Sokaren - 1980 No 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1980 and identified as NR5, is a Swedish magazine covering a diverse range of topics including spirituality, self-improvement, architecture, skepticism, and paranormal phenomena. The cover features a striking black and white image of a woman performing a yoga pose.

Shyam Sundar Goswami (1891-1978)

The magazine dedicates significant space to the life and legacy of Shyam Sundar Goswami, an Indian yogi who introduced yoga to Sweden in 1949. The article, written by Åsa Freij, details Goswami's arrival in Sweden, his impactful yoga demonstrations, and his ability to make yoga accessible to the general public, even attracting the interest of medical researchers. Goswami was known for his physical prowess, including the ability to bear a six-ton weight on his chest. His students, such as Karin Schalander and Basile Catoméris, are highlighted for carrying on his teachings. Catoméris, whose parents were Greek and Italian, found his spiritual home through Goswami's tutelage. Ingjald Starråker, another student, recounts the intense period leading up to the publication of Goswami's extensive commentary on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, which Goswami did not live to see published. Dr. Christina Olivecrona shares her experience of attending Goswami's theoretical lectures, noting the profound, almost solemn atmosphere.

Karin Schalander, who began practicing yoga in 1949, describes her intensive personal training with Goswami, emphasizing that he initiated her into secret yoga knowledge. She expresses deep sorrow over his passing. Basile Catoméris notes that love, alongside knowledge and strength, was a key characteristic of Goswami.

Goswami's work in Hatha Yoga is discussed, noting his broad mastery of various yoga paths. His book 'Hatha Yoga' (1953) is described as unique for its focus on the physiological aspects from a Western medical perspective. Another publication, 'Yoga – A Brief Overview' (1956), is also mentioned. The article quotes Goswami on the origin of yoga, stemming from humanity's search for meaning beyond the material world and the need to control the restless mind.

Goswami's extensive writings, including the English book 'Hatha Yoga: An Advanced Method of Physical Education and Concentration' and the recently published 'Layayoga,' are highlighted. His unpublished materials, estimated to fill twelve books, include commentaries on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, lectures, and notes. His intention was to create a comprehensive encyclopedia of yoga.

Johannes Olivegren: Architect Building with People

An interview with Professor Johannes Olivegren, a former TM teacher and architect, focuses on his innovative approach to community building. Olivegren emphasizes designing 'with people' rather than 'for people,' involving residents from the outset in planning their living spaces. This process also serves as a personal development journey for participants.

Olivegren's work includes projects like 'Brukarplanering' (User Planning) in Klostermuren, Gothenburg, where residents actively participated in designing their housing. This participatory approach is described as fostering self-discovery, mutual understanding, and cooperation. Olivegren advocates for methods like 'Laget runt' (Circle of the Team) to ensure everyone's voice is heard, moving beyond traditional majority decisions. He draws inspiration from figures like Harvey Jackins, Ashley Montagu, and Christopher Alexander.

Ann-Christin Prim: Astrology's View of Reality

This section explores the philosophical underpinnings of astrology, addressing common criticisms. It argues that astrology does not rely on physical planetary forces but on inner connections and correspondences between humans and the cosmos. The geocentric model used in astrology is presented not as a literal representation of the solar system but as a symbolic depiction of earthly existence. The article introduces Carl Jung's concept of synchronicity – meaningful coincidences without a causal link – as a way to understand astrological phenomena. It suggests that astrological charts symbolize the individual's inner makeup and life path, with planetary aspects indicating opportunities for universal connection.

Isaac Asimov: Asimov's Corollary

Isaac Asimov, a scientist and author, presents a skeptical perspective on popular beliefs and pseudoscience. He references Arthur C. Clarke's law, which states that an older scientist is usually right about what is possible but often wrong about what is impossible. Asimov applies this to himself, acknowledging that he has often dismissed ideas that later gained traction. He proposes his own corollary: if a scientific idea is ignored or condemned by the scientific establishment but supported by the general public, it is likely incorrect. Asimov argues that people tend to believe what is comforting or dramatic, citing examples like belief in an afterlife or conspiracy theories. He criticizes pseudoscientific claims such as those of Immanuel Velikovsky and Erich von Däniken, labeling them as 'nonsense.' Asimov maintains that while science can be wrong, the public's embrace of such ideas is often driven by emotion and a desire for the dramatic, rather than evidence.

He does, however, acknowledge exceptions, citing Edward Jenner's work on vaccination, which was initially met with skepticism by the medical establishment but embraced by the public and ultimately proven effective. Asimov concludes that while he remains largely skeptical, he recognizes that popular belief can sometimes align with truth, though he finds it unlikely for most of the currently popular 'heresies.'

TM Movement Challenges Society

This section reports on the Transcendental Meditation (TM) movement, which presents itself as the 'World Government in the Age of Enlightenment.' The movement claims to be able to solve global problems, including achieving world peace, through meditation. They cite studies suggesting that a small percentage of the population practicing TM can lead to significant reductions in crime, alcohol abuse, and other societal ills. The article discusses the TM-Sidhi program, which reportedly enhances the effectiveness of TM, requiring only 0.01% of the population to achieve noticeable social results. The movement's offer to governments to reduce negative tendencies by 25% in six months is presented, along with an experiment in Rhode Island where crime rates reportedly decreased significantly during a period of mass TM practice.

TM representatives express strong conviction in their methods, emphasizing that their goal is to spread this knowledge globally to achieve world peace. They discuss the cost of TM courses and the idea of offering it for free, though they justify current fees for expansion and operational costs. The article questions the scientific rigor of some TM studies, referencing a critical report by Professor Jan-Otto Ottosson. It also touches upon the idea that the collective consciousness of meditators can positively influence their environment.

Other Sections

Brief mentions include a quote from J. Allen Hynek on the importance of funding for fundamental research, a humorous take on Jesus as a 'smart guy' by Bosse Larsson, and listings for various alternative events, books, and courses, including UFO exhibitions and astrological seminars.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine exhibits a clear interest in alternative lifestyles, spiritual practices, and unconventional ideas, ranging from yoga and meditation to ufology and conspiracy theories. There is a strong undercurrent of skepticism, particularly in Asimov's contribution, which challenges the uncritical acceptance of popular beliefs. However, the magazine also presents the claims of movements like TM with a degree of seriousness, allowing their representatives to articulate their perspectives. The overall stance appears to be one of exploration and critical inquiry into phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific and societal norms, with a particular focus on personal and societal transformation.

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1980, is a comprehensive guide to spiritual, psychological, and self-development activities and ideas. It features a wide array of courses, seminars, and workshops, alongside articles exploring various facets of human consciousness, belief systems, and paranormal phenomena.

Courses and Seminars

The magazine extensively lists upcoming events, primarily focused on personal growth and spiritual exploration. These include numerous yoga and meditation courses, such as 14-day yoga retreats in Hamneda led by Swami Janakananda and Peo, and Kriya Yoga courses. Other offerings include a GRAALSÖKARSAMLING (Grail Seekers Gathering) on spiritual sources, a Swedish UFO-80 event in Västerås, and a conference on 'The Call of the Camelot' in Malibu, California, focusing on 'God-consciousness' and the teachings of the Ascended Masters.

Several courses are dedicated to breathwork and body training, like those led by Leonard Orr and Jeane Carr, including 'rebirthing sessions.' Vipassana meditation courses are offered in Delsbo, led by American teacher Ruth Denison. Astrological seminars and Tai Chi Chuan courses are also advertised. The magazine highlights events focused on 'Livsåskådningsvecka' (Worldview Week) and 'Semestervecka' (Holiday Week) at Östagården.

Further afield, events include an International Workshop in Self Growth and Creative Play in Tuscany, Italy, and a 3-week STAR-INTENSIV program focusing on self-analysis and personal transformation. The 'Festivalen' in Trondheim, Norway, is promoted as a meeting place for new ideas in religion, science, UFOs, natural medicine, and more.

Krishnamurti's teachings are featured with listings for talks in Saanen and Brockwoodpark. There are also courses on 'Freya-Kraft' in Leksand, focusing on positive thinking, singing, music, dance, and meditation.

Key Articles and Themes

'TankA KAN FÖRVERKLIGAS' (Thinking Can Be Realized) by David Spangler, based on his book 'The Laws of Manifestation,' explores how thoughts and desires can be realized. Spangler, who worked at the Findhorn community, explains manifestation not as magic but as a process of transforming energy according to natural principles. He emphasizes that true manifestation stems from recognizing oneself as a part of the divine whole and acting from the soul's level, rather than from ego-driven desires. The article also touches upon the Findhorn community's experiences and challenges.

'ALLT FLER GÅR I PSYKOTERAPI ... och de inre problemen är tidlösa' (More People Go Into Psychotherapy ... and the Inner Problems Are Timeless) by Åsa Freij, discusses the growing trend of people seeking psychotherapy. The article features an interview with psychologist Ulla Fernström, who leads group psychotherapy sessions. It highlights the importance of professional training and explores concepts like 'life scripts,' 'strokes,' and 'ego states' from Transactional Analysis (TA).

'TÄNKANDE SKOMAKARE' (Thinking Shoemaker) by Sten Rodhe, profiles Hjalmar Ekström, a shoemaker from Helsingborg influenced by Jakob Böhme. The article delves into Ekström's life, his spiritual experiences, and his mystical worldview, drawing from his letters and unpublished works. It discusses his connection to Christian mysticism and his critique of the church.

'Utländsk bokvandring med Roland Adlerberth' (Foreign Book Walk with Roland Adlerberth) reviews several books. These include Katherine Briggs' 'A Dictionary of Fairies,' Ulrich Dopatka's 'LEXIKON DER PRÄ-ASTRO-NAUTIK' (Lexicon of Pre-Astronautics), Ronald Story's 'THE SPACE-GODS REVEALED' (a critique of Erich von Däniken), Ignatius Donnelly's 'ATLANTIS AND THE ANTEDILUVIAN WORLD,' and Jürgen Spanuth's 'DIE ATLANTER VOLK AUS DEM BERNSTEINLAND' (The Atlantean People from the Amber Land).

'Taylors återomvändelse' (Taylor's Conversion) discusses Professor John G. Taylor's shift from a proponent of paranormal phenomena to a skeptic, based on his research published in 'Nature.' The article questions his purely materialistic approach.

'Meditation enligt ACEM' (Meditation According to ACEM) by Eva Heinstedt, introduces the ACEM meditation technique, based on Are Holen's book 'Stillhetens psykologi' (The Psychology of Stillness). It explains the practice of using a mantra and a specific mental attitude for personal development and stress reduction.

'Parapsykologi i gymnasiet' (Parapsychology in High School) reviews psychology textbooks for high school that include sections on parapsychology, noting the inclusion of topics like telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis.

'Rysk parapsykologi' (Russian Parapsychology) reviews books on Soviet parapsychology, highlighting research into phenomena like telekinesis and electromagnetic fields, and discussing the challenges faced by researchers in the Soviet Union.

'Skapande samspel' (Creative Interaction) by Rolf Ejvegård, discusses Björn Sjövall's book on the concept of masculine and feminine principles in creation and human relationships, drawing from Swedenborg's ideas.

'Religionskritik 1880-1910' (Religious Criticism 1880-1910) by Rolf Ejvegård, summarizes a research report on religious criticism and organizations in Sweden during this period, including Positivism, the Association for Freedom of Religion, and the Utilitarian Society.

'LÄRJUNGAR OCH FORSKARE' (Disciples and Researchers) by Sven Rosén, contrasts the disciple's approach of accepting a teacher's doctrine with the researcher's critical and independent inquiry. It suggests that individuals often embody a mix of both attitudes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes self-discovery, spiritual growth, and alternative approaches to understanding the world and oneself. There is a strong emphasis on meditation, yoga, and various forms of psychological exploration as tools for personal development. The publication also shows a keen interest in paranormal phenomena, UFOs, and esoteric teachings, providing a platform for diverse viewpoints and ongoing research in these areas. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and inclusive, encouraging readers to explore different paths to knowledge and well-being, while also presenting critical analyses and reviews of relevant literature.