Seeing a ghost can be a shocking, frightening, or even awe-inspiring experience. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, encountering an apparition can leave you unsure how to react. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you see a ghost, how to stay calm, and when to seek help.

1. Stay Calm & Assess the Situation

• Don’t panic. Fear can amplify negative energy.
• Take deep breaths (try the 4-7-8 method: inhale 4 sec, hold 7 sec, exhale 8 sec).
• Ask yourself:
  • Is this a trick of the light? (Check mirrors, shadows, reflections.)
  • Could it be sleep paralysis or a hypnagogic hallucination? (Common when half-asleep.)

2. Observe Without Engaging

• Note details: Appearance, movement, sounds, smells.
• Does it feel threatening? (Some spirits are harmless; others may be unsettling.)
• Avoid sudden movements or screaming—this may provoke energy.

3. Speak Firmly (If You Choose to Engage)

• Set boundaries: Say, “You are not welcome here. Leave in peace.”
• Ask questions (if friendly): “Who are you? What do you want?” (Some spirits seek closure.)
• Never taunt or challenge a spirit—this can escalate activity.

4. Protect Your Energy

• Visualize white light surrounding you for protection.
• Carry or wear protective items:
  • Black tourmaline, obsidian, or salt (believed to repel negative energy).
  • A religious symbol (cross, om, hamsa) if it brings comfort.

5. Document the Experience

• Write it down: Time, location, emotions felt.
• Check for evidence:
  • Record EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena) with your phone.
  • Take photos/video (look for orbs, mists, shadows).
• Compare notes: Have others in the house experienced similar things?

6. Cleanse Your Space (If Needed)

• Smudge with sage or palo santo (walk clockwise, focus on corners/doorways).
• Use sound cleansing: Bells, singing bowls, or clapping to disrupt stagnant energy.
• Sprinkle salt at entryways (a traditional barrier against spirits).

7. When to Seek Help

• If activity is aggressive: Physical touches, scratches, violent poltergeist-like events.
• If you feel drained or oppressed: Unexplained fatigue, depression, or dread.
• Consult:
  • A paranormal investigator (for documentation).
  • A medium or spiritual leader (for clearing rituals).
  • A therapist (if experiencing anxiety or sleep disturbances).

8. Psychological Explanations to Consider

• Carbon monoxide poisoning (can cause hallucinations—check detectors!).
• Infrasound (low-frequency sounds from appliances may trigger unease).
• Sleep disorders (night terrors, sleep paralysis).

Final Thought

Not all ghostly encounters are sinister—some spirits may be lost, residual energy, or even protective presences. Trust your intuition, and if the experience feels harmful, take action to reclaim your space.

👻 Have you ever seen a ghost? Share your story below!