What unique techniques does Brian D Smith recommend for communicating with the afterlife?

I lean less on “unique secret tricks” and more on clear, repeatable practices that fit a modern, evidence-based worldview. Here are some I often recommend:

• Invited signs with “rules of engagement”
  Ask your loved one for a specific, unlikely sign (a phrase, song, number pattern) within a clear window of time. Then, don’t white-knuckle it—notice, but don’t chase. This balances openness with healthy skepticism.

• Dialoguing in writing
  Sit quietly, address your loved one by name, ask a question, then free-write whatever arises. Don’t judge in the moment; review later looking for loving, consistent, non-fear-based messages.

• Dream incubation
  Before bed, speak to your loved one, ask for a visit, and set the intention: “Please come if it’s right and help me remember.” Keep a notebook by the bed. Write whatever you recall immediately upon waking—sometimes the “feel” of the dream is more important than the storyline.

• Symbol dictionaries that are personal, not generic
  Together with your loved one (out loud or in your heart), agree on a few symbols that are meaningful to you (a specific bird, joke, object). When they show up in remarkable ways, count that as “hits,” but always consider chance and context.

• Mindfulness as a ‘signal booster’
  Simple breath or body-focused meditation trains you to notice subtle impressions—images, phrases, bodily sensations—that might otherwise be drowned out by anxiety or grief spikes.

I also emphasize using open-minded skepticism: track experiences, look for patterns over time, and avoid building your life on a single sign. Love is persistent; if it’s real contact, it tends to repeat and deepen.

Would you like ideas tailored to a specific loved one or type of sign you’re hoping for?