Sokaren - 1971 No 05

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 5
Volume: 1971
Date: 1971

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1971, offers a diverse range of articles exploring spirituality, science, and the paranormal. The cover prominently features "YOGAFORSKNING I INDIEN" (Yoga Research in India), with a reportage by Karl Christiansen.

Yoga Research in India

The article details the scientific research into Hatha Yoga in India, particularly at the Kaivalyadhama ashram founded by Swami Kuvalayananda near Lonavla. The ashram, situated on a plateau for a pleasant climate, serves as a center for continuous yoga work. The author, Karl Christiansen, was received by Dr. S. L. Vinekar, the deputy director, as Swami Kuvalayananda was in Bombay at the time. Dr. Vinekar discusses the scientific approach to yoga, mentioning Arthur Koestler and his book 'The Lotos and the Robot,' which Dr. Vinekar believes contains misunderstandings about yoga.

The research at Kaivalyadhama includes physiological phenomena, with a focus on the Gordhandas Seksaria College of Yoga. The two-year college program offers a 'Diplom of Yoga-Pravishtha' and covers subjects like physics, chemistry, biology, anatomy, neurology, and clinical examinations, alongside theoretical and practical yoga. The college also has a yoga hospital, inaugurated by the finance minister Desai, aimed at saving the country expenses on foreign medicines. Admission requires a university degree and Sanskrit knowledge, though exceptions are made for foreign students like 17-year-old Armin Gottmann from Berlin.

Dr. Vinekar explains the rigorous daily schedule for students, starting with Hatha Yoga and including studies and meditation. He also discusses the institute's equipment for biochemical, radiological, and electrophysiological research, including measuring brain activity during yoga and samadhi. Dr. Vinekar refutes Arthur Koestler's claim that EEG curves in trance remain normal, presenting findings that show significant differences in response to stimuli during samadhi compared to control subjects. The article also touches upon the reduced lung and heart activity during samadhi and its implications for yogis buried alive.

Dr. Vinekar recounts a visit from two American university professors interested in the physiological realities of yoga phenomena, particularly for space travel. However, the American navy withdrew a research contract, deeming extensive yoga training too demanding for astronauts and suggesting drugs as an alternative.

The article addresses phenomena traditionally attributed to yogis, such as levitation and telekinesis, which Dr. Vinekar states have never occurred at Kaivalyadhama. Despite the lack of evidence for these extraordinary feats, the interest from the board was present. Experiments involving placing subjects on a scale during perceived levitation showed no change in weight.

Dr. Vinekar highlights the challenges in scientific yoga research, including the limited focus on Hatha Yoga, which is only one aspect of yoga. He also notes the difficulty in finding first-class test subjects, as advanced yogis are often reluctant to participate in scientific experiments, viewing them as worldly curiosity. Furthermore, famous yogis attract many disciples, making it difficult for them to leave their followers for research.

Varia: UFOs and Parapsychology

The 'Little Man' Phenomenon

Reports from northern Sweden describe a mysterious meter-high man wearing a helmet-like headgear and a raincoat, emitting a bright light. Three witnesses from Gammelstad reported seeing this figure, which caused a blinding flash and a sound like thunder. The man quickly disappeared. Similar sightings have been reported in Finland.

Higher Speed Than Light?

An article discusses the possibility of speeds exceeding light, based on research by two English scientists. This challenges the established physics principle that light speed is the maximum. If confirmed, this could open doors for the idea of UFOs being interstellar spacecraft.

The Case of 'Anne'

Birgit Lange writes about a woman named Anne who is facing a terminal illness. Anne's journey through shock, denial, anger, and finally acceptance of her impending death is detailed. She expresses a desire to meet her fellow humans with love and understanding, to do good work, and to avoid a painful death in a hospital. The author reflects on the art of dying and the role of Christ in facing death.

Parapsychology in the Soviet Union

Birger Qvarnström reports on the significant interest in parapsychological research in the Soviet Union. The article highlights the work of Sheila Ostrander and Lynn Schroeder, who documented psychic discoveries behind the Iron Curtain. It mentions experiments with telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis, and features individuals like Wolf Messing and Nelya Mikhailova. The concept of the 'biological plasma body' or aura, revealed through Kirlian photography, is discussed as a scientific explanation for life energy.

Christian Science

The article "Helande Genom Kristen Vetenskap" (Healing Through Christian Science) by Nordfrid and Helga Moersberger explains the principles of Christian Science healing, which is based on spiritual laws and the understanding of humanity's spiritual wholeness. It emphasizes that healing is a result of spiritual understanding and not a miracle. The article references biblical accounts of healing and the work of Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science. It clarifies the distinction between the absolute (God's realm) and the relative (the material world) and asserts that sickness and discord exist only in the relative, not the absolute.

Health and Lifestyle

"Lilleman" (The Little Man)

Reports from northern Sweden describe a mysterious meter-high man wearing a helmet-like headgear and a raincoat, emitting a bright light. Three witnesses from Gammelstad reported seeing this figure, which caused a blinding flash and a sound like thunder. The man quickly disappeared. Similar sightings have been reported in Finland.

Cancer Specialist Recommends "Naturopaths"

Jörgen Blichel, a Danish cancer researcher, suggests that wise old women and men, or 'naturopaths,' can be very beneficial and often treat cases that doctors cannot. He notes that psychological factors likely play a significant role in their success.

"SMAKENS URARTNING" (Degradation of Taste)

An article discusses the Swedish magazine "Puss," which reportedly features political pornography, illustrating political conditions through sexual behavior, including images of public figures.

Rosicrucian Worldview

An advertisement for a book by Max Heindel, "ROSENKREUZARNES VÄRLDSÅSKÅDNING" (The Rosicrucian Worldview), which explains cosmic and personal laws of life.

MWO Healing Instrument

An advertisement for an MWO healing instrument and body energy broadcaster.

Your Personal BIORHYTHM

An advertisement for calculating personal biorhythms based on Dr. Wilhelm Fliess's method.

"UR EN DÖDSDÖMDS HISTORIA" (From a Death-Sentenced Story)

Birgit Lange recounts the story of a woman named Anne facing a terminal illness. The article details her emotional journey through denial, anger, and acceptance, and her reflections on life, death, and finding peace. The author also discusses the concept of 'ars moriendi' (the art of dying) and its connection to Christ.

"Alkohol" (Alcohol)

Fil. dr. Henning Karström discusses the harmful effects of alcohol, tobacco, and coffee, linking them to vitamin deficiency and potential health issues like cancer. He advocates for a vegetarian diet as a means to combat alcoholism.

"VARIA (forts.)"

This section continues discussions on various topics, including the "Little Man" phenomenon and the effectiveness of naturopaths.

Book Reviews

"CIVILISATION TILL DÖDS" (Civilization to Death)

This book by Bengt Hubendick examines the ecological balance of nature and how human intervention disrupts it, leading to potential catastrophes. It critiques the overreliance on intelligence over wisdom and the pursuit of short-term goals.

"DOMEDAGSBOKEN" (Doomsday Book)

Gordon Rattray Taylor's book discusses the major threats to human existence, including overpopulation, environmental degradation, and the potential for self-destruction through technological advancement. The book suggests that the current path is unsustainable and urgent action is needed.

Other Sections

"UTAN GRÄNS" (Without Borders)

An interview with Berndt Hollsten, editor of the spiritualist magazine "Utan Gräns," discussing spiritualism, evidence of the afterlife, and the relationship between spiritualism and parapsychology.

"TEOSOFI I NORDEN" (Theosophy in the North)

An interview with Barbro Rydholm-Melander, editor of the Swedish section of "Teosofi i Norden," explaining the magazine's purpose of providing information on theosophical thoughts and principles.

"GRAAL"

A brief description of the magazine "Graal," described as a friendly publication for seeking individuals, edited by the theosophist Ingrid Nyborg-Fjellander.

"BREVCIRKELN ARCANUM"

Information about the stenciled publication "Brevcirkeln Arcanum," which aims to provide inspiration for self-realization and explores spiritual and occult themes.

"SPF-INFORMATION"

Details about the "Sällskapet för Parapsykologisk Forskning" (Society for Parapsychological Research) and its internal publication.

"KOSMOS"

Information about the Danish magazine "Kosmos," published by the Martinus Institut, which translates into Swedish and explores Martinus's cosmology.

"UFO-INFORMATION"

Details about the magazine published by UFO-Sverige, focusing on UFO-related events and activities.

"G.I.C.O.F.F.-INFORMATION"

Information about the internal magazine of the "Göteborgs Informations Center för Oidentifierade Flygande Föremål" (Gothenburg Information Center for Unidentified Flying Objects).

"TIDSKRIFT FÖR HÄLSA" (Journal for Health)

Description of the Swedish vegetarian health movement's magazine, "Tidskrift för Hälsa," which promotes Are Waerland's ideas.

"HÄLSO-NYTT" (Health News)

Information about the magazine "Hälso-nytt," published by the Swedish Vegetarian Association.

"BIODYNAMISK ODLING" (Biodynamic Cultivation)

An article about biodynamic farming, emphasizing cultivation in harmony with nature.

"DJURENS RÄTT" (Animal Rights)

Information about the magazine "Djurens Rätt," published by the Nordic Society Against Cruel Animal Experiments.

"PER RAGNAR OM SIN LIVSSYN" (Per Ragnar on His Outlook on Life)

An interview with Per Ragnar discussing his interest in parapsychology, the limitations of science, and his spiritual outlook, influenced by the Danish philosopher Martinus.

"PARAPSYKOLOGI I SOVJETUNIONEN" (Parapsychology in the Soviet Union)

An article by Birger Qvarnström detailing the extensive research into parapsychology in the Soviet Union, including Kirlian photography and the concept of the 'biological plasma body.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Sökaren" consistently explores themes of spirituality, the paranormal, alternative health practices, and philosophical inquiries into the nature of reality and consciousness. There is a clear interest in scientific investigation of phenomena often dismissed by mainstream science, such as yoga, UFOs, and psychic abilities. The publication seems to advocate for a broader understanding of existence that encompasses both the material and the spiritual, encouraging critical thinking and personal exploration of these topics. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, presenting various viewpoints and research findings without necessarily endorsing any single one as absolute truth, while often highlighting the potential for personal growth and transformation through these explorations.

Title: SM
Issue: 5
Volume: 8
Date: 1971
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of the Swedish magazine 'SM' features a stark and critical examination of the human species under the headline "MÄNNISKAN" (The Human). The editorial content presents a deeply pessimistic view of humanity, portraying it as a destructive and morally bankrupt species despite its technological advancements and claims of civilization.

The Human Condition: A Critique

The lead article, "MÄNNISKAN," posits that humanity, despite inhabiting Earth for billions of years and exploring the cosmos, is fundamentally flawed. Its history is described as a chronicle of "evil deeds: murder, torture, oppression, deception." The present is seen as a continuation of this dark past. The article argues that human societies are built on ignorance, and the environment is saturated with harmful elements. Natural resources like food, air, and water are systematically corrupted with toxins and harmful substances, leading to widespread illness and suffering. The author laments that even the air meant to sustain life is polluted, and water, essential for survival, is contaminated to the point of being undrinkable in many areas.

The disparity in food consumption is highlighted, with some indulging in unhealthy diets while millions starve. The article criticizes the voluntary consumption of harmful substances like tobacco, viewing it as a sign of a lack of self-preservation. Humanity is depicted as systematically poisoning and destroying everything necessary for its existence – land, plants, animals, air, and water – thereby "giving the world to the devil."

Despite this self-inflicted damage, humans are characterized as arrogant, considering themselves "cultured," "civilized," and "intelligent." They treat animals with cruelty, viewing them as mere objects. Voices of dissent or concern are suppressed or ignored. The educational system is criticized for focusing on trivial matters while neglecting crucial life skills such as personal development, love, the art of living, and paths to health and happiness. Military education is even seen as teaching the art of killing.

Spiritual and Existential Neglect

The article suggests that deeper spiritual experiences are sidelined, with few engaging with life's profound questions or the search for ultimate truth. The masses are preoccupied with material distractions and superficial pursuits that lead to inner emptiness. Politics, religion, and art are dominated by "low-mindedness."

Humanity is portrayed as a pitiable creature doomed to a bleak fate, with its future appearing "black with pessimism." The threat of annihilation looms due to ignorance and low morality. The powerful forces of nature that humans have unlocked with their intellect could be used for destructive purposes, potentially annihilating all life. The article concludes that humanity's unchecked exploitation of natural resources, without regard for the future or biological balance, threatens its very existence. The author expresses shame in belonging to such a "self-degrading" species.

Table of Contents and Articles

The issue also features several articles exploring various topics:

• "Yogaforskning i Indien" (Yoga Research in India) by Karl Christiansen.
• "Ur en dödsdömds historia" (From the History of One Condemned to Death) by Birgit Lange.
• "Tidskrifter" (Periodicals), a brief mention on page 6.
• "Per Ragnar om sin livssyn" (Per Ragnar on His Outlook on Life).
• "Parapsykologi i Sovjetunionen" (Parapsychology in the Soviet Union) by Birger Qvarnström.
• "Helande genom Kristen Vetenskap" (Healing Through Christian Science) by N and H Moersberger.
• "Vägen till hälsa" (The Path to Health) by Henning Karström.

Subscription and Advertising Information

Subscription prices are listed: a full year (10 issues) costs 29:00 SEK, and a half year costs 15:25 SEK. Special arrangements for subscriptions from Norway, Denmark, and Finland are provided. Advertising rates are also included, with prices for full-page, half-page, quarter-page, and small advertisements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The dominant theme of this issue is a profound disillusionment with humanity and its trajectory. The editorial stance is highly critical, bordering on despair, regarding human behavior, societal values, and the impact on the natural world. There is a clear emphasis on the negative consequences of human actions, driven by ignorance, greed, and a lack of spiritual depth. The magazine appears to advocate for a re-evaluation of human priorities, moving away from superficiality and towards a greater understanding of existential questions and a more responsible relationship with the environment. The inclusion of articles on yoga, parapsychology, and alternative healing suggests an interest in exploring alternative perspectives and potential solutions beyond conventional societal norms.