Sokaren - 1981 No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 4
Date: 1981
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Price: 8:00 inkl. moms

Content Summary

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1981, delves into a variety of spiritual, psychological, and parapsychological topics, reflecting the 'New Age' movement's growing influence.

Wäxthuset Galleri Medmera: A Hub for 'New Age' Ideas

The cover story introduces Wäxthuset Galleri Medmera, located in a former pharmacy on Bellmansgatan in Stockholm. This center is described as a meeting point for 'New Age' ideas, aiming to foster love and harmony, elevate human consciousness, release creativity, and promote responsibility towards oneself, others, and the Earth. The image on the cover features Mark Mawrence giving a lecture. The article highlights that the gallery was established in 1976 by a group interested in cultural and therapeutic pursuits, initially forming an association called Tvärkultur Galleri Medmera. After dissolving in October 1979, it re-emerged as Föreningen Wäxthuset Galleri Medmera, boasting 250-300 members. The center offers courses and lectures on self-development, psychotherapy techniques like 'bodywork,' 'rebirthing,' massage, yoga, meditation, healing, and 'right nutrition,' as well as art exhibitions and literary evenings. The gallery is undergoing a constant development process, aiming to become a center for a holistic view of humanity. However, they face a potential move by May 1st due to neighbor complaints about noise, prompting a search for more affordable premises.

Lars Lagerstedt, a gallery representative, discusses the organization's efforts to define its goals and create a program statement. He emphasizes the goal of spreading the idea of the 'whole human being' and a holistic worldview, seeing it as a complement to traditional political and environmental work. He clarifies that a holistic approach considers all human needs – spiritual, emotional, and physical – and harmony with nature. Lagerstedt believes that societal change requires a change in collective consciousness and thinking. He stresses the importance of maintaining the connection between the individual, the group, and society through lectures and discussions, while therapies focus on the individual's work on themselves. He states that the center aims to provide tools for individuals to take full responsibility for themselves and others, acknowledging the difficulty in establishing such a center in Sweden. The gallery is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, offering a vegetarian cafe and a space for like-minded people to connect and stay informed.

Carin Hedin, one of the therapists at the gallery, is a psychologist with additional training in group therapy and humanistic psychology. Her therapeutic work includes rebirthing, massage, affirmations, music therapy, bioenergetics, guided fantasies, and meditation. She highlights the importance of tailoring therapy to individual needs, emphasizing that not all methods suit everyone. Therapists begin with a conversation to understand the client's issues and may collaborate in teams to address multifaceted problems. Hedin notes that many clients seek self-development rather than solely addressing problems, which often stem from a lack of love and security in childhood, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.

The gallery members frequently travel to learn from international centers, particularly in California, USA, which is considered a hub for this knowledge. Several therapists were planning trips in early 1981 to places like Poona and Sai Baba in India, and to learn from figures like Leonard Orr in the USA.

Healing Practices at Galleri Medmera

Monica Gorschelnik and Elsa Maria Nährström, both healers, explain that they channel universal energy rather than generating it themselves. They describe healing as an intuitive process, often involving light touch or proximity to the body, which activates the client's own energy. While some clients experience strong sensations, others feel less, but the healing effect is said to continue long after the session. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive and loving atmosphere during healing, with both healers meditating and working together to ensure a pure and supportive environment. They also mention that they practice healing on each other.

Roger Sperrling on Diet and Health

Roger Sperrling, a self-taught expert in nutrition, gives lectures on the importance of diet for physical and spiritual health. He advocates for a holistic approach, believing that what is good for the body is also good for the soul. Sperrling emphasizes the importance of natural foods, particularly algae, and promotes a vegan and raw food diet. He discusses food combining principles, advising against mixing certain food groups to optimize digestion and nutrient absorption. He also touches upon the concept of 'vital food' versus 'dead food,' suggesting that raw foods are more life-giving.

Erlendur Haraldsson on Sathya Sai Baba and Walter Cowan

Erlendur Haraldsson, a parapsychologist, critically examines the case of Walter Cowan, who was reportedly revived by the Indian spiritual leader Sathya Sai Baba after being declared dead on Christmas Day, 1971. Haraldsson interviews medical professionals who attended to Cowan, including Dr. O.G.C. Vaz and Dr. Rajagophal, as well as hospital staff. Their accounts suggest that Walter Cowan was ill but never medically declared dead and was admitted to Lady Wellington's Nursing Home. While Sai Baba did visit Cowan at the hospital and gave him vibuti, the medical professionals state that Cowan would have recovered regardless. Haraldsson also recounts the case of Mr. Radakrishnan, another individual reportedly revived by Sai Baba, based on testimonies from his wife, daughter, and the son of the former Raja of Venkatagiri. He notes that in both cases, no independent medical verification of death was available, and the claims rely on eyewitness accounts and the spiritual leader's own statements. Haraldsson concludes that while these cases are extraordinary, the term 'revived from death' may not be scientifically accurate, suggesting that the individuals may have been in a state of deep unconsciousness rather than actual clinical death.

Leo Wikman and Mentalism

Leo Wikman, a 75-year-old former major in the Finnish army, shares his philosophy of mentalism. He defines it as the understanding that reality is fundamentally mental, and that each person's mind creates their own perception of the world. Wikman explains that this realization, often experienced as a 'glimpse,' can lead to inner strength, harmony, and a liberated outlook on life. He emphasizes that while the glimpse provides direction, the path to enlightenment requires continuous effort to overcome ego-driven patterns and doubts. He cites his own experience of quitting smoking as an example of how mental beliefs shape actions. Wikman attributes the concept of mentalism to Paul Brunton, who sought ultimate truth in India and was influenced by Maharishi Ramana. Mentalism, according to Wikman, is not a doctrine but an insight into the nature of consciousness as the source of all creation. He believes that the universe is a manifestation of God's thoughts and that individuals are expressions of this divine consciousness. Wikman recounts his personal journey from bitterness and hardship, including experiences in war, to finding clarity and purpose through his understanding of mentalism. He also mentions his book, "Själens revolution" (The Revolution of the Soul), published in 1965.

Swami Paramananda and Siddha Yoga

Swami Paramananda, an American-born former choreographer and a disciple of Swami Muktananda, discusses Siddha Yoga and the practice of shaktipat. She explains that shaktipat is the transmission of spiritual energy from a guru to a disciple, initiating spiritual development. Paramananda, who took monastic vows, emphasizes that the core teaching of Siddha Yoga is that the true self, or 'Självet,' is within everyone and is the source of inner happiness and harmony. She highlights that this practice is natural, spontaneous, and accessible to all, helping to awaken the inner spiritual energy (kundalini) and leading to increased spiritual consciousness and self-realization.

Interfaith Dialogue and Ecumenism

An article by Bertil Falk describes an 'Interfaith' event at the United Methodist Church in New York, featuring representatives from various religions, including a swami, a rabbi, and a Methodist pastor. The event, called 'Nya Ljusmässan' (New Light Mass), aims to unite East and West, symbolizing the unity of all religions and life. The ceremony includes music, dance, readings, and a discussion among religious leaders. The article notes that Interfaith is broadening the concept of ecumenism beyond Christian denominations to include a wide spectrum of global spiritual traditions. Rabbi Joseph H. Gelberman, a founder of the New Seminary, is mentioned for his work in training 'Interfaith Ministers.'

Dowsing Rods (Slagrutan)

Einar Øygarden writes about the use of dowsing rods for finding water. He shares his experiences as a well-driller in Canada, noting that while dowsing rods were commonly used, his geological observations often contradicted their findings. Øygarden suggests that the bending of the dowsing rod might be influenced by unconscious muscle movements, suggestion, or possibly a form of extrasensory perception, rather than directly detecting water veins. He concludes that dowsing rods are not a reliable tool for drilling wells, though he acknowledges that some individuals with paranormal abilities might be able to locate water.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes alternative spiritual paths, self-development, and holistic approaches to life. It showcases various practices like meditation, healing, and psychotherapy, often presented as complements to traditional methods. There's a clear interest in exploring phenomena that challenge conventional scientific and materialist worldviews, including parapsychology, alleged miracles, and the power of consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be open and curious towards these subjects, providing platforms for diverse perspectives and personal experiences within the 'New Age' and spiritual exploration movements of the time.

This issue of Sökarguiden, dated May 1981, focuses heavily on the history and activities of the Ifologiska Sällskapet, Sweden's first UFO organization, founded in Stockholm in 1957. The main article, written by Heikki Virtanen, details the society's origins, leadership changes, meetings, publications, and eventual dissolution in 1969. The magazine also features articles on spiritualism, parapsychology, and other esoteric topics, reflecting the broader interests of its readership.

Ifologiska Sällskapet: A History

The article by Heikki Virtanen chronicles the establishment of Ifologiska Sällskapet, which grew out of interest generated by lectures on UFOs, particularly one by Kerstin Bäfverstedt in 1957. The society's name, derived from 'ifologiska' (referring to 'interplanetary flying object'), signified a belief that UFOs were identified craft from space, contrasting with the broader term 'UFO' (unidentified flying object).

Early leadership included Baron Liljencrantz (1957-1961) and later Ivan Troëng (1961-1963), during which time the society reportedly experienced its 'golden age' with around 170 members. Troëng conducted studies suggesting UFOs were linked to Venus. The society sought state funding but was denied, and its attempts to alert authorities about nuclear weapons and UFO activity met with negative media response.

The stenciled magazine 'Tid och Rum' became associated with the society, publishing articles about 'friends from space' and promoting a message of peace and higher consciousness. The magazine also highlighted 'contactees' like George Adamski and Elisabeth Klarer, whose books were translated into Swedish.

Leadership transitions occurred, with Bertil Kuhlemann serving as interim chairman before K. E. Nordquist took over. In 1964, Ernst Linder became chairman, a period marked by visits from foreign speakers, including Major Aho and 'Dr.' Frank Stranges, whose appearances were costly. The magazine 'Tid och Rum' ceased publication in 1965.

Virtanen notes that by the late 1960s, UFO interest in Sweden shifted from the occult-influenced 'contactee' era towards a more scientific approach, influenced by authors like Gösta Rehn. Ifologiska Sällskapet officially ended its activities in 1969, with members citing a lack of time and waning interest as reasons for its decline. The article suggests that the society's failure to utilize new talent among its members might have contributed to its demise. Other individuals mentioned for their contributions include Anna-Lisa Helle, Brage Jansson, and Lennart Lind.

Other Spiritual and Esoteric Movements

The issue also features articles on other spiritual and esoteric topics:

• Swedish Spiritualism Today: Lennart Lindberg and Sven-Arne Silve discuss the changing role of séances in spiritualism, with a move towards a greater emphasis on philosophy and parapsychology. They acknowledge that the movement might split over differing beliefs but prioritize an open approach over rigid dogma. Britt Sevelius, however, maintains that séances remain significant for providing evidence of life after death.
• Bra och Dålig Religion (Good and Bad Religion): This article contrasts genuine religion with 'surrogate religion.' Good religion is characterized by deep understanding, optimism, and a positive impact on individuals and society, promoting love and a better world. Bad religion, conversely, is associated with fear, fanaticism, conflict, and narrow-mindedness.
• The 'Concentration Camp' Report: An article by Åsa Freij presents a satirical report, framed as a former internee's account, describing a supposed 'special treatment' facility. The report details harsh conditions, psychological manipulation, and dehumanizing practices, presented with a critical and ironic tone. A note clarifies that this is a satirical study of a yoga participant's experience at a yoga course, intended to be read with humor.
• Book Reviews: Several book reviews are included, covering topics such as William James's work on religious psychology, a book on yoga, a geological and archaeological perspective on biblical flood narratives, and a book on Nordic myths. There is also a review of 'Trons vägar – En handbok i religionskunskap' (The Ways of Faith – A Handbook of Religious Knowledge).
• Events and Listings: The magazine includes a 'SökarguideR' section listing various events, courses, and activities related to yoga, meditation, astrology, and other spiritual practices happening in May 1981. It also features advertisements for bookshops and spiritual centers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of consciousness, the nature of reality, and the search for meaning beyond conventional understanding. There is a clear interest in both historical accounts of esoteric movements and contemporary practices. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints on spiritualism, UFO phenomena, and related subjects, while also offering critical perspectives on certain aspects, such as the potential for dogma and the distinction between genuine spiritual seeking and 'surrogate' beliefs. The magazine encourages readers to critically evaluate information and form their own conclusions.