Smoky quartz pendulum. Pendulums are often used as tools for spiritual healing and inner growth. Defined as objects attached at the end of a string or metal chain, when suspended from a stationary position, a pendulum will swing back and forth or in a circular motion. They are used as a form of reflection by asking questions to receive guidance, awareness, and understanding. Understand the Directional Swings: Pendulums swing in vertical straight lines, horizontal straight lines, and in circular movements. This can be done side-by-side, front and back, clockwise, counterclockwise, in an elliptical motion, or even in a bobbing movement up and down, which often indicates a strong affirmative action. Define the Directional Swings: Assign each directional swing a "response" by first asking the pendulum to show you what certain responses look like. For example, start off by asking, "What does a NO look like?" and subsequently, "What does a YES look like?" Posing these questions to your pendulum will help define directional swings, which must happen before advancing to more challenging questions.