Sokaren - 1997 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 3, 1997, årgång 34
Date: May 1997
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- inkl moms
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine for life questions, features a diverse range of articles exploring spirituality, psychology, and alternative perspectives on life. The cover prominently displays a quote from the Upanishads about Brahman, alongside portraits of key figures.

Articles and Features

Brahman: The Cover Quote

The cover features a profound quote from the Upanishads, stating that "Brahman is everything." It describes Brahman as the origin of all visible things, perceptions, desires, and actions, emphasizing that these are merely names and forms. To truly understand Brahman, one must experience the unity of their own Self with Brahman, finding it in the lotus of the heart. This path, it is suggested, leads to the transcendence of sorrow and death, and union with the innermost essence of all beings, beyond knowledge.

Energica: An Adventure in the New Era

This reportage focuses on Energica, a Swedish publishing house based in Stackmora, founded by Per and Monica Frisk. Energica plays a significant role in distributing New Age ideas and methods in Sweden. The couple, originally from Stockholm, moved to Dalarna to provide a better upbringing for their children. Energica publishes books on life knowledge, music, and talk cassettes, and also distributes the magazine Energivågen. Their other company, Hälsa & Helhet, publishes the magazine Hälsa. The article highlights their commitment to living by the principles of 'Creative Visualization' and their role as pioneers in publishing New Age literature in Sweden. Energica is described as the largest Swedish publisher exclusively dedicated to New Age literature, contributing significantly to the spread of these ideas. Monica emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in shaping one's life path, based on love for oneself and others. The magazine's mission is to help people discover their inner strength and expand their consciousness. Best-selling titles include Deepak Chopra's "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Life" and Louise L. Hay's "Love Yourself, Heal Your Life."

Groupthink

This article discusses the phenomenon of "groupthink," where individuals within a group conform to prevailing beliefs and opinions, often disregarding external evidence or alternative perspectives. The author argues that this can lead to a lack of critical inquiry and a resistance to new ideas, citing examples in academia and religion. The article suggests that while group consensus can provide a sense of belonging, it becomes problematic when a group holds a position of power and fails to consider external values and results.

A Wonderful World: An Encounter with Energica

This editorial piece introduces the Energica publishing house and its founders, Per and Monica Frisk. The author praises their efforts in rescuing the magazine Hälsa from bankruptcy and highlights their work in promoting New Age ideas. It also touches upon the contributions of other individuals mentioned in the issue, such as Harry Månsus, Olga Kharitidi, and Curt Källman, emphasizing the growing influence of New Age thought in society.

Dialogue on Life Questions: Bromma-Dialogen

This section features an interview with Harry Månsus, founder of Bromma-Dialogen, a dialogue forum for life questions held at Betelseminariet in Stockholm. Månsus discusses his vision of creating a spiritual center and fostering dialogue between people of different life philosophies. He highlights the importance of addressing spiritual hunger and the limitations of traditional religion in meeting these needs. Bromma-Dialogen aims to create an open space for seekers and collaborates with theological institutions to explore New Age spirituality.

The Twelve-Step Movement

This section provides an overview of the Twelve-Step movement, originating with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). It explains how the principles of the twelve steps have been applied to various addictions and dependencies, including substance abuse, eating disorders, and workaholism. The article notes that while the movement is widespread in the US, it is still developing in Sweden.

First in Darkness: Can Healing Happen? - A Dialogue with Harry Månsus

This interview with Harry Månsus explores his work at Bromma-Dialogen and his Christian perspective on spirituality. He advocates for the church to become an open spiritual center rather than a closed institution. Månsus discusses the similarities between New Age ideals and the Bible, emphasizing the importance of spiritual experiences. He is critical of some New Age authors like James Redfield and Deepak Chopra for downplaying suffering. Månsus also touches upon the concept of 'shadow' in psychology and the healing power of acknowledging darkness.

Vedic Art: The Path to a Life's Purpose Through Artistic Creation

This article profiles Curt Källman, founder of Vedic Art. Källman, a former artist, discovered Vedic principles through meditation and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. He developed Vedic Art as a way to help individuals discover their Dharma (life purpose) and develop their consciousness. The article describes the process of Vedic Art, which involves spontaneous drawing and painting, and how it can serve as a mirror to one's inner state. It highlights the transformative power of this artistic practice.

A Course in Miracles: Helen Schucman

This piece reviews Kenneth Wapnick's biography of Helen Schucman, the scribe of "A Course in Miracles." Schucman, a clinical psychologist, received dictations from an inner voice, which formed the basis of the spiritual text. The article details her complex relationship with God, religion, and her collaborator, William Thetford. It emphasizes Schucman's dedication to the Course and her struggle to integrate its principles into her life. The review suggests that Schucman's story reflects the universal human struggle between the ego and the higher Self.

Shamanism: Russian Psychiatrist and Healer Seeks to Unite Ancient and Modern Knowledge

This article features Olga Kharitidi, a Russian psychiatrist and author of "The Shaman's Circle." Kharitidi explores shamanism, drawing from her experiences with Siberian shamans. She advocates for a transcultural collaboration between medical professionals and traditional healers, aiming to integrate ancient wisdom with modern science. Kharitidi believes that the reality of the universe is not fully captured by modern science and that inner exploration is crucial. She shares her experiences of healing and the transformative power of shamanic practices.

A Psychology with a Soul

This article delves into Psychosynthesis, a psychological approach developed by Roberto Assagioli. Margo Russell, director of the Psychosynthesis Academy in Stockholm, explains that Psychosynthesis combines esoteric thought with modern psychology to help individuals heal spiritual wounds and find meaning. It emphasizes the concept of the Self and the integration of various subpersonalities. The article highlights the relevance of Psychosynthesis in addressing both individual and planetary crises, advocating for a holistic view of humanity and its connection to the universal consciousness.

Julie Was Almost Dead and Saw That Paradise Exists

This feature tells the story of Julie Chimes, who survived a near-fatal stabbing and experienced a profound near-death experience. Chimes describes her encounter with a higher consciousness and a sense of paradise, which she felt reluctant to leave. Her book, "Back from the Other Side" (originally "A Stranger in Paradise"), details her experience and her belief in a spiritual dimension that exists beyond physical life. She aims to help others find this dimension without having to go through a near-death experience.

UFOs: The Mystery

This brief section discusses the phenomenon of UFO sightings and the need for scientific study. It suggests that UFO reports are an important aspect of contemporary life that warrants investigation, hinting at the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, personal growth, alternative healing methods, and the search for meaning in life. There is a clear interest in bridging ancient wisdom with modern scientific and psychological understanding. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and inclusive, presenting various perspectives on life's big questions without necessarily endorsing any single one. The magazine seems to advocate for a holistic approach to well-being, encompassing both psychological and spiritual dimensions. There is also an undercurrent of critique towards rigid traditional structures, whether religious or scientific, and an encouragement for individuals to explore their own inner truths and develop their consciousness.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 3/1997
Date: March 1997

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated March 1997, delves into a variety of spiritual, psychological, and paranormal topics, with a strong emphasis on potential dangers and critical examination.

Fallgropar på den andliga vägen (Pitfalls on the Spiritual Path)

The cover story, written by Marja Savola, focuses on the dangers of awakening Kundalini, a powerful spiritual energy. George Arundale, a former president of the Theosophical Society, is quoted extensively, warning that Kundalini can be a destructive force if not handled with extreme caution and self-control. He likens the path of Kundalini awakening to one "strewn with wrecks." The article outlines specific dangers, including increased sexual activity, mental confusion, and physical and psychological breakdown. It stresses the importance of a balanced mind, strong health, and self-control, noting that few individuals possess these qualities.

Arundale's warnings are echoed by the experiences of C. G. Jung, who explored altered states of consciousness through yoga and other methods, admitting to risking his health and sanity. Jung's exploration of the "underworld" of the psyche led him to a psychotic state, from which he narrowly escaped. The article also touches upon other methods that can carry risks, such as TM, meditation, breathing exercises, Qi-gong, healing, automatic writing, and channeling, emphasizing the need to maintain self-control.

The Mystery of the Human Soul: Is Important Knowledge Within Us?

This section explores the enigmatic nature of the human psyche and the question of whether true knowledge resides within us. It discusses phenomena like channeling, where individuals receive messages from perceived higher intelligences, and the concept of "altered consciousness." The article questions whether these messages are genuine insights or merely fantasies from the subconscious. It highlights the idea that "we are all one" and that "I am you," suggesting a fundamental interconnectedness.

Several individuals' experiences with channeling are presented, including Ken Carey, who received messages from a "spiritual being," and Helena Montelius, who communicated with a guide named Elaiha. The concept of "A Course in Miracles" is also mentioned, described as a spiritual text channeled by Helen Schucman.

Personal Accounts of Unexplained Help

Several personal anecdotes illustrate instances of unexplained assistance or guidance:

• Leg Pain Relief: The author recounts experiencing severe nerve pain in his leg, which was suddenly and inexplicably relieved after removing his orthotic insoles. Medical explanations were unsatisfactory.
• Lost in London: A traveler recounts getting lost in London and being unexpectedly found by a fellow traveler who felt an "inner urge" to look for her.
• Green Slang: A person nearly filled their car with the wrong type of gasoline but was alerted by a stranger who coincidentally appeared at the right moment.
• Gas Tap: A person noticed an unusual smell and realized a gas tap had been left open, preventing a potential disaster.

These stories are presented as evidence of potential guidance from the subconscious, guardian angels, or spiritual guides.

The Priest Who Lost Faith in Dogmas

This article features an interview with Ragnar Leivestad, a former priest and professor of theology in Norway. Leivestad recounts his personal crisis of faith, where he lost belief in dogmas such as the resurrection of Jesus and life after death. He argues for a critical reading of the Gospels, suggesting they were written for theological and propagandistic purposes rather than historical accuracy. Leivestad emphasizes the importance of the historical Jesus and his teachings on morality and love, viewing him as a profound moral example rather than a divine figure.

Hypnospiralen: Your Video as a House Doctor!

This section introduces a video cassette called "Hypnospiralen," marketed as a therapeutic tool for stress reduction, anxiety, confidence building, and various other issues. Testimonials praise its effectiveness in promoting relaxation, improving sleep, and reducing stress. The product is offered for sale or rent.

Sökarnyheter (Seeker News)

This section contains several short news items and reviews:

• Homeopathy: The article notes the prevalence of homeopaths in Sweden and other European countries, with some doctors using homeopathic medicine. It mentions that homeopathic remedies are believed to work through an "immaterial force" rather than chemical action, and cites studies suggesting positive effects.
• Mysteries: A review of "Illustrerad Vetenskap" magazine's new section on "Science and Mysticism" discusses topics like crop circles, the Yeti, and telepathy experiments. It also touches upon the Bermuda Triangle, questioning its unique status.
• The Indian Rope Trick: The article discusses the historical accounts of the Indian rope trick, exploring possible explanations such as mass hypnosis or exaggerated eyewitness testimony.
• Animal Rights: A brief mention of a debate on animal rights, referencing articles by Leif Zern and Sverker Sörlin, and introducing Peter Singer's concept of "speciesism."
• Continuing Mysteries: Further brief mentions of phenomena like Sai Baba, the Bridey Murphy reincarnation case, hollow earth theories, and fire walking.
• Peace in Mind Bankrupt: The spiritual festival "Peace in Mind" has gone bankrupt due to insufficient visitors, leaving significant debts.

UFOs: What is the Solution?

This article examines the UFO phenomenon, presenting various reports and potential explanations. It categorizes sightings into:

• Distant Objects: Reports of fast-moving, unusually maneuvering lights.
• Close Observations: Descriptions of disc-shaped, egg-shaped, or round craft, sometimes with occupants.
• Electromagnetic Effects: Incidents where UFOs caused car engines, radios, and lights to fail.
• Landing Marks: Evidence of physical contact with the ground.
• Burns: Cases of people and vegetation being burned by UFOs.

The article references J. Allen Hynek's work and the Condon Report, noting that some cases remain unexplained.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

Several books are reviewed or mentioned:

• Änglaboken (The Angel Book): A book celebrating angels, featuring personal accounts and artistic depictions.
• Musik från Andromeda (Music from Andromeda): Reviews of electronic music albums by Ralph Lundsten, described as suitable for meditation and relaxation.
• Feldenkrais Method: A book introducing the Feldenkrais method, a somatic education technique focused on improving movement and body awareness.
• Hypnosens hemligheter (Secrets of Hypnosis): A book by Paul McKenna explaining hypnosis techniques.
• Reflexologi: A book on reflexology, detailing foot and hand pressure points for therapeutic purposes.
• Drömtolkning (Dream Interpretation): Books by Montague Ullman on understanding dreams and forming dream groups.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics related to consciousness, spirituality, and the unexplained, often with a critical or cautionary perspective. There's a recurring theme of questioning established beliefs and seeking deeper understanding, whether through personal experience, alternative therapies, or the examination of paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, but with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, self-awareness, and caution regarding potentially dangerous spiritual practices or unsubstantiated claims. The magazine encourages readers to share their own experiences, contributing to a collective documentation of unusual phenomena.

Title: ALPHAOMEGA
Issue: NR 1 & 2 -97
Date: 1997
Publisher: ALPHAOMEGA
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of ALPHAOMEGA, a Swedish magazine focused on the development of consciousness, delves into a wide range of topics related to the paranormal, spiritual growth, and unexplained phenomena. The cover highlights a continuation of a series on pyramids and the Sphinx, alongside other articles on UFOs, alien contact, and consciousness.

Key Articles and Themes

UFOs and Extraterrestrial Contact

The magazine explores numerous facets of the UFO phenomenon. It discusses alleged physical traces left by UFOs, such as burn marks and scorched grass, citing cases like the Condon Report's Fall #22 involving a farmer and a luminous object. It also highlights reports of small, alien-like beings encountered by witnesses, referencing a case from Papua, New Guinea, where two girls described small figures with large heads.

Several hypotheses for UFO sightings are presented. These range from natural explanations like satellites, meteors, ball lightning, and atmospheric phenomena, to psychological factors such as misinterpretation, over-exaggeration, and even hallucinations. Skeptics suggest that most reports can be explained naturally if sufficient information were available. However, the magazine also entertains less conventional explanations, including rare natural phenomena like ball lightning or plasma formations, and even the idea that UFOs might be manifestations of psychic energy or mental projections.

The extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETI) is discussed as a popular explanation, with references to early interpretations influenced by publishers like Parthenon. The magazine questions the motives of potential alien visitors, considering possibilities like tourism, assistance, or even conquest. It also touches upon the idea of UFOs originating from 'ethereal' or 'astral' counterparts of planets within our solar system, a concept rooted in theosophy.

Alien Abductions: The concept of alien abductions, or 'humanoid cases', is examined, with Professor Hynek suggesting they might hold the key to understanding the UFO enigma. The article details reports of people being taken aboard spacecraft, subjected to medical examinations, and experiencing 'missing time'. Harvard psychiatrist John Mack's work on these cases, including his book 'Bortförd' (Abducted), is mentioned. The early case of Antonio Villas Boas in Brazil (1957) is recounted, where he claimed to have been abducted, washed, and had a sexual encounter with a female alien.

Contactees and Messages: The magazine features stories of individuals who claim to have received messages from extraterrestrials, such as George Adamski, who spoke of contact with 'Orthon from Venus' and described lunar bases. It also mentions the case of Gloria Lee, a former flight attendant who claimed to receive messages from a being on Jupiter via automatic writing, and who later died after a prolonged fast.

UFO Sightings and Predictions: Reports of UFO sightings coinciding with UFO lectures are noted, such as Major Wayne S. Aho's experiences in Sweden in 1965, where flying saucers reportedly followed him. A significant sighting in Sweden that year is described with vivid imagery, including comparisons to a train with lit windows. Expert explanations ranged from satellites to meteors, but Aho claimed to have physically touched a UFO in the Mojave Desert and believed aliens were here to help humanity.

Physical Evidence and Cases: The Roswell incident is mentioned as a famous case involving a crashed UFO and recovered alien bodies, with a note about alleged autopsy footage shown on Swedish TV. Crop circles and 'pictograms' in grain, particularly in England, are linked to alien spacecraft, as are unexplained animal mutilations.

Alternative Explanations for UFOs

The issue presents a comprehensive list of alternative explanations for UFO phenomena:

• Other Dimensions/Realities: UFOs might be vehicles traveling between different dimensions or realities that humans cannot perceive.
• Earthly Habitats: Some theories suggest UFOs originate from advanced, hidden human cultures on Earth.
• Time Travelers: UFOs could be vessels from the future or the past, with modern physics not ruling out time travel.
• Vehicles of the Dead: This idea is attributed to Friedrich Jürgenson.
• Space Animals: UFOs might be life forms that subsist on pure energy and are adapted to the upper atmosphere.
• Gods or Angels: A religious interpretation posits that UFO occupants are divine beings or angels.
• Demonic Deception: Conversely, some believe UFOs are operated by demons from hell.
• Hypnotic Tricks: Witnesses might be deceived by hypnotic manipulation, making them believe in events that never occurred.
• Illusions: Aliens could create illusions using holographic technology to conceal their true intentions.
• Secret Earth Technology: Some believe UFOs are advanced human technology, possibly from a secret terrestrial project.
• Psychic Powers: UFOs and alien beings could be created by psychic forces influencing physical reality, which is fundamentally mental.

The Challenges of Space Travel

The magazine discusses the immense distances in space, noting that even near light speed, travel to the nearest star would take years. The problems of weightlessness, leading to muscle atrophy, and the absence of sunlight are also highlighted. It questions whether intelligent beings could overcome these challenges, perhaps through generational ships or by manipulating gravity and creating artificial environments.

New Age and Spiritual Concepts

Channeling and New Masters: Dr. Norma Milanovich, a professor with a background in education, is presented as a 'channel' who receives messages from 'Ascended Masters' and 'celestial beings'. Her books, such as 'We, The Arcturians' and 'Sacred Journey to Atlantis', are mentioned, along with her newsletter 'Celestial Voices'. These messages focus on helping humanity navigate a new era, raising vibrations, and understanding universal laws.

Conspiracy Theories: David Icke's book 'Roboternas uppror' (The Reptilian Agenda) is discussed, which posits a global conspiracy by an elite group aiming to establish a new world order. Icke suggests that this elite, influenced by a secret brotherhood, manipulates world politics and economics, and that some governments collaborate with both benevolent and malevolent extraterrestrials.

Sheldon Nidle's Prophecies: Medium Sheldon Nidle is featured, with claims that 'Sirians' are preparing to take over and that a spiritual hierarchy is guiding Earth's transition. Nidle predicts significant changes in human DNA, the opening of 13 chakras, and the physical manifestation of beings from other dimensions. He also foretells financial support for followers to establish 'Life and Light Centers'.

Animal Telepathy: A personal account by Ingvar Anderberg explores the idea of dogs as 'mind readers'. He shares anecdotes about his dogs, Amber and Öxie, seemingly responding to his thoughts and intentions. The article references animal communicator Samantha Khury, who suggests that animals communicate through images and thought transference, proposing that this ability warrants further scientific investigation.

Personal Reflections: The editor, Christina Klint, reflects on the challenges of publishing ALPHAOMEGA, noting declining subscriptions and difficulties in attracting advertisers. Despite these challenges, she expresses a deep commitment to the magazine, viewing its cessation as a personal loss. She defends her critical stance, stating that the magazine provides information and allows readers to draw their own conclusions.

Calendar of Events: The issue includes a calendar of upcoming events related to New Age and spiritual practices, such as crystal healing workshops, lectures on reincarnation, and courses on Martinus cosmology and shamanism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of ALPHAOMEGA revolve around the exploration of consciousness, the paranormal, and alternative belief systems. The magazine consistently questions mainstream scientific and materialistic views, advocating for a broader understanding of reality that includes spiritual, psychic, and extraterrestrial dimensions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various theories and personal accounts while encouraging readers to critically evaluate the information and form their own conclusions. There is a clear leaning towards New Age philosophies, conspiracy theories, and the belief in higher intelligences, both terrestrial and extraterrestrial, influencing human affairs and spiritual development. The editor's personal reflections highlight a dedication to these themes despite the commercial challenges of publishing such a niche magazine.