Practical Psychomancy and Crystal Gazing

by William Walker Atkinson

"Practical Psychomancy and Crystal Gazing" by William Walker Atkinson is a comprehensive instructional manual written in the early 20th century. The work delves into various psychic phenomena, including the practice of Psychomancy, which involves using what the author describes as Astral Senses to perceive events across distances in time and space. It serves both as a theoretical discussion of the principles underlying these phenomena and a practical guide for those seeking to develop their own psychic abilities. The beginning of the text introduces the concept of Psychomancy and defines key terms relevant to the practice, such as the Astral Body and the Astral Plane. Atkinson emphasizes the importance of understanding the Astral Senses, which he claims operate distinctly from the physical senses. The initial chapters outline how students can begin to cultivate their psychic faculties through concentration and visualization exercises, setting the stage for later lessons on methods like crystal gazing or psychometry. This opening portion establishes a foundational understanding of the subject, preparing readers to engage with more advanced concepts in the subsequent lessons.