How to Practice Automatic Writing

Messages From Beyond

Many hands on a huge pencil
Photo: Joos Mind / Getty Images

Automatic writing is an old form of divination in which messages seem to come out of nowhere through your hand and onto paper. Some who have attempted this form of mediumship have written lengthy messages, songs -- even complete novels.

Difficulty: Hard

Time Required: 15 minutes to an hour

Automatic Writing Procedure

  1. Find a quiet spot without distractions.
  2. Sit at a table or desk where you'll be comfortable, with paper and pen (or pencil).
  3. Take a few moments to clear your mind.
  4. Touch the pen or pencil to the paper.
  5. Try not to consciously write anything.
  6. While keeping your mind as clear as possible, let your hand write whatever comes across.
  7. Avoid looking at the paper; you might even keep your eyes closed.
  8. Give it time to happen (nothing might happen for quite a while).
  9. When it seems to be done, if and when automatic writing does occur, look over what your hand has produced carefully. The writing may appear to be nonsense or just scribbling, but try to decipher it as best as possible.
  10. In addition to letters and numbers, look for pictures or symbols in the writing as well.
  11. Keep trying. Nothing might happen your first few attempts.
  12. If you start to achieve success, you can try asking questions to see if you can receive responses.

Tips

  1. There is no guarantee that automatic writing will work for you, but don't give up if it doesn't work the first few times. Give it a chance.
  2. Be aware of psychological dangers. Some messages that come across might be disturbing. If you're at all not able to handle this possibility, don't attempt automatic writing.

What You Need

  • Pencil or pen
  • Paper

Other Techniques

What about using the modern writing tools of today to automatic write? Could you use a keyboard on your computer or even text on your mobile device to channel messages from beyond? Might be worth a try.