The WOODREW Update

Magazine Overview

The Woodrew Update, Volume 4, Number 5, published May/June 1985, is a publication of the A.S.T.A.R. Foundation. This issue delves into various speculative and scientific topics, including human stress, bioenergy, reincarnation, dowsing, medical quackery, and climate change.

Speculations About Stress

The lead article posits that the human species is experiencing unprecedented stress, leading to wars, violence, marital breakups, and immunological issues. This stress is linked to celestial events, particularly full and new moons, which cause heightened tidal and electromagnetic oscillations on Earth. These disturbances are believed to affect the human body, which is largely composed of water, influencing blood flow and rhythms. Statistical data shows a correlation between full moon periods and increased stress, manifesting as outbreaks of violence, emotional disturbances, increased birth rates, and heightened tension.

The article suggests that while EM changes in the atmosphere can be measured, their relation to human attitudes and well-being is not fully understood. It hypothesizes that increased daily bombardment by gravitational and electromagnetic radiations, possibly linked to the solar system's journey into a 'New Age,' contributes to this stress, which will eventually propel humanity into a golden age.

Marriage and the Singles Scene

This section contrasts the morality of the 1970s and 1980s with earlier times, noting the shift towards cohabitation before marriage. It questions whether couples living together develop a true 'our' mentality or maintain a 'singles' or 'roommate's' mentality, guarding individual possessions and finances. The author worries if this individualistic approach will change overnight into a shared mentality upon marriage.

'To Have Been or Not To Have Been'

A 1982 Gallup Poll indicated that 23% of Americans believe in reincarnation, with a significant number in California. The article highlights celebrity beliefs in past lives, such as Sylvester Stallone's belief he was guillotined by the Jacobins, and Loretta Lynn's claim to have been a Cherokee princess. It notes that hypnosis, regression, and simple déjà vu experiences can uncover past lives, with actors often being good hypnotic subjects.

Prediction

Based on Mayan studies of a 5,124-year cycle, the article predicts that 1987 will begin 'the hell period' of civilization, marked by earthquakes. It also mentions the growing international interest in music therapy, specifically in Norway, where low-frequency sound waves are used to induce sleep and relaxation in mentally retarded and spastic children.

Mountain Musings

This personal account details an experience with water dowsing. The author and her friend Greta participated in finding a location for a new well on a property with an existing well that had a low flow rate. With the help of two experienced dowsers from the Appalachian Chapter of the American Society of Dowsers, they identified a spot. The subsequent drilling revealed a gusher at 502 feet, producing over 45 gallons per minute, far exceeding the initial estimate.

Terrestrial Extras

This section describes newly discovered deep-sea inhabitants living near hydrothermal vents at depths of 7,500 feet. These creatures, including white crabs, giant clams, and blood-red worms, thrive in extreme conditions, utilizing hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide converted into organic matter by chemosynthetic bacteria.

Subscriber Scribings: A Scientific Experience with Bioenergy

Dr. Bernard Grad, a researcher at McGill University, shares his 36-year experience studying aging and bioenergy. He became interested in bioenergy after encountering the work of Wilhelm Reich, who described 'orgone' energy. Dr. Grad visited Reich and continued his research, often under difficult circumstances, especially after the FDA enjoined Reich from further research. He later collaborated with a healer claiming a decade of experience in laying-on-of-hands (LH), which he saw as a natural extension of his work with Reich's orgone accumulator. His research focused on the objective reality of LH, believing it stemmed from an energy field associated with the healer's hands, and encountered socio-economic and psychological obstacles to its study.

'Heuristic Thinking' and 'The Sixth Sense'

This section explores intuitive thinking, or 'gut reaction,' as a key to executive success, citing studies showing a link between intuitive CEOs and profit-making abilities. It debunks the myth that logical thinking is superior, suggesting that heuristic thinking is the predominant way the brain operates, quickly zeroing in on solutions. The article posits that intuition, often associated with the right brain, and deductive reasoning, associated with the left brain, can create a harmony when linked. It concludes that hunches, or intuitive insights, can be the best bet after extensive research.

Health Foods Hazard

This segment critiques five products sold in health-food stores, citing the Center for Science in the Public Interest. Products like Joan's Natural Honey Bran Carob Bar, Sea Salt, Health Valley Spinach-Mushroom Casserole, Hain Wild Cherry Gel Dessert Mix, and Hain Pure Coconut Oil are described as unhealthy or lacking in nutritional value.

'Man's Inhumanity to Man...and Nature's Plan'

Climatologists attribute recent extreme weather, like a cold wave paralyzing the East Coast, to high atmospheric pressures in northern Europe and Siberia. They observe increasing weather variability and record-breaking extremes. Climatologist Iben Browning predicts significant climate shifts, with cooler temperatures and crop-growing areas moving south due to increased volcanic activity. The article contrasts this with a Boardroom Reports article that dismisses concerns about water scarcity, climatic catastrophes, and deforestation, suggesting a shortsighted attitude.

It also reports on the severe earthquake in Chile and the financial crisis facing American farmers, with many farms facing foreclosure and bankruptcy.

Another Response

This section includes a response regarding proposed legislation (HR 6050, HR 6049, HR 6051) that aims to abolish quackery. Dr. Norman Shealy questions the definition of 'safe and effective' and points out that historically accepted medical procedures have later been deemed questionable. He argues that if these bills pass, many common treatments, including over-the-counter drugs, could be banned due to the difficulty in proving absolute safety and effectiveness.

What is Death?

This section reflects on the concept of death, referencing a previous article titled 'ON A LIFE CONTINUUM.' It shares a passage by Harry Scott Holland that describes death not as an end, but as a transition to another room, emphasizing the continuity of life and relationships.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics beyond mainstream scientific and medical paradigms, including bioenergy, alternative healing, and speculative theories about stress and celestial influences. There is a critical stance towards established medical and governmental bodies, particularly concerning regulations on alternative therapies and perceived misinformation about environmental and economic issues. The publication seems to advocate for open-mindedness, personal investigation, and a holistic understanding of life, health, and the universe.