Tag Archives: mind

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.

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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 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 | June 24, 2024 · 4:57 pm

Hardened body, hardened mind

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

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

Social media thrives on toxic culture

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

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

The interconnection of body and mind

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

Stress starts with negative thought

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

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

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

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

What is the antidote?

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

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

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

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

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by | May 27, 2024 · 2:32 pm

Manifesting into misery

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

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

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

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

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

How are you talking to yourself?

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

Are your thoughts dominated by negativity?

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

Why do you want certain things?

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

What happens if?

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

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

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

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

Be careful what you wish for

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

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

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

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

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

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by | February 4, 2024 · 1:15 pm

Do what you love

“You must never think of the whole street at once, understand? You must only concentrate on the next step, the next breath, the next stroke of the broom, and the next, and the next. Nothing else.”

– Michael Ende, Momo

Are you finding yourself on a frustrating treadmill of doing a job that you hate and counting the years until retirement? There are millions of people out there wasting the most precious years of their lives for all the wrong reasons.

On average about half of your lifetime will be spent working, assuming you retire in your mid-60s and have a typical lifespan between 70 and 80. It therefore makes sense that you spend your best years doing what you love and what you are passionate about.

If you are stuck in grievance culture, unhappy in your job, or your relationship, and have problems with your self-esteem the universe will be sending you many signs that you need to change direction.

A job environment with constant high-stress levels will not only cause mental and physical exhaustion but eventually lead to a host of other health problems that will severely impact your lifespan and quality of life. Some typical red flags:

  • Your personal values are no longer in alignment with the values of the organization
  • All your efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated
  • You feel undervalued and underpaid for what you are doing
  • You have reached a dead end in personal growth. The job lacks growth opportunity, meaning, and purpose.

You might have started a particular career or job with a passion, but it has meanwhile outlived its purpose. It has become a grinding chore and is exhausting you physically and mentally. That might be the time for you to move on. One path is often the stepping stone or learning curve for you to move on to another path.

In doing what you love, you will discover that the true richness of life is not just in the paycheck, but in the fulfillment of your soul. When you are doing what you are passionate about your higher vibrational frequency will automatically attract all the abundance and the money you need.

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Even in carrying out the most mundane tasks your mindset and perspective are key, according to the 13th-century Mystic Meister Eckhart. Being in alignment is the discovery of mysticism in all of your activities in a “joyful experiential presence”.

Eckart’s formula for happiness was liberation from attachment and complete surrender to “dedication” in giving yourself wholeheartedly to a cause, person, or activity. This, he argues, is only possible if you create space for contemplative “emptiness”.

The more in alignment “the more powerful, dignified, useful, commendable, and perfect is the prayer and the work,” Eckart writes in one of his sermons.

Similarly, Zen Buddhism encourages practitioners to cultivate mindfulness, which involves paying full attention to each moment, fully immersing yourself in the present experience, and extending to all activities whether it’s walking, eating, working, or any other daily task.

Mindful activity involves being fully present in the current moment, paying attention to thoughts, feelings, and sensations without becoming entangled by attachment or judgment. Developing a kind and compassionate attitude is integral to the spiritual path.

In a busy world, you are constantly being pulled into a thousand different directions, becoming a playball for social media and the “glitter of the shiny things.” Distraction and addiction are trying to stifle the voice of your soul yearning to accomplish that which it was destined to bring forth and create from the day you were born.

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 | January 29, 2024 · 1:14 pm

Crazy politics and rational thought

Crazy politics is infiltrating the minds of millions of people in key European countries and the United States, with the views of extremist fringe groups becoming mainstream as they cleverly manipulate powerful communication instruments.

Politics is a reflection of massive changes in social norms and values as a growing number of people feel they are being left behind by a technological revolution that benefits a tech-savvy elite to the detriment of industries that have formed the lifeblood of regions and communities for centuries.

Rational thought and logic are being undermined by manipulators

The ancient Greeks and Romans were well aware of how rational thought and logic could be undermined by manipulators feeding on fear, anger and desire. The Stoics therefore advocated logic and reason as an antidote in understanding and navigating the world.

The Stoics categorized emotions into two types: “eupatheiai” or good feelings and “apatheia” – a state of tranquility or freedom from disturbing emotions. They accepted emotions as being part of the human condition and they could not be suppressed. Rather a healthy emotional state should be aligned with reason.

External events are beyond our control but Stoicism teaches us that we should focus on what we can control such as our own thoughts and actions. The concept is encapsulated in the Stoic maxim: “Epictetus’ Dichotomy of Control,” which encourages individuals to distinguish between what is within their control such as their own thoughts and actions, and what is not such as external events.

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Standing guard at the doorway of the mind

During these times it is more important than ever to stand guard at the guardrails of the mind. We are seriously lacking in leaders of wisdom who are aware that their actions, words, norms, and values have a huge impact on society. Words and slogans that stir division, and belittle and disparage people with opposing views rip apart the very fabric of what holds a society together.

If emotions overpower logical thought, entire economies and the nation state are at risk. An example is the current political narrative in Germany. A fringe rightwing party called the Afd (Alternative for Germany) was largely ridiculed by the mainstream because of its extremist ideas. But steadily over the past few years it has gathered more support with simplistic xenophobic messaging to the point where it has become the second-most popular party in current opinion polls. 

The silent majority was finally stirred into action with hundreds of thousands of moderate Germans taking to the streets during the past few days horrified at the news that Afd party leaders met secretly drafting a master plan on how to deport millions of people both citizens and non-citizens with an immigrant background. The Afd’s economic policies would in reality devastate the German economy as most factories, hospitals, and service industries are totally dependent on foreign labor because of an ever growing older population.

In the same vein the Brexit campaign in the United Kingdom was fixated on the idea that leaving the European Union would save the country billions of pounds that would then be spent on the country’s National Health Service (NHS). In reality economists have calculated that the UK’s GDP is currently about five per cent lower than it would have been had it not voted to leave.  

Emotions unfortunately are more powerful than rational tnought and logic. It explains why those politicians arguing on the benefits of remaining in the European Union lost the argument. They provided statistics and economic data whilst the Brexiteers emotionalized the debate with the vision of reborn “Great Britain” freed from the constraints of Brussels bureaucrats.

Most people outside the United States are horrified at the prospect of the world’s most powerful nation being led by a president with obvious mental health issues. Psychologists and sociologists will for many decades be analyzing the “Trump phenomenon.” Part of the explanation could be that he has become the voice for grievance culture – for the large numbers of people suffering from frustration, dissatisfaction, stress, anxiety, anger and compulsive behavior.

Our core values, norms and beliefs are shaped by those people we idolize as leaders. We should choose wisely using the Stoic method of logic and rationality: What is external and beyond my control and what is intrinsically part of my thought process and perspective that I can change?

Are my values of an empathic nature in service of universal rights, liberty, kindness, tolerance, protective of other people and the natural world or are my values motivated by dominance, exploitation, aggressiveness, and retribution that ultimately lead to a world the worse for everyone.

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 | August 15, 2023 · 8:58 am

Self-worth and finding purpose and meaning

As you walk the path of life with its up-and-down cycles of dealing with the loss of a loved one, a significant health issue, or financial challenges it is easy to lose self-esteem, passion, and your sense of purpose and meaning.

At the core of how you feel and care for yourself is how you define your place in the world. Are you passionately enjoying what you are doing? Are you a grateful and happy person when you get up in the morning?

What we call a “midlife crisis” can also be a time to redefine purpose and meaning. You might be finding yourself in an unfulfilling job or engaging in repetitive and monotonous routines that suck away your life energy. But you lack the courage or are too fearful to make the necessary changes.

Photo by Spencer Selover on Pexels.com

A once fulfilling or loving relationship has degenerated into hate and recrimination. A job that was aligned with your values and purpose has changed so much that it has just become emotionally and physically exhausting.

Loss of meaning and purpose shows itself in negative thinking, constant bickering, and irritability. You will be compensating the search for existential meaning with addictions to bad foods, alcohol, substance abuse, or digital entertainment. This lack of self-love and self-esteem will inevitably manifest itself in body shape and appearance.

Major life transitions, such as a job loss, retirement, or a divorce, can lead to shifts in identity and purpose. Goals, purpose, and meaning need to be redefined.

A healthy sense of self-worth can be cultivated with the three pillars: body, mind and soul.

  • Looking after your body by doing regular exercise is key. Only 4,000 steps a day of active walking in nature will already significantly boost your metabolism, bone density and mental health, according to latest research. Avoid processed foods, sugars, artificial sweeteners and soda drinks. A mainly Mediterranean diet of fresh fruit, vegetables, olive oil, fish, and a little meat not only feeds your body with vital nutrients but also your brain.
  • Feed your mind with positive thoughts. Replace a negative thought with a positive thought. What is going well? What is good in your life? Stop comparing yourself with others. There will always be people who appear to be wealthier, more successful, and happier than you. Read good books and train your mind by solving puzzles, learn a new skill or language.
  • Soul purpose, meaning, and validation are often found in a community or a tribe sharing the same values, and ideals. Experiential spirituality comes from within. Practices such as meditation, deep walking, mindfulness training can open the gateway to a profound spiritual experience, characterized by a sense of union with the divine, and a feeling of being interconnected with all of existence.

In essence. you have to define or redefine your purpose every new day. Be grateful to be alive. Every new day offers a new perspective and new opportunity. When on your authentic soul path, you will be evolving and growing until the day you die.

Reino Gevers – Author – Mentor – Speaker

P.S. If you’ve found this article of interest you might want to read more in my books. “The Turning of the Circle: Embracing Nature’s Wisdom for Purposeful Living” has just been published. You might also find my other books “Deep Walking for Body, Mind and Soul” and “Walking on Edge: A Pilgrimage to Santiago” of interest – available where all good books are sold.

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