What Is a Pendulum? A Beginner-to-Badass Guide to Tapping Into Your Inner Wisdom

 

If you’ve ever seen someone holding a crystal on a chain and watching it swing like it holds the secrets of the universe… you’ve witnessed pendulum magic in action!

But what is a pendulum, really? And how do you use one without feeling like you need a degree in divination?

Let’s break it down! Whether you’re pendulum-curious or already vibing with your favorite stone on a string.

What Is a Pendulum?

A pendulum is a simple tool used for accessing intuition, spirit guidance, and subconscious truth. Usually made from a weighted object (like a gemstone and/or metal) suspended on a chain or string, it swings in response to energy!  Yours, the Earth’s, or whatever guidance is coming through! (How cool is that?)

At Bloom and Glow, we carry pendulums made from high-vibe crystals, like selenite, labradorite, black tourmaline, and more. They're not just pretty, they’re functional, intentional tools for spiritual self-care and clarity.

How to Use a Pendulum (Beginner Basics)

1. Cleanse Your Pendulum
Before your first use, cleanse it! You can:

 - Run it through incense or palo santo smoke
 - Place it in moonlight
 - Sit it on a piece of selenite overnight
 - Say a prayer or intention to clear its energy

2. Set the Space
Find a calm spot, take a few deep breaths, and ground yourself. You’re not summoning spirits here, you’re accessing your own deep knowing. Stay calm and relaxed. 

3. Get to Know How Your Pendulum Tells you “Yes” and “No”
Hold the top of the chain between your fingers and let the pendulum dangle freely. Ask:

 - “Show me yes.”
 - “Show me no.”
 - “Show me maybe.”

Notice how it moves, does it spin clockwise, counterclockwise, side to side, or forward and back? That’s your pendulum’s language, it’s different for everyone, and it can change over time. 

4. Start Asking Clear Questions
Stick to yes/no questions. Try:

 - “Is this food aligned with my body today?”
 - “Is it a good time to rest?”
 - “Should I follow up on that job lead?”
 - The clearer your question, the clearer your answer.

5. Trust and Practice
Your pendulum mirrors your energy. If you’re frazzled or second-guessing, it might be too. Stay neutral, open, and grounded for the best results. Don’t get frustrated. Give yourself grace.

Tips for Advanced Users

Already swinging with confidence? Here are ways to deepen your practice:

Use a Pendulum Board
These boards have marked sections for YES / NO / MAYBE or even alphabet/numbers for more complex answers. Great for channeling messages or narrowing down options.

Chakra Balancing
Hold your pendulum over each chakra and observe the movement. A steady, clockwise spin usually means balanced energy; erratic or no movement may signal a block.

Ask for Timelines or Layers
With practice, you can ask:

 - “Is this happening this month?”
 - “Is this something I need to act on now or later?”
Advanced pendulum work is about nuance, not certainty. Think of it like intuitive feedback, not a crystal ball. (You won’t be getting those winning lottery numbers! Unfortunately!)

 Work with Guides or Higher Self
Some people open their sessions with a request like:
 - “I call on my highest self and loving guides to assist me in getting clear answers.”
This keeps your practice grounded in love and discernment.

Choosing the Right Pendulum

The best pendulum is the one you feel connected to.
If you’re drawn to clear quartz, maybe it’s time to speak your truth. If Amazonite catches your eye, you might be needing support to speak your truth. Let your intuition choose! That’s kind of the whole point, right?!

Ready to Start?

Explore our current selection of crystal pendulums here. Each one comes in a black velvet bag to keep it safely stored and protected. 

Whether you’re using your pendulum to check in with your body, fine-tune your energy, or just connect more deeply to yourself, you’re doing something beautiful.

And remember! Pendulums aren’t magic. You are!