How to Use Automatic Writing to Connect to Spirit
Sometimes we want to connect to spirit but feel blocked or anxious. Other times, we tell ourselves we either don’t know how or don’t have the time. Luckily, there’s an easy (and fun) way to connect to spirit, and it can be done in just a few minutes.
Automatic writing is something anyone can do if they’re willing to surrender and trust the process. With this type of writing, you calm your mind (even for a short time) and ask a question. You then begin writing without stopping or censoring, usually for five to ten minutes.
This type of writing is beneficial because it:
- Helps you step aside (or politely – get out of your own way) and allow spirit to come through
- Allows you to disengage your logical and rational mind
- Builds trust in the guidance you’re receiving
Here are three tips to remember before you start:
Write by hand: Studies show that writing by hand is good for the brain. When you write by hand, you allow yourself to be messy, spell things wrong, and be more creative. The act of writing is also shown to relieve stress, which may help you more easily connect to spirit. Automatic writing is an exercise in getting down the message, not creating a term paper with perfect spelling and grammar to turn in for grading.
It may be awkward to start…and that’s perfectly normal: When you start automatic writing, you’ll need to allow yourself to feel vs. think. Learning to trust that what you are scribbling onto the page is “right,” “real,” and “the message” takes time. With practice, you’ll learn to go with the flow and let go of your judgment around what ends up coming through from spirit.
Review and process, but don’t overthink it: Once you’ve finished, you may read what you’ve written. Don’t be shocked if the message sounds nothing like you or is written in a tone and voice that is different from your own. Pull out a few nuggets of wisdom from what you’ve written and express gratitude to spirit for showing up for your highest good.
How to do an automatic writing session:
Prep your space and your mind by trying to go somewhere with minimal distractions and noise. If you need, you can wear headphones and pipe in some (ideally instrumental) soothing music.
Close your eyes and take three to five deep, cleansing breaths.
Ask your spirit guides to join you for the session and offer a word of gratitude to them.
Formulate an open-ended question. These questions start with How or What. Avoid yes or no questions to allow your guides to add more nuance and texture to their answer.
Open your eyes and write your question in a notebook or journal.
Begin writing.
Aim to write for three to five minutes.
When nothing else is coming to you, close your eyes again.
Thank your spirit guides for their help.
Open your eyes and read what you’ve read.
Automatic writing is an excellent way to regularly connect to spirit, and receive messages that are only meant for you. If you choose to make automatic writing a part of your daily spiritual practice, try to do it around the same time each day. This will train you and your spirit guides to expect this kind of communication and can help you fall into your writing practice easily.
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Written by Brooke Davis
Brooke Davis is a tarot teacher and wellness coach who enjoys helping the tarot-curious learn about the cards by using intuition and insight, not just definitions from a book. Her four-course Tarot 101 series is offered online through Discover Your Spiritual Gifts. Register for the next session here.
