Epiphany_Inspired

Research the work of Dr. Gabor Mate, he has had amazing successes with it! I think you definitely need to find a trust worthy facilitator!

@SimpleTruth me too! @Capethaz Thank you, I will get the book! I understand that fear can't kill me, that said, the fear and sleep dep combined can lead me down a path toward insanity and ill health.... I finally experienced what it must be like for my bi-polar friends, and I see how difficult it becomes to function. If I did not have a child, I would risk insanity to continue meditation throughout this stressful time....but I need to be stable, rested, and calm...something meditation used to help me obtain...now meditation has twisted into a forum for fear....I only have two friends of a significantly higher consciousness than myself, and they both recommended that I temporarily replace meditation with more gratitude practice etc ...I have never tried Transandental, perhaps having sounds to focus on might be ok (thoughts?)...it's just with no focus, my mind is going to realms I am currently too overwhelmed to tolerate...even though I wouldn't die, it is still dangerous for me to become unstable...does the book discuss this issue?

@Denis Thanks Denis, I will try that! Do you have a comprehensive list of natural things to avoid prior to? I take a St. John's tincture on occasion, if you are taking it for mood stabilization, perhaps 5-htp is a potential alternative...not sure if it's safe to combine either... Without getting into details about obtaining, if your location = river/ frog connection and your experience is facilitated by a local shaman/similar, please post (if you feel comfortable) relevant information about the experience: pre-emptive measures (like frog version of Leo's upside down technique), side effect minimization, helpful assets ( to bring mentally and/or physically), advice you were given (re: intention and integration, etc)....thanks so much!

@avk123 Culture! Find conscious and/ or creative culture...I don't know exactly what that means in your area (would depend where you live somewhat).. for me, it involves events that surround: Art, social awakening, alcohol/substance-free transformational dances, live music with conscious lyrics, Conscious book fairs, workshops/ talks...etc...

Although I like the concept that this method addresses the subconscious dysfunction as a major contributing factor for physical issues...I am not sure about the technology with the "machine" they use. In my experience, some of these machines can be very accurate, and others nothing more than flashy buttons....I am also curious if anyone has tried this...the word psychosomatic in the tittle is what I find most striking....for if the ailment is truly psychosomatic, it stands to reason, that the healing could be too....the question remains, does this technique actually work, or is it a "magic pill" trying to convince people that they can get out of doing their own work?

I'm doing some research...I like that it's an amino acid precursor found in foods like almonds, chickpeas, eggs, fish, elk, seaweed, etc....I find fermented cod-liver oil really improves my mental function, when I can afford it...lol...did you mean soya extracted? I just did some more research, showing positive results in mental function, Alzheimer's studies etc...but apparently has nasty side effects if you take too much....use your cautious intuition...coconut oil is also showing great results without the side effects....

I know that I have expressed my love of Turkey tail and Red Reshi mushrooms at least once on this forum (immune boosting, tumour shrinking, etc)...and how they are adaptogenic medicines (meaning that they adapt to your unique personal physical needs)...but I have discovered a new love, another polypore (the underside has pores like your skin, not gills) ***Chicken of the Woods*** (see picture). This mushroom is sooooo yummy, even the pickiest of eaters all seem to love it, plus it can reduce harmful bacteria in the body, and provide immune protection similar to the amazing astragalus! Harvest while bright yellow/ oranges (turning white is too old), use the aprox, 2 inches of frilly edges, cut up, fry in coconut oil and garlic, add to any savory dish...yum! Vegans, this = best chicken alternative ever! Important Notes: never harvest from conifer trees like eucalyptus or cedar (tummy ache) - oak is the best medicine! It's rare- but some people are allergic and will get some tummy upset even from the oak ones. Never pull the mushroom root out - just cut it near the base so that it can continue to grow. If you have oak and want to grow more, harvest a small section of the root with a knife and place in a drilled or natural hole in your oak, keep oak in a puddle, near river, or manually add water continually. ***Be sure to identify it correctly (pores, colours, etc) or buy from a reputable source!***

@Leo Gura....laughing so much....thanks!

@Capethaz @UndoTheCurse , Thank you both! This is not the first time on this forum that I've had CBT recommended (lol). I kind of dismissed the advice at first because I have already been through 2 programs at the hospital (which included it) for my brain injury. I now recognize, that I likely need an emotionally targeted version, not practical methods. I will have to research distracturns. Funny story: when I was in those brain programs, almost a decade ago, they included meditation. It was the only activity I did not put my full attention into. I only have 10-20% of my original capacity for ideas, imagination, thought streams etc per hour, I was convinced that meditation would "rob me" of more precious thoughts....lol....very thankful for Leo's ability to convince me otherwise.... Yes, I am becoming more and more aware of how many problems are BULLSHIT, especially perceived "possible" future problems...that said, I do have long-term unavoidable triggers too. For example, even though I am separated, my daughter still has a father, and I have no control over how toxic his words can be. I am unable to cut him, as he is her family....but I can control myself, and I hope to train my body not to react with a stress response to his toxicity ...for my child's sake as well, as she will feel whatever I do...stress from this has made me really ill, I have damaged my jaw, etc...all from my internal response....If I meditate with all of this stress, it is currently escalating my reaction...I have had to avoid meditation to avoid panic, resulting in major sleep disturbance etc.... I would love to get back to meditation, but the sleep dep it causes is really unhealthy for me right now....ideas?

This is an awesome thread Zane. I have been wanting the same thing more and more on my journey; a circle of creative, awakened, like-minded individuals (with a real "community" vibe). I have also found some niche events/activities that allow me to meet people on a similar frequency.... even though I am somewhat bold and eccentric, I am also quite introverted...so the new connections I've been making are often limited to the initial meeting...unless I make the effort to connect online, or see them in person again soon...or the universe intervenes with another synchronistic chance encounter... I know what it's like to be eccentric; I may not come off as creepy, but I do inadvertently offend &/or annoy people with my honesty (because I often see more than people want to outwardly show, and speak boisterously with no filter). I have a large circle of friends, but I've been connected with them for decades (pre-brain-injury)...and most have no interest in personal evolution, even if they are rad and creative. Recently, I thought it was just a neurosis, that I felt uncomfortable connecting with mainstream less-creative types; now I understand that although that is also true, I simply do not resonate with non-eccentrics in the same way. How do you interact with your new friends ....to the extent of establishing a whole new circle? I suppose this would mean spending more time with all of them, plus trying to connect them with the other new friends in the hopes that they would also bond?...What do you suggest? Is it better to just find an already formed circle that you'd fit into? Also, I love my current friends, dysfunctions and all, how would one transition circles (while keeping some ties to the old friends)?

@Ivansmarks The anxieties that you mention are not unique, they are some of the most basic human fears. Almost everyone has worried about dying alone at some point. Many people spend their lives obsessed with the subject, even people in relationships. Be brave, you would make friends if you moved...plus you could save a little extra for a councillor if need be. YouTube, this forum, and your home village friends (via online) can help you, but most importantly, you can evolve to help yourself avoid panic. In a sense we all die "alone" even if we are with someone, but more importantly, we are never really alone, because we are everything, we are one with the universe....

My response could be based on an underlying neurosis, or this may be a natural personal preference...it is still based on judgemental perceptions I am working to overcome... but I offer it to you regardless (on the off chance it provides some insight into women like me).... I seem to prefer the "in-between guys" too much confidence is not attractive to me at all, neither is too little...high confidence comes across as "over-confidence", arrogance, belittling, pompous, etc...while under-confidence comes across as meek, desperate, etc...One of the most attractive qualities I have found, in relation to confidence, is: an acknowledgement of their own self-worth/ love, while simultaneously remaining somewhat humble. I have noticed other women with different preferences, some women prefer low-confidence...although there may be neurotic, co-dependant reasons...

@100rockets I can be ultra-neurotic in the same way at times, but what is really important to acknowledge here is that YOU ARE AWARE OF IT! It is your higher-self that is observing the ridiculousness of the compulsive thought patterns, so, you may indeed be on the path to overcoming them!

I have begun some very initial inquiry into this...anyone I've met that claims to have experienced 5-MEO claims it was oral, like a giant LSD bladder...So, likely not the same thing and/or experience, our 5MEO receptors would not respond to ingestion, right? Many people on forums re: HCL/ synthesized smoking version, also claim there are unique visuals, with eyes closed (same substance?). I feel, that given the rarity of this medicine, my friend would prefer to seek out the natural version through more shamanic sources, even if it means saving up to travel! @Leo Gura when you mentioned this is not suitable for those with panic attacks...Did you mean those with a propensity for them, like severe social anxiety, etch?....or...Did you mean anyone that has panic attacks, even if the trigger is more extreme? my friend is the latter....so I am wondering if that is something that needs total resolution prior....my friend is ok with initial panic on that journey.

We know about all of the neurotransmitters, and the importance of gut health for mental and physical functioning. It's also crucial to think about what causes intestinal permeability, allowing crud into our bloodstream. The number of physical illnesses that can be traced back to the gut, is mentally equivalent to finding the "root cause" for our emotional issues. This obviously effects both sexes and all ages, causes include: toxic exposure, antibiotics/meds, stress, hormones, etc... Has anyone repaired this issue with diet, herbs, medicinal mushrooms, supplements, etc? It resolved quickly in my daughter with probiotics/raw goat keifer and pasture-chicken bone broth...My plan of action for myself includes the following, please note anything to add, or avoid (sorry vegans but bone broth is too beneficial to discount): Phase 1. Consuming healing foods like: Calendula, Plantain, Aloe Juice, Camomile, Bone Broth, etc... temporarily avoiding fermentable veggies, permanently avoiding gluten, sugar, etc...and supplementing with herbs: ashwaganda and holy bazil for adaptogenic properties, astragalus to boost immune, and Oregon grape root to counter any "bad guys", marshmellow ,and adaptogenic mushrooms - red reshi, and turkey tails Phase 2. Slowly introducing probiotics from water keifer, kraut, kimchi, etc... combining with burdock root soups/ teas, cleansing with lemon water, collagen and pea or pumpkin seed protein, mint& ginger tea, coconut oil, smoothies, etc... Thoughts?

@iago iriarte arhatha @GODMODE Thanks everyone! I seem to be having the same experience here... as I have in my research, contrasting and opposing views on the subject. Eat this, no eat the opposite, etch... perhaps they are all correct and it is simply a matter of, each person's unique biology... therefore each solution could be diverse, as well. Perhaps that "Bio-hacking" technique (paying close attention to your body's responses) may be key with this, Yes, coconut oil, at lease everybody agrees on coconut oil (lol), and it's also showing amazing results in mental function as well... fingers crossed it's sustainable! @CapethazI I think you are totally right... and then I also think it's a vicious cycle. The leaky gut can cause, or worsen emotional problems as it is a neuro-transmitting hub. I have had issues that point to this for quite a while. It was the 3-4 courses of anti-biotics the hospital forced on us when I had my daughter that really aggravated things for us both. Luckily she has healed. That said, I am totally aware of the incredibly significant role that excessive stress is playing on my health. You have inspired me to focus on the emotional healing primarily, and the physical healing as an additional tool. Thanks!

@Zane I totally agree, we should be friend's in person, we live so close... I'll PM you! Any other west-coast Canadians into storytelling?

Consumption vs. Minimalism I'm reading "The Minimal Self, Psychic Survival in Troubled Times" (published in 1984, still totally relevant). It's really helping me to see behind the veil, and bringing up a number of questions. We are all aware that we are being subconsciously manipulated to consume, but what I did not know enough about, is how our emotions are used to control our subconscious, and why this has evolved to such an extreme level over time. I am very interested in your communal imput on healing this extremely devestating affliction, for us, & all new generations. Questions: What is the best method to initiate reprogramming of our minds against consumption? Do some of the solutions to materialism that use a sustainability model perpetualte an elitist bourgeoisie class system by mandating sustainable technologies that may not be affordable to all (reduced water consumption in efficent washing machines vs people that now can't afford to wash their clothes...plus larger housing, vehicle etc issues)? What are the best alternatives to consumption, that meet the same emotional needs? How can we evolve beyond equating goods with happiness in a culture that constantly bombards us with these messages? How can we strenghten actions (like present moment awareness) that bring TRUE happiness in our daily lives, and use these methods to combat materialistic desires? Me, personally (NOT NESSESARY TO READ THIS PART TO COMMENT): Fortunately, I am not an extreme horder, (just a low-level one - NO climbing over stuff, or narrow paths through mountains of crap, just a big collector of records, clothing, books, hats, etc).For a while I thought my masses of crud were perhaps a replacement for my lost mother, but looking back, i've had this issue since I can remember: An obsession with accumulating things, especially antique/old stuff. Many of my things seem to have a friendship-like value (almost a personality). If they are lost (for good) the pain seems real, and memories of the item are often triggerd for years to come. My 2.5 decades in environmental issues has caused an intense desire to keep things from landfills as well. That broken hand-made vintage lamp must be saved, for repair "someday", or it will turn into toxicity, degrading in a heap of unnessesary waste. I also have a fear of apocolypse (something common in a world running out of resources). I don't hoard food and supplies, but I have a terrible time getting rid of things that "may be useful someday/ doomsday". I don't appear materialistic (used the same cell for almost a decade, etc) but my desire to be unique, and express this still results in consumerism (even if it's second-hand, up-cycled/ more sustainable). I completely understand how egoic this all is, still, I would be immensely greatful for any advice on: How to begin purging more things without any future regret, and how to fully awaken my subconscious to the manipulation of materialistic control to bring my future accumulation to a minmum. Thank you!

I think if you picked one of those ultimate images that actually represented your purpose, and began truly visualizing it as equally awesome and attainable it could turn from something that makes you feel powerless to something that makes you truly powerful. This is why dreams and goals really matter. You would have to release any resistance to your ability to get there, and know in your heart that you will do the work, whatever it takes, this is your calling, this is what you are meant to achieve, this is what you will achieve!

Couldn't really watch, made me nauseous (horizontal scrolling)... but it was funny regardless (if you watch 10 sec, you get it)

I have very few people in my direct personal life to discuss these things with as well! I find most people can revel in ridiculous negative complaints about mundane shit for hours, but can't handle 5 min on PD. It actually offends them, that you want to discuss it, (as if it's directed at all of their personal neurosis and faults, like you have violated them by peering into the hidden recesses of their soul with the purpose of judgement...lol..). That's why this forum, and places you can meet likeminded people in person are so wonderful for us to explore!

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to experience a "conscious" children's storyteller that had the magnificent ability to do things like: transform materialistic thinking to self-love and deep gratitude through hero's journey's. A wonderful example of the positive power of value based stories. That said, I have also been doing research on the storytelling methods that corporations use to tap into our emotions and manipulate our subconscious into materialism. So, back to my previous post, I still feel the same way. The content, purpose and message of the story is the most important. Flickering images, television, ads, etc have great potential to harm... or heal, to manipulate... or educate! Using awareness in the stories we absorb, and the stories we tell, appears to be the crucial key!

@Heart of Space , @Leo Gura I have returned, and though I did not consume any psychedelics, my experience was still transformational (requiring processing, integration, etc in the most positive sense). I had taken Leo's advice to heart and advocated for avoidance of psychedelics in any situation with numerous people, and overstimulation. That said, during my experience, my position changed, and I feel a TRULY TRANSFORMATIONAL festival has enormous potential for conscious personal evolution with or without psychedelics (a typical rock-out "party festival" is not suitable). The harm reduction team consisted of an ayahuasca shaman (facilitating ceremonies worldwide), Life Coaches, MAPS professionals, etc. Where else would you have access to such a diverse team of incredible individuals, and the support of everyone in a village-like community that was equivalent to a deeply loving family? Collective consciousness aside, for now, I feel that there is tremendous potential benefit with this level of support alone. The nature of the music and consciousness workshops at a transformational event are completely conducive to personal growth; plus, the connectedness, curiosity, openness, and alchemy of the environment may indeed be a safe and harmonious place to learn from psychedelics. (The only "bad trips" involved existing mental illness). Are there any suitable situations for psychedelics in a group (special retreats, etc?) Below I will list some info from my new harm reduction notes (my previous experience was large scale, more urgent, and less compassionate in nature). I would also like to eventually journal my entire experience here/ online...but in a sentence: I experienced constant synchronicity and that divinity even returned with me! My Notes - Harm Reduction: The purpose or intention of the experience is as important as the person and the place. When facilitating a refuge, or "safe space" for another's psychedelic experience consider the following: reduce stimulation, be nurturing and welcoming, maintain the threshold between reality and the realm "over the edge", be more than someone just sitting there while not becoming intrusive or trying to "guide" the experience, have total respect and a willingness to be taught something yourself, trust in the person and their choice of "medicine" with confidence (unless there are breathing/medical problems), let go of expectations, allow for the alchemy of their manifestations, and offer help with integration at least a few days after the experience to help them process, listening not guiding (how can they work with the story overtime? Are there themes in the experience? etc) Extra PSA: Of all of the stories I have heard about actual harm at festivals, the issue was never really the environment. It was the danger resulting from loosing touch with reality. For example, the guy walking off the cliff could be someone falling off a balcony or walking into traffic...the woman walking into the fire naked, could have been someone scalding or themselves in an apartment instead... please consider having a "reality buddy" with you!

I think the "fuck you in the ass" stuff is obviously, the "fuck you in the ass"- total chimp brain-o-ramma-thon-crap...(like reality TV, etc)....Leo/ (we all) love books (mostly non-fiction) but many important teachings come in the forms of stories, and I've heard Leo etc use this "story-style" to get across important points....they are awesome...regardless of the medium, I think it's about knowledge gained...rather than mind rotted...lol....As a creative person, that has experience in a number of related mediums, I also feel a strong desire to share wisdom in this way...I think discerning what is a distraction and what is a learning tool can become a blurred line when it comes to television in particular, and the addiction potential is strong! I have recently had a distraction relapse myself (stress-avoidance)...That said, I think visual forms have a lot of power as a tool for spreading insight....beautiful potential for sure!

@musicalwatch From my perspective, everyone has a level of genius in relation to their purpose. What I believe you may be talking about is the "zone of FLOW". For me, this happens sometimes when I am doing creative things. Here's how I know that I've just experienced "the zone": The music I put on 6 hours ago has ended (who knows how long ago), I also hadn't noticed that my bladder is about to explode, or how totally dehydrated I am, or that the sun is suddenly coming up, and the tool (paintbrush, pencil, plyers, sewing needle, etc) is practically stuck in my completely cramped up hand....lol....this may sound unpleasant and disconcerting, but in fact, it's the opposite! Knowing that you have been in the zone is an incredible feeling (after you finally pee...lol)....not knowing if you were thinking, or what you were thinking about is actually an elevated consciousness, not a state of drooling ignorance. It is not madness either, for if we are enacting our purpose, we are on the best possible path for our sanity and health in general. What @Henri, & @Infinite_Zest said is so true! Find your bliss! ...if you are happy, madness is irrelevant anyway...lol....