How to Start an Automatic Writing Practice

Automatic writing, also known as channeled writing, is one of the most magical tools in my spiritual toolbox. If you’re feeling called to connect with your guides and receive messages through writing, this practice may be just what you need. In this guide, Iโ€™ll walk you through how to get started and deepen your experience with channeled writing.


What is Channeled Writing?

Channeled writing is the practice of opening yourself to messages from your spirit guides, higher self, or loved ones in the spiritual realm. It is a form of automatic writing, where you put pen to paper (or hands to keyboard) and allow the words to flow without conscious thought. Instead of controlling what you write, you surrender to the process, letting your hand move freely as messages come through.

Some people receive clear words or phrases, while others may experience more abstract messagesโ€”symbols, scribbles, or even emotions that take shape in writing. Trust that whatever comes through is exactly what you need in that moment.


How to Begin Channeled Writing

1. Create a Sacred Space

Find a quiet, comfortable place where you can write undisturbed. To set the mood:

  • Light candles or burn incense to raise the energy.
  • Play soft, instrumental music if it helps you relax.
  • Hold a crystal (like amethyst or selenite) to enhance your connection.
  • Take a few deep breaths to center yourself before beginning.

2. Set a Clear Intention

Before you start, set a strong intention for your session. You might ask to connect with a specific spirit guide, receive insight on a situation, or simply be open to any messages that come through.

To ground yourself in this intention:

  • Place your hand on your heart.
  • Take a few deep breaths, feeling yourself become present.
  • Silently or aloud, say: โ€œI am open to receiving guidance for my highest good.โ€

If youโ€™re unsure what to ask, here are 18 Questions to Ask Your Spirit Guides to help guide your practice.

3. Relax and Begin Writing

Once you feel ready:

  • Take a few deep breaths to release any tension.
  • Place your pen on paper or fingers on the keyboard.
  • Write whatever comes through, without judgment or overthinking.
  • If you feel drawn to doodle, scribble, or write nonsense words, let it happenโ€”sometimes messages come in unexpected ways.
  • If nothing comes through right away, be patient. Just keep writing, even if itโ€™s only โ€œI donโ€™t know what to writeโ€ until the energy begins to flow.

4. Trust the Process

One of the biggest challenges with channeled writing is learning to trust the messages. Doubt can creep in, making you question whether what youโ€™re writing is real or just your imagination.

Hereโ€™s how to cultivate trust:

  • Let go of the need for immediate validation.
  • Accept that not all messages will make sense right away.
  • Notice patterns or recurring themes in your writing over time.
  • Reflect on past writingsโ€”often, their meaning becomes clear later.

5. Close the Session with Gratitude

When you feel the flow slowing down, itโ€™s time to close the session. Hereโ€™s how:

  • Take a few deep breaths to ground yourself.
  • Thank the guides or energies you connected with for their wisdom.
  • Set an intention to integrate the guidance you received.
  • Express gratitude for yourself and your practice.

6. Practice Without Expectations

Like any spiritual practice, channeled writing takes time to develop. The more you do it, the stronger your connection will become. Try to write every day, even for just a few minutes. Some days will feel effortless, while others might be more challengingโ€”and thatโ€™s okay.

Give yourself permission to explore without pressure. Some messages may be profound, others simple. Trust that all of it is part of the journey.


Ready to Go Deeper?

If youโ€™re looking for more guidance on channeled writing, check out our Introduction to Channeled Writing Workbook on Etsy, designed to help you refine your practice and strengthen your intuitive connection.

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