Do You Believe that Paranormal Activity or Ghosts Really Exist?

While cultural differences and religious beliefs often influence whether a person believes or disbelieves in the presence of ghosts or some other entities (either organic or inorganic entities) , it is fair to say that personal experiences with the unexplained can - and often do - change everything about a person's life. These personal experiences can be so intense, that many people are unable to shake the feeling that we are not alone. For some, the answer as to whether or not they believe that something beyond our perceptive capabilities exists is not summed up in a simple answer, but is easier explained with their descriptive tale of a ghostly encounter.

We've all heard the campground ghost story that sounds so unbelievably spectacular - yet we wonder if there was an element of truth in its past. Other stories sound so flimsy and leave so much open to debate that they are often dismissed as a figment of the imagination. However, in recent years, it seems that there is much more talk about paranormal activity than in previous generations. Are there more people having these paranormal experiences - or are we just more accepting of the possibilities of what could be? Some have said that the psychoactive drugs that were so popular in the 60's, 70's, and 90's have shaped the minds of those who now claim to see ghosts. They suggest that those who claim to have had paranormal experiences should "see someone" for help - or worse, medication! Some communities even negatively judge those who have had such an experience, and believe they should be religiously shunned or ridiculed. But perhaps there is both a deeper explanation of our increasing interest in the paranormal and an increased number of paranormal incidences, as well.

If either is true, that there are 1) more people having these experiences and 2) we are more accepting of the possibilities of what could be - then it is fairly safe to say that we, as a people, are moving towards a state of increased awareness. Some people refer to it as being part of a higher consciousness, or many people having a collective consciousness. This does not in any way imply that we should believe the same. We are all individual people, each having our own set of personal and religious beliefs. Many will argue that their own beliefs are correct, but all over the world - people from all walks of life and religious backgrounds (as well as those who have no religious beliefs) are beginning to share something unique and fantastic in common - paranormal and unexplained experiences.

Dos and Do Nots of Ghost Hunting

There are many dos and don't dos associated with ghost hunting. To name a few:

• DON'T FREAK OUT - if something is seen, and definitely not in front of clients!
• Respect the dead and the supernatural - do not step on their graves or gravestones, talk nicely.
• Don't whisper or behave in a secretive or suspicious manner.
• Don't go on a ghost hunt alone.
• Don't tresspass.
• Don't litter, and pick up after yourselves.
• Be willing to train and attend team meetings.
• Don't hunt in bad weather.
• DO have an open mind.
• DO have fun.

Cemeteries, museums, residential homes, churches, hospitals, parks - it doesn't matter. Ghost hunting is fun, if you follow the rules. They're there for a reason.

Tools of the Trade

there are many tools and equipment that the ghost hunters use during an investigation. All kinds of knick-knack's and toys, well not really toys. Some of this equipment the ghost hunters have can run into thousands of dollars. These include:

• EVP recorders
• EMF readers
• Video, Microphones
• Infrared, Binoculars
• 35mm cameras, Digital cameras
• Motion Sensors
• Flashlights, Extra Batteries
• 2-way Radios
• Laptops (including various programs)
• Extra Clothing

You also have to consider that if you have a team - you have multiple tools to hand out. Oh, oh - and SUVs or vans to carry the team!

Author's Thoughts: There are some people that are on Paranormal Investigation Teams that have the gift of being able to "feel" the energy of spirits. Then there are also some of us that just don't have that vibe and need to resort to the equipment and the tools of the trade. I am a Paranormal Investigator, and have been in interest of this field for 20 years. I still do and probably always will use my tools. There are many tools to your disposal, if you need to use them. Till next time . . . PEACE.

1 out of 10 Spirits are Real

If going on a ghost hunt is in your plans for the near future, you might want to consider a couple of things. First: Ghost hunting is like fishing. Gear up and get ready to stay a while and "hurry up and wait" (ths U.S. Army's favorite saying) not every investigation is going to show positive findings. As a matter of fact, most hunting trips you come up empty. You have to learn to be patient and have a positive outlook on things. A good rule to follow is: 1 out of 10 hauntings that you investigate are going to show a positive finding and real evidence, meaning it could take some time. But don't be discouraged, it's normal. Even for the best of us. Hey, but when you do really see a ghost or some kind of paranormal activity, Prepare! And if you are a skeptic, then hold onto something stable, because it will scare the crapola out of you. I enjoy seeing the expression on the skeptic's face, now that's funny!
Written by Bulldogg

Exploring the World of Ghost Hunters and Paranormal Investigators

Most people don't realize how may haunted places there are here in the great state of Oregon. There are literally over 150 places of business reported to be haunted by visitors, caretakers, and patrons, and this is not including private residences that report paranormal activity.

One out of 10 paranormal sounds or sightings are provide true and positive findings. It seems that today, ghosts and paranormal activity are the subject of many conversations, and many people's favorite topic. Ghosts, hauntings, and paranormal activity - I get a lot of questions about all of it. Most people want to know how to go about an investigation of a haunting or report of ghostly activity, but let me tell you - it's not easy. You typically spend a good amount of money, time and energy with few rewards in return. But when you see or hear something that is unexplainable by every definition of modern science or other debunking methods, it is so worth it.

There are a lot of "Do"s and "Don't"s in this field, and although no regulations exist, and there is no experience necessary, there is a certain amount of courage of knowhow that is required, as well as an understanding of what you could be dealing with. It's not just going in and - Wham - ghosts! There are ways of doing things, and things to remember that keep the team safe - and more importantly - maintaining control over reactions, or in other words - Don't freak out.

Some paranormal investigations companies function much in the same way as Ghost P.A.R.T.I. in that we are a team of people from various walks of life that have an interest in and a belief that there is something else in our presence - beyond just ourselves. Ghost hunters and paranormal investigators use each and every outing as a learning or training experience, and exist generally to satisfy personal need, to debunk ghosts and hauntings, or to find or capture proof that something unexplainable exists.

One of the famous "Do"s is to try to talk to a ghost if you encounter one. (Ha Ha Ha!) Well it's true. Ask questions, permission to take pictures, explain what you are doing to try to provoke a response from the possible entity. But again, remember not to freak out! It is an extremely common response, but don't do it anyway! Be nice and compassionate and talk clearly. There are different types of ghosts or entities that you may encounter, but we will discuss those in another post. Most commonly, people experience what is referred to as a "residual" haunting, and are generally considered a safe type of experience. This may include a feeling of presence, sounds of footsteps or voices, and may be heard or seen at specific times.