5 of the most common types of haunting
Do you believe in ghosts? Whether you do or not, there are countless stories of hauntings happening all over the world. People have reported seeing apparitions, hearing strange noises, and feeling an eerie presence in their homes or workplaces. Some say they have even been physically touched by ghosts!
While many people write off these experiences as coincidences or imagining things, there is no denying that something strange is happening to those who experience them. So what exactly are hauntings? And what causes them? Let’s take a look at the five most common types of hauntings…
Residual hauntings – where energy from a past event is imprinted on the environment
Residual hauntings are one of the most common types of hauntings reported. This type of haunting often deals with energy from a past event that is imprinted on a place or environment. It is believed to be a recorded psychic impression left over from the emotional intensity of an event in the past that could have been anything from a tragic death to violence, trauma, and even extreme joy.
These impressions often appear in the form of spectrums, lights, and sounds that can appear so real it seems as though you are watching a movie replay again and again – which makes sense because researchers believe these scenes usually happen without people being present as they occured in real life. Even though residual hauntings may not involve interaction with spirits, they can still be quite frightening due to the realistic nature of their manifestations.
Interactive hauntings – where ghosts or spirits interact with the living
Interactive hauntings are some of the most intriguing experiences in paranormal studies, as spiritual entities actively engage with the living. Those who have encountered this phenomenon describe a wide range of encounters; from hearing voices and unexplained laughter to full-fledged apparitions appearing and engaging in conversation, or even manipulating physical objects.
It is generally accepted that interactive hauntings are caused by spirits who have been ‘trapped’ in our realm due to unfinished business from their own lives, causing them to linger and become trapped between worlds. Whether acting out of anger and retribution, or for comfort and understanding, these phenomena can result in curious delusions that leave a lasting impression on those who have had the fortune (or misfortune) to encounter it.
Poltergeist activity – where objects move or are thrown around by an unseen force
Poltergeist activity is one of the most mysterious types of hauntings. Although the spirits behind such phenomena are elusive, their presence is certainly made known when furniture and objects begin moving or flying through the air seemingly on their own. It is unclear why poltergeists behave in this manner – some believe it is due to residual energy from a traumatic event or an agitated spirit bound to a particular location. Whatever the cause, these kinds of hauntings can be some of the most inexplicably unsettling experienced by those who witness them.
Demonic activity – where demons or other malevolent entities terrorize people
Demonic activity is an extreme form of haunting where people are terrorized by malevolent entities, often embodied as demons or other dark spirits. Such hauntings often involve extremely disturbing circumstances, ranging from noises and strange smells to physical manifestations and feelings of fear or dread. Victims may witness objects moving on their own, experience poltergeist phenomena like the levitation of furniture, or even be subject to possession by the demonic entity.
Those who have experienced demonic hauntings report occurrences that seem to defy logic, leaving them exhausted and deeply traumatized. To make matters worse, these dark entities can often be relentless in torturing their victims far beyond the limits that would normally be considered humane.
Angelic activity – where angels or other benevolent beings offer guidance and support
When it comes to angelic activity, many people feel a sense of peace and comfort. As experienced during these hauntings, benevolent beings such as angels may visit the living in order to provide guidance, comfort and protection. These angelic presences have the ability to help us make decisions that are in our best interest. During such events, oftentimes objects or symbols from the beyond are left as signs of hope and guidance. While anyone could potentially encounter angelic activity, it is reported more often near holy places like churches or other areas considered sacred. In summary, angelic activity brings a reassuring sense that we are being watched over by benevolent forces and protection will be offered when needed most.
So, what types of hauntings have you experienced? Have you been able to identify which category they fit into? If you’re still not sure, don’t worry – there are plenty of experts who can help you figure it out. And if you’re interested in learning more about the different types of hauntings, be sure to check out our other blog posts on the topic. Thanks for reading!
