak at a normal tone, and a good practice at the beginning of the session to state where it is taking place, and have all those present state their name so everyone's recorded voice is easy to identify.
A moment of silence between questions is something that seems to vary from team to team as well. A common mistake is when more than one investigator is present, one will ask a question then the other will talk or as a question right after. When going over the recordings looking for EVPs, how can anything possibly be found? Spirit voices can be difficult at times to hear, and we want to make sure we are not talking over them. I feel it's important for the group to discuss and observer a set amount a silence between each question. It doesn't really mater if it's 10 seconds or 20 seconds; what's most important is that there is a consistent moment of complete silence between question.
Depending on the location, environment, and the amount of investigators, there is also the factor of sounds beyond our control. Some of these various noises are dogs barking, a loud truck driving by, an investigator tripping on something, or even someone's stomach growling. Sometimes these sounds are just ignored and left for the person going over the recorder to figure out. To ensure nothing is confused with a paranormal sound, I feel it's important that when these instances occur, someone should make a clear statement right after describing the source of the noise. This is a great practice to try and get into the habit of.
These are just some of the common mistakes, as well as effective methods I have discovered through personal experience. As sessions unfold, keep the mindset as if you are the evidence reviewer. The basics of conducting an efficient EVP session is rather simple, as long as we remain constantly aware of ourselves and our environment. .
Ethics of Paranormal Investigating in Cemeteries
The debate on whether or not it is ethical to investigate cemeteries has been going on for some time now. I feel this is a great subject to soul search and discuss in the paranormal community, because to many it can be a very sensitive subject. Burial grounds are one of the most visited locations by paranormal investigators, both experienced and new to the field. As a whole, the paranormal field needs to have the same ethical mindset when it comes to dealing with sacred locations. Entering the final resting place for others, it is important that we maintain a level of respect as well as keep our actions in mind first. The objective of the investigation is secondary.
With so many people making trips through these locations, the question of preservation arises. One of the most visited types of cemetery are the historic ones, with very old and now fragile headstones. With a sometimes large group of people walking around in the dark, there is a potential risk of headstones becoming damaged or destroyed. Every investigator should have a flashlight with them and move at a slow pace through a cemetery. Simply being cautious and aware of your surroundings can make all the difference in the world.
Taking pictures of, or with headstones has been a subject of debate as well. With so many cemeteries being investigated, the number of pictures one can find just online is uncountable. Out of respect for the deceased and their family, some find it offense to take pictures of headstones at all. But most are very offended by those who pose for pictures with a headstone. Ethically, this make a lot of sense. For example: would you be okay with someone standing on your grandfather's burial plot, smiling and posing with hands on his headstone? I think most of us would find this scenario to be offensive. As investigators our actions and demeanor are essential to keep in mind. Just like being in someone's home or a business, we must always act appropriately.
On a spiritual level, some feel that being on burial grounds for any reasons other than visiting a passed loved one is disrespectful to the spirits. I've even heard the argument that investigators can capture activity because the spirits are angry they are there. As a medium, I have to respectfully disagree with these notions. Spirits usually have no attachments to their physical bodies, and the reasons spirits stay in cemeteries vary. Some are simply lost and confused, while others are upset about unmarked graves, and some spirits may even have an attachment to the land itself before a cemetery was put there...and the list goes on. When trying to communicate with spirits, being respectful as you would to any human being is what matters most.
There are those who have an unwavering opinion that cemeteries are not a place for paranormal investigating; and I do respect their views. I personally, feel that there is a respectful and ethical way to continue paranormal research in cemeteries without disturbing or desecrating the environment. It all starts with awareness, respect, and being prepared. No matter how experienced or inexperienced one is; everyone should have the same level of respect, caution, and reverence while stepping onto hallowed land.
With so many people making trips through these locations, the question of preservation arises. One of the most visited types of cemetery are the historic ones, with very old and now fragile headstones. With a sometimes large group of people walking around in the dark, there is a potential risk of headstones becoming damaged or destroyed. Every investigator should have a flashlight with them and move at a slow pace through a cemetery. Simply being cautious and aware of your surroundings can make all the difference in the world.
Taking pictures of, or with headstones has been a subject of debate as well. With so many cemeteries being investigated, the number of pictures one can find just online is uncountable. Out of respect for the deceased and their family, some find it offense to take pictures of headstones at all. But most are very offended by those who pose for pictures with a headstone. Ethically, this make a lot of sense. For example: would you be okay with someone standing on your grandfather's burial plot, smiling and posing with hands on his headstone? I think most of us would find this scenario to be offensive. As investigators our actions and demeanor are essential to keep in mind. Just like being in someone's home or a business, we must always act appropriately.
On a spiritual level, some feel that being on burial grounds for any reasons other than visiting a passed loved one is disrespectful to the spirits. I've even heard the argument that investigators can capture activity because the spirits are angry they are there. As a medium, I have to respectfully disagree with these notions. Spirits usually have no attachments to their physical bodies, and the reasons spirits stay in cemeteries vary. Some are simply lost and confused, while others are upset about unmarked graves, and some spirits may even have an attachment to the land itself before a cemetery was put there...and the list goes on. When trying to communicate with spirits, being respectful as you would to any human being is what matters most.
There are those who have an unwavering opinion that cemeteries are not a place for paranormal investigating; and I do respect their views. I personally, feel that there is a respectful and ethical way to continue paranormal research in cemeteries without disturbing or desecrating the environment. It all starts with awareness, respect, and being prepared. No matter how experienced or inexperienced one is; everyone should have the same level of respect, caution, and reverence while stepping onto hallowed land.
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