Voices & Sounds, by & for the Tribe!

Immunity and Impunity: Corruption in the State‐Pharma Nexus

Dr. Paddy Rawlinson | The International Journal for Crime, Justice and Social Democracy

WHO estimates that it is going to cost the world US$8 billion to develop a vaccine capable of preventing COVID-19! Never mind, 114 vaccines are already in the development and even pharma giants like Johnson & Johnson, which has a reputation of bribing government officials and health workers worldwide, is in the race to develop one after abandoning the production of its cancer-causing talcum powder. Be it charity or sex — anything that would eventually take the shape of an industry is likely to bring in economic benefits but do more harm to human societies. When it comes to the pharma industry, and the state, which is an industry of industries, we really do not know who was born first, but they are certainly born for each other. What makes Pharma one of the most vulnerable industries to corruption and inefficiency? Prof. Paddy Rawlinson who teaches International Criminology, Human and Development Studies at Western Sydney University, Australia looks at the US$1.3 trillion worth pharmaceutical industry and its questionable nexus with governments and institutions across the globe, with the ultimate goal of controlling the world population. Read to know.

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Life is a perpetual choice between truth and falsehood, light and darkness, progress and regression, the ascent towards the heights or a fall into the abyss. It is for each one to choose freely. - 29 February 1952

At the very moment when everything seems to go from bad to worse, it is then that we must make a supreme act of faith and know that the Grace will never fail us. - 1 January 1947

It is when all seems lost that all can be saved. When you have lost confidence in your personal power, then you should have faith in the Divine Grace.”- 28 January 1970

Mirra Alfassa

(The Mother)

A Parent’s Greatest Fear Transforms Into Her Most Empowered Decision

Dr. Cilla Whatcott | pathwaystofamilywellness.org

Cilla Whatcott was a parent who had never questioned vaccines and health protocols for her children, till one of them had an adverse reaction to them. She set out on a quest to educate herself more so she could take more informed decisions in the future. As part of her quest, she experienced a total reorganization of her belief system and realized that no one was going to look out for her kids as she does — after all the others were motivated by factors such as adherence to education, dogma etc. She, on the other hand, was motivated by her love and responsibility towards them. Her children depended on her to be there for them and to know what the right thing is for them. She also came away with several other learnings, such as vaccines being nothing short of Chemical cocktails, and Homeoprophylaxis being a viable choice for parents who don’t want to select between the extreme choices of vaccinating or not vaccinating their children? Certified classical homeopath and the Co-Author of "The Solution: Homeoprophylaxis, The Vaccine Alternative", Cilla Whatcott writes about the possibilities and alternatives to a vaccine-free world. Read more.

Dr. Zach Bush Dives Deep into an Engaging Discussion about the Human Body, Virus, Ecology and Cosmos

Dr. Zach Bush | Interview by Del Matthew Bigtree

Dr. Zach Bush, triple board-certified M.D., joins Del Matthew Bigtree for a deep-felt discussion about the Coronavirus. Dr. Zach, one of the most respected doctors of our time, educates us on how millions of viruses circle around us and are responsible for balancing the entire ecosystem. He combines subjects such as bacteria and viruses, human body and homeostasis with environment and ecology. He adds, if biodiversity is balanced, the life around us will remain in homeostasis. As we are familiar with the language of genomics and microbiomes, soon we will need to understand and retell the story of our life as being adaptive, regenerative and always looking for the next solution to the present crisis. In this evolutionary journey, experience the beauty of our life in its wholeness and realize that we are all spiritual beings! Watch this fascinating interview.

Does a Yogic View on Bacteria and Microbes Have an Answer to Our Complex Lives and Healthcare Challenges?

Sraddhalu Ranade | Interview by Richard Eggenberger aka Narad

A scientist, scholar and an educationist Sraddhalu Ranade, answers various questions asked by Richard Eggenberger on the virus, nature, and origins of the microbe from a yogic perspective, based on Sri Aurobindo's and The Mother's Teachings. This conversation not only addresses the problem of viruses & bacteria but also the role good bacteria plays in a healthy body. Most medical practitioners today never focus on and share the features of good bacteria and its function in the gut. A healthy gut stores enough good bacteria to do wonders for a person's health, and act upon existing deficiencies by converting food into Vitamins. However, the area of influence of bacteria and viruses is no longer limited to health and nutrition, but rather has entered the unfavorable territory being used as weapons against humanity. Watch the video to learn more.

Do You Hear Shots in the Dark: Silence on Vaccine?

Lina B. Moreco | NFB

Take a little effort to examine the safety and efficacy of vaccinations, to witness the truths and harsh realities behind them! The documentary “Shots in the Dark: Silence on Vaccine” by Lina B. Moreco, brings comparable views on public health dilemmas and vaccination — the fears and worries of our generations. The corporations who promote vaccines, never lose a single opportunity to make money, even during times of global crisis, such as the ongoing pandemic. They have profited with dollars in both their hands, over these years by favoring vaccines, and continue to do so now and will most likely continue to do this in the future — that is unless, we wake up to the reality! The number of vaccine victims are not less in this world, they have suffered, protested and still continue to undergo health difficulties due to the use of highly toxic substances in vaccines. Better the awareness and action from our generations, better the choices may get for the next generation. Watch the video.

Charles Eisenstein's Profound Pondering on ‘Conspiracy Myth’

Charles Eisenstein | charleseisenstein.org

The conspiracy myth gives narrative form to an authentic intuition that an inhuman power governs the world. What could that power be? The conspiracy myth locates that power in a group of malevolent human beings (who take commands, in some versions, from extraterrestrial or demonic entities). Therein lies a certain psychological comfort, because now there is someone to blame in a familiar us-versus-them narrative and victim-perpetrator-rescuer psychology. Alternatively, we could locate the “inhuman power” in systems or ideologies, not a group of conspirators. That is less psychologically rewarding, because we can no longer easily identify as good fighting evil; after all, we ourselves participate in these systems, which pervade our entire society. Systems like the debt-based money system, patriarchy, white supremacy, or capitalism cannot be removed by fighting their administrators. They create roles for evildoers to fill, but the evildoers are functionaries; puppets, not puppet masters. ... the prevailing Hollywood formula for righting the world’s wrongs: a heroic champion confronts and defeats the bad guy, and everyone lives happily ever after. Hmm, that is the same basic formula as blaming ill health on germs and killing them with the arsenal of medicine, so that we can live safe healthy lives ever after, or killing the terrorists and walling out the immigrants and locking up the criminals, all again so that we can live safe healthy lives ever after. Stamped from the same template, conspiracy theories tap into an unconscious orthodoxy. They emanate from the same mythic pantheon as the social ills they protest. We might call that pantheon Separation, and one of its chief motifs is the war against the Other.

The Art of Surviving an Epidemic by Refusing Illness and Infusing Confidence with Trust in the Power of Grace!

Sri Aurobindo & The Mother

It has been debated for long that an individual’s energy, thoughts and vibrations determine his/her experiences in life. Fear too plays an integral role in attracting these experiences and generating certain vibrations in our life. Sri Aurobindo and The Mother spoke about how Fear is the basis of most illnesses one contracts, especially in context with the Spanish Flu influenza epidemic in 1914. Fear could be of various types — Mental, Vital or Physical. Of all of them, Physical fear or the fear in the cells, attracts illnesses the most. This type of fear is one where the body is afraid of everything that is unpleasant, painful, and as soon as there is any unease, even if insignificant, the cells of the body become anxious, since they don’t like to be uncomfortable. The only way to overcome such a physical fear is to undertake genuine yoga, so that the cells of the body which are afraid of everything that is unpleasant and painful, can be overcome with conscious will. In Mother’s own words, “If one has a minimum of control over the body, one can lessen the effects of physical fear, but that is not immunity. It is this kind of trembling of material, physical fear in the cells of the body which aggravates all illnesses.”

Compulsory Vaccination? Who Plays a Big Role on Public Health and What You Can Do About It

Dr. Christiane Northrup | Interview by Matthew Belair

Why do some of the medical statement or advice by some authorities not make sense to us — even scientifically? There should be a solid reason and transparency behind every major healthcare decision! Dr. Christiane Northrup, one of the “100 Most Trusted People in America” as per Reader’s Digest in 2013, unfurls the stories to awaken us from the false ideas narrated by our so-called public health authorities over many years. Not only is she a visionary pioneer and leading authority in the field of women’s health and wellness, she is also firmly rooted in the concept of the unity of mind, body, emotions and spirit. No fear and influences, the interview combines her professional knowledge and inner wisdom. Listen to her.

This American Physician Warned Us of A Pandemic Before Any Responsible Nation, World Leader or a Health Organization!

Dr. Michael Greger | The Humane Society of the United States

The pandemic that emerged from the novel Coronavirus is changing the way we lived our lives; the way we worked and even the way we looked at things around us. The 'unexpected' virus also made scientists and astrologers irrelevant — one for failing to prepare mankind to face future pandemics, and the other for not predicting the future of the very same mankind. This is where the relevance of Dr. Michael Greger, an internationally-recognized expert on public health issues, who is known for his radical views on health and diet. In this video presentation, Dr. Michael Greger looks at some of the worst pandemics in our history, and how to treat the cause by preventing the emergence of pandemic viruses in the first place. The prophetic speech given in the year 2008 when he was the Public Health Director at The Humane Society, Washington DC, USA, is as relevant today as it was more than a decade ago. He almost predicted all the health hazards humanity would undergo — from Climate Change to an emerging influenza pandemic. All Dr. Greger ‘missed’ in his 2008 lecture is — "COVID-19", an official name developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in February this year. It is important that before any discussion on COVID-19, we understand a brief history of epidemics. Watch before the next strike!

Do We Have Freedom of Choice in Medicine?

Paula Rennings | P&P regisseurs

Are we conscious of our health? Have we mindfully chosen our doctors when we feel ill? When each of our lives are inundated under the big ocean of the modern medicinal system, we should make every attempt to awaken and protect our mind-body-soul before they collapse! The documentary titled “Freedom of Choice in Medicine” shows a positive approach for cancer healing through "Homeopathy", the known alternative medical discipline developed by Samuel Hahnemann. View the video to discover more about an alternative but mindful way of healing with Homeopathy!

Do We Know The Economics of Happiness?

Helena Norberg-Hodge, Steven Gorelick & John Page

Ladakh, one of the remotest places in the Indian Himalayas has a unique beauty which is reflected in the landscape and also in the local culture. Life in Ladakh was once a great example of 'localization' when people were happy to choose a sustainable community life at a time they believed that source of one's happiness is not money, but a simple and healthy life. With globalization; wrong economic policies and understanding; migration and population transfer, Ladakhis are steadily losing their traditional knowledge and understanding; indigenous culture and their connection with the environment. This is just one of the many such communities across the world which needs to refocus on building ecological economies and sustainable local cultures. To know more about two opposing directions of human life and culture, watch the documentary “The Economics of Happiness.”

A Primer on Priming Immunity — What Works and Why?

Dr. Laura Kelly | drlaurakelly.com

A group of scientists believe that novel Coronavirus is here to stay while some believe that the deadly virus may soon die out without even having a vaccine. The immune system and its reaction to COVID-19 have come under much discussion since the beginning of this year. Dr. Laura Kelly, an integrative physician shares an interesting research about commonly available ingredients, such as Mushrooms, which could all have a positive impact on our immune systems. Any immune enhancement regiment should not only increase endurance and reduce fatigue but should also interact directly with immune system cells. Mushrooms meet all these requirements and can easily be combined with conventional Western treatments too. Herbs such as Glycyrrhiza, Ashwagandha, Astragalus, Ginseng combined with a focused approach on Gut health, supplementation, quality sleep, listening to music and/or meditation are also effective ways to boost immunity. This approach also proves the truth of the old age adage of “prevention is better than cure” in the case of COVID-19. Explore to know more.

Holobiont

A holobiont is an assemblage of a host and the many other species living in or around it, which together form a discrete ecological unit. A holobiont is a collection of species that are closely associated and have complex interactions, such as a plant species and the members of its microbiome. Each species present in a holobiont is a biont, and the genomes of all bionts taken together are the hologenome, or the "comprehensive gene system" of the holobiont. A holobiont typically includes a eukaryote host and all of the symbiotic viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc. that live on or inside it. Holobionts include the host, virome, microbiome, and other members, all of which contribute in some way to the function of the whole.

fasting culture

MARCH 2020

Voices & Sounds, by & for the Tribe!

Evolving Integrally

Myths Are Stronger Than Human Muscles. Yet, It Takes Only a Handful of Vegans to Bust a Popular Myth on Animal-Based Diet!

It would indeed be a Herculean task to put forward the philosophy and benefits of veganism in front of omnivorous human predators. But nothing seems to be a task when four renowned vegans and titans of the film industry – James Cameron, Suzy Amis Cameron, Jackie Chan and Arnold Schwarzenegger come together in solidarity for a common cause. Narrated through James Wilks, a professional martial artist, the 2018 myth-buster documentary ‘The Game Changers’ presents real life stories of some of the best athletes in the world. The film is also an evidence-based documentation of the life-journey of selected former meat-lovers and their transformation as vegans. One among them is Damien Mander, a retired Special Operations Sniper and the Founder of International Anti-Poaching Foundation who makes a profound statement: “The easiest way to protect other animals is just not to put them in your mouth.” Be a Game Changer!

Louie Psihoyos

The Science of Tridosha Theory: Our Brain‑Types, A Neural Model of Individual Differences

Dr. Frederick T. Travis & Dr. Robert Keith Wallace | Journal of Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine

Successful practices made the ancient science of Ayurveda one of the richest traditions with deepest insights on life. Today, we live in an age where ‘scientific validity’ is much more crucial than successful practices and clinical experiences. Frederick T. Travis and Robert Keith Wallace, Researchers associated with the Maharishi University of Management, USA present a combined study on ‘Tridosha’ or the ‘Three Humour Theory’ as defined by the traditional Ayurvedic system. The paper which presents different patterns of functioning of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Brain-Type models could be an eye-opener even for the critics of Ayurvedic tradition and knowledge. This is also a study on “reported patterns of blood chemistry, genetic expression, physiological states, and chronic diseases associated with each dosha type.” Read to know more and to find out which Brain-Type you are — based on your behaviour patterns of functioning.

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This body is not at all its former self: it is scarcely more than a concentration, a kind of agglomeration of something; it's not a body in a skin — not at all. It is a sort of agglomeration, a concentration of vibrations. And even what is normally called an “illness,” even these functional disorders do not have the same meaning for this body as they have for doctors, for instance, or for ordinary people — it's not like that, it doesn’t feel them like that. It feels them rather as ... like a kind of difficulty in adjusting to a new vibratory need.”

Mirra Alfassa

(The Mother)

Nada Yoga: A Tool for Meditation or A Form of Meditation?

Ann Dyer is a community creator, Yoga teacher and a sound practitioner who dropped out of school to study music. She now teaches SoundYoga, a term coined by her for practices of personal transformation. In a Gaia video titled ‘Nada Yoga: Transformation Through Sound’, Ann Dyer explains the origin, practices and principles of ancient Indian metaphysical system of ‘Nada Yoga’ to Rodney Yee, renowned Yoga instructor. In her own words, “The entire universe is composed of sound vibration. Nada Yoga is an act harnessing the power of sound as a yoga practice. Nada Yoga is not just a tool for meditation, but every form of this practice is a meditation itself. It is also the sound of the void!” Listen to Ann Dyer and the Sound of Yoga.

The Clock vs the Scale: How to Handle the ‘Elephant in the Room’ with Time Restricted Feeding (TRF)

Kelli L. Vaughan & Julie A. Mattison | Cell Press

Doctors describe symptoms of Diabetes as the ‘tip of an iceberg’ and the rising medical expenditure as an ‘elephant in the room’. Is Diabetes a chronic or progressive disease? Doctors agree and disagree. Originally titled ‘Watch the Clock, Not the Scale’, this Cell Metabolism report focuses on Time Restricted Feeding interventions as a clinical tool to deal with Type 2 Diabetic which has already developed among 387 million people worldwide. While one’s body composition and gut microbiome play an important role in determining any outcome, this study challenges the popular concept of body weight loss to achieve metabolic benefits and shows a way forward. Read the report.

The Distant Sun: A Free Energy Source or The Face of God?

Dr. David Frawley | The American Institute of Vedic Studies

Be it a Sunbath or a Sun Salutation, the Sun remains the integral source and the spiritual force of our existence on this planet. In a thought-provoking essay, Dr. David Frawley aka Pandit Vamadeva Shastri, an expert on Vedas, Yoga, Ayurveda and Vedic Astrology writes about the Vedic religion of 'Sun' — often defined as the 'Face of God' and the spiritual and supreme force of life on Earth. According to the author, "as beneficiaries, we, the human beings need to cultivate the external Sun not only as an energy source but the inner Sun, the source of inspiration and meditation in this ecological age." Read more.

What Makes Birds and Bats to Share an Unusual Microbiome Structure?

Se Jin Song, Jon G. Sanders, Florent Mazel & Holly L. Lutz | American Society for Microbiology

Not all creatures depend on their gut microbiomes for digestion, immunity and survival. A recent discovery shows that birds and bats are found to have an unusual microbiome structure, just because they cannot afford to carry and feed the necessary bacteria while flying! Sounds simple? Well, it takes a dozen researchers, zoologists and biologists to collect, process and assess gut microbiomes from the faecal samples collected from 900 vertebrate species, including 315 mammals and 491 birds from Auckland Zoo in New Zealand to the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg in an attempt to establish a point. Read about this recent discovery from an unusual institutional collaborative mission and access the complete research paper.

Abdominal Brain: The Wonder Behind the Gut Feeling and Emotions in the Small Intestine — The Wisdom Behind the True Healing

Osnat Livni | Journal of Natural & Ayurvedic Medicine

Ever wondered why some people never get a good night's sleep? Probably we completely ignored the trillions of good microbes that live inside the human body making our gut a true world of diversity — consisting of bacteria, fungi, viruses, bugs, single-celled microorganisms etc. Chinese healers call the Gut “The Abdominal Brain” or the “Second Brain” responsible for Instinctive wisdom and Emotional intelligence. Latest studies by scientists show that poor sleep is closely connected to poor diversity of microbiota in our gut. And there is a long list of health issues such as Parkinson’s, depression, stress, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and many autoimmune diseases that are results of a poor microbiota diversity. What makes our ‘Gut’ sensations a mysterious one? Read more to find out.

Energy from Food vs Energy from the Cosmos: Can Breatharianism Ever Become a New Reality?

Viliam Poltikovic | MAITREA

No one really knows when God created food. But Fasting, a creation of mankind has a documented history. As a wandering ascetic, Shakyamuni Buddha who lived in the 5th Century BC went on fasting seeking enlightenment. And in the tenth century, Gelongma Palmo, a princess-turned Buddhist nun, either from the region of Kashmir or Afghanistan worshipped by Tibetan Buddhists is believed to have meditated and fasted for years without food or drink and got cured from leprosy that almost crippled and decomposed her body. Centuries later in the year 1600, Martha Taylor, a ten-year old girl from England with a history of poor health from birth had completely given up nourishment to survive for almost a year. The end of her life was also the end of popular myths on fasting. Directed by Viliam Poltikovic, ‘Living Off Energy, We Are Energy’ (2015) documents the lives of modern-day Breatharians who’ve chosen to live on universal energy instead of solid food. Watch and Fast!

The Dairy Industry Wants You to ‘Say Cheese’ — Dr. Neal Barnard Reveals the Secret!

Dr. Neal Barnard | vegsource.com

It's hard to find a young Tibetan not carrying a piece of hard ‘Churra’ or the dried cheese produced from the female yak milk in his pockets. Storing and carrying fat-calorie-containing cheese in solid form helped the mountainous people to survive in high-altitudes. This old school of making hand-made cheese from milk is dead! A sophisticated cheese industry worth US$69 billion has taken over the control of cheese consumption and marketing across the globe. It is estimated that the very same market may reach US$112 billion by 2025! In this video, author of the best-seller ‘The Cheese Trap’ Dr. Neal D. Barnard talks about the ill-effects of dairy and cheese addiction of our generation and the collusion between government institutions and dairy corporations. Watch now!

Do You Wonder About the Impact of Intermittent Fasting on Your Health, Aging and Disease? Explore!

Dr. Rafael de Cabo & Dr. Mark P. Mattson | The New England Journal of Medicine

Fasting is understood by different cultures differently. For some, ‘Upvas’ or fasting meant ‘Being With God’, an act in which therapeutic or physiological benefits were not primary objectives. But we live in different times. What ultimately matters is intention and the intent of every modern-day fasting regime including Intermittent Fasting (IF), is the reduction of calorie intake. Fasting is beyond belief systems and alternative energy stores. In this Review Article published by The New England Journal of Medicine, Rafael de Cabo and Mark P. Mattson systematically outlines the therapeutic effects of Intermittent Fasting on health, aging, and disease. The study concludes with the notion that "safety and efficacy of pharmacologic approaches are likely to be inferior to those of intermittent fasting." Review the publication.

Michael Pollan, Best Selling Author and Social Activist In Defence of Food

Michael Pollan

We live in a world of paradoxes. We are a generation blessed to have tasted the traditional food cooked by our mother or grandmother. We are also a ‘fortunate’ generation to have tasted the food cooked, processed and packaged by the corporations. Food was all about love, generosity, appreciation, sharing, knowledge, community, traditions, beliefs, spirituality and even truce, until taken over by the rich food industry destroying the traditional knowledge system and our diet. In a 2009 lecture given at the Temple Judea, Florida, Michael Pollan talks about our functional relationship to food and people’s ‘unhealthy obsession with healthy eating’ in the United States. He coined the provocative term ‘Nutritionism’ — defined as the “ideology of looking at food through a pseudo-scientific lens.” Listen to Michael Pollan.

‘V’ for ‘Victory’ or ‘Veganism’? May Be Both?

Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics | eatright.org

If numbers are true, we have a reason to rejoice. According to GlobalData, there is an unbelievable 600% increase in the number of US customers identifying themselves as Vegans between a short period of 2014 and 2019! With more and more plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy are capturing people’s minds and the food market, Veganism is on the rise and is a clear winner. This Position Paper published by the US-based Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, one of the largest non-profit organizations of food and nutrition professionals could prove to be a useful dietary guide to vegetarians and vegans. The paper presents a list of possible nutritional deficiencies with vegans and remedies; chronic diseases and therapeutic vegetarian diets; appropriate plant-based diet for all stages of life-cycle and even useful links to consumer websites. Download to read.

Silent Consciousness — Observing the Consciousness Without Reportable Contents

Bernard J. Baars | Frontiers

“Silence is truth. Silence is bliss. Silence is peace. And hence Silence is the Self,” said Ramana Maharshi, Indian sage in one of his reflections on silence. From Zen Buddhism to Patanjali Yoga Sutra, we see a mention of “Silent Consciousness” or the fourth state of consciousness defined as simple as the “consciousness without reportable contents.” In this Opinion Article, Bernard J. Baars from The Neurosciences Institute, USA writes about the scientific approach to silent consciousness, or the direct knowledge of metaphysical reality. Read more.

March 2020

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A little starvation can really do more for the average sick man than can the best medicines and the best doctors.”

Mark Twain

Writer, Humorist, Orator and the 'Father of American Literature'

Xenophagy

In microbiology, xenophagy is the autophagic degradation of infectious particles. Cellular autophagic machinery also play an important role in innate immunity. Intracellular pathogens, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis (the bacterium which is responsible for tuberculosis) are targeted for degradation by the same cellular machinery and regulatory mechanisms that target host mitochondria for degradation. Incidentally, this is further evidence for the endosymbiotic hypothesis. This process generally leads to the destruction of the invasive microorganism, although some bacteria can block the maturation of phagosomes into degradative organelles called phagolysosomes. Stimulation of autophagy in infected cells can help overcome this phenomenon, restoring pathogen degradation.

fasting culture

JANUARY 2020

Voices & Sounds, by & for the Tribe!

Healing Truly

Weighting For A Diet Change? Dr. Michael Greger Unveils the Not-So-Secret Secrets to Good Health and Weight Loss!

We live in a world of rich information and poor diet. From Paleolithic to trendy diets, dietary changes have evolved gradually and globally. Yet modern health enthusiasts are unable to choose the right diet to maintain a healthy body and mind. In a live presentation, Dr. Michael Greger, nutrition expert and author of 'How Not To Die' and 'How Not To Diet' exposes the common myth about the necessity of having animal and seafood in our diet for optimal health. This captivating and inspiring one-hour presentation on the unknown facts about a plant-based weight-loss diet is food for thought for global health-seeking community.

Dr. Michael Greger

The Joy of Fasting in an Age of Pleasure-Oriented Consumption

Lyam Thomas Christopher | Forbidden Realms

Sometimes, it is necessary for you to take a roller-coaster ride — from Biblical myths to civilizational diseases to understand the history of fasting and the journey of sugar aka the white poison. Lyam Thomas Christopher, a practicing Hermeticist and bio-hacker beautifully chronicle the story of fasting; recommends ways to do an effective fasting to lead a healthy-life without carbohydrates. This well-intended essay neither makes an effort to glorify the fasted state nor neglects the ill-effects of sugar on our physical body and brain. Read full essay.

Parallels in Ayurveda and Biomedicine suggest a deeper engagement with traditional knowledge systems. The recreation of methodologies that enabled a holistic approach to health in Ayurveda may unravel some of the complex connections with Nature.

January 2020

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Each time a new element is introduced into the possible combinations, it causes what may be called a “tearing of limits”.... It is obvious that modern scientific perception is much closer to something corresponding to the new reality than, say, were the perceptions of the Stone Age — without a shadow of doubt. But even that will suddenly find itself completely outdated, surpassed, and probably overturned with the intrusion of something which was not in the universe that was studied. It is this change, this sudden transformation of the universal element that will quite certainly bring about a kind of chaos in the perceptions, out of which a new knowledge will emerge.”

Mirra Alfassa

(The Mother)

Which Developed First — Brain or Gut? Trust Your Gut Feeling!

Dr. Emeran Mayer | Goop

For over a century, experts debated over which developed first — the Brain or the Gut. And by now, we all know that microorganisms that developed millions of years ago make our gut the second brain! According to the scientific community, it is possible to enhance the mind-gut relationship to boost immunity, change our mood or even treat chronic diseases. In this narrative presented in a Question & Answer format, Dr. Emeran Mayer, neuroscientist and the author of 'The Mind-Gut Connection' answers some of the complex questions surrounding the mystery of how the tiny microbes in the gut communicate with the human brain. Read the narrative.

The Rise of Sunrise Culture of Love and Healing

Chad Cornell | Our Common Roots

“Why can’t we as North American doctors prescribe herbal medicine or homeopathy as is the case in other countries like China, India and parts of Europe?” This 'trillion-dollar question' from a young doctor provoked Chad Cornell, a Natural Healing Practitioner from Canada to write about the Sunrise Culture of love and healing — our attempt to rediscover and relearn the traditional way of having a holistic approach to life and environment. He envisions of a dynamic movement toward freedom, health, and happiness sans toxic chemicals. Read more.

Extraction to Extinction: Global Rescue Mission For A Sustainable World

Sally Angel & Josh Good

In this inspirational documentary 'Animate Earth', Dr. Stephan Harding, a close associate of James Lovelock, the ecologist who co-developed the 'Gaia Hypothesis' talks about one of the root causes for the degradation and disintegration of our living earth — the absence of holistic approach. In order to understand and present the core issue of traditional science without intuition vs. holistic science, the presenter brings together leading environmentalists and scientists such as — Jules Cashford, Vandana Shiva, Brian Goodwin, Iain McGilchrist, Fritjof Capra, and Satish Kumar. Watch now.

January 2020

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I think of veganism humbly and holistically. It’s about taking personal responsibility in a world so full of needless suffering. It’s challenging one’s self to open one’s eyes and question society’s assumptions and habits. It’s about critical thinking and compassion and how we would like to see the world evolve.”

Dr. Michael Greger

Nutrition Expert and Author of 'How Not to Die' and 'How Not to Diet'

Sounds from Silence & the Science of Mantra

Swami Rama | Yoga International

Swami Rama (1925-1996), founder of the Himalayan Institute talks about the science of Mantra in the ancient tradition of meditation. He believes that without the benefit of a Mantra, it would not be possible to make an inner pilgrimage to the deepest level of being. Swami Rama cautions that however authentic a Mantra maybe, given to a student for whom it is not appropriate, will be of no benefit, unless they are prepared to purify their body, senses and mind though preliminary practices. Read more.

Global Alliance for the Sacred: An Utopia or A Possibility?

Martin Winiecki | Kosmos Journal for Global Transformation

Non-violence and spirituality are as old as mountains and rivers. Thousands of people across the globe continue to sacrifice the comforts of their normal lives to defend and preserve our indigenous culture and environment. From Greta Thunberg in Sweden to Malala Yousafzai in Pakistan, the young activists are demonstrating that the 21st century belongs to them and proving that any environmental and social movement feminine in its essence is still relevant and applicable. Activist and networker Martin Winiecki write about the need for global collaboration and alliance for the success of spiritual movements. Read to find out more.

Ayurveda Simplified: Regina Meredith in Conversation with Dr. Nita Desai

In this GaiamTV interview, Dr. Nita Desai, an integrated medicine doctor and an Ayurvedic practitioner talks about the wonders of the 5000-year-old medical tradition of Ayurveda from India; ‘Tridosha’ theory — the balance of three fundamental bodily substances and the ancient skills used to diagnose diseases by observing one's face, nail, tongue, urine and pulse. “Western medicine is great for emergencies. But it is weak at solving the issue of chronic problems, as these tend to arrive from energy imbalances, and that’s exactly where Ayurveda comes in,” she states while proposing a blend of the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with modern medical techniques.

Demystifying Meditation Beyond 'Normal Human Happiness'

Dr. Michael McGee | Psychiatry

Dr. Michael McGee, clinical instructor in Psychiatry explores possibilities with the ancient Asian technique of Meditation as a therapeutic application for healing from modern-day psychiatric illnesses. The author suggests more clinical studies followed by scientific experiments and recommends psychiatrists to receive the practice of Meditation to develop remedial applications in the field of psychotherapy. This review is an attempt to examine the effect of Meditation in treating complex psychophysiological functions and behaviours.

Detoxing Life: Dr. Jason Fung on Fasting for Health and Longevity

Dr. Jason Fung | Diet Doctor

Wondering what a Nephrologist is doing at a Podcast studio discussing intermittent-fasting? In this Diet Doctor Podcast hosted by Dr. Bret Scher, renowned Canadian Nephrologist and an advocate of Intermittent Fasting, Dr. Jason Fung answers some of the common and complex questions on Fasting and outlines the difference between fasting and starving. According to him, fasting is voluntary and controlled unlike starving — "like someone running for fun and running because a lion is chasing after him." Known for unique and radical views, Dr. Fung recommends Fasting as a potent antidote to obesity and Type II Diabetes. Listen to the Podcast.

'There Is No Planet B' in a Divine Plan

Corinne McLaughlin & Gordon Davidson | The MOON Magazine

How determined and prepared are we, the 'custodians' of this Planet to carry out the Divine Plan or the Evolution of Consciousness? Are we worthy enough to enjoy the fruits of the Mother Earth without appreciating and understanding her plans? According to Corinne McLaughlin and Gordon Davidson, co-authors of 'Spiritual Politics, Builders of the Dawn', our Planet as a living-being is desperately struggling to reorient itself toward Spirit and to undergo a purification process in order to retain its sanctity and sacredness. Read and act now.

January 2020

“

Fasting is the first principle of medicine; fast and see the strength of the spirit reveal itself.”

Rumi

Mystic, Poet & Philosopher

What Threatens Our Existence As A Living Being Is Now Identified — The Human Mind!

Prof. Nathaniel Barr & Prof. Gordon Pennycook | Quartz Africa

While acknowledging the technical advancements and scientific innovations made by man since creation, Prof. Nathaniel Barr and Prof. Gordon Pennycook, co-authors of this essay caution about the irreparable damage and challenges that have arisen from the very same advancements and innovations. This essay, adapted from a chapter in 'The New Reflections in Cognitive Psychology', unveils the ultimate source that threatens our own existence on this living planet — the Human Mind! Read the essay.

Calorie Restriction and Our Pursuit for Immortality

Dr. Morten Scheibye-Knudsen | The Scientist

The Calorie, a term that was once developed to measure the efficiency of steam engines is probably one of the most used and printed words of our times. And by now, the Calorie war has divided the scientific community, calorie-conscious population as well as global food producers. As a Research Fellow at the National Institute on Aging, USA, Morten Scheibye-Knudsen focuses on brain-aging and how dietary interventions could have a positive impact on the neurological decline. The author is optimistic that possible therapeutic interventions will have the capacity to modulate or prevent the decline of brain-aging. An excellent read for weight-watchers.

Ketogenesis

Ketogenesis is the biochemical process through which organisms produce ketone bodies through the breakdown of fatty acids and ketogenic amino acids. This process supplies energy under circumstances such as fasting or caloric restriction to certain organs, particularly the brain, heart and skeletal muscle. Insufficient gluconeogenesis can cause hypoglycemia and excessive production of ketone bodies, ultimately leading to a life-threatening condition known as ketoacidosis.

fasting culture

NOVEMBER 2019

Voices & Sounds, by & for the Tribe!

Healing Truly

Miracle or a Biological Process? Natural Medicine Man Reveals The Magical Powers of Spontaneous Healing

Despite variations, both traditional knowledge and modern science subscribe to the theory that the human body has a unique and natural ability to heal within and bring back the equilibrium. Physician, Author and Promoter of Alternative Medicines, Dr. Andrew Weil is a graduate of Harvard Medical School who devoted decades in developing, teaching and educating people on the 'Principles of Integrative Medicine', in which patient and practitioner are considered equal partners in the healing process. In this talk show, he presents case studies and techniques from around the globe to outline a programme in resolving some of the life-threatening and chronic illnesses. According to Dr. Weil, the power to heal our body and mind is within us!

Dr. Andrew Weil

Art of Healing vs. Engineering of Healing: Benefits of Working With Subtle Energies

Philippa Lubbock | Conscious Lifestyle Magazine

Philippa Lubbock, author of 'The Healing Power of Life Alignment' whose evidence-based 'Mind As the Source of Disease' theory led to further research on healing methods. While endorsing the science and art of healing, she cautions that any model that excludes mind, heart and spirit merely becomes a form of engineering, not art. In this essay, Philippa offers three practical exercises to work with subtle energies.

"Throughout the ages, certain individuals and groups have tried to create a body that could contain more light and that could therefore house the highest degree of spiritual consciousness… This is an important fact for those who wish to serve the Earth."

Guruji-Ma

November 2019

“

Can we hope that this body, at present our means of terrestrial manifestation, will have the possibility of transforming itself progressively into something which will be able to express a higher life, or will it be necessary to abandon this form totally to enter another which does not yet exist on earth? Will there be a continuity or will there be a sudden appearance of something new?”

Mirra Alfassa

(The Mother)

Will We Ever Have a Silent Zone on This Planet? A Study on the Silent Effect of Noise on Our Brains

Azriel Re'Shel | UPLIFT

It is scientifically proven that silence has a unique ability to heal our body, mind and soul! Author, Editor, Social Worker and Yoga Teacher, Azriel Re'Shel writes about the powerful physical effect of noise on our brains, causing elevated levels of stress hormones. According to her, silence may be just what we need to regenerate our exhausted brains and bodies in our noisy world.

Future Medicine: A Collaboration of Modern Medical Knowledge and Wisdom of Traditional Healers

Todd Pesek, Lonnie Helton & Murali Nair | EcoHealth

In a research paper titled, "Healing Across Cultures: Learning From Traditions", three researchers from the Cleveland State University, USA discuss the balance between the natural world and human health while proposing a collaboration capable of developing mutually beneficial learning partnerships combining modern medical knowledge with the wisdom of traditional healers around the world.

The Unmeasurable Prana and Quantifiable Chi: Overlapping Properties With Endless Possibilities

TM Srinivasan | International Journal of Yoga

In this journal, TM Srinivasan of Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana examines the overlapping properties of both Prana and Electrons. The author proposes that subtle 'Prana' and observable 'Chi', the Chinese equivalent for Prana are distinct in conception and activity level, hence the interaction between 'Prana-Chi-Electrons-Health' needs to be tested and experimented.

The Ancient Practice of Fasting Finds New Takers in The Modern World

Sylvie Gilman & Thierry de Lestrade | Arte France, Via Découvertes

The documentary 'Science of Fasting' (2012), directed by Sylvie Gilman and Thierry de Lestrade examines the unknown and hidden powers of the ancient practice of fasting. Biologists, scientists, doctors and researchers in Russia, Germany and the US are exploring a therapeutic approach to fasting based on clinical studies. Their experiments and findings are captivating!

"Sound & Technologies of Consciousness"

This 2019 Gaia Original documentary featuring Swami Suddhananda, Sally Kempton, Yogi Amandeep, and many other spiritual masters and experts explores Nada Yoga, an ancient Indian meditation technique that uses music and sounds to calm the mind. Filmed across the Indian subcontinent, this episode takes a deeper look at the ancient system of inner transformation through sound vibrations or nadas.

Fasting Trends in a Starving World: A Reality Check on the Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

Dr. Andreas Michalsen | The Wall Street Journal

After the Mediterranean and Keto diets, 'Intermittent Fasting' retains its position in the list of most-Googled diets in America. Author of 'The Nature Cure: A Doctor’s Guide to the Science of Natural Medicine,' Dr. Andreas Michalsen talks about two profound benefits of fasting — longevity and immunity. Is our modern world slowly finding the spiritual and health benefits of an ancient practice?

"Wisdom of Ayurveda"

Can the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda trump modern science for bringing the body into healthy states of wellbeing? In this video, Natural Health Physician and the creator of LifeSpa, Dr. John Douillard talks about the avenues of consciousness that allow body and mind to access a deeper state of self-awareness and healing. He also discusses the cause of brain fog, the importance of sleep and the connection between digestion and stress.

Strategies to Modulate Gut Microbiota — the Virtual Organ of the Human Body

Ana M. Valdes, Jens Walter, Tim D. Spector & Eran Segal | The British Medical Journal

Ana M. Valdes, Associate Professor at School of Medicine, University of Nottingham and her team of researchers discuss the possible strategies for modulating the gut microbiota through diet and probiotics. Their study warns about the adverse impact of antibiotics and pesticides while highlighting the benefits of probiotics and dietary fiber on the gut microbiota.

Breath or Consciousness? A Guide to 'Prana', One of the Most Important Yogic Thoughts

The American Institute of Vedic Studies | VedaNet

Defined as simply as breath but also as the energy of consciousness, Prana, the primary energy is probably the most understood and misunderstood term of our times. This analysis by the American Institute of Vedic Studies is about one of the most important Yogic thoughts — five Pranas, Pranamaya kosha is composed of.