Category Archives: mental-health

by | October 7, 2024 · 2:52 am

Rediscover Calm: The Benefits of Trees

I often wonder why a walk in the forest quickly awakens my senses. It sharpens the sounds and smells around me. It also leaves me feeling peaceful and calm. This serenity has sparked much of the imagination behind my latest book. Science now supports what many of us have intuitively known: trees have a profound ability to put us in a positive state of mind.

The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” introduced in 1982 by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, was designed specifically to counter rising stress and mental health issues by encouraging people to spend time in forests.

The concept is simple: take a slow, mindful walk among the trees, engage your senses, and breathe deeply.

Recent research confirms that trees emit aromatic compounds called phytoncides, which have measurable health benefits. Dr. Qing Li, a leading figure in forest medicine and associate professor at Nippon Medical School, conducted a groundbreaking study published in 2007.

The findings revealed that time spent in forests significantly boosts natural killer (NK) cell activity, which plays a crucial role in the immune system’s ability to fight cancer and infections.

Moreover, the study showed a marked reduction in the stress hormone cortisol following forest immersion, leading to a drop in stress and anxiety. Participants reported improved mood, reduced anxiety, and an overwhelming sense of calm and relaxation after time spent in the woods. These lower stress levels improve sleep, reduce blood pressure, and, in the long run, support longevity.

The human brain is wired to negative bias

In today’s world, where our minds are constantly bombarded with negative messages that fuel anxiety and fear, this connection to nature becomes even more crucial. The human brain is wired with a negativity bias, a survival mechanism that our ancestors developed to remain alert to potential threats in their environment. If two hunters crossed paths, the first instinct would be to ask about dangers ahead.

This bias is embedded in the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for emotional processing. It reacts more strongly to negative stimuli, triggering the body’s fight-or-flight response.

Stress shuts down vital body organs

In moments of perceived danger, stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol flood the body. They shut down non-essential functions like digestion. They also concentrate all resources on immediate action. This intense focus on survival overshadows positive experiences, making negative emotions like fear, anger, or sadness more memorable and impactful than joy or calm.

This is why negative narratives—particularly in politics and media—are so powerful. They tap into our primal wiring, skewing our perception of reality to appear far more dangerous and threatening than it often is. It’s essential, now more than ever, to guard the mind against this bombardment and create space for healing and rejuvenation.

You can actively counter the negativity bias by practicing gratitude, and mindfulness. When was the last time you went for a walk in the park or in a forest?

A walk amid trees in nature will help retrain the brain to focus on positive experiences, strengthening emotional resilience and fostering a greater sense of happiness.

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.

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by | October 1, 2024 · 4:00 am

Finding inner peace: Why politics isn’t the answer

Owen’s story is a deeply tragic one, echoing the struggles of millions around the world. As a child, he endured emotional neglect, bullying, and physical abuse. As an adult, he tried to bury his painful past through hard work and discipline, building what appeared to be a successful life and career.

Owen found love, married, and started a family. Yet, beneath this outward success, unresolved anger and emotional wounds began to surface, triggered by seemingly minor incidents. These flare-ups led to growing conflicts both at work and in his marriage.

His wife and colleagues were concerned and encouraged him to seek professional help. Viewing therapy as a weakness, he refused to confront his inner turmoil. Over time, his life unraveled. Owen’s marriage broke down. When his company faced financial hardship, he was among the first to lose his job.

Although he eventually found another position, it paid far less and left him feeling bitter and resentful. Instead of looking inward, Owen began to externalize his unhappiness, spending hours online, where he became engrossed in extremist ideologies. Political demagogues fed his grievances, reinforcing his belief that his problems were caused by others.

Rather than facing his internal struggles and taking responsibility for his choices, Owen clung to the promises of a political leader who painted an idyllic future. Sadly, this path only deepened his frustration, because here’s the truth: No government, leader, or external force can be held responsible for your personal mindset or choices.

Owen’s story may sound familiar—it could mirror your own, or reflect the experiences of someone you know. But there’s a way out of this cycle. Here are some steps to find peace and happiness in your life:

  • Forgive, love, and accept yourself: Life is full of challenges, failures, and setbacks. Take responsibility for your reactions to them. Blame won’t change your circumstances, but your mindset and approach to life’s ups and downs are within your control.
  • Discover your purpose: You’re here for a reason. Identify your strengths and ask yourself how you can contribute to the greater good. Meaning often comes from serving others and connecting to something larger than yourself.
  • Find a spiritual anchor: Whether through meditation, time in nature, or connecting with a supportive community, grounding yourself in a spiritual practice can provide comfort, clarity, and joy.
  • Practice gratitude: Even in the smallest things, there are always blessings to be found. If you can walk, see the sunrise, or enjoy a simple meal, there’s reason to be thankful. Creating a daily gratitude practice can elevate your energy and invite more positivism into your life.

Ultimately, happiness and fulfillment come from within. By learning to love yourself, you can shift your life to a higher vibrational frequency.

What are you emanating and attracting in your life? Are you the type of person whose company people enjoy? Do you light up a room with kindness, situational awareness and joy?

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

Related topics:

Why are so many people angry and unhappy?

Healing the wounded inner child

Victimhood and embracing responsibility

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by | September 9, 2024 · 2:30 pm

Healing the Wounded Inner Child: A Key to Finding Soul Purpose

Unlocking your true potential and discovering your soul-driven purpose often begins with healing your inner child—the part of you that struggles with procrastination or reacts intensely to seemingly minor triggers.

Many adults carry emotional wounds from childhood, like shame, guilt, or neglect, which can lead to feeling stuck in a victim mentality, reliving the past. Instead of facing and nurturing this wounded inner self, some turn to addiction or other forms of escape, missing the opportunity for true healing and growth.

Even more troubling, the wounded inner child—having endured severe physical and emotional abuse—may adopt aggressive behavior as a defense mechanism. Many of history’s most ruthless dictators, including Adolf Hitler, Mao Zedong, Joseph Stalin, and Vladimir Putin, experienced deeply traumatic childhoods.

A malignant narcissist, rather than addressing the root of their pain, develops an insatiable need to be admired, validated, and revered. Beneath this façade lies a profound lack of self-esteem that drives them to constantly seek attention and control. Often found at the helm of political or religious cults, they surround themselves with sycophants, viewing even constructive criticism as betrayal. They believe they are always right, making it unlikely they would ever seek help or therapy.

I’ve often wondered why an increasing number of adults seem to lose the plot, have no situational awareness, and lack the most basic courtesy. The foundational stones of adult life are in many ways determined in early childhood, setting you up for success or failure in later life. But no matter what baggage from the past you are carrying on your shoulders you still have the power of choice.

Emotional support, attention, and affection are crucial for a child’s healthy development. The wounded child may have been an unwanted child, having received little physical or verbal expressions of love and affection.

One or both of the caregivers have been preoccupied, unavailable, and emotionally distant for much of the child’s life. They turn into adults who have difficulty regulating their emotions and struggle with their interpersonal relationships or suffer from anxiety and depression.

Self-care and healing the inner child

Healing the wounded inner child is key to unleashing your creative powers, self-esteem, and soul-driven purpose. It is never a one-off process but can be a lifetime journey of self-reflection and self-compassion.

The worst you can do is fall into the blame game, making your past responsible for all the mishaps in your life. The healing process starts by taking a different perspective and accepting the feelings and emotions from your childhood.

You can connect with your inner child by meditating on a picture of yourself at an age that was particularly hurtful or traumatic. Talk to that younger version of yourself offering parental comfort, support, and understanding that it didn’t have at the time. It is extremely helpful to start the process with the help of an experienced mentor or therapist.

Engage in activities that nurture the joy of the inner child

Even if most of your childhood was a long dark chapter, there were also moments where you experienced joy. Find out what gave you joy in the early stages of your life and whether you can expand on that in your adult life. Maybe it was playing with a favorite pet, reading a particular book, or watching a particular fairytale movie.

Setting boundaries

The hurt inner child has never learned to set healthy boundaries. Setting boundaries goes hand-in-hand with self-care. The more you start loving and practicing self-care with your inner child, the more you will become aware of what expands your energy and what sucks away at your energy level. Practice saying no to persons when you feel overwhelmed, when something doesn’t align with your values, or when you simply need your own space.

Healing the wounded inner child is a deeply personal journey, and different techniques or approaches may resonate with different individuals. Trust your instincts and the voice of your inner child.

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 recent 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 | September 2, 2024 · 8:06 pm

Victimhood and Embracing Responsibility

In a relentless storm of external distractions, it’s easy to lose yourself in a maze of illusions, false hopes, and misleading perceptions that steer you away from your true destiny and purpose.

The messaging from the world out there is primarily that happiness is created by „having“ rather than „being“.

Abundance and prosperity, if used mindfully, are useful tools to make an impact, but if they are the primary motive of all your efforts you will never have enough, falling into the trap of postponing the good life to some distant future.

Here is the hard truth: That moment will never come if you fail to live fully in the present moment, and practice gratitude for all the blessings that you already have.

Accepting Responsibility

Victimhood is one of the biggest obstacles to growth and personal fulfillment. By blaming your partner, your parents, your boss and the government for all that has gone wrong in your life you stay at a low vibrational energy where you will miss all the opportunities offered by the universe.

When the language you speak to yourself and others is mainly one of anger, retribution and hate you will attract much of the same dark energy around you. What you emanate to the world you will receive. You will remain trapped in an endless cycle of unhappiness.

We are all victims to some degree. The storms of life can unsettle in countless unpredictable ways. External events, accidents, personal loss and natural catastrophes are not under your control. But how you deal with these unexpected events make all the difference.

Photo by Julia Avamotive on Pexels.com

Accepting Impermanence

Like the seasons in nature nothing is permanent. The natural cycle dictates a time of spring and summer for birth, growth, and harvesting before we enter again a season of autumn and winter. The dark cold seasons of life are a time for introspection, recalibration and renewal. It means letting go of people that keep you at a low frequency, changing a job, a location or even a country. Fear of the unknown often leads to procrastination in the comfort zone but moving ahead also presents the greatest opportunity for growth and personal fulfillment.

Follow your aspirations and dreams

Never give up on your values, purpose and your why. You will intuitively sense that you are on the right path if everything falls into place. You meet the right people at the right time at the place at the right time. You feel a surge of energy and passion when you are doing the things that are in sync with your values and dreams.

Societal norms and expectations

There will always be other people who are seemingly happier, healthier and wealthier than you are. What you see on social media is not the reality. Sometimes those people who seemingly have everything in terms of fame and fortune are deeply unhappy because happiness is a state of mind.

Taking time for solitude

In a noisy and hurried world it has become more essential than ever to take time out for solitude and contemplation. When you take time for a quiet walk in nature the noise of the world recedes into the background. You will sense an innate harmony beyond the seemingly chaotic. In the natural world everything is interconnected and has its place and purpose within the totality of wholeness.

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 recent 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 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 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 | 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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