The WOODREW Update

Magazine Overview

Title: The WOODREW Update
Issue: Vol. 4, No. 2
Date: Nov./Dec. 1984
Publisher: A S.T.A.R. FOUNDATION publication
Country: U.S.A.
Focus: This issue delves into various topics including radionics, yoga, survival psychology, disaster impact, and alternative health practices.

What is Radionics?

The lead article, "WHAT IS RADIONICS?", defines radionics as a healing method at a distance using an instrument and ESP faculty, originating from Dr. Albert Abrams. It explains that radionics operates on the principle that all life forms interact with the earth's electro-magnetic field, and disease results from distortions in an individual's field. Radionic devices use calibrated dials to read 'rates' representing organs, diseases, and remedies for diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Charles Whitehouse describes radionic instruments as extensions of the operator's mind, capable of working with an individual's energy field via a photograph. Dr. T. Galen Hieronymus's work on conducting energy through light rays and printing it onto film is also mentioned. Exciting applications in agriculture, specifically soil refertilization, are highlighted, with Jerry Fridenstine and Peter Kelley presenting their work. The English Radionic Association likens radionic analysis to dowsing, using 'radiesthetic faculty' for extra-sensory perception. Greta is collaborating with Peter Kelley on research for conditions the medical profession cannot currently treat, including Multiple Sclerosis and Diabetes.

In Memorium: Blanche DeVries

This section is a tribute to Blanche DeVries, described as the author's teacher, friend, and a leading exponent of yoga in Western civilization. It shares excerpts of her wisdom, emphasizing continuous learning, maintaining 'balance' as ammunition, the importance of 'clean-up' before 'build-up', living in the world but not of it, and the cyclical nature of time. DeVries's approach to teaching yoga is described as a way of living, requiring daily practice for wisdom, balance, poise, and equilibrium. She advises making time for poetry to enrich one's philosophy of life and meditating on time and self. A true teacher, according to DeVries, is one who embodies yoga and continually learns from experiences without personal bias.

Her philosophy on 'graduation' (death) suggests that fulfilling lives are not 'gone' but transition, and that answers to human nature's challenges lie in studying nature. Her personal yoga philosophy is to be sweet, simple, strong, elastic, and deep, flowing with its wise course and destination, acknowledging humble dependence on Nature.

Understanding Sensitivity

This article discusses the phenomenon of emitted human radiations and their impact on individuals. It explains that people emit different kinds of 'will' currents from their solar plexus. Some emit powerful but chaotic thought, while others emit a piercing, aggressive flow. This helps explain sympathy and antipathy, with some emanations radiating strength and others absorbing energy. These radiations are presented as undeniable and revealing of a person's true nature.

Our Attitude on SURVIVAL

This section emphasizes that attitude is the universal trait for survival, more important than specific supplies. It references a "Psychology of Survival" article from SURVIVE magazine, quoting Dr. Evan Peelle, a behaviorist scientist. Peelle outlines eight traits that spell survivorship, applicable to critical situations and everyday challenges:

1. Sense of Purpose: Having long-range goals and priorities.
2. Rational Thinking: Planning and logically solving problems.
3. Unconventional Thinking: Redefining situations to find solutions.
4. Creativity: Devising unusual ways to use equipment and visualizing solutions.
5. Positive Self-Image: Confidence and self-liking.
6. Adaptability: Coping with unpredictability and the unknown.
7. Positive World View: Expecting positive outcomes and working for the common good.
8. Inner Strength: Persistence, coping with stress, and finding humor.

Dr. Richard Logan, a professor of human development, notes that Americans tend to feel exceedingly vulnerable due to consumerism and a disconnect from basic needs, leading to a feeling of being out of control and a potential for panic. He suggests that interest in physical fitness stems from a lack of real-life challenges. The article advises assessing behaviors that hinder survival, believing in the ability to change, and practicing new behaviors. Buckminster Fuller's quote, "Man is meant to survive," is included, with Logan adding that the struggle to survive is what people are good at.

Subscriber Scribings

This section includes commentary on a letter from Dr. Sandy Andron, an expert on cults. The commentary stresses the importance of "responsibility for self" and warns against groups that exploit unsettled times for profit by promoting regressive irresponsibility. It advises readers to beware of groups offering abdication of responsibility as a path to "enlightenment," stating that personal growth and preparedness are the true investments for a better future.

A Trauma Update

This article revisits the impact of natural disasters, focusing on the town of Othello, Washington, after the 1980 Mt. St. Helens eruption. Paul R. Adams, a counselor, and a Utah State University colleague studied the disaster stress reaction. Their research showed a significant increase in mental health crisis calls, domestic violence, hospital emergency visits, and alcohol center clients after the ashfall. While many professionals didn't initially notice behavioral changes, the data revealed significant shifts. The study also noted that residents began making preparations for future disasters, such as food storage. The article encourages readers to consider survival preparedness.

Mountain Musings

This personal reflection recounts the loss of the author's dog, Atom, suspected to be a victim of foul play. Atom is described as the second animal to whom the author felt strong emotional ties, the first being a Boxer named Perry. Both animals provided emotional support during transitional periods in the author's life. Atom, a Golden Retriever, was a constant companion after the move to Reisha Way, offering solace during moments of anguish and acting as a greeter. The author expresses deep affection for Atom, noting his unwavering friendship.

Think and Relate

This section discusses "Thallasophy," a seawater cure for arthritis and arteriosclerosis, noting its historical roots and current practice in various locations. It advises refraining from eating farm animal meat during the cure, explaining that animals develop anguish before slaughter, producing poisonous alkaloids. The author shares a disturbing experience at an animal auction, witnessing the fear and distress of animals destined for slaughter, which led to a personal choice to eat grilled cheese instead of a hamburger.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around alternative healing methods (radionics, thallasophy), personal growth and self-reliance (yoga, survival psychology), and the impact of external events on individuals and communities (disaster stress). The editorial stance appears to advocate for self-empowerment, critical thinking, and a holistic approach to health and well-being, while cautioning against manipulation and dependency on external authorities or groups. There is a clear emphasis on personal responsibility and preparedness for life's challenges.