The alchemy of writing by hand

With my mother, Helen Marks, at my parents' 50th anniversary celebration

My mother, whose 85th birthday we celebrated in January, remains one of the wisest and most well-read people I know. She often writes by hand, and recently remarked on the very thing that makes this process so transformative: “My hand knows what it wants to say when my brain doesn’t. I think there is some outlet that is connected to your deepest feelings.”

When I asked my mom how she would explain this phenomenon, she said, “I don’t have any logical explanation. As soon as I have a pen [in hand], it just flows. Your hand somehow shows you the way." 

According to neuroscience educator Dr. Melissa Hughes, writing by hand helps sharpen your focus and comprehension, and enables a stronger access to emotions. “Writing by hand isn’t just a nostalgic throwback to a simpler time," she says, "It's a powerful cognitive tool.”

A 2024 study at Norwegian University found that writing by hand syncs up areas of the brain that are crucial to memory formation, which enhances both memory and learning. It also helps the mind access and explore thoughts and feelings more easily.

As both a writer and instructor, I've experienced and witnessed the emergence of memories, images, and ideas on the page. Through the process of writing, we unearth what matters most to us, release repressed emotions, process experiences, reframe our perspectives, envision our best lives and take steps towards manifesting them. This seemingly simple practice has been pivotal in helping me work through some of my most challenging life experiences.

If you're interested in exploring this transformative writing practice, please reach out. I offer both group workshops and one-one-one coaching. Visit Red Balloon to learn more about my writing background and this site for more information about coaching.

My mother as a child in Belgium