Opening and closing an EVP Recording Session the Right Way

By Todd Bates – EVP Explorations

When conducting Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) sessions, most investigators focus heavily on the recording equipment, the questions being asked, and the environment. But what often goes overlooked—or is hastily done—is the proper opening and closing of an EVP session. At EVP Explorations, we emphasize that these are not optional steps, but critical pillars of responsible and effective paranormal research.

Whether you’re a seasoned investigator or new to the field, how you begin and end your session will directly affect not only your results but your own energetic safety and the respect you show to any possible presences. This article walks you through a complete, professional-grade method for opening and closing EVP sessions the EVP Explorations way.

Why Opening and Closing Matters

Imagine walking into someone’s home without knocking or leaving without saying goodbye. It’s rude—and potentially disruptive. Spirits, entities, or lingering energies—whatever your belief—deserve the same respect you’d show a living person.

• Opening the session sets the tone, provides structure, and signals your intention to any energies present.
• Closing the session creates closure, asserts your boundaries, and ensures you aren’t carrying anything with you after you leave.

More than etiquette, these steps serve as spiritual hygiene, keeping your investigations clean, focused, and free from unnecessary attachments or confusion.

How to Open an EVP Session (Step-by-Step)

1. Control Your Environment

Before you even begin:

• Find a quiet location with as little external noise as possible.
• Turn off non-essential electronics and alerts.
• Make sure all participants are briefed on the process and aware of how EVP sessions work.

2. Ground and Center Yourself

This isn’t fluff—it’s important.

• Take a moment to breathe deeply.
• Visualize a protective field around you (a white light, a bubble, etc.).
• Set the mental intention to remain calm, focused, and safe.

3. Verbally Document the Session

Start your recorder and clearly state:

• The date, time, and location.
• The names of all investigators present.
• Weather or environmental conditions (especially for outdoor or historical locations).

This establishes a factual record and adds credibility to your session.

4. Introduce Yourself with Respect

Spirits were once people. Talk to them like you would anyone else:

“Hello, my name is Todd. I come in peace and with full respect. I’m here to communicate and listen. If anyone wishes to speak, you may do so freely through this device.”

Avoid provocation. You’re not here to challenge or demand—you’re here to connect.

5. Ask for Permission

This is often skipped, but very important.

“If it’s alright with you, I’d like to ask a few questions. You’re not required to respond, but I will be listening closely if you do.”

Giving spirits the agency to choose whether to respond builds trust and may enhance communication quality.

6. Begin with Direct, Clear Questions

• Keep questions simple, one at a time.
• Allow 10–20 seconds of silence after each one.
• Use pauses to allow for a response, not back-to-back talking.

Examples:

• “Is there anyone here with me tonight?”
• “Do you know the name of this place?”
• “Would you like to share a message?”

Record each question with intentional silence in between to give ample opportunity for replies.

How to Properly Close an EVP Session

1. Thank Any Entities Present

Even if you heard nothing, or had no interaction:

“Thank you for your time. I appreciate any efforts you made to communicate.”

Gratitude is part of respect. It also acknowledges the energy exchange that may have occurred.

2. Announce the Session is Ending

Be clear, firm, and intentional.

“This session is now closed. I am turning off this device. Any communication is now ending.”

Clarity here is key. Think of it as energetically hanging up a phone.

3. Establish Boundaries

This is especially important if you’re in a location known for intense or residual energy.

“You are not allowed to follow me, attach to me, or come with me. You must remain here or return to where you belong.”

Say it like you mean it.

4. Perform a Personal and Environmental Reset

Some investigators use:

• Sage, palo santo, or sound cleansing
• Cold water over hands
• Standing outside in natural light
• Prayer, meditation, or grounding breathwork

Even something as simple as walking away with a deep breath and firm intention can clear residual energy.

5.  Log Your Session

Afterward:

• Note the location, time, questions, feelings, and anything unusual.
• Immediately label and backup your recording.
• Keep organized records for analysis and comparison.

Final Thoughts

At EVP Explorations, we teach that EVP isn’t just a scientific experiment—it’s a spiritual dialogue. Whether you’re speaking into the void or genuinely making contact, the way you carry yourself through the beginning and end of your session speaks volumes. The energy you bring in is the energy you invite in.

Treat each session with integrity, patience, and purpose, and your results will reflect it.

 Want to Learn More?

We offer free resources, investigative tools, and step-by-step EVP analysis courses designed by professionals with decades of field experience.

Visit evpexplorations.com to start your journey.

Let EVP Explorations help you explore the unexplained—the right way.