How did automatic writing become a popular psychic practice?

Automatic writing became a widely recognized psychic practice during the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during the rise of the Spiritualist movement. Practitioners believed that spirits could guide their hands to write messages from beyond the physical world.

This method gained popularity due to its simplicity—requiring only pen, paper, and a relaxed mind—and the belief that anyone could become a medium with enough focus and openness to spiritual energies.

✍️ Spiritual Communication Tool

Automatic writing was seen as a direct way for mediums to receive messages from spirit guides, deceased loved ones, or higher beings.

📚 Influential Figures

Psychics and spiritual authors often credited automatic writing for books and teachings said to be dictated by spiritual entities.

🧘 Practice & Trance States

Many practitioners entered meditative or trance-like states to allow their hands to move freely, bypassing conscious control.

🌐 Spread Through Séances

The technique became common during séances and psychic circles, where participants sought written answers to their deepest questions.