Tag Archives: lifestyle

by | January 2, 2024 · 2:49 pm

A bright future or all doom and gloom?

At the start of every New Year the Doomsday Prophets seem to have a field day predicting another year of innumerable calamities including wars, economic meltdowns and diseases. Don‘t be fooled. Despite all the bad news we are living in incredibly exciting times. Compared to a century ago life has improved on practically all levels.

All is a matter of perspective and as we enter 2024, I would just like to share just five breakthrough good stories from 2023:

  • The world is making much faster progress in replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy, driven by simple economics and energy security. In 2023 low-emissions power is expected to account for almost 90 percent of total investment in electricity generation, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
  • Some significant breakthroughs have been achieved in medicine. One example is a technology called CRISPR, a gene-editing technology that can exploit the inherent mechanism of the virus immune systems in bacterial cells. It also holds the ability to extract the infected DNA strands as well. With its help, the most severe diseases like cancer and HIV can be treated. CRISPR was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in December last year.
  • In June, researchers unveiled a comprehensive atlas of the lung, compiled from studies of 2.4 million cells in 486 people and highlighting cellular features common in cancer and COVID-19. In October, the largest-yet brain atlas was released, including more than 3,000 cell types, some of them new to science.
  • Great strides have also been made on producing foods that feed a higher number of people with less of an environmental impact. Animal-sourced foods like meat, seafood, egg, and dairy products are already being replaced with next-generation plant-based analogs that accurately mimic their properties.
  • Millions of people around the world don‘t have access to clean water.  Lifestraw Max may be a solution. It strips water of bacteria, parasites, and viruses. The system attaches to an existing water supply. It cleans 40 gallons of water in an hour.

If you have access to fresh water, electricity and modern health care you are today living a life kings and queens in the Middle Ages could only have dreamed of. In those days many a young life was cut short by a minor wound, infection or childbirth. The average lifespan in the 15th century was between 30-40 years compared to about 72 today.

Despite favorable statistics, individuals often perceive their personal situations as deteriorating compared to their parents’ lives. The increasing complexity of our world, marked by rapid social, economic, and other challenges, leads some to seek simplistic explanations. Nostalgia often paints the past in brighter hues than its reality.

We have reason for optimism in 2024. There will be good days and bad days, as in every year. Your thoughts and beliefs determine and construct your subjective reality. With truth under constant bombardment in a world of information overflow, you need to stand guard at the doorway of your mind. You are a compilation of your relationships and what you feed your mind with. As yourself these three questions:

  • Is the information really true and who said it?
  • Does the source have a good reputation or an ulterior motive?
  • Is the information from a source of wisdom that elevates my consciousness to a higher vibration.

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 | December 19, 2023 · 6:32 am

Humanity at the crossroads

As we end an old year and enter another new year in the 21st century it is worth reflecting of where we stand as a humanity. We have witnessed in 2023 two major wars traumatizing millions of people, a world grappling with a climate and environmental crisis and and a resurgance of authoritarianism.

Humanity stands at the cusp of forging a new earth characterized by elevated vibrational energy and heightened consciousness, fostering an unprecedented era of abundance, tolerance, and peace. Alternatively, there is the ominous prospect of regressing into another dark age, replete with conflicts fueled by tribalist fears, anxieties, and hatred.

Regrettably, a significant portion of humanity appears to operate on autopilot, blissfully ignorant that their responses are dictated by emotions and feelings rooted in obsessive thoughts and beliefs, steeped in the shadows of past traumas or programmed by mass media.

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These ingrained thoughts and beliefs wield a potency akin to that of substance addiction. A vehement denial of this addiction persists, the grip so formidable that they prefer to die rather than acknowledging that their beliefs and perspectives rest on a flawed foundation.

Beliefs and thoughts impacting cell expression

In his book “The Biology of Belief”, the cell biologist Dr. Bruce Lipton, argues that beliefs and thoughts have an influence on our gene expression and have a profound effect on our health and physical well-being.

Lipton argues that positive beliefs can contribute to health and healing, while negative beliefs can potentially lead to illness. The good news is that by becoming aware of the shadow, your thought patterns and emotions, you have then power of choice and become a co-creator on a collective level in transmuting these beliefs, ultimately living a happier and healthier life.

The power of words and thoughts

Words and sound have a vibrational energy that affects your body and mind. Research conducted on 700 million words and phrases used on Facebook by the University of Warwick, United Kingdom, in 2013 revealed some astonishing facts.

Neurotic people disproportionately used the phrase “sick of” and the word “depressed”. Research conducted by Eichstedt et al. in 2015 found a correlation between language used on Twitter accounts and heart disease in U.S. counties where words expressing anger, hate, and resentment were predominantly used.

In this week’s “Living to BE” podcast I interview an expert on the subject, Janet Schmidt, explains her own path into creating a life of abundance after losing nearly all her money, and becoming aware of her own ancestral program of scarcity. We delve on the subjects of healing trauma and limiting beliefs, building a prosperity mindset and reprogramming for success.

Why do some people procrastinate in victimhood and the “blame game” while others develop an emotional resilience that catapults them into a life they have always dreamed of with happy relationships, material abundance, and a healthy mind and body?

What are you feeding your mind with?

What you feed your mind and body with is one of the keys of reprogramming. Avoid toxic people poisoning your mind with their prejudices, fears and hate. Be mindful of what books, social media feeds and news channels you feed your mind with.

Are you still in control or are you a member of the ranting crowd addicted to grievance culture? Who are you really? What is your purpose in life? If you choose to create a space for solitude, for example by taking a walk in the green and blue spaces of nature, you will reconnect to the awe inspiring gift from the universe and the bigger whole. You will start to perceive the faint whispers from the universe, revealing the waymarkers of your authentic path of destiny.

If you find yourself caught in the rabbit hole of toxic emotions try the method of emotional shifting. Replace the word “fear” with “courage”, “hate” with “love and compassion”, “anxiety” with “confidence and trust”, “scarcity” with “abundance”, “melancholy sadness”, with “happiness and gratitude.”

There are some powerful mantras and prayers that elevate into a higher vibrational field. Examples are the Buddhist mantra: Om Mani Padme Hum, the Christian Catholic prayer song: “Ave Maria” and the Lord’s Prayer in the original Aramaic version.

The purpose in life is to find synchronicity with divine purpose. What the Buddhists call the “Buddha nature” and the Christian mystics the “Christ within” is evolution of spiritual consciousness that begins with practising kindness and compassion with the self that emanates into all your relationships making the world a better place – one step at a time.

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 | December 12, 2023 · 7:31 am

Transitioning the winter seasons of life

Approaching the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere, we find ourselves amidst the longest, darkest, and coldest nights. Likewise, the human experience encounters its winters – stages in life marked by desolation, loss, and lack of purpose. Yet, within these seemingly barren chapters of life, a profound opportunity for introspection arises.

Much like the dormant earth cultivating the potential for rebirth beneath its frozen surface, our personal winters serve as a crucible for critical self-reflection, sowing the seeds of renewal and elevation of consciousness.

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Loss, disappointment, and regret come from cause and effect. Something was avoided, or not done during the previous seasons. Going into the blame game by attributing your situation entirely to external circumstances is the procrastination trap.

The blame game inevitably leads to a vicious cycle of wallowing in self-pity that makes everyone around you want to run. Seizing the opportunity in a “flat on the ground” situation is accepting responsibility, redefining purpose, and fine-tuning wisdom and knowledge.

The winter of life makes you resilient in accepting the impermanence of any given state. Life is a never-ending cycle of birth and rebirth, night and day, recuperation and active engagement. Winter is a time to reconnect to the root ancestral energy embedded within. There are several ways of how to build resilience during the winter season:

The law of nature demands rest and recuperation

The body needs at least seven to eight hours of sleep for a healthy immune system. A power nap of 10 to 15 minutes during the low-energy afternoon period of the day will work wonders to boost your mental and physical performance.

Exercise: All pelvic floor exercises that strengthen the bladder and kidney. The bladder has the longest meridian in the body on either side of the spinal cord. The kidney meridian starts at the base of the foot. Typical yoga poses are the cat, boat, and big toe poses. All basic Taiji movements are excellent

Nutrition: Drink lots of good water. Start your day by boiling half a lemon for five minutes just after rising from bed to boost hydration. The lemon peel contains numerous nutrients and enzymes, including Vitamin C. A salty taste is typical for the water element and crucial for kidney balance. But table salt should be avoided as much as possible as it weakens the body. Use natural sea and Himalayan salts with a high mineral content. Typical water-element foods are asparagus, beets, black rice, kelp, wakame, blackberries, blueberries, black grapes, watermelon, scallops, oysters, and mussels.

Breathing

One of the simplest and most natural ways of reducing your stress level is by simply thinking about how you’re breathing.

Inhaling and exhaling naturally through the nose is what you should be doing. As you inhale, the nose warms and moisturizes the air. Your nose releases nitric oxide, which widens the blood vessels, allowing for better transportation of oxygen to vital organs. Your breathing will be deeper and slower, increasing the volume of your lungs and diaphragm.

Elevating your stress resilience becomes a powerful force shaping not only your response mechanisms but also your ability to navigate the winters of life.

How you cultivate self-love intricately weaves into the fabric of all your relationships and how you relate to events in the external world. It’s crucial to distinguish genuine self-nurturing behavior from the misconceived notion of narcissism, which darkens the purity of self-love. The unraveling of harmony often begins with a detachment from the authentic self when you are pulled into the abyss of external distractions.

With a modest investment of effort, you can position yourself far better to weather turbulent times, enabling you to make better decisions with a tranquil mindset. This shift not only empowers you to weather the storm but also to emerge from it all the wiser.

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 | November 28, 2023 · 9:49 am

Autumn and the time to let go

Here in the northern hemisphere, autumn unfolds its colorful spectacle. Trees shed their leaves as a brisk breeze weaves through bare branches. A nimble squirrel gracefully navigates from one tree to another, scouting for the optimal spot to hibernate through the coming winter.

Autumn marks a period of natural slowdown, where the vibrancy of summer yields to the quieter preparation for the colder months ahead. Yet, within this apparent tranquility, there exists a wild and unpredictable quality. A gentle, warm wing might whisper promises of impending spring, only to be followed by tempestuous storms.

In observing autumn’s dichotomy, we find a reflection of our own complexities. It teaches you the art of conserving energy for the inevitable challenges, mirroring nature’s rhythmic dance between repose and upheaval.

In studying nature you inevitably embark on a journey of self-discovery, unraveling the intricacies of your own existence in the ever-changing seasons of life.

We often forget that we are part of the bigger matrix. Your entire body is a composition of the elements around you. In the ancient Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements, autumn is associated with the element of metal. By getting into alignment with nature, you will recognize your innate and authentic nature.

Thus autumn is a time for introspection. These are questions you could ask:

What was really good this year?

What was a mistake and should be avoided in the future?

Life can be hard in teaching you the lessons you need to learn, especially when you fail to heed the whispers from the universe that tell you where to walk. It could be the advice from a total stranger, a sentence you coincidentally pick up in a conversation. A sudden inclination or feeling, a strong symbol from a dream, or a work of art you are observing.

Like the falling leaves of autumn, this is a time to let go of relationships, beliefs, and concepts that no longer serve you.

Harmonizing the inner and outer worlds is a major challenge in a world where attention is constantly being pulled at by external distractions.

Your breathing pattern is a reflection of your inner state of mind

Being aware of your breathing pattern plays a key role in relaxing your mind. Shamans and yogis have for centuries used breathing techniques to explore new realms of consciousness. In studying your breathing and improving on it, you become aware of hidden emotions and feelings. Fear, for instance, expresses itself with a flat breathing pattern and clogged feeling in the throat. A symptom of stress is strained breathlessness coming from shallow breathing from the upper chest.

A tense and stressed body finds no solace. Worries, fears, and other emotions create an imbalance that makes it susceptible to illness.

Recognizing the shadow aspect, such as your fears, your anger, your hurt, your shame, envy, or greed, is the first step in transmuting those negative emotions.

In a reflection of the metal aspect of the personality, we would look at the following questions:

Is there an old melancholy sadness that binds my spirit from making a move forward? Can I really admit to that sadness that is still there? Could it be that I should set a boundary toward certain people and make a healthy separation? Are my immediate surroundings, like my home and job, still fulfilling?

Are there too many superficial distractions in my life that prevent me from going on the path of my true destiny? Am I in the position of letting go of old concepts, ideas, or other so-called truths that have outlived their value for me?

Is my basic outlook on life of a positive or negative nature? Do I perceive tension and looming conflict situations in my immediate surroundings before they actually erupt? Do I have enough room to breathe? What is preventing me from exploring new avenues? Where are the boundaries set by myself or others? Could it be that I am also crossing the boundaries of others without realizing this?

The unique, authentic self only manifests itself when you liberate yourself from the magnetic pull of countless distractions, selling images, wants, and needs.

We need a truly strong metal element to preserve that space of true authenticity. When we are authentic with the true self, we are immune to mental and physical exhaustion that mostly comes from playing with the images of the false self.

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 | November 14, 2023 · 6:05 pm

How worthy are you?

Practicing full self-acceptance with all the pain, trauma, and shame from the past are the building stones of resilience against grievance culture feeding on the toxicity of anger and fear.

Much of the dysfunctional behaviors prevalent in our contemporary society can be traced back to an inflated Ego-Mind and a prevailing narcissistic culture, rooted in poor self-worth.

Negative thought patterns inevitably lead to negative actions and an endless cycle of suffering until the cycle is broken with a heightened state of awareness.

Narcissism is often an overcompensation for an underlying feeling of inadequacy. The need for constant admiration and validation from others is driven by an inner void.

There might be an inner voice telling you: “I’m too fat, too thin, too short, too old, and have an ugly nose.” The thoughts and voices that often come from programming stem from hurts inflicted during early childhood.

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The mantra of self-acceptance

You can transmute that inner voice with a new mantra: “I unconditionally love and accept myself the way I am. I am so happy and grateful to my body that has served me so well. I am healthy and I am strong.”

Self-love should not be confused with narcissism. You can only serve your higher purpose if you are no longer at war with yourself. The more you practice self-compassion, self-love, and self-acceptance the more you will attract this in the external world.

Life is a constant cycle of ups and downs. It is part of life that you have at times messed up, been disappointed, faced trauma, loss, and real “down on the ground moments.” During these times you might have neglected self-care like proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep.

When you dig deep into your inner resources

But on deeper reflection, these dark nights of the soul have very often forced you into introspection and to dig deep into your inner resources. Once you start feeding your body with high-nutrient foods, exercising regularly, and programming your mind with positive thoughts, you start moving into a higher vibrational field.

Spiritual growth and soul elevation very seldom come during those times when you are feeling high and on top of the world. The pain can be the path where the light begins to shine. You will have greater ease in transitioning from challenges and adversity when you are in the awareness that every chapter in life has a season and that “this too shall pass.”

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 | October 31, 2023 · 9:06 am

Building resilience in turbulent times

Humanity is about to embark on a journey marked by monumental shifts and unprecedented disruptions, unlike anything we have seen before. It will impact every aspect of our lives, creating a ripple effect that will affect us on multiple levels.

This is the conclusion reached in a workshop we had recently in a German monastery. The participants included experts from finance, research, health, and education – all of them having delved deeply into philosophy, religion, and spirituality.

A tumultuous shift into a new era inevitably comes with disruptions in the form of wars, breakdown of institutions and industries, extremism, and social changes. Some notable examples of the past include the industrial revolutions of the 18th and 19th centuries, the Great Depression of the 1930s, the two world wars, the end of the Cold War in the early 1990s, and the digital revolution of the late 20th century.

We can expect in the next five years an unprecedented leap in quantum computing, biotechnology, genetic engineering, robotics, and artificial intelligence automation. The ability to enhance, alter, or transfer consciousness raises profound existential and ethical questions about identity, mortality, and the human experience.

During times of uncertainty, we are seeing a retreat into political extremism and religious fanaticism. Fear is what fuels the radicals, exploiting emotions to sow discord and chaos. Millions will find themselves on the losing end, navigating the turbulent waters of change.

The winners who embrace change

Yet, amidst these challenges, there will emerge a resilient group of individuals and communities who seize the opportunity. Winners not only adapt to change but have the innate ability of turning adversity into an advantage. They embody the human spirit’s ability to innovate and flourish during times of uncertainty.

Building resilience

The more you build your mental, spiritual, and physical resilience at this point in time the easier it will be for you to navigate the disruptions of the future.

In my new book “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living”, I emphasize the point that all of life underlies a seasonal principle of natural and spontaneous changes. Evolutionary change, sometimes disruptive, is an elementary aspect of the universal intelligence, of God, or the divine.

Embedded within the fabric of all things lies a divine essence, a source that intricately connects us all within a vast and intricate cosmic matrix. This profound interconnectedness is in perpetual motion, constantly evolving, adapting, and striving toward refinement. Within this intricate tapestry, God finds expression through the awe-inspiring wonders of nature.

Creation, in all its diverse and manifold forms, is a testament to the boundless creativity of the divine. It is a dynamic masterpiece, never at a standstill, but rather, continuously in motion and unfolding in the exquisite dance of creation.

The purpose of life is life itself

With the sunrise of another day, the delicate bloom and aroma of a flower, the melodious song of a bird, and the fleeting touch of the wind, you hear the divine whispering to the soul. The everyday miracles of nature serve as reminders of the eternal dance of existence, illuminating the path of endless growth and the limitless opportunities that dwell within the universe’s vast and loving embrace.

While the external world will continue to focus on the distractions of the 10,000 things and short-term material and sensory gratification, the spiritual teachings of the ancient Mystic teachers become more relevant than ever, providing a haven of comfort and resilience during times of uncertainty.

Happiness and contentment can ultimately only be found in alignment with the vertical dimension of the spiritual.

The term “spiritual” traces its roots back to the Greek word “pneumatikos,” later translated to “spiritualis” in Latin. Unlike religion, it stands apart from rigid doctrines and defined systems of belief. Instead, it inherently signifies an exploration of the inner essence, a journey towards the core or spark of the “holy spirit,” integrating the life force in connection with divine energy. It embodies a sacred communion that transcends the boundaries of organized faith, emphasizing the personal and transformative relationship between the individual and the divine.

Lifting the veil to fulfillment and life purpose entails uncovering your individual creative niche within the vast tapestry of God’s creation. The purpose of life is life itself.

The choice is between embracing a bright future of hope and purpose or heading for the pitfalls of negativity laid by the forces of darkness.

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 | October 24, 2023 · 3:49 pm

Your compelling bright future

A deluge of negative news from atmospheric disasters, economic meltdowns, and wars is collectively inundating the minds of humanity. It not only corrodes our trust in the future, but also frays the delicate fabric of communities, and nurtures grievance culture.

Without ignoring the real and tangible threats that our world faces, the fears and anxieties of a collapsing future are just thoughts.  Stress always begins in the mind and triggers the reptilian part of the brain.

Freeze, flight or fight

We are hindered from discovering genuine solutions as humanity collectively remains ensnared in the primal instincts of freeze, flight, or fight. In this state, the very essence of our creative minds lies dormant. Our potential for innovation and problem-solving remains untapped, buried beneath the weight of instinctual responses.

Mass media, especially the social media variant feeds on toxic emotions. It exaggerates, inflates, inflames, distorts, and falsifies reality.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself when your emotions have been triggered, and you are stressed out or feel that you are losing control.

  • Is it true or is it just my perception? Who said it with what motivation?
  • How can I adjust to new circumstances without letting emotions seize control over my mind?
  • Is it really important in the bigger picture of things?
  • Is it a problem or just a difficulty?
  • This too shall pass?

One of the most powerful books of our time is “The Search for Meaning” by Victor Frankl. It was based on his experiences in a concentration camp during World War II. He found that those people who kept their minds focused on a compelling future, despite the most horrific circumstances of the present moment, had a far greater chance of survival.

Frankl argued that even in the most dire circumstances, some of the prisoners who survived the Holocaust identified a deeper reason to live such as the pursuit of a higher purpose or calling.

How is your response to pain and suffering

While you cannot always control external circumstances, you have the power to choose how to respond to those circumstances. By finding meaning in suffering and adversity, you maintain human dignity and inner strength.

In moments of deepest despair, those contemplating suicide often feel utterly bereft of hope, their minds consumed by a relentlessly bleak vision of the future. Yet, just as a single thought can plunge someone into darkness, it holds the power to reshape their destiny into one of brightness, joy, and well-being.

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Life’s journey inevitably leads us all toward our ultimate destination—the cessation of our physical existence. However, amidst the uncertainties of this voyage, there lies an opportunity to embrace the present and celebrate every moment.

Rather than succumbing to despair, why not choose to savor the journey, finding solace in the beauty that surrounds you, and in doing so, discovering a profound sense of purpose and contentment?

Keeping the monkey mind under control

Nobody knows what the future might bring. We therefore should keep that monkey mind under control that is jumping incessantly from branch to branch. Keep your feet firmly planted to the ground and focus your mind on your breathing.

By inhaling I know that I am inhaling. Exhaling I’m aware that I’m exhaling. Breathe and focus your mind on the present moment. The present moment is the only reality. It is the only truth.

Life is seasonal and choreographed like an intricate dance between opposing forces. We sway between night and day, navigating through darkness and light, embracing both happiness and sadness, tasting the bitter tang of scarcity and sweet abundance. Dancing between the opposites without attachment is what gives life purpose and meaning.

When you invite the light to penetrate the depths of your shame, and the wounds of your fear, and anxiety, life becomes a transformational ritual. Illuminating the shadows of your unconscious mind serves as the sacred trailhead, guiding you into the divine plan of your soul purpose.

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 | October 16, 2023 · 3:44 pm

Why entire societies are in the stranglehold of fanaticism

In recent weeks, we have witnessed a troubling surge in violent conflicts, ranging from devastating civil wars in Africa to appalling human rights violations in the Middle East and Ukraine. In the face of such blatant disregard for the fundamental principles of humanity, we are compelled to reaffirm and fortify our own core values and principles.

The great Swiss psychiatrist Carl Gustav Jung, often referred to the lack of self-awareness and understanding of one’s own dark demons as possibly the greatest threat to humanity.

Jung wrote, “that it is not famine, not earthquakes, not microbes, not cancer but man himself who is man’s greatest danger to man, for the simple reason that there is no adequate protection against psychic epidemics, which are infinitely more devastating than the worst of natural catastrophes.”

When mass madness takes entire societies into a stranglehold

There are several historical precedents where “mass madness” in the form of fanaticism gripped entire populations such as in Nazi Germany and in the witchhunts and inquisitions of the Middle Ages. Some villages in Europe literally had their entire female populations wiped out by the frenzy of “witch burning”.

Jung described the rise of fascism in Germany “as nothing less than [an] outbreak of epidemic insanity. . . No one knew what was happening to him, least of all of the Germans, who allowed themselves to be driven to the slaughterhouse by their leading psychopaths like hypnotized sheep. 

There is a thin veneer between civilized, decent behavior and the tipping point into the darkest shadows of human nature.

Radical fanaticism and the change in brain patterns

Radical fanaticism by definition is the unquestioning devotion to a particular belief, ideology, or cause. When a person becomes a radical fanatic, their behavior and thought patterns can significantly change, and these changes can also be reflected in brain activity:

  • Exposure to extremist ideologies and constant reinforcement of such beliefs can reshape neural pathways, strengthening connections related to those beliefs. This is especially the case when individuals are exposed to repeated propaganda or information silos, mentally blending out all alternative views or perspectives.
  • Fanaticism involves heightened emotions such as fear, anger, and a sense of righteousness. Such intense emotions shut off the prefrontal cortex responsible for logic and thought, activating instead the brain’s “animal” reptilian region responsible for fight or flight. You are literally in “automatic” mode and no longer in charge of your thoughts and behavior.
  • Radical fanatics generally exhibit confirmation bias, interpreting information in a way that confirms their existing beliefs, favoring their own group, and dehumanizing those outside their group and belief.
  • Being part of a radical group can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, creating a sense of reward and belonging, that reinforces the behavior and beliefs associated with the group.

The emergence of radical behavior and extremist ideologies in societies has historically been a gradual process, often taking decades to fully manifest. However, the advent of social media, particularly those lacking stringent checks and balances to curb fake news and disinformation, has injected a particularly potent accelerant into an already poisonous mix.

Standing guard at the gateway to the mind

Social media is providing the platform to dangerous individuals with psychopathic tendencies, malignant narcissism, and fanatical beliefs, allowing their toxic ideologies to spread far and wide at an alarming speed.

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In the face of the escalating peril posed by contemporary political narratives, it is imperative for us to act as vigilant guardians of the mind. We must exercise heightened caution, particularly regarding politicians and news outlets that propagate messages of hatred, division, anger, fear, and discontent in fanning the flames of grievance culture. These forces are driven by a sinister agenda and are actively seeking to manipulate you.

Genuine freedom and happiness spring from the bedrock of inner tranquility, gratitude, tolerance, and kindness. True self-love embraces inclusivity, recognizes the inherent worth of all individuals, and eschews exclusivity. In nurturing these qualities within you and in your community, you will be fortifying your mind against the corrosive influences of animosity and discord, fostering a more compassionate and harmonious world for all.

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 | October 10, 2023 · 7:02 am

Is there a God?

When confronted with the question of belief in God, many people respond with discomfort, embarrassment, or confusion. The term “God” has become so heavily laden with emotions and misconceptions that even those who identify as “spiritual” or “religious” shy away from openly discussing the concept.

Navigating an authentic discussion about God, spirituality, and beliefs has become especially challenging in a world that is progressively secularized, marked by feelings of isolation, and a sense of disconnection.

As a child, I had a fixed image of “God”. I was told he was the father residing in heaven and imagined him to be an old man with a long flowing beard, like the Gandalf character in “Lord of the Rings”. Some churches and medieval paintings portray him as a stern figure in the sky who punished bad behavior.

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Why does God allow evil and suffering?

Atheists therefore gain much traction when they deny the existence of a “God” based on empirical evidence and science. They would also argue that if there is a Creator, or an all-powerful, all-knowing “God,” why does he allow wars, natural calamities, and all the cruelties that humans commit on fellow humans?

“The world has gone crazy,” a man in my local post office lamented recently. He was having a bad day with “crazy” customers but he was not entirely wrong. Much of the dysfunctional and crazy behavior we observe on a daily basis can be attributed to a separation from the inner core or what the mysticists would call the “inner spark” where the soul resides.

In our modern world humanity has become alienated from the natural world. All things are seen predominantly through commercial eyes where nature is exploited, destroyed, and harvested. It is far removed from the animism belief structure of the ancient peoples who believed that everything in nature, including plants, animals, rocks, rivers, and other natural phenomena, possessed a spiritual essence or soul.

“God”, or the universal intelligence, the higher deity, expresses herself/himself in everything that we see around us. The Franciscan friar and author Richard Rohr defines God as a universal presence that permeates all things.

In experiential spirituality “God” can be directly experienced through contemplative practice and inner transformation by emphasizing love, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all life. The experience is beyond externally imposed conceptual thinking that tells the individual what to believe, and how to behave.

Meister Eckart, the 13th-century Dominican monk, and Mystic, spoke of the “inner spark” or the direct experience of God’s presence within the human soul.

Ultimately, the term “God” arises from humanity’s inherent desire to rationalize and conceptualize the ineffable, a concept that mystics assert is beyond the realms of both conceptualization and rational thought.

A deep personal spiritual experience defies linguistic expression, transcending the limitations of words and explanation. It is what Albert Einstein essentially defined as the “cosmic religion” of the future.

We have been given the power of choice

In some religions, evil is seen as part of the dualistic existence. Man has been given the power of free choice and the two opposing forces of good and evil are in constant struggle. Evil behavior can generally be described as actions with conscious intent to cause harm, destruction, and suffering to others. Murder, torture, genocide, and extreme forms of violence are universally condemned by most cultures and belief systems.

Evil occurs where there is complete separation from the “inner spark” or from the interconnected matrix of divine purpose. The presence of evil, according to some religions, also provides an opportunity for a greater purpose, such as the development of virtues such as love, courage, compassion, and resilience.

We are imperfect beings. In the acceptance and understanding of that dark side within, our inconsistencies, our shame, and failings we become empowered to make a shift in consciousness by choosing the light.
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 | September 26, 2023 · 6:17 am

Liberating the mind from attachment

Go into your own ground and learn to know yourself there. The outward man is the swinging door; the inner man is the still hinge – Meister Eckhart

Life is a rollercoaster of natural and spontaneous changes constantly forcing us to tread unknown paths. While some people may excitedly embrace a new beginning others retreat into fixed belief and ideology, providing the illusion of a safety cacoon in a world of “turmoil.”

But resistance to the natural flow of life and attachment to fixed thoughts, beliefs, and things is one of the greatest causes of human suffering and misery. Staying in the moment and finding peace in the acceptance of reality is thus at the core of the Taoist and Mystic teachings.

Throughout history, wise prophets have faced vilification and persecution for their courage in exposing the hypocrisy of religions based on firm behavior rules, fearlessly shedding light on the discrepancies and contradictions inherent in entrenched beliefs. They especially questioned the existence of an authoritarian Father God figure “out there in heaven” who, like a strict parent, would punish his children for bad behavior. All natural or personal calamities were attributed to punishment by God “for sinful behavior.”

Meister Eckhart, a 14th-century Dominican monk whose writings are more topical today than ever, had to answer charges of heresy before an Inquisition in 1326. He barely escaped a death sentence. His writings were banned. Other Mystics of the time like Giordano Bruno and Marguerite Poret were not so lucky. They were executed or burned at the stake.

Straying from religious doctrine and liberating the mind from externally imposed belief was a dangerous undertaking in the Middle Ages. In modern times political beliefs, sometimes using religion as a cover, tend to vilify opposing beliefs as a threat to justify all means in destroying the “enemy.”

Fanaticists of the political and religious nature see the world only in black and white. The belief becomes closely intertwined with the Ego mind and identity. A different or multi-layered interpretation is perceived as a direct threat to the self.

Words in ancient languages such as Aramaic, the lingua franca during the time of Jesus, allowed much room for individual interpretation. The word for God “Abwun” could mean “Our Father” but also the absolute, pure oneness, creation, source of all power and flow of blessing.

One of the most powerful messages in the Bible is found in the Gospel of John 1:1. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”. When replacing the “word” with “consciousness” the text is filled with a much broader meaning.

“In the beginning was Consciousness, and Consciousness was with God, and Consciousness was God”.

Eckart describes a process of spiritual transformation when the divine spark within transcends its individuality or Ego and enters into a state of divine consciousness.

It’s a moment of pure presence when the soul feels at One with something much greater than the self.

Aligning with divine consciousness is opening the heart to the universe and detaching from worldly attachments. It is beyond conceptualized thinking and complete immersion in a state of oneness.

“You should know that true detachment is nothing else but a mind that stands unmoved by all accidents of joy or sorrow, honor, shame or disgrace, as a mountain of lead stands unmoved by a breath of wind. This immovable detachment brings a man into the greatest likeness to God,” according to Eckart.

In a world feeding on the messaging of negativity, it becomes a challenge to train the mind to stay the course of positivity. We can easily be pulled into the abyss of grievance culture when emotions such as anger, anxiety, and fear can be triggered in millions of people by one message on social media.

Modern man has largely been disconnected from what can be described as the divine expression through nature of which he is an essential part. Places worshipped as sacred by ancient peoples have been conceptualized as things that could be harvested, exploited, and destroyed. The void is trying to be filled with the addiction to short-term gratifications: Accumulating more things, more food, more kinky sex, and more substance abuse.

Where is your passion?

Is it a surprise that depression has reached epidemic levels on a global level? But in the pain of suffering more and more people are searching for new meaning and purpose. Where do I come from and where am I going? What excites me and drives my passion? What elevates my consciousness and boosts my vibrational energy.

The author Michael Gladwell describes in his book “The Tipping Point” that it takes only a small number of people to initiate social change. We are currently experiencing both a global environmental and mental health crisis. History has proven that such crisis situations can galvanize people into action.

We are at the tipping point of realizing on a spiritual level that the crisis we are finding ourselves in has not been created by a punishing external father God figure for bad behavior. It is a direct result of our own actions and behaviors and we have the power to change those actions and behaviors.

We as a collective humanity have dug our own rabbit hole. We need to liberate the mind from fixated false belief structures and start doing the inner work. More and more people are awakening to awareness through meditation and other disciplines of the mind. There is a growing realization that every thought comes from a state of consciousness, turns into a thought, a word, and then into an action.

When you are no longer at war with yourself you will emanate compassion, love, empathy, and trust, aligning with divine consciousness.

The “word” in John 1:1 refers to the union with the Inner Christ or what the Buddhists call “Buddha Nature” – the inherent, untainted “seed” that resides in all things. Seeking the Inner Christ or Buddha Nature is the path of the spiritual seeker.

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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