Ad Astra - 1990 No 6

Magazine Overview

Title: adastra
Issue Date: 1991
Publisher: Foreningen Vidya
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of *adastra*, the member's magazine for Foreningen Vidya, a Norwegian organization focused on enlightenment and research, presents a diverse range of articles and reflections. The cover features a festive 'God jul' (Merry Christmas) greeting alongside the magazine's title and a symbolic emblem.

Leder (Editorial)

The editorial, signed 'Red.', addresses the members, announcing the release of a new issue. It expresses a desire for more content, noting that the current issue is 'slank' (slim) and that the magazine lacks sufficient contributions from its readership. The editor hopes for greater collaboration in 1991. The editorial then delves into the topic of Christmas, suggesting that the Christian celebration of 'JUL' (Christmas) is not the original form and that the church may have 'stolen' the original Norwegian traditions. Despite this, the editorial concludes with a wish for a Merry Christmas.

REISE (Journey)

A short, poetic piece titled 'REISE' by A. M. O. describes a journey through fog, with the speaker being halfway through but only knowing that much.

Contents and Organization Information (Page 3)

Page 3 provides the table of contents, listing articles such as 'Leder', 'Sinnet og sjelen' (Mind and Soul), 'Natur og miljø' (Nature and Environment), 'Tanker i hverdagen' (Thoughts in Everyday Life), 'Bokormen' (Bookworm), 'Akta Pilati' (Beware Pilate), 'Lett blanding' (Light Mix), 'Kost og helse' (Diet and Health), and 'U:F:O:'. It also details the organization 'VIDYA' (Knowledge and Wisdom), its aims, and its contact information, including a postgiro account number and address in Drammen, Norway. Meeting locations are also listed.

Sinnet og Sjelen (Mind and Soul) - Page 4

This article explores the concept of inner power and the potential to connect with the subconscious through techniques to gain control over the body, mind, emotions, and actions. It discusses 'healing', a phenomenon described as controversial, suggesting that by visualizing a healthy state, one can improve their condition. The article posits that willpower ('Viljen til - å - leve kraften') is crucial, and that individuals with strong psychic abilities can overcome physical ailments more effectively than those who are psychically weak. It emphasizes self-motivation and the importance of relaxation and concentration, including focusing on breath and visualization techniques to imagine the affected body part as healthy.

Healing and Self-Hypnosis (Page 5)

The article continues by stating that the ability to visualize the afflicted area is key to successful self-hypnosis, with researchers claiming some individuals have healed severe illnesses this way. While healing and self-hypnosis are gaining followers, many remain skeptical. The piece also touches upon environmental issues.

Natur • Miljø (Nature • Environment) - Page 5

Bevar Ozonlaget! (Save the Ozone Layer!)

This section discusses efforts to repair the ozone layer. An English research group led by Jonas Cleary is attempting to find ways to mend the holes. The proposed method involves sending ozon-producing machines via balloons, which use solar energy to generate electrical discharges. Three balloons are planned to be sent over the South Pole, each carrying 100 ozonators and solar panels.

Asbest uskadeliggjøres (Asbestos is Rendered Harmless)

Two researchers at Risø Research Station have developed a method to neutralize asbestos. Currently, asbestos waste is buried. The new method involves a solution of water, ammonium sulfate, and asbestos, subjected to high pressure and temperature, which converts the asbestos into harmless iron compounds (rust). Researchers believe this method could also be used to neutralize other hazardous substances.

Den lille filosof (The Little Philosopher) - Page 6

This section features 'Tanker i hverdagen' (Thoughts in Everyday Life) by A. M. O. The author reflects on aging and forgetfulness, suggesting it can be a way to find solace in life's chaos. The piece emphasizes the brain's ability to organize things for the best and the importance of not being afraid to express oneself and show empathy. It suggests that to solve problems, one needs someone to talk to, and that talking to oneself can be a safe way to explore issues. The author admits to engaging in such discussions frequently.

MERE STOFF (More Content)

A note from the editorial committee ('Red.kom.') asks readers if they are satisfied with the newspaper and requests more material to make it more varied.

Bokormen (Bookworm) - Page 7

This section features profiles of two significant spiritual and occult figures:

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Sathya Sai Baba is described as a highly spiritual leader with millions of followers worldwide, born in 1926 in South India. He is known for miraculous healings and wonders that defy known physical laws, materializing objects from thin air and curing thousands of diseases. The article mentions the establishment of schools that teach human values and emphasize selfless community work, tolerance, and interfaith understanding. Sathya Sai Baba reportedly accepts no money or gifts, stating, "There is only one religion, the religion of Love. There is only one language, the language of the Heart. There is only one God, and He is omnipresent."

Alice A. Bailey

Alice A. Bailey, born in England in 1880, evolved from a strict Christian evangelist to a world-renowned teacher of occultism. She possessed a rare gift for higher telepathy and collaborated for 30 years with a cosmic master named Djwhal Khul, co-authoring 24 books. She later founded the esoteric school, Arkanskolen, to put cosmic principles into practice. Bailey died in 1949, her life demonstrating that occultism can lead to a deeper understanding of life and more active service to the world.

Akta Pilati (Beware Pilate) - Pages 8-9

This lengthy piece is presented as a letter from Tiberius Caesar to himself, reflecting on the teachings and actions of Jesus. The author, claiming to have Spanish blood mixed with Roman, describes his initial fear and awe upon meeting Jesus. He acknowledges Jesus's profound wisdom, comparing it favorably to that of Socrates and Plato, and notes that the Emperor has been informed. The letter discusses the growing influence of Jesus and the opposition he faces from the rich and powerful, as well as the scribes and Pharisees, whom Jesus criticizes. Tiberius expresses concern about potential unrest and the need to maintain order in Jerusalem. He recounts Jesus's response to his plea for caution, which is a prophecy about the shedding of righteous blood, likening it to a river following its natural course.

Lett Blanding (Light Mix) - Page 10

Pass opp for New Age! (Beware of New Age!)

This article by Arne Eide warns about the spread of 'New Age' beliefs in Norway. It characterizes New Age as a non-Christian 'new religion' where humanity is elevated, seeking greater self-awareness and cosmic unity. The author draws a parallel to the serpent in the Garden of Eden, tempting Eve with the promise of becoming like God. The article criticizes the concept of healing, stating it has no connection to Christianity or Jesus, and refutes the idea that sickness is a sign of a troubled soul. It asserts that sickness entered the world with the fall and will persist until a new heaven and earth are created. The author concludes that many New Age movements believe in a God but reject Jesus as the Son of God, instead promoting the elevation of human consciousness, which he attributes to the devil.

Pakketur (Package Tour)

A short anecdote about an old man named Ola who, when facing death, expresses a preference to stay home rather than embark on the 'long journey' of the afterlife.

Til alle medlemmer av vårt demokrati, hvem får delta? (To all members of our democracy, who gets to participate?)

This section announces a 'Førjulstreff' (Pre-Christmas Gathering) on January 14, 1991, at 5 PM.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine exhibits a clear interest in alternative spirituality, parapsychology, and esoteric subjects, as evidenced by the profiles of Sathya Sai Baba and Alice A. Bailey, and the discussion of healing and self-hypnosis. There is also a notable concern for environmental issues, with articles on the ozone layer and asbestos. The 'Akta Pilati' piece, while fictionalized, engages with religious and philosophical themes, presenting a unique perspective on Jesus and Roman authority. The 'New Age' article expresses a critical, religiously conservative stance against what it perceives as a dangerous, anti-Christian movement. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into spiritual and philosophical matters, with a particular focus on Vidya's stated aims of enlightenment and research, while also maintaining a critical perspective on certain New Age ideologies.

This issue of UFO magazine, dated December 28, 1990, is primarily in Norwegian and focuses on UFO sightings, health and well-being, and includes humorous elements. The cover features hand-drawn celestial bodies and geometric patterns, with a prominent announcement for a 'Christmas party' event on December 28, 1990, and contact numbers for registration. It also advertises a 'meditation object' and mentions a membership price for 'VIDYA'. The cover includes two comic strips.

UFO Sightings

The magazine details two specific UFO observations from 1989:

Observation 1: November 17, 1989

On November 17th at 23:45, the observer was driving from Mjøndalen towards Drammen when they saw a red star-like object. It came to a standstill, then landed on Solbergfjellet. The object remained stationary for a while, glowing like a bonfire, before lifting off and hovering over a knoll. It then disappeared with extreme speed, faster than lightning, at 00:20.

Observation 2: December 10, 1989

On December 10th, a strange star-like object was observed flying back and forth over Solbergfjellet multiple times. It eventually disappeared behind the mountain. Both observations occurred in 1989.

The author, AMO, encourages others who have witnessed similar phenomena to report them to the editorial office to compile a collection of reports.

Health and Well-being

Stress and Heart Health

An article titled "STRESSSSSS NED" (Stress Down) discusses the negative impact of anger and irritation on the heart, stating that a "warm" heart leads to a longer life. American researchers found that men with a hostile attitude towards others have four times the risk of heart attack compared to more friendly individuals. Those most susceptible to such conditions are described as suspicious, impatient, and unforgiving. Examples include people who believe the elevator is being held back intentionally or who react negatively to others in queues.

The Power of Laughter

Another section, "KOST OG HELSE" (Diet and Health), highlights the benefits of laughter. A study from the Laughter Projects at the University of California, Santa Barbara, concluded that laughter is as effective against stress as biofeedback exercises. Researchers noted that laughter requires no special training, laboratory, or equipment, only a bit of comedy.

Homemade Remedies

Cough Medicine Recipes

The "KOST OG HELSE" section also provides recipes for homemade remedies:

• For quick mucus-clearing coughs: Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 6 drops of anise oil and 3 drops of thyme oil.
• For irritating coughs: Mix 5 drops of peppermint oil with 1 teaspoon of honey.

These oils are available at pharmacies or health food stores.

Humorous Content

Comic Strips

The magazine features several comic strips. One on page 1 depicts a humorous exchange about filming and future rewards. Another on page 1 shows a conversation about working for money versus bonuses, with a cynical remark about someone only caring about their bank account. A larger comic strip on page 5, with the text "LANDINGS PLASS FOR UFOER. VEL KOMMEN" (Landing place for UFOs. Welcome), humorously imagines an alien's parents' reaction to their child's visit to Earth.

Editorial and Greetings

The issue concludes with a "GOD JUL!" (Merry Christmas!) greeting from Vidya, wishing everyone a happy holiday and a good new year. The magazine itself is titled "UFO" and the issue number is 14, dated 1990.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to blend serious UFO reporting with practical health advice and lighthearted humor. The editorial stance seems to encourage open-mindedness regarding UFO phenomena while also promoting personal well-being and a positive outlook on life, as evidenced by the emphasis on stress reduction and the power of laughter. The inclusion of humor suggests an aim to engage a broad audience interested in the unexplained and everyday life topics.