Category Archives: mental health

by | August 26, 2024 · 7:12 am

Divine Whispers and the Pursuit of Happiness

In a world plagued by anger and fear, the pursuit of happiness is primarily directed toward external gratification and distractions, causing much pain. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to seek quiet moments of solitude to rediscover true meaning, purpose, and a life of bliss.

The ancient Mystics often interpret the voice of the divine as coming in a whisper, a still voice within the soul, giving guidance and instructions on the spiritual journey, especially when reconnecting with the beauty and harmony found in nature.

Evil draws to what is other

As opposed to the wholeness and beauty of divine creation, the 13th-century Mystic Meister Eckart describes evil as essentially “accidental in its nature: it stands outside, draws and directs things outwards, distracts from inner things, draws to what is other, smacks of otherness of division, withdrawal or falling away. Evil, therefore is nothing but a defect or shortcoming.”

In experiential spirituality the divine is perceived through silent contemplation or in a state of presence and being that transcends concept and language. The Mystics understood divine truth as direct experience rather than surrender to the fixed belief and dogma of religion.

After walking the Camino de Santiago for the first time in 2006 I sensed this “something” of a mystery beyond concept and religion. I have meanwhile walked more than a dozen Caminos, which has for me become an annual retreat of inner reflection. I’ve spoken to hundreds of pilgrims on the Camino who have had a profound transformation in reconnecting with their inner voice whilst walking on this magical path.

But there are also many other ways including the creation of a “quiet space” amid the turmoil of a busy and noisy life.

Between time and eternity

Meister Eckhart describes the soul as created in a place between time and eternity:

“With its highest powers it touches Eternity, with its lower Time. To the extent that the soul is able to withdraw from Time and its concerns, the more God is revealed in it and the more God is speaking in it and by it.”

The whispers from the universe or God can be heard most clearly when the soul transcends the temporal and focuses on the eternal, turning contemplatively inward.

A life of bliss, according to Eckart, is closely aligned to living a “virtuous life” in seeking connection with the divine. Every person has a divine spark within them—a part of God that resides in the soul. A virtuous life involves living in awareness of this divine presence within and allowing it to guide one’s actions.

Eckhart emphasizes the importance of inner purity and detachment from worldly desires and attachments. For him, a virtuous life involves freeing oneself from ego, selfishness, and the distractions of the material world. This detachment allows the soul to be more receptive to God’s presence and to act from a place of divine inspiration rather than personal will.

The famous Sufi poet Rumi describes in one of his lines:

“The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you. Don’t go back to sleep.”

The subtle, quiet communication from the divine comes in moments of stillness when all the senses are sharpened to full presence.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you will be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

Check out also the latest episode on the Living to BE podcast and Youtube with our special guest Matt O’Neill. The topic: Happiness is a Choice

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by | August 20, 2024 · 8:42 am

The words we use matter

Words have a powerful impact on both mental and physical health, and leaders bear a significant responsibility in choosing words that resonate within a nation’s collective consciousness, either undermining or strengthening social cohesion.

When political or thought leaders normalize belittling, insulting, or threatening language, it sets a precedent for their followers to do the same. It has now become almost impossible to discuss an emotional or controversial topic on social media without it devolving into personal attacks.

Positive words can uplift mood, foster a sense of connection, and enhance self-esteem, while negative words can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress.

Repetition of negative words impacts your health

Repeated repetition of words that trigger anger and fear reinforces harmful beliefs and thought patterns, cementing a pessimistic or fearful worldview. They turn on the body’s fight-or-flight response, leading to increased heart rate, elevated cortisol levels, and muscle tension.

A well-known study published in 2015 in the journal Psychological Science analyzed Twitter language from different counties across the United States. The researchers found that the frequency of negative words related to anger, stress, and fatigue was a strong predictor of heart disease mortality in those areas. This predictive power was even stronger than traditional factors like smoking and obesity rates.

Negative social media interactions can turn on stress pathways in the body, leading to chronic inflammation, higher blood pressure, and other risk factors.

Positive affirmations promote mental well-being

In contrast, repeated positive affirmations or mindfulness practices involving positive language can lead to lasting changes in brain pathways, promoting greater mental well-being.

Kind, supportive, and empathetic language strengthens relationships and builds social bonds, which are crucial for mental health. Positive words turn on reward centers in the brain, while negative words trigger fear and pain.

Words can trigger the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, reduce stress levels, and promote relaxation. Here are just some examples of many: love, peace, stillness, breath, kind, smile, cheer, kind, value, and gratitude.

The Power of Mantras and Prayer

Various studies have revealed that recitation of certain prayers and mantras has a particularly positive effect on heart rate variability and cardiovascular health.

The song “Ave Maria,” particularly in its various classical renditions like those by Franz Schubert or Charles Gounod, is known to have a profound calming, and soothing effect on the body and mind. The spiritual connection can evoke feelings of comfort, protection, and spiritual upliftment, quietening the mind and reducing mental chatter.

One of the most widely used and revered mantras in Tibetan Buddhism is “Om Mani Padme Hung”. The mantra is particularly helpful in purifying negative emotions like anger, jealousy, and attachment. Practitioners can cultivate a more compassionate and loving mindset, leading to greater emotional balance and resilience. Chanting the mantra typically involves deep, rhythmic breathing, which can improve oxygenation of the body, enhance lung capacity, and promote a sense of physical calm.

In summary, the words we hear and use in our vocabulary shape who we are, impacting our relationships and our physiological and psychological health.

In moments when the external world pulses with negativity, it’s crucial to establish healthy boundaries and elevate your own vibrational energy. Cultivating a space of stillness, positivity, joy, and self-care becomes essential.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | August 12, 2024 · 3:55 pm

The Power of Forgiveness: Healing and Empowering

A few months after Nelson Mandela was released from 27 years of imprisonment by South Africa’s apartheid regime, I had the extraordinary privilege of meeting him at his home with a small group of journalists.

As I stood in his presence, I couldn’t help but wonder how a man who had endured such immense suffering could radiate such profound kindness and show no desire for retribution toward those who had wronged him.

The answer became clear when he shared a powerful insight: “Forgiveness liberates the soul, it removes fear. That’s why it’s such a powerful weapon.”

A powerful message of leadership

Mandela’s wisdom and unwavering commitment to forgiveness set him apart as a leader of unparalleled stature, guiding his nation from the brink of civil war to the dawn of a modern democracy. His example is a powerful reminder of the qualities of leadership that are so desperately needed in our world today.

Seeking retribution for wrongs committed by others is at the heart of the Middle East conflict and peace will not be found unless Israelis and Palestinians learn to forgive each other. It is difficult enough on a personal level to forgive but wise leaders of a country can make all the difference.

Are you struggling to forgive yourself and others? The biblical story of Joseph is one of the most powerful teachings of how the ways of the universe or God can be very different from the plans we often make in life.

Joseph was slandered, beaten, and sold into slavery by his own brothers because of jealousy. Joseph could have easily succumbed to his fate but he never lost faith that everything in life had purpose and meaning.

The trap of the blame game

Only from such a perspective could he forgive his brothers and move out of the trap of the blame game. He made the best out of his situation to such an extent that Potiphar, the man who bought him on the slave market in Egypt, soon promoted him to a higher position. Later he was put in charge of managing Potiphar’s huge estate.

Potiphar had taken a liking to Joseph and must have been impressed by his kindness, wisdom, and humility. For all intents and purposes, Joseph had made it. But Potiphar’s bored wife had taken just as much a liking to the handsome young Joseph.

Realizing that he would betray his master who had done so much for him, Joseph avoided the advances of Potiphar’s wife who became so upset that she accused him of rape. Joseph was thrown into prison losing everything. He could again have succumbed to despondency.

But it so happens that he meets in prison two of the Pharaoh’s ministers who had lost favor with the ruler. One of them was eventually released from prison and restored to his old position. Only when the Pharaoh had a strange dream did the minister remember the time in prison with Joseph who had impressed him as an interpreter of dreams.

Long story short: Joseph gets released from prison to interpret the Pharaoh’s dream. The essence of the dream was that the ruler had to prepare the country for seven years of drought. Amazingly Joseph’s fortune changed in an instant when the Pharaoh recognized the wisdom of the man he was dealing with.  Joseph is promoted to viceroy of all of Egypt as the righthand man of the most powerful ruler of the world at the time.

Life comes in strange twists and turns

True to the dream interpretation the drought did come and only by wise management of the food and grain resources could countless lives be saved including those of Joseph’s brother and aging father Jacob.

Life comes often in strange twists and turns. Fortunes can be earned and lost overnight. High positions of political power and influence may be gone tomorrow. The amazing story of Joseph is that he never lost trust and faith. By forgiving his brothers and Potiphar’s wife for falsely accusing him, he made peace with himself and could go into trust and humility. From that energy grew his wisdom and incredible foresight to prevent a catastrophe.

Forgiving does not mean approval of wrongdoing

Forgiving does not mean that you are approving of wrongdoing, of abuse, and all the terrible things that humans do to each other. It is making peace with the past in the knowledge that you are the person today because of all of that which you have experienced.

The famous Austrian psychiatrist Victor Frankl only survived the Nazi death camps by telling himself that “everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s one way.”

Forgiveness is self-care at the highest level

Forgiveness requires a conscious decision to release feelings of resentment and vengeance toward someone who has harmed you. It is self-care at the highest level.

Forgiveness allows you to release negative emotions and to move on in life. Remaining locked in hate and retribution keeps you at a low vibrational energy that prevents you from spotting the new opportunities the universe is presenting to you.

By choosing to forgive, you are paving the way to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. You are creating room for positive feelings to flourish.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | July 23, 2024 · 8:03 am

The shooter: A problem of angry young men

A 20-year-old individual with mental health issues narrowly missed assassinating former President Donald Trump, with the bullet missing him by just an inch. While the media highlights the apparent security lapses, the deeper concern lies in the alarming pattern of another troubled, angry young person resorting to gun violence.

Minutes after the incident, both sides of the political spectrum devolved into outlandish conspiracy theories, blaming each other for inciting political extremism with their rhetoric. However, the incident reflects a broader issue: a troubled young man who could have directed his violence at any other prominent person or innocent people in a school or shopping mall.

Young men responsible for mass shootings

Nearly all mass shootings in the United States have been committed by young men. A 2019 report titled “Mass Murder with Firearms: Incidents and Victims, 1999-2013” provides detailed demographic breakdowns, showing that most mass shooters are male and often in their 20s and 30s.

For most people outside the United States, the gun culture and the ease with which deeply disturbed human beings can get access to highly dangerous weapons is incomprehensible.

The man who fired at Trump, Thomas Mathew Crooks, fits the profile of most other shooters such as social isolation, mental health challenges, and access to a firearm. His political views seem ambiguous. We will never know his motives after he was killed by a secret service agent sniper.

Regression into macho-culture

A breakdown of recent European elections and the MAGA culture in the United States reveals that a large swathe of young men are regressing into an unhealthy demagogic macho culture headed by male figureheads, tapping into their grievances, anger, and lack of self-esteem.

Recent studies and statistics show us that young women in their early twenties are crushing it on nearly all levels from education to job performance while men in the same age group are falling behind with a devastating impact on their mental health.

According to the U.S. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in 2020, about 59 percent of all undergraduate students were women, while 41 percent were men. In the 2019-2020 academic year women earned 60 percent of all Masters degrees and 54 percent of all doctoral degrees.

Higher education levels mean higher earnings with women in their early twenties increasingly entering high-paying fields in traditionally male-dominated industries like tech and engineering.

Young men in their early twenties typically report higher rates of substance abuse across various categories. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2020, some 53.4 percent of young men aged 18-25 reported binge drinking in the past month, compared to 40.3 percent of women in the same age group.

Young men typically far outnumber women when it comes to violent crime and the number of prison inmates. While over 1.1 million men serve time in prison in the United States the number of women is only 80,000.

A poll by the Institute of Politics (IOP) at Harvard Kennedy School revealed striking differences between how young Democrats, Republicans, and independents view the role of men and women in society. Young men are increasingly turning away from the Democrats and adopting more conservative Republican ideology.

In a culture where young men have the feeling they are losing out, macho male political extremists are telling them that the system is rigged against them, that immigrants and minorities are responsible for their misery, and that science is a hoax.

Overly rigid “woke” and “cancel culture” sidelines individuals for perceived transgressions contributing to societal divisiveness.

We have seen a dangerous precedent where fascist movements in Germany, Spain, and Italy during the early 1930s were led by charismatic leaders such as Hitler, Mussolini, and Franco. Fascist movements are male-dominated macho cults, emphasizing traditional gender roles. Project 2025, a plan crafted by the Heritage Foundation and various conservative groups emphasizes the role of men as providers and protectors while advocating for women primarily as caretakers and nurturers within the traditional nuclear family context.

Young men turning to the right, women to the left

A strong gender gap in political affiliation can also be detected in countries such as Germany where young men are increasingly turning to more conservative views while women in the same age group tend to vote for progressive parties. Based on recent data, it can be estimated that around 30-35 percent of young men in their early twenties in France support right-wing parties, particularly the National Rally and similar far-right parties.

In the recent European elections, the upsurge in support for right-wing parties was fueled by young voters, especially young men, embracing hardline anti-immigration views. According to pollsters political allegiances forged in young adulthood tend to last for a lifetime with the trend toward radicalism unlikely to ebb anytime soon.

While political parties on the extreme fringes are propagating the message to young men that external circumstances are responsible, the real issue of their pain is not addressed. A multi-faced approach is needed:

  • We urgently need to promote healthy, non-toxic models of masculinity that allow for emotional expression and vulnerability.
  • Peer support groups and mentoring programs can assist young men in sharing their experiences
  • Community-based programs that offer team sports, skill-building workshops, and social support can help reduce social isolation.

We cannot allow demagogues and political cults to poison the minds of young men with a false sense of meaning and purpose with a regression into a macho-culture, glorifying gun culture and confusing self-empowerment with the use of force.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you enjoyed this article you might be interested in my books available where all good books are sold.

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by | July 8, 2024 · 7:13 am

Can religion be an addiction?

Times of uncertainty and rapid social and economic change provide fertile ground for a proliferation of religious and political cults offering „easy solutions“ for deeper underlying issues.

In a positive sense religion can offer sanctuary for like-minded people providing a framework of meaning in a chaotic world. Codes of behavior are offered as a means of salvation from an often unbearable life in the here and now.

It becomes unhealthy where it turns into an addiction characterized by compulsive behaviors and the inability to perceive or discuss any other perspective or alternative.

Adherents might engage in activities to the point where it disrupts their daily life, relationships, work and responsibilities – common to all addictions.

It becomes a coping mechanism, deflecting an underlying past trauma, loss or hurt. Sect and cult leaders are particularly successful in recruiting individuals going through a particularly vulnerable period in their life.

Control and Isolation

The control mechanisms of a cult can be on a very subtle emotional level. Once the member has gone all-in by severing long-term relationships, it becomes very difficult to return to the old life. Few people will admit to having made a mistake or having made the wrong decision after sacrificing the best years of their life and donated all their money to the “movement” or “cause.” We are hard-wired as social beings and it gets very difficult to leave “the cult family”. Those who leave are vilified as traitors to the cause, threatened and in extreme cases harmed physically and mentally.

Group-Think, Lies and Deception

Once in the cult or religious movement you are part of the „group-think bubble“ . Members expressing the faintest doubts or engaging in a critical discourse about the objectives of the movement or the leader are shamed, coerced and brought into line. They will be told that they are “in their ego”, have sinned or strayed from the path. They will be playing on a core fear of most humans – the fear of being excommunicated from the safety of the tribe.

Financial Exploitation

A common denominator of all cults is the financial exploitation of their members. They will be asked to contribute membership fees, provide funds for a new temple, pay for the private jet or the legal fees of the cult leader. At times members would have to donate all their assets to the movement for “the common good” as a sign of their commitment and loyalty. A small portion might be channeled to real charities as a marketing ploy while the major portion will be kept by the cult leader for his personal needs.

Exploitation of vulnerabilities

The political cult and charismatic leader at its head will ensnare you if you haven’t dealt with your shadows such as anger and fear or transmuted a traumatic experience.

Addiction to a belief has to be treated like any other addiction. First and forement there is the need for an honest recognition and acceptance of the problem. What lifestyle changes, support groups and therapy are necessary? What would my life look like without the addiction? What freedoms would I be enjoying? How can I prevent relapse and find supportive friends with a higher vibrational energy?

If you are drawn to a charismatic leader with a hate-filled, and vindictive messaging, ask yourself: “What anger within me is he tapping into? What can I positively change in my life now, instead of placing my hopes in the “political messiah.”?

Walking the path of your highest calling in personal freedom and liberty is foundational to fulfilling your soul destiny and living a life of bliss. You can pick and learn from the gems and wisdom of many teachers past and present. But if you should run into that religion, sect or cult offering the one and only perfect solution, it might just sound too good to be true.

Experiential spirituality

While experiential spirituality can exist within the context of organized religions, it transcends traditional religious boundaries of what to believe, and how to behave. There is a direct personal experience of the divine, through a sacred, or transcendent state of consciousness, and cannot be defined.

Practices closely associated with experiential spirituality include meditation, prayer, music, contemplating sacred art, and deepwalking pilgrimages.

On the path of experiential spirituality, you are never truly done. You continuously grow, make mistakes, learn, and discover along the way. Rather than adhering to a fixed moral code, you develop an intuitive situational awareness that guides you toward higher or lower vibrational paths.

Once on the journey, it fosters a profound sense of connection with the cosmic order and the essence of life, kindling a deeper feeling of peace, love, and interconnectedness that transcend doctrine or belief.

In the words of 13th-century Mystic Meister Eckart:

“The knower and the known are one. Simple people imagine that they should see God as if he stood there and they here. This is not so. God and I, we are one in knowledge.”

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. I’m excited to announce the release of my latest book, “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living.” If you enjoy it, you might also be interested in my previous works, “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago.” You can find all of these titles at reputable bookstores near you.

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by | July 1, 2024 · 10:33 am

AI and social media: A generational challenge

Every era faces different challenges, defined by the changing landscapes of society, technology, and geopolitical events, and we have not even begun to understand the current impact of social media and Artificial Intelligence (AI) on mental health and social cohesion.

It was telling that in the U.S. presidential debate, both candidates not only made a devastatingly poor impression but that one of the biggest challenges of our time such as the impact of social media and AI on every facet of our lives was not even mentioned.

The pervasive effect of social media on mental health

Studies have shown an alarming increase in suicide rates, especially among teenage girls in recent years coinciding with the widespread adoption of social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Girls are at greater risk of cyberbullying, facilitating bullying behavior that can be relentless and pervasive. Unrealistic beauty standards are perpetuated, leading to body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem.

Among teenage boys, the dangers of addiction to online gaming and porn are leading to growing isolation and a breakdown in social skills.

AI is changing our world

We are just at the cusp of rapid technological changes triggered by AI with positive as well as negative effects. The technology is already proving to be most effective in medicine. At the Institute of Cancer Research, for example, researchers have developed a unique canSAR database that can combine patients’ clinical and genetic data with independent chemistry, biology, patient, and disease information. It i likely to revolutionize transportation with self-driving cars, buses, and drones.

But many jobs, especially those involving routine and repetitive tasks, are at risk of being automated. Sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and retail are particularly vulnerable to automation, potentially leading to significant job losses. The rapid pace of AI development requires workers to continuously update their skills, which can be challenging for many.

The rapid technological changes we are seeing inevitably lead to a growing gap between the cultural and mental capacities of societies to adapt to these changes and the legal frameworks to prevent the abuse of such technology. It creates fear and anxiety among those individuals who have particular difficulty in adapting to changes.

The use of AI and other new technologies have to be designed in ways that respect human rights, privacy, and autonomy, and do not dehumanize users. Human capabilities need to be augmented rather than replacing the human touch in critical areas like customer service, healthcare, and creative fields.

A holistic approach needs to be made recognizing and valuing the unique identity, experiences, and needs of each person rather than treating them as anonymous entities. Every individual has different
emotional, psychological, and social needs.

With all our senses becoming over-stimulated by technology and threatening our mental and physical well-being it becomes all the more essential to reconnect with nature and our primal roots and senses.

Taking time out for a deep walk in nature is becoming a crucial pillar of survival in the digital world. Here are just some ways how we can rehumanize our senses:

Immersing in the green and blue spaces

Immersing yourself in the blue and green spaces of natural landscapes such as forests, mountains, oceans, and streams plays a major part in reducing freeze, flight and fight stress hormones such as cortisol. Auditory engagement with natural sounds such as the rustling of leaves, flowing water and birdsong contrast with the constant noise of an urban environment, providing a peaceful respite to help clear the mind.

Sensory Stimulation

The clean, fresh air of natural environments, free from pollutants and artificial smells, invigorates and refreshes your senses with the diverse scents from natural herbs, flowers and trees. They can positively evoke memories and emotions. Feeling and touching natural elements such as a tree, rock, sand or water provides direct physical connection with the natural world and the present moment.

Deep walking

Walking in nature is one of the most beneficial and underestimated ways of boosting your immune system, and preventing cardiovascular and metabolic disease. At the same time, exposure to sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D which is essential for bone health and overall mental well-being. Walking less than 5,000 steps per day is generally considered to be a sedentary lifestyle. Anything between 8,000 and 10,000 steps a day will significantly improve your health.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. I’m excited to announce the release of my latest book, “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living.” If you enjoy it, you might also be interested in my previous works, “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago.” You can find all of these titles at reputable bookstores near you.

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by | June 24, 2024 · 4:57 pm

Hardened body, hardened mind

After spending several weeks on my annual pilgrimage retreat along the Camino in northwestern Spain, I have had ample time to reflect on some pressing issues affecting our collective state of mind. I’m increasingly concerned about humanity’s tendency to retreat into tribal bubbles, becoming addicted to fixed concepts and thoughts.

Here is my theory on why the world is at real risk of tipping back into authoritarianism, intolerance, and the cult-like idealization of the “strongman” leader.

Social media thrives on toxic culture

We live in an age where any person in a dark cellar with a deranged mind can get millions of views by posting the most outlandish conspiracy theories, extremism, and anger. There are no real filters or control mechanisms in place to prevent the algorithms from blocking obviously false, distorted, and hateful information. And, there are no legal consequences for those responsible.

A preoccupation with fear, anxiety, and negativity will inevitably impact your mental and physical health. The eyes, brain, and spinal cord are intricately connected through the central nervous system (CNS), facilitating vision, sensory processing, and motor control.

The interconnection of body and mind

The eyes capture visual information and convert it into electrical signals. The optic nerve then transmits these signals to the brain which processes and interprets this information, coordinating with other sensory inputs and cognitive functions The spinal cord transmits these motor commands from the brain to the eyes and other body parts, integrating visual information to coordinate body movements.

Stress starts with negative thought

Stress hormones responsible for flight, fight, and freeze responses of the body are triggered by chronic negative thoughts. Constant worry, fear, and tension will inevitably negatively impact your daily functioning and decision-making. In extreme cases, it leads to depression, hopelessness, and loss of self-esteem.

People preoccupied with negative thoughts may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as overeating, smoking, substance abuse, or addiction to simplistic thoughts and concepts to numb their emotional pain.

Cognitive distortions, such as catastrophizing (expecting the worst), overgeneralization (viewing a single negative event as a never-ending pattern), and black-and-white thinking (seeing things as all good or all bad).

It is an open door for cult leaders, and extremist political movements offering simple solutions for complex global problems.

What is the antidote?

You have the power to make lifestyle choices, that determine whether you become a tool in the hands of manipulators or take back control over your own mental and physical health. Here are some tips:

  • What you feed your brain with that you become. Monitor your time spent on social media and the consumption of negative news.
  • Physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help mitigate the effects of stress and improve your overall feeling of well-being.
  • How are you talking to yourself? Are your thoughts mainly negative or positive?
  • Mindfulness practices including meditation, deep walking, yoga, tai chi, qi gong reduce the impact of negative thinking and improve awareness. These exercises also impact your body posture and how you feel about yourself.
  • Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help identify negative thought patterns.
  • Choose your friends wisely. Don’t waste your time arguing with people addicted to fixed concepts and illusions. Positively-minded and supportive friends, family, and community make all the difference.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. I’m excited to announce the release of my latest book, “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living.” If you enjoy it, you might also be interested in my previous works, “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago.” You can find all of these titles at reputable bookstores near you.

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by | May 27, 2024 · 2:32 pm

Manifesting into misery

Creating a vision board with images of a beautiful seaside home, luxury cars, and a substantial bank balance might seem like an easy path to a blissful life. However, for most people, this remains a distant dream, while they continue living in quiet misery and desperation.

Books on personal wealth and fulfillment like „Think and Grow Rich“ by Napolean Hill reached a cult-like status in the 1960s-1970s and were followed in recent times by bestsellers such as „The Secret“ by Rhonda Byrne.

Some people do in fact win the lottery, inherit a fortune, or become rich and famous overnight. Yet, many of these individuals end up losing their wealth or attempt to drown their profound unhappiness with substance abuse and escape into constant external distractions. Multiple studies reveal that lottery winners are twice as likely to file for bankruptcy than the general population.

If you haven‘t done the inner work by questioning your real motivation and are primarily focused on the HAVING rather than the BEING you will remain on a low unhappy vibrational level despite living a life of exceptional material abundance.

Visualizing and manifesting is only one part of the work. You will be severely disappointed if you don‘t follow through with a realistic plan of action and do the inner work on the vibrational frequency that you emanate.

How are you talking to yourself?

Are you at peace with yourself and your darker side? Can you accept and love yourself the way you are or is talking to the self dominated by feelings of regret, shame, or guilt?

Are your thoughts dominated by negativity?

Your first thought when you awake in the morning is your compass for the day. Can you transmute low-energy such as anger, sadness, and fear into kindness, positivity, and courage? Be authentic by accepting how you feel without blaming yourself and others. Do external circumstances out of your control dominate your thoughts?

Why do you want certain things?

Do you want that nice house, car, or kitchen to compete with the Joneses to boost your low self-esteem by wanting to impress the people you most dislike?

What happens if?

Ever thought about what happens when you actually achieve your goal? Super achievers often describe an empty feeling almost like a hangover. After winning the 1997 World Golf Championship in Spain, Australian golfer Greg Norman left his trophy in the locker room, saying the memories were more important than the trophy itself. Sometimes we need that challenge, that obstacle and that long road to elevate consciousness.

You need to be clear on whether your wish is embedded in an ego-mind or driven by an inner passion, and joy where you deeply feel a connection to inner purpose and ultimately divine will of service to a greater whole.

Your eyes will light up when you tell people about your dream. You will feel a surge of energy in your body, and your spirit is lifted.

If your path is cluttered with obstacles, disappointment, and setbacks it could mean two things: You either still have to learn something or you have mindlessly careened off on the wrong track, needing to press the reset button.

Be careful what you wish for

It could turn into a horrible nightmare if it is not aligned with your divine purpose to become who you really are. Fame and wealth doesn’t mean your life is without problems. You will still have to deal with health, personal grief, and external circumstances out of your control like all other people.

When you start building a high vibrational level you will automatically attract circumstances and people on the same frequency. You will develop greater situational awareness of what information, people, foods, and surroundings boost your energy levels. 

When things start falling into place almost effortlessly you are on the right path. You can start enjoying the gifts bestowed to you by the universe in humble gratitude. The universe in essence has your back.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. I’m excited to announce the release of my latest book, “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living.” If you enjoy it, you might also be interested in my previous works, “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago.” You can find all of these titles at reputable bookstores near you.

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by | May 14, 2024 · 7:13 am

Pushback from dark forces

You don’t need to be a conspiracy theorist to see that extremist groups are exploiting global fears and uncertainties to push an agenda that threatens basic freedoms and hinders humanity’s collective progress.

Despite significant advancements over the past two decades, there is rising resistance from forces entrenched in primordial ideologies, where power is maintained through subjugation and conflict.

For your own peace of mind, it is important not to be overwhelmed by the voices of negativity emanating from the external world, but at the same time be aware of the manipulative forces trying to lure you into a false reality.

Fear and anxiety create an imagined threat

When in fear and anxiety you not only become susceptible to a false narrative but you will be held back to the next level of growth and consciousness. The natural human survival mechanism of freeze, flight, or fight mode is triggered by the primitive or “reptilian brain” when a real or imagined threat is perceived.

Those regions of the brain playing a significant part in decision-making, creativity, and problem-solving such as the prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex, and portions of the temporal and occipital lobes are literally put on hold.

Evil forces are masters at creating and manipulating grievance culture

If you are unable to reflect and put those fears and anxieties in perspective or when emotions from past trauma are suppressed, you are easy prey for manipulation by external forces. Political demagogues are masters at building a grievance culture based on existing collective fears, shame, or humiliation.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

These simple but highly effective techniques have been used by dictators, authoritarians, and cult leaders throughout history:

  • Reshaping public opinion by spreading a false and misleading narrative. Quality media and journalism characterized by in-depth reporting and fact-checking is slammed as fake news. Followers are increasingly lured into a “group-think” mentality where all other perspectives are vilified as disloyalty and betrayal.
  • The charismatic leader presents himself as a “messianic figure” promising to solve all problems and fulfill people’s needs. They promote an image of themselves as infallible leaders cultivating a cult-like devotion among followers.
  • Certain groups, individuals, parties, and minorities are scapegoated to deflect blame and to unite followers behind the leader, deflecting from their own failings and weaknesses.
  • They manipulate historical narratives to legitimize their rule and justify their actions. This can involve glorifying past achievements, whitewashing atrocities, or demonizing political opponents.
  • Independent institutions such as the judiciary, legislature, and civil society organizations are usurped to prevent checks and balances in the system. It took Adolf Hitler and his Nazi party less than three months to replace the entire German civil service with loyalists after coming to power in a democratic election in 1933.
  • Loyalists are rewarded with a combination of rewards and punishments to discourage dissent. Critics are either forced into exile, imprisoned or litigated into bankruptcy.

The Maga Republicans in the United States, Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party in Hungary, Germany’s extremist AfD party, the Putinist movement in Russia or the Erdogan program in Turkey, all show similar totalitarian characteristics and have a common agenda.

Extremist movements are adept at creating a nostalgic and glorified view of the past where in their view “there was more prosperity, less crime, less social unrest, and the woman knew her place in the social hierarchy.”

Present realities are painted darker than they actually are. Our parents and grandfathers by far did not have the same opportunities as we have today: Here a few examples:

  • Global poverty rates have declined significantly over the past two decades. Many countries, particularly in Asia, have experienced rapid economic growth, lifting millions out of poverty.
  • Technological advancements have transformed communication and access to information, enabling greater connectivity and social mobilization. Can you imagine a world today without Internet and a cell phone in your hand with all the information in the world at your fingertips?
  • Renewable energy sources have become more prominent, creating cheaper energy and boosting economic prosperity.
  • There is a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of environmental sustainability, social justice, and ethical living. Many spiritual and religious traditions emphasize values such as compassion, empathy, and stewardship of the Earth.
  • There has been a proliferation of spiritual movements, beliefs, and practices, reflecting diverse cultural, religious, and philosophical traditions. We are fast embracing a more tolerant and universal “cosmic religion.”

These changes could only take place with more freedoms, room for expression and acceptance of diversity and change as a fundamental part of human evolvement and advancement. It is worth fighting to protect these freedoms.

Let’s acknowledge the historical truth: extremist, fascist movements inflicted the most catastrophic human tragedy and loss of life during World War II.

Today, we stand at a critical juncture where concerted action is imperative to thwart Russia’s advances in Ukraine, a crucial player in global food exports. If the United States, were to cease armament support to Ukraine and inadvertently aid Putin’s aggression, the consequences would be dire. We could witness a mass displacement of many millions of people towards Western Europe, destabilizing societies on a global scale.

Furthermore, intelligence assessments suggest that Putin’s ambitions extend far beyond Ukraine. There are concerns of potential Russian expansion into the Baltic states and even Poland, effectively redrawing geopolitical boundaries.

Simultaneously, Putin’s regime propagates an insidious information war, sowing seeds of hatred and division in numerous countries. Alarmingly, elements within the Maga Republican movement have been parroting verbatim Russian disinformation.

However, a successful defense by Ukraine against Russian forces would not only safeguard its sovereignty but also channel resources to long-term global goals of environmental conservation, public health, poverty alleviation, and securing a brighter and more peaceful future for generations to come.

When confronted with dark forces, you have a choice: Will you follow the path of hate, division, anger, and conflict, or will you embrace your own inner truth and humanity of joy, kindness,and compassion?

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. I’m excited to announce the release of my latest book, “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living.” If you enjoy it, you might also be interested in my previous works, “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago.” You can find all of these titles at reputable bookstores near you.

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by | May 8, 2024 · 9:02 am

Is religion stifling spiritual growth?

During my childhood in South Africa, I started having my first doubts about religion when clergy defended from the pulpit the abhorrent policy of apartheid and prevented a devout black priest from attending a church ceremony.

The message of salvation failed to resonate in the obligatory Sunday services which I found to be extraordinarily melancholy and joyless occasions, steeped in empty ritual. It did however serve the purpose of sending me onto a path of intensive ongoing spiritual exploration.

If you are one of those people who left the church in frustration after being shamed for thinking differently or questioning doctrine, then welcome to the club.

For centuries religious institutions have stifled spiritual growth and prevented people from living their divine purpose by telling them how to behave, what to believe, and even what politicians to vote for. This, for me at least, is the ultimate sin for which the church needs to take responsibility.

Spiritual but not religious

Especially younger people in Western countries are seeing through the hypocrisy and leaving the church in droves. But does that mean that more people are becoming agnostic, atheist, or have lost their belief in the divine?

Seven out of ten Americans describe themselves as spiritual in some way including 22 percent who say they are spiritual but not religious.

Even the first Christian communities were often divided between legalistic interpretations of the Gospel and experiential spirituality. There is a lovely passage in Galatians 5 of the New Testament of the Bible where St. Paul criticizes an early church in today’s Turkey.

Paul underscores the centrality of the Gospel, calling on the faithful to practice love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control as opposed to the legalism of what foods to eat and what could and could not be done on a Sabbath.

Jesus, the ultimate revolutionary

Some 2,000 years ago Jesus broke all religious conventions by healing the sick on the Sabbath. He was eventually crucified when openly exposing the hypocrisy of the clergy, by dining with sinners, tax collectors, prostitutes, and other outcasts – who were excluded from the Temple.

Jesus never had plans to establish an institution or a church and would probably be horrified by what people are saying and practicing in his name today. When someone starts confronting me with the words: “Have you found the real Jesus?” it is for me a signal to run.

Temples, churches, and places of worship could be turned into sanctuaries of peace by opening their doors to people of all faiths. Many Christian churches however are stuck in tribalistic doctrine, especially when it comes to who is entitled to holy communion, abortion, or whether women can be ordained as priests.

Thriving churches, however, are vibrant meeting places for people joyfully dancing, singing, praying, and sharing meals together. In a positive sense, they can cement the community spirit, especially in urban environments where we have an epidemic of isolation and loneliness. These church members practice a living faith by visiting the aged, providing comfort to prison inmates, and refugees, and establishing food banks for the hungry.

Spiritual growth comes from a place of brokenness

There is a saying that religion is for those who fear hell while spirituality is for those who have been there. The seeds of spiritual growth come from a place of brokenness.

On my more than a dozen walks on the Camino in Spain I have met countless people who have gone through the hell of losing loved ones, confronted life-threatening illnesses, the dark holes of depression, financial ruin, and relationship breakdown. What I can say about all these people I’ve met on the Camino is that such life-changing events made them come out stronger, forcing them into deep introspection on the purpose and meaning of life.

A cosmic religion of the future

Experiential spirituality is a process whereby the shutters of the soul window are opened. It is a feeling of connection with the divine, and the mystery of creation. The great scientist Albert Einstein once said that the religion of the future will be cosmic in nature. 

“The most beautiful and deepest experience a man can have is the sense of the mysterious. It is the underlying principle of religion as well as all serious endeavors in art and science. He who never had this experience seems to me, if not dead, then at least blind,” Einstein is quoted as saying.

The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, encourages individuals to go beyond the superficial differences among religions and recognize the deeper essence of spirituality and morality that can be found in all faith traditions. 

The fundamental principles of compassion, love, and ethics are not limited to any particular religious tradition or belief system. These principles, the Dalai Lama believes, are universal.

Already early into this year, a record number of pilgrims are walking the Camino. All share the common quest that has resonated through the ages:

“From whence do I hail? Whither do I journey? What purpose guides my days ahead?”

In echoing the ancient Sages and Mystics, emphasizing the innate spirit of man: Where there is a lighthearted spirit of joy, peace, positivity, and kindness, negativity and darkness recede.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. I’m excited to announce the release of my latest book, “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living.” If you enjoy it, you might also be interested in my previous works, “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago.” You can find all of these titles at reputable bookstores near you.

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