Residents of the Spirit realm have countless ways of letting you know they’re around. Butterflies, birds, coins, numbers, bursts of electricity, songs on the radio are just a few of the conduits they use to reach out to the living.

But sometimes when a relative or friend passes, those left behind wait in vain for a message. A question I hear over and over again is “I have been watching and waiting for a sign, but nothing is coming through – what can I do?”

Here’s my advice for anyone seeking to establish a connection with someone in the Spirit world.

If it’s not them – it may be you! Here’s how you might be blocking communications.

There’s a difference between being open to Spirit signs, and just trying too hard. Just like many things in life, the harder you push the less likely you are to get what you want. Set your intention and trust that the universe will deliver the message you have been waiting for. It also helps to meditate – a regular practice puts you in a mindful, receptive state that allows your natural intuition and paranormal awareness to flourish.

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Be proactive and gently invite Spirit in

I like to say that your angels, Spirit guides and loved ones on the other side all have something in common. They’re polite! They are around you, but except in extreme circumstances, they won’t make their presence known unless you invite them.

Here are some techniques to try:

1. See the world from their point of view. I call this “merging with Spirit.” I often lead members of the audience through this exercise during my demonstrations, but you can try it at home. Open your mind and picture a loved one in the Spirit world. Now imagine that you are seeing through their eyes, feeling with their hands, and experiencing their emotions. Let whatever thoughts they have channel through you. You’ll experience an unparalleled closeness with this soul that will linger long after you have finished this exercise.

2. Hold an article to focus on. It’s no surprise that people who have lost a loved one often cling to a piece of jewelry, an article of clothing, even a car or bicycle that belonged to the departed. These items contain energy from their previous owner. Not only do they provide a comforting reminder, but they can help you to bridge the gap to make a connection. When you want to bring the Spirit close, hold the item and visualize your loved one, then invite them to send you a sign, answer a question, or simply share the space with you. 

3. Create a symbolic language. To keep a loved one close, create your own rituals and signals that let them know you’re thinking of them. For example, a friend of mine always touches her heart when thoughts of her deceased mother pop into her head. You might knock on the dashboard of your car to invite Spirit to ride along with you, or hum a tune when you need Spirit’s guidance. Be on the lookout for signs that your signal has been received! 

4. Write Their Biography and ask them to come into your mind to fill in the gaps. Writing is one of my favorite ways to invite Spirit in. Try writing a story about the deceased, and open your mind to let them share details, feelings and insights about the event.

Use these techniques to bridge the gap and connect with the other side. You can use them anytime, anywhere – and the more you practice them the closer you will feel to your angels, guides and departed loved ones.

For a first class ticket to the Other Side, you’ll want to explore my new online immersion course A Day in the Spirit World. For anyone who has ever wondered “How does my loved one spend their time in heaven?” this innovative course is designed to give you one more day with someone special.