Sokaren - 1996 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 3, 1996
Volume: Årgång 33
Date: May 1996
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- inkl moms

Sökaren is a Swedish magazine for life questions, aiming to foster open-mindedness and critical inquiry. This issue focuses on topics such as reincarnation, out-of-body experiences, spirituality, and the New Age movement.

Key Articles and Themes

Osho's Legacy and Swedish Sannyasins

The cover highlights Osho's influence, noting that he attracted many followers with his ideas on personal development. A very active group in Sweden works in his spirit. The article mentions that Osho's followers, known as sannyasins, are now more independent, with each center managing its own activities. The Stockholm center offers daily programs including dynamic meditation (Ho-meditation) and Kundalini meditation. Osho's teachings emphasize living in the present moment and becoming a 'new, free human being' who has shed the conditioning of upbringing and culture.

Reincarnation Therapy: Brian Weiss and Ylva Cronstedt

Brian Weiss, an American psychiatrist, shares his experiences with reincarnation therapy, having encountered over 1,200 patients who recounted past lives under hypnosis. He believes that past life memories can resolve current life problems and reduce the fear of death. His book, "Många liv, många mästare" (Many Lives, Many Masters), has been translated into Swedish. Weiss emphasizes that while scientific proof is difficult, the therapeutic benefits are significant.

Ylva Cronstedt, a reincarnation therapist from Ekshärad, Sweden, also shares case studies. She describes how recalling past life events, such as a woman's migraine linked to a past life drowning or a man's suicidal thoughts stemming from a past life as a rejected teenager, has led to healing and resolution in the present.

Out-of-Body Experiences: Robert A. Monroe

Robert A. Monroe, an American businessman, recounts his numerous out-of-body experiences (OBEs) starting in 1958. Initially frightening, these experiences led him to found the Monroe Institute. He describes OBEs as a journey beyond space-time, where one can interact with other realities and beings. Monroe developed the 'Gateway Experience' program, utilizing 'Hemi-Sync' technology, to help individuals explore these non-physical states and overcome the fear of death. He posits that consciousness can exist independently of the physical body and travel to different 'Focus levels' or realities.

Nature Spirits: Donald Keys

Donald Keys, described as a 'world citizen', shares his experiences with 'devas' (nature spirits or angels). He believes these non-human, non-gendered beings are actively involved in maintaining the balance of nature and assisting humans, animals, and plants. Keys describes interactions that are often intuitive rather than verbal, involving exchanges of energy and information. He notes that devas are goal-oriented and joyful, and their interest in humans is linked to their tasks. He also mentions the concept of 'city devas' responsible for urban areas.

Other Articles and Reviews

Ivan Troëng discusses the Akashic record, a concept of a universal memory containing all past, present, and future events. He references a story about a Swedish medical student who was shown visions of past events in a Tibetan monastery.

SM (likely Sven Magnusson) contributes an editorial titled "På sökarvägen..." (On the Seeker's Path...), advocating for openness and critical questioning while expressing concern about uncritical attitudes within the Swedish 'New Age' scene.

"Tidskriftsboom" reviews several Swedish New Age magazines, including Alpha Omega, Pentagram, Utan Gräns, Zodiak, Ljusåret, and Cosmic & Personligt, assessing their content and approach.

"UFO-Aktuellt" discusses UFO photographs, often providing rational explanations for alleged alien sightings, and explores the phenomenon of 'abduction' narratives, suggesting they may stem from psychological factors rather than literal encounters.

"Den hundrade apan" debunks the 'hundredth monkey phenomenon' as a metaphor rather than a scientifically proven event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sökaren strongly advocates for a balanced approach to spirituality and the paranormal, emphasizing critical inquiry alongside open-mindedness. The magazine features articles that explore profound personal transformations through practices like reincarnation therapy and out-of-body experiences, while also grounding these explorations in rational thought and questioning. The editorial stance, as articulated in "På sökarvägen...", is one of respect for diverse seeking paths but a caution against uncritical acceptance of unsubstantiated claims, particularly within the broader New Age movement. The magazine aims to provide a platform for diverse perspectives on life's big questions, encouraging readers to engage with these topics thoughtfully.

Title: Sökarnyheter
Issue: 3/96
Date: null
Publisher: null
Country: Sweden
Original Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökarnyheter delves into a diverse array of topics, blending scientific findings with explorations of the paranormal, spiritual, and psychological realms. It features short news items on health, such as the benefits of TM meditation for blood pressure and the protective effects of fruit and vegetable diets against stroke. The magazine also touches upon societal trends like the rise of vegetarianism in Britain and the growing belief in angels, citing research from the US and Germany.

A notable news item reports on a peculiar event in Bulgaria where a large crowd gathered for a supposed alien delegation, leading to police intervention. The issue also highlights the 'chemistry of joy,' linking laughter to endorphins and its positive effects on physical and mental well-being.

The core of the magazine, however, seems to be dedicated to parapsychology and related phenomena. An extensive article explores the 'sideriska pendeln' (sidereal pendulum), tracing its history from ancient times through the work of notable figures like Goethe, Schelling, and Reichenbach, and discussing various theories and personal accounts related to its use in divination and research.

• Several book reviews are featured, including:
• 'Sundbergs sjömonster' by Jan-Ove Sundberg, which compiles documented observations of lake monsters.
• 'Om mental träning som vetenskap' by Bosse Angelöw, advocating for mental training as a key to improving life quality.
• 'Lilla boken om kristen tro' (The Little Book of Christian Faith), a concise overview of Christian beliefs.
• 'Livet - inte plikt utan möjlighet' by Bengt Jacobsson, a philosophical exploration of life's potential.
• 'Osynliga mönster' by Margareta Lidgren, which attempts to connect physics and metaphysics.
• 'Solspegel' by Irene Alomar, a collection of poems.

The magazine also includes a section on 'Läsarforum' (Reader's Forum) with letters discussing topics like the possibility of alien abductions, animal communication, and the terminology of spiritualism versus spiritism. A detailed account of the Monroe Institute's work on consciousness and out-of-body experiences is presented, along with an invitation to form a Swedish association.

• Further articles delve into:
• Instrumental Transcommunication (ITK): Nils-Olof Jacobson discusses the international network for ITK research (INIT) and the work of Ernst Senkowski, highlighting the challenges and progress in receiving messages from other dimensions via electronic devices.
• Martin Johnson's Autobiography: A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the life and work of Martin Johnson, a former professor of parapsychology. He recounts his childhood in Lapland, his early interest in the paranormal, his academic journey, and his research, including experiments with Gerard Croiset and his experiences in the field of parapsychology in the Netherlands and the US.
• 'Pseudovetenskap' (Pseudoscience): An excerpt from Carl Sagan's critique of pseudoscience, contrasting it with genuine scientific inquiry.
• 'Försöksledareffekten' (Experimenter Effect): Discusses how the experimenter's expectations can influence results, citing research by Marilyn Schlitz and Richard Wiseman.
• 'Slagruta på kurs' (Dowsing Course): Critiques a report on a dowsing course, questioning the objectivity of 'skeptical' viewpoints.
• 'Prekognitioner' (Precognitions): Examines the documented precognitive abilities of Sean Harribance.

Finally, the magazine includes a survey on what Swedes believe in ('Vad tror vi svenskar på?'), a section on 'Den nya världen' (The New World) exploring concepts of energy fields and interconnectedness, and advertisements for books, massage equipment, and travel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of Sökarnyheter appears to be one of open inquiry into phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific understanding. The magazine actively explores parapsychology, UFOs, spiritualism, and alternative health practices, presenting research, personal accounts, and theoretical discussions. While acknowledging the need for rigorous methodology and evidence, it often gives voice to those who have experienced or studied these phenomena, suggesting a belief in the potential validity of such experiences. The inclusion of critiques of pseudoscience alongside articles exploring paranormal topics indicates an attempt to engage with these subjects critically, yet without outright dismissal. The magazine seems to champion the idea that there are aspects of reality that science has yet to fully grasp or explain, encouraging readers to explore these possibilities with an open mind.

This issue of "KALENDERTIPS" focuses on upcoming events and personal development opportunities in Sweden, with a strong emphasis on spiritual and self-help themes. The cover features a poem by Eva Jagrell titled "Se, hon gör allting nytt" (See, she makes everything new), celebrating a powerful, creative force. The main articles delve into spirituality, relationships, and upcoming events.

Andrew Cohen: What is Enlightenment? An article introduces Andrew Cohen, an American author and spiritual teacher who advocates for the possibility of achieving enlightenment and freedom in the present moment. His teachings are said to offer deep insight into universal truths and lead to profound life changes. Cohen emphasizes that recognizing our interconnectedness with the whole universe fosters true love and liberation, releasing inner forces and bringing new meaning to life, dispelling fear and doubt. He is scheduled to give lectures at Musikmuseet in Stockholm from May 24-26 at 19:00. Information is available via tel/fax 08-30 10 33.

Dalai Lama in Sweden The issue notes that the Dalai Lama will appear at Globen in Stockholm on May 23, invited by a group including Anna Bornstein. Further information can be obtained at 08-641 89 38.

Relationernas fyra vägar (The Four Paths of Relationships) Written by Alf Erling Sjöberg, this article stresses the importance of positive interactions, kindness, and sympathy for psychological, physical, and social well-being. It advocates for actively choosing to like others and ethically moving past negativity, antipathy, and hatred, which are described as detrimental to health. The article outlines four 'paths' in human relationships: sympathy, antipathy, neutral indifference ('bry dej inte' - don't bother), and empathy. Empathy is highlighted as the most valuable path, involving mirroring another's feelings and thoughts without losing one's identity, and is associated with compassion and mercy, citing Mother Theresa and the Dalai Lama as examples of its impact.

Calendar of Events (Kalendertips) A detailed calendar lists various courses and events taking place primarily in May, June, July, August, and September. These events are mostly held at Wäxthuset in Väddö and Solviken. The offerings include:

• May 31 - June 2: Wäxthuset, Väddö - Relationship course based on "A Course in Miracles," focusing on moving from blockages to solutions and total acceptance. Cost: 1,400 SEK, with room and board for 700 SEK. Instructors: Ulf Wåhlström, Gunilla Wigertz.
• June 4-8: Solviken - Fasting walk in the Bohuslän landscape. Cost: 2,200 SEK. Instructors: Ilene Stensson, Gunnel Derning-Ghosh.
• June 20-22: Wäxthuset, Väddö - Modern Shamanism, an inner journey for seeking visions and healing. Cost: 1,400 SEK, with room and board for 700 SEK. Instructor: Lena Måndotter.
• July 6: Solviken - Poetry and lyric festival with music and poetry. Cost: 400-500 SEK.
• July 13-14: Foresta Hotell, Lidingö - Weekend seminar with Barry Long. For booking and information, call 08-644 30 04. Cost: 1,200 SEK.
• July 26-28: Wäxthuset, Väddö - Introductory course in liberating breathing. Cost: 1,025 SEK, with room and board for 900 SEK. Instructors: Bo Wahlström, Lena Kristina Tuulse, Darshan Zenith.
• July 29 - August 1: Wäxthuset, Väddö - A course on releasing generational prejudices and life-limiting attitudes towards sex, intimacy, and desire. Cost: 1,300 SEK, with room and board for 1,050 SEK. Instructors: Johan Ekenberg, Agneta Thuresson.
• August 9-11: Wäxthuset, Väddö - Liberating Dance, exploring movement, dance, and meditation. Cost: 1,400 SEK, with room and board for 700 SEK. Instructor: Maria Koziomtzis.
• August 17: Solviken - Yoga and meditation course and meals. Cost: 600 SEK. Instructor: Gunnel Derning-Ghosh.
• August 30 - September 1: Wäxthuset, Väddö - "Kärlek som berör" (Love that touches), exploring how different forms of touch affect the body and soul, and the significance of touch in relationships. Cost: 900 SEK, with room and board for 700 SEK. Instructor: Rainer Kägö.

Contact information for Wäxthuset, Väddö is provided as Fjäll 6908, 760 40 Väddö, phone 0175-312 90. Solviken's address is 450 53 Hällevadsholm, phone 0524-50007.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The magazine consistently promotes personal growth, spiritual exploration, and positive interpersonal relationships. The editorial stance is one of encouragement towards self-awareness, empathy, and embracing transformative experiences. There is a clear focus on providing practical information about events and courses that facilitate these goals, positioning itself as a guide for individuals seeking self-improvement and deeper understanding of themselves and the world.