This guide is a brief introduction to pendulums allowing beginners to get insights into basic pendulum use and to be able to make a choice of suitable pendulum. There are many methods and personal preferences as well as theories and explanations. You can make up your own mind by experience.
What is pendulum dowsing?
A dowsing pendulum is an object suspended by a cord or chain which is used for obtaining information from your subconscious mind. You could improvise with an everyday object such as a pendant or a ring on a thread. However, a purpose made pendulum is better because it has symmetry. The swing will be more even and therefore more effective.
The pendulum, as an extension of the person using it, may be influenced both consciously and subconsciously and wishful thinking can be magnified. So you must take steps to prevent this. And you must ask very specific questions or you will get meaningless results.
What is a pendulum for?
It is a tool used for obtaining information from your sub-consciousness. There is no magic involved. When we are too engrossed in everyday life our powers of intuition diminish. Using the pendulum is a good way to tap into the higher self. As you become more proficient or adept, the intuition becomes stronger. The pendulum can be used in healing, energy balancing, finding missing objects and other uses.
Does it matter what the pendulum is made from?
Yes and no. It depends on the dowser as well as the purpose. For beginners it should not matter.
How do I use a pendulum?
Very simplistically, these are some of the motions which a pendulum could trace.
A. Clockwise B. Anti-clockwise
C. Side to side D. Back and forth

Hold a pendulum cord between thumb and forefinger about three to four inches above the pendulum and let it hang more or less motionless. Keep your feet and arms uncrossed, breath normally and don’t try too hard!
Hold the pendulum like this


Taking each motion in turn try to get your pendulum to move in each of the directions drawn. If you have problems with the circular motions at first, try a straight line until you get used to making the pendulum move. The pendulum reacts to micro-pulses in your muscles so try to be relaxed, and do not hold your arm too rigidly. If you arm begins to ache, let your elbow rest on a table in front of you, or on an armrest to your side.
Practise just getting the pendulum to move in the various directions for about 30 minutes, and then take a break.
When you are feeling refreshed, hold the pendulum up again, and ask a question mentally that you know the answer is 'yes' ie Is my name ....... (with your name filled in) You can ask mentally or out loud, the choice is yours. Wait a few seconds for a reaction, which could be one of the motions described above. You now know how the pendulum will react when the answer to your question is ‘Yes’
Next ask a question mentally that you know the answer is 'no'. The pendulum will now move in another direction. Some people have a very noticeable twitch or spasm in the arm, sending the pendulum into motion immediately. The idea is for any movement to be unconscious and not directly influenced by wishful thinking.
Next ask the direction that signifies “I don’t know”
Next ask what direction signifies “I do not wish to tell you”
Various reactions will be obtained by different people and you will establish your own convention. For example, some people find A to be yes and B to be no or vice versa. For those using a pendulum for the first time, don't worry if you do not get a consistent reaction or no reaction at all. A little practice will get results, so don't force it. If you get stuck, you can contact me via this website.
Choosing a pendulum
Choose a basic or general dowsing pendulum for general dowsing, e.g. yes and no questioning. This could be a conical or rounded pendulum. In essence it is best to choose the pendulum that you feel drawn to, or that you like the look of. Let instinct be your guide here.
I have a selection of pendulums for sale. They are on this page