The Oily Bible – Synopsis
The Oily Bible explores communication and the transition of ideas and energy in all forms, and how this is conveyed through everyday life.
Some of the ideas are science-based, with a healthy consideration for philosophy, astrology, art, spiritualism and certain esoteric concepts.
This is not a religious book, but it does challenge conventional thinking about our roles, responsibilities and purpose.
The book begins with my battle with bipolar and trying to decipher fact from fiction. I refer to this as a ‘mental skillness’ and hope by publishing this book that our collective attitudes toward mental ability and disability will be better understood and embraced by all.
Enjoy the journey!
Ian H Bates
Version 5 – May 2024
For Daniel
For Daniel
Feed your appetite for curiosity and strive to be your very best.
Be humble, grateful, patient and forever happy.
I love you to the stars and back.
Pop xx
About the Author – Ian H. Bates
Born in Ipswich, England, 29th September 1964, Bates was diagnosed with bipolar at the age of thirty-eight. This resulted in one failed marriage and the unfolding of some rather bizarre events – some of which are shared in this story, his first published book.
The Oily Bible chronicles his path of enlightened consciousness, whilst maintaining a successful career in media, design, manufacturing and material as well as product development within the world of packaging. He’s founded numerous successful businesses and has also had a number of failures along the way. Despite all this, he remains happy, healthy and purpose-driven, helping people and organisations reduce their environmental impacts through better design and communication.
Married with one son, he lives near Maldon in England.
The Oily Bible – Contents
Chapter 1: Everything Happens For A Reason
Chapter 2: My Background
Chapter 3: The Power Of The Universe
Chapter 4: Quantum Dynamics
Chapter 5: World Peace
Chapter 6: Nikola Tesla
Chapter 7: Resonance
Chapter 8: Mind-Over-Matter
Chapter 9: Focus To Infinity
Chapter 10: Listening Blindspot
Chapter 11: Health, Wealth & Purpose
Chapter 12: Paying It Forward
Finale: Nature’s Gift to Humanity
Chapter 1 – Everything Happens for a Reason
I awoke from a deep, blissful sleep, jam-packed with fantastical dreams and magical events, which words are inadequate to describe. Had I really just had an encounter with my maker?
Impossible. So I thought…
It’s taken me over twenty-five years to untangle a complex web of 100’s of years of knowledge and better understand what I might have unearthed. Like all of us, I am still learning. I will never stop. I do try to be objective and agnostic so that you can make up your own mind if this is true or utter nonsense.
After all, you only have my word for it.
Enlightenment
Thirty-eight at the time, (now in my sixtieth year) happily married I had a good career as a director for a industrial manufacturing group based in Corby, England. I was head of sales, service, marketing and design. All very average and normal you might think? Things were going pretty well until one day everything changed. Like a merry-go-round, I just hopped-off and went in search of a new, more meaningful ride. This time, one with so much more purpose.
‘The awaking’, as I call it, happened in the early hours after a day of alpine skiing in Chamonix in France with some friends. For my first time, I smoked an entire marijuana joint the evening before, which was given to me by one of the other guests in the chalet. This joint made me very high so I went off to bed to sleep it off.
Early the following morning, I was awoken suddenly by a powerful force, which I can only describe as a spiritual encounter. As bizarre as it seemed to me at the time, I lay there listening to the single voice inside my head. This had never happened to me before and I was somewhat surprised and rather bewildered.
This Voice asked me politely to stop everything I was doing and take ownership of my life and fulfil my true purpose. “My true purpose” I asked? “Let go of everything, live in the moment, be truly happy”. I was happy, or so I thought, at the time. I was married to a beautiful lady, who had been my teenage sweetheart and we were very much in love. We had three Labrador dogs and lived in a lovely home near Northampton, England. She had a good career in the legal profession and apart from recovering from a terrible horse riding accident, which broke her back some years before, life was pretty rosy. Some years before we were married, my then girlfriend decided to give up our child through having an abortion because she wanted to pursue her career and not start a family. This broke my heart and to this day fills me with regret and guilt.
Back to the conversation with The Voice. “I am already perfectly happy thank you”, I said. The Voice then said, “you will need to make some significant sacrifices to fulfil your purpose”. “And what does that mean?”, I asked. “Your marriage will end soon and you will have a period of emotional struggle, but you will become stronger and ready for your true mission” The Voice replied. “No, that’s not going to happen, why don’t you please leave me alone?” I replied. The Voice then said calmly, but firmly said “Have faith, all will become clear in the fullness of time, I will try to guide you, but only if you agree now”. I thought about what was happening and instinctively, I replied “Okay, I agree. I trust you”.
What happened next made me cry uncontrollably. Weirdly, not with sadness, but with overwhelming joy and happiness. All very strange, I thought. I then asked the next obvious question; “Who are you?”. The Voice replied “I am the all seeing one, RA – The Sun God as I am often referred”. “Wow, really? So what do you want from me?” I enquired. “You are one of my sons and I need you to step up on Earth as it is in Heaven”. “Really? Is this the drugs screwing with my head?”. No reply.
The Voice then explained that after my marriage, I would go on a long journey of enlightenment and discovery. This strange conversation only took a few minutes at most. I then climbed out of bed and went for a long, reflective walk through the snowy Alps to clear my head. I walked for miles going over the conversation, trying to make sense of it all. I was excited, sad and somewhat confused.
I met the others for breakfast and they asked if I was okay given that I had been up so early. I replied “yep, never felt better, let’s go do some hard core skiing”. Clearly, I was still high and I had rather a lot to unpack. Was I going mad? Maybe it was the altitude, mixed with the drugs, alcohol and physical exertion of skiing all day. I was convinced it was the drugs and that things would return to normal pretty soon. The drugs did wear off over the next couple of days, but that was only start of the craziness.
I returned to work the following week to attend a quarterly board meeting. I asked the receptionist to bring red wine (symbolic or what?) to the board room (called the Gutenberg Room by complete coincidence!) instead of the usual tea and coffee. She asked “what was the celebration all about?”. I replied “I have a big surprise for everyone”. She looked at me and raised her eyebrows! “Oh, another one of your pranks hey?”. I don’t remember exactly what I said at the board meeting, but I am guessing it was pretty difficult for everyone around the table to comprehend what I was saying and the owner rightly decided I needed a longer holiday! I do recall talking about Richard the Great and the historical significance of his reign and his links to the Knights Templar and the significance of the Holy Grail! I accepted the extended holiday offer without persuasion. How generous, or so I thought. The owner of the company called my wife at work, kindly drove me home and stayed with me until she retuned from her office. What a kind and decent man. Early evening there was a knock at the door and three wise men stood there – no only joking – the mental health emergency response team had been dispatched! No white van and handcuffs, contrary to popular belief.
I sat on our large Egyptian silk rug in the middle of the lounge floor sipping tea with these kind and gentle people and they asked me several searching questions. It was a form of interrogation to find out how crazy I might actually be. I tried to answer the questions seriously, but my mood was so elevated and my thought processes somewhat ‘connected’ that maybe what they heard probably sounded like I had a screw loose. They got quite annoyed with me at one point and said “you have a choice, we will either commit you to our mental facility or you can come of your own free will”. That threat really annoyed me. “Am I a danger to anyone including myself and do I have a choice?” I asked. They said “your wife has asked that you comply with us or you will be involuntarily committed to a local mental facility”. I thought about it for a few minutes and decided to accept their offer, thinking maybe this was all part of the masterplan of me just accepting the natural order and flow of life. I also thought that the experience would be interesting if nothing else and that I could write about it later! So it was agreed, I was checked-in to St. Andrews Mental Hospital in Northampton, one of the best facilities in the UK, under the good care of a leading consultant called Mr. Wood. What a wonderful man he turned out to be and we got on rather well.
I then spent the next three weeks at St. Andrews being treated for bipolar disorder also known as manic depression. I attended all the cognitive behaviour therapy sessions, meditation, art and craft groups and played golf and tennis most days. I had a great time and never felt better. I actually felt a bit guilty because some of the people there were rather unwell. Everyday the sun shined and I felt on top of the world. Even my brother, who visited me was envious. Some friends visited, some didn’t sadly including my wife – I think she found it all too difficult to deal with and probably embarrassing too. I started painting again. The consultant jokingly called me ‘Picasso’ – probably part of his positivity pep-plan, along with the little pink tablets to bring me gently back to terra firma. I’m told that he still has one of my paintings hanging on the wall of the clinic. I will go and visit one of these days.
One of the funny things that happened while I was at St. Andrews was my visit to the local Jaguar dealer. The X-Type had just been launched and I asked if I could test drive it. The salesman was only too happy to oblige. We drove for about 30 minutes and I asked toward the end, “can you please drop me off at St Andrews”? He looked at me enquiringly and agreed. Poor chap – another time-waster, he probably thought. I went for the Audi A4 – a much better car!
Did The Voice and, later, other communications stop? Oh no! It turned into an ensemble of ever-complex communications, which I can only describe to you as super intelligence operating at the speed-of-light. I will explain in plain English later and try to connect the dots between science, philosophy, astronomy and spiritualism. It’s a fascinating arc – joining light, energy, life-forming processes and the absorption and transfer of energy at different frequencies and wavelengths from one molecule to another in an infinite continuum beyond time and space. Yep, that all sounds rather complicated, but I will try to explain with proven scientific facts. The dots I will help connect might surprise you. It did me.
As you might expect, I was officially and publicly labeled ‘bonkers’ for which I am grateful and proud of. I really am. I felt I had a gift (as we all do incidentally) and although this included being labelled as officially ‘mentally ill’ at least I was in good hands. I just want to take this opportunity to thank all my loyal and wonderful family and friends for standing by me and providing the necessary light relief and distraction to prevent me from becoming too obsessed and depressed at dealing with my new baggage. It’s taken me over 25 years to commit to explaining what actually happened. I really hope it will help other people who find themselves in a similar situation.
I write this book with love, passion and wonderment for what this could all mean for humanity in a positive context and all that supports us and life on Earth – fungi, trees, plants, animals, minerals, nutrients and so on.
We’re all connected, whether we like it or not.
Chapter 2 – My Background
Born in England in 1964, I majored in chemistry, biology and mathematics at ‘A’ level and went on to study a degree in marketing. I should have been an artist, architect or perhaps a carpenter, but my Dad rightly or wrongly wanted me to pursue a more academic career. I’ve no doubt, on reflection, he was right. I love making and creating physical things, which I can then gift to friends and family.
My Dad worked in the pharmaceutical and beverages sectors heading-up purchasing and supply and my Mum followed her own career as a personal assistant to numerous company directors, whilst tending to her flock. My Dad’s father was a Methodist Minister and my Mum’s father was senior manager for one of the UK’s leading retail banks. Apparently, I very much look like and take after my Mum’s father. He was a risk-taker, very confident and loved speeding his Norton motorcycle up and down the very steep Porlock Hill in Somerset, England. Over the years we have lived in Suffolk, Gloucestershire, London, Lancashire, Essex and Hampshire where they retired and died a few years ago. We’re were a bit like gypsies you might say!
Mum and I were very close and I don’t think we ever had a cross word. I loved her dearly and so miss her. She still visits me spiritually, quite regularly on request. I miss my Dad equally, but our relationship was complex, mostly in a good way. Typical Father, pushing his little boy to be his very best. He was pretty strict, a stickler for detail and frugal with everything. I remember him always asking us to turn off the lights and he would often cutting-up cereal cartons into to-do lists and would do anything to save waste. He was also hilarious, the life and soul of a party. They both had a wicked sense of humour and joke-telling was always on the menu. Some evenings were spent just telling funny stories and jokes. Happy memories. Both of them taught me a wide spectrum of personal skills and ingrained important life values for which I am grateful. They were decent, humble, thoughtful, generous and kind people.
My brother and I are very close and speak regularly (usually in daft voices, impersonating famous people like Mrs. Doubtfire – my brother’s favourite) and sometimes we holiday together as families. He is so funny, a true entrepreneur and one of the best negotiators I have ever seen in action. He’s also very popular, kind and generous – just like our parents were.
I have an older sister, who I respect for her immense intellect and Mother Teresa-like kindness. She’s always helping people and working hard. She is also very well read and often encourages me to read more. She teaches mindfulness and guides young people through her counselling at one of the top private schools in the country. She’s one of my go-to people to help me untangle mental knots because I can always count on her being completely frank with me. She tells me things I sometimes don’t want to hear. For example, the cover of this book, was her choice. Created by ChatGPT from the synopsis. It was the only option that she thought projected a positive, up-lifting message. The others were a bit dark, serious and perhaps a bit frightening for most people!
I had a blissful upbringing, apart from witnessing my Dad ‘fly off the handle’ on the odd occasion when he did not get his way. He was never violent. When I was about eighteen and still living at home, he told me to leave because I swore at him. He let me return a day later, once I apologised and promise never to be rude and disrespectful to him again. I took refuge with a friend who lived just across the road. I was a little bit frightened of him at times as were some of my friends. If he didn’t like you, he made it abundantly clear. After my first manic episode, I told him honestly to his face what I thought about his fiery and sometimes blunt behaviour. I really laid into him and off-loaded years of pent-up frustration with how I thought his parenting skills had room for improvement. I was so brutal, I thought he was going to have a heart attack. It was truly awful. I really felt bad afterwards, but in all honesty he actually deserve it and it really helped cement our relationship. The following day he started treating me like an adult. It is hard to be specific, but I always felt a tinge of jealously from him. Probably perfectly natural, because my relationship with my Mum was so special and unconditional. She just wanted me to happy and healthy and was always their to encourage and never judge. My father on the other hand was not so easy. He could be very critical and lacked the ability to show empathy and just say “well done, I’m proud of you”. Not once did he ever say he loved me. Not once. I find that really sad. I know he did love me and was very proud because my Mum would tell me quietly when he was not in earshot. Quite early in my career, I pulled up on the drive of our family home and was greeted by my Dad. I proudly told that this was my new company car – a very smart British Racing Green 323 BMW with cream leather seats. He said something like “really, I had to work all my life to earn a company car”. He was clearly not happy for me and green with jealousy. What a shame.
“O beware, my lord, of jealousy; It is the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on.” – Act 3, Scene 2, Othello by William Shakespeare.
As you might have gathered by now, I was a ‘mummies boy’ as my wife often jokes with me! Oh how I miss them both.
Growing up, sport was my thing – running, volleyball, basketball, football, cricket, skiing, roller-blading, cycling being my favourites. One sports day at the age of ten, competing in a 100 meters track race in record time, I had my first asthma attack. This frightened my teachers so much that they tried to stop me from competitive running. I ignored them. Turns out, like many of us, I am just allergic to pollen and house dust. I’ve always pushed myself hard and sometimes been over-competitive and I guess it is this drive that pushed my mental capacity to its limits without taking appropriate rest and relaxation.
Married with one very bright son, I have a pretty normal life – whatever that means. My wife is in communications and I part own a company and work for a not-for-profit organisation working within the paper, paper packaging and tissue sectors. My son has a degree in Spanish. He’s passionate about watersports – sub-aqua diving, surfing and anything to do with enjoying and preserving nature. He is actually my step-son and sadly his father died from cancer during Covid, but fortunately he was able to be at his bedside when he passed and was also able to be at his funeral, which took place overseas during the pandemic. It was recorded live via YouTube so we where able to watch and listen to him make the most wonderful eulogy. This was the proudest moment of my life – to witness your offspring hold themselves so steadily at such a difficult moment. Only a truly developed sole can do that. Oh, how we cried. His Father and I became good friends and despite the separation, we all united in the most wonderful way. Thank goodness we did. A tribute to my wife and my son’s step-mum who lives in Australia. The wider family have benefited enormously and this has enabled Daniel to adjust to the tragic loss of his Father at such a young age.
My wife and I met when we were in our early twenties whilst we were both working in London. We lived locally to each other in Essex, after my Dad’s work required another relocation. We met at a political event and she arrived late due to a delayed train, but our group went on afterwards for drinks at a local pub. We got chatting and became great friends. I already had a girlfriend, but she lived in another county and after discovering that she was sharing me with another chap, I explained to her how important monogamy was to me and that our relationship was abruptly over. I forgave her a few years later and we married in Florence, Italy. Sadly this marriage was short due to her cheating on me yet again. It’s true; leopards never change their spots.
My wife and I have been married for over seventeen years. She has a heart of gold, broad shoulders (metaphorically speaking) and is a true angel. I’ve never met a kinder, more capable, humble, kind person. I frequently drive her nuts and she worries like all good wives do, but she has the capacity to somehow keep the ship steady, as we navigate life’s choppy waters.
Has bipolar held me back during my career? Absolutely not. It has without doubt presented some significant challenges along the way for my family, friends and colleagues, but provided they know how to support you when you are experiencing a high or low period, in my case it has been manageable due to my wife’s determination and support. This is provided that I take the Sodium Valproate medication daily, drink plenty of water, take regular exercise and have a balanced diet. Oh yes, and make sure I have plenty of R&R. Avoiding bungee and parachute jumps and the production of too much adrenalin is also helpful! When in a manic phase, I tend to become very animated, think and speak quickly and behave out of character. I also become very generous, wanting to gift everyone with books or other items I think they might appreciate. It’s funny, but I have this desire to declutter and free-up my life of physical objects.
During an interview for a senior directorship a few years ago, the chairman asked me how I coped with stress at work and I openly told him about my condition. He seemed genuinely interested and asked me several questions as to how I managed day to day. I was completely open with him. He was also open with me about a private matter. I came out of the interview, jumped in my car to head home and rang my wife. I told her how it went – rather well I thought. “He was great, I liked him and I told him about my bipolar” I said. She was not happy with me, being quite so open and predicted, that I would not be offered the job and that perhaps I should be more cautious and less open in the future. I disagreed with her and said “if they don’t like the truth, then I’m not right for them and vice versa”. I was offered the job that day. Part of the reason was my openness and honesty. This is rare in corporate life – openness and honesty. Clearly this man and the other directors are good people who could see beyond the challenges of working with someone with a mental disorder. I am very grateful for this leap of faith and loved my time working with these people and for this company, which took me to some amazing places like Delhi, Hong Kong and other parts of the world.
More recently, before being offered an employment contract with my current employer, I suggest to my boss (he hates me calling him ‘the boss’) I insisted that he read a draft of this book. He kindly agreed. The following week he said “I’ve read your book. Wow, it brought be to tears on occasions”. I asked “tears of joy and pain?”. He replied “both”. My contract was issued and I have just been invited to join the board of directors. Just proves, honesty and openness pays off and if you’re punished for any reason, then it’s time to move on.
I often remind people that several smart individuals have been diagnosed with bipolar – past and present – including Winston Churchill, Mel Gibson, Mariah Carey, Carrie Fisher, Jimi Hendrix, Earnest Hemingway, Spike Milligan and Stephen Fry. It never held them back – on the contrary.
For me, honesty and integrity trump everything. You are what you are and hiding the truth will only cause problems later. Be yourself, be authentic and people will respect you for that.
Chapter 3 – The Power of the Universe
The Oily Bible is not a book about religion. The last thing I want to do is offend groups of people with firm beliefs from a particular culture or religion. They all have their merits and I respect them equally, but don’t understand them enough to comment. Some seem to me to be rather repressive and lack what I believe to be the importance of an open mind to explore all the possibilities without judgement.
This book explores communication and the transition or ideas and energy in all forms and how this is conveyed through everyday life across the universe. I try to compare this to the Natural World where light and other forms of electromagnetic energy are converted by plants etc into bio matter, which is then consumed or transferred over time into organic and inorganic forms such as coal and oil. Our collective unhealthy relationship and addiction to fossil fuels is discussed at length and how we might resolve this challenge given the immediate crisis with global warming.
Some of these ideas are science-based with a healthy consideration for history, philosophy, astronomy, spirituality and art. I have always been fascinated by people, nature, symbols, icons, design, colour and how things are made, decompose, recycle and regenerate. I am also interested in how we can manifest ideas from thoughts, vibrations (resonance), mind-over-matter and individual and collective actions.
Most people that know me well would probably describe me as slightly odd, obsessive and driven to preserve our planet and all of its natural beauty. That is all true, but I would also argue that I am completely sane (most of the time), rational, pragmatic and concerned for our planet, which is slowly, but surely being polluted and destroyed via the developed nations’ desire to consume and extract at an alarming rate. Just in the UK alone, we consumer six times more energy compared with someone living in India. If everyone on the planet lived like an average westerner, we would need six planets to maintain our excessive lifestyles. Crazy and avoidable, if we put our mind to it. In 1760 the Industrial revolution started in the UK and our unhealthy addiction to coal and other fossil fuels has just continued to grow. Here we are 264 years later, witnessing the impacts of CO₂ emissions, through climate change and global warming. Mother Nature is unable to cope with our voracious appetite for economic growth, ‘hoarding and upgrading of things’ and as developing nations become more ‘westernised’, this imbalance with nature will only become more problematic.
My professional work has been focussed on helping organisations reduce their carbon footprint through better design, material choices and removing unnecessary packaging and processes, which are both energy and carbon intensive. I try to use the design principals of ‘Cradle to Cradle’ originally conceived by Michael Braungart and William McDonough. For me, design and manufacture have always been about collaborating for the greater good irrespective of the consequences and issues associated with intellectual property and competitiveness. To my mind, Mother Nature is the true master and until we embrace that reality, we jeopardise our ability to thrive. Politics, religion and economics aside, we only have one planet, which we share and are temporarily custodians maintaining it in good order for future generations. Moving to another planet in my view is not practical and will only cause unintended, possibly disastrous consequences.
The sun generates solar energy in the form of light, heat and other energy forms. It’s this energy, which is captured by trees and plants through the process of photosynthesis, which absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, water and nutrients from the soil and produces oxygen and biomatter. This biomaterial and nutrients (energy) can then be consumed by fungi, animals, trees and plants and converted into new forms of energy. These complex chemical chain reactions are orchestrated, sometimes via symbiotic relationships to form the ever-changing web of life. This is a delicate balancing act, which requires biodiversity between flora and fauna within the hierarchy of each organism requiring one another to decompose, reproduce and thrive. There is no toxic waste with nature, just the transfer of nutrients and energy from one form and function to another. It’s a miracle, which I don’t think we fully appreciate yet.
Energy cannot disappear, it can only transition from one state to another. A good example of this is when you shine a beam of light through a prism and the light refracts into multiple colours of the rainbow all with a different wavelength. These colour wavelengths are detected by the irises in our eyes and our brain decodes each wavelength into a colour palette of information.
In the case of sound, a particular frequency creates movement of the air particles and our ear drums translate each sound through sound waves, which our brain can interpret. When light or sound hits a solid wall, the energy will partly deflect and some is absorbed in the form of thermal or kinetic energy. All these principals are fully explained in the science of thermodynamics, which I am not going to go into here, as this is not a book about science, moreover the importance of science to explain why our relationship with energy is essential for life.
It is curiosity that has brought me to this point in my life, learning about the relevance and connectedness of everything. Everything, down to the last photon, electron, atom, spec of dust or star is connected in a magical way. Time is irrelevant in a quantum universe and unlike water we perhaps all have the ability to travel through time and space if we just put our minds to it. However, to achieve that, we need to recalibrate to the natural rhythm of nature and disconnect from the buzz of our hectic lives. If you’ve ever meditated for any good length of time, you’ll appreciate what is possible.
We are all familiar with the five common human senses – sight, sound, smell, touch and taste. Imagine how they might have been discovered when we were first created. Discovering for the first time being able to hear, smell, touch, taste and then see. Are there more senses, which we have not yet discovered or agreed upon a suitable label to describe them? We think we know what the sixth sense means, but do we really? Are we agreed on a common language for this ethereal sense, which is harder to describe for most people. I would argue that it is the sixth and other senses that we have not yet fully explored or understood. I recently asked a close friend, and a highly developed soul, how many senses did he think he possessed. His answer was “seven”. He explained the sixth and seventh to me and they made complete sense. They were a combination of instinct and emotional intelligence, which is common and widely known, but not scientifically proven or fully analysed and understood.
I think of senses like dimensions. In the first dimension we have a starting point or dot. In the second dimension we have two dots perhaps connected by a line. In the third dimension we have three dots to create a triangular shape. Now imagine a plumb line. The top of the plumb line is the first dimension, the second the weight, connected by a cord and the third dimension is the plumb line, like a pendulum swinging from side to side. The forth dimension is where rotation moves the weight into a circular movement. Now imagine the plumb line moving in the figure of eight to create a continuous infinity loop. Energy can transfer in 360° in all dimensions at any point in time because it is non-linear and does not require a line of cord to connect.
When you look at the randomness of the design of plants for example, the shapes are typically non-linear and chaotically organic. That’s partly what makes them so beautiful and helps us to appreciate their magnificent structures. However, they are very cleverly designed to maximise strength, optimise resources and flexible enough to reach for light and other resources whilst avoiding damage from external forces. As a creative, I find this fascinating. Knowing that in a forest, underneath the trees, there exists a massive network of mycelium transferring nutrients and information from one tree, plant and fungi to another.
How does it all work?
Well, we are not entirely sure yet, but as science evolves we will undoubtedly discover the true importance and power of these vital connections. I recommend reading Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake to find out more about this mysterious and magical world. Fantastic Fungi is a documentary film on Netflix, which argues that humans might have evolved from fungi, which is not proven, but does present some interesting questions about our origins.
Western societies’ addiction to consumerism, time and money is well reported and mostly understood. In my personal view, it has become a toxic combination, which simply can’t be sustained. The clock rules our lives and we appear to be on a merry-go-round, which is spinning faster and faster and often out of control.
It’s not clear who actually invented the sundial, but the credit seems to sit with the Egyptians in 1500 BC and they used it to measure the position of the sun during the day. However, it was the Sumerians in Mesopotamia who developed the first calendar in the Bronze Age 2510 BC, which divided a year into 12 lunar months helped by star and planet alignments. The Egyptians adapted this and added a star named Sirius to help keep track of time, keep order and manage events. Hourglasses and water clocks were also developed to keep track of time. The idea for the first mechanical clock is credited to Galileo. However, the first pendulum clock was invented by Christian Huygens in the mid 1600’s. Our obsession with time has, like our appetite for consumerism, grown exponentially ever since. And nature’s own seasonal clock? Well, that has always been timeless, often forgotten and increasingly ignored.
We seem to like measuring in units of time. Success, failure and even happiness. When did you last take the day off unplanned and just did nothing, but walk, breath and enjoy the countryside or time getting to know yourself better? Precious time away from the hustle and bustle and electronic gadgets. For some, this will be a frightening prospect because to keep busy will stop us thinking about what might be missing.
I try to look at my life like this; what would I do if I had a few days to live and was not allowed to tell anyone I was terminally ill, and did not have the opportunity to say “goodbye”? How would I behave and what would I do? What would my relationship with time and my remaining life be like and how would I spend those final moments? Interesting questions.
When you look at the happiest people, they have one thing in common; they truly appreciate what they have and don’t allow what they don’t have to bother them. In short, they are grateful and content. Funnily enough, I believe that this is partly the secret to a happy and healthy life. Easy to say, not so easy to do.
When I did finally ‘hit the wall’ and was diagnosed with bipolar, I learned a very important lesson. That lesson, is to be more accepting of others and try to go with the natural flow of life. Any creation should be to help improve life and use my own gifts to help others be their best and hopefully be happier. Simple, but like all simple things, often over-looked and under appreciated. A great book to read about just going with the the natural flow of life and the benefits this bring is The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer.
When I am in a manic phase, it lasts two/ three weeks. It starts with interrupted sleep and higher energy levels than normal. I typically wake up in the early hours. In recent years, I have used these quiet periods to meditate. It starts with voices in my head, which I write-down, when possible, what is being communicated. I do this by candlelight so as to try not to disturb everyone. I also try to walk in the dark to understand what it’s like not to be able to see. I find this optimises my other senses and makes me more aware of my body movement and pent-up energy. Obviously this can be rather dangerous so if you do try it, please be careful. Also be careful with candles as they can easily be left burning and be knocked over when your are in a meditative state. I recommend only using church-size candles on a solid, non-flammable stand, which are far safer. I’ve nearly burned the house down on a couple of occasions!
Of course, it’s not easy to observe and interpret everything. After all, we are human and we have to earn a living, eat, rest and recuperate. We only have so much mental and physical capacity. However, when I completely unshackle my mind, allow chaos to organise itself, the universe does eventually help you go with the natural flow. Like magic, everything synchronises in perfect harmony. The voices seem like normal conversation and are a guide to whatever you might need to know beyond your normal day to day life. Is this communicating with the spirit world? I don’t know. I do know that if I am trying to solve a particular challenge and I ask for help, in the right way, this help will present itself in the most timely and wonderful way. Our utilised brain capacity is under 20%, which begs the question “what’s the >80% actually doing?”. The meditation normally lasts less than a couple of hours and after a few days of doing this, the skin on my forehead is very dry as if it has been burned by energy in a circular shape. This is known as the 6th chakra or Third Eye and gateway to inner consciousness, which is well documented. If you would like to learn more about this subject and the power of spiritual healing and all related subjects, I recommend reading anything by Deepak Chopra.
Back to The Voices. If this has never happened to you, it is rather like being guided by a benevolent force and it is extraordinary. I keep asking “so what’s possible, if I put my mind to it?” The answer that comes back? “Anything, you just have to put your mind to it and truly commit yourself”. Of course, not all forces are benevolent so you do need to be careful. I had a frightening experience when I was about fifteen years old with a Ouija board, which I did not take seriously. After that, I realised that there are powerful forces, which should be respected and better understood. When my voices first started, I was completely overwhelmed. In retrospect, I wish I had found guidance, but I didn’t really know where to go. What would I do now? Perhaps seek the advice of a spiritual guide with a good reputation? I’m not going to recommend anyone here because you have your own journey to follow and it’s not for me to introduce you to a guide.
As outlined earlier, I capture The Voices in my head by writing and sketching quickly. This then helps me to translate the complex communications later when I’m out of a meditative state. Some of the messages are similar to translating ancient symbols. Very confusing at times. It’s as though different languages are being conveyed or the use of words I think I hear are not always correct. A burning candle in a quiet room when it’s quiet and dark with as few distractions as possible is best for me, but as I become more practiced, I can zone-in and out without appearing to behave weirdly in the company of people. I do sometimes speak outwardly to a voice and have to stop myself if anyone is watching or listening. The last thing I want is to end up being sectioned and locked-up!
I have tried to write this book several times over the years, but kept stopping to ask myself “why do this and subject myself to the pain and embarrassment of it all?”. The answer is always “Just do it and you’ll be glad when it’s finished”. I really do hope this helps anyone who has voices in their head and is trying to fathom out if they’re going crazy or perhaps it’s just normal. I think it is pretty normal and is more common than we realise. Most people have a conversation with themselves in their head, but do not necessarily admit to it. I talk to myself all the time, particularly when I’m out and about walking with my dog. It does get embarrassing at times when you are overheard by a passer by, but then most people now wear ear-pods so it is quite normal to hear someone talking to themselves!
This might all seem completely normal to you as you might have had similar experiences, but have not felt comfortable sharing your enlightenment! That’s what it is, enlightenment. A growing of your consciousness, which is perfect healthy. We were born with these powers, some of us just forgot how to use them growing-up, being moulded into how to behave and think. Pressures of time and life just get in the way. “Tic Toc” as I often say to people trying to rush me along whilst I am enjoying the natural pace of life. There are those reading this chapter who are already enlightened and do not want to share their secrets. I understand and respect that position. We are all in a varied state of consciousness, just some are more awakened than others, but I do believe there is a change taking place partly thanks to the speed at which people can now communicate. You only have to read ex Google X Innovation head, Mo Gawdat’s books ‘Scary Smart and That Little Voice in Your Head’ to understand the power of artificial and super intelligence and the part we might play as we become more connected and hopefully enlightened. AI could be a total disaster for humankind, but it could also be a triumph if managed carefully and positively and not abused by people with unhealthy intentions.
My sister gifted me the short book ‘The Secret’ by Rhonda Byrne for my 42nd birthday and I did not get around to reading it until several years later. It sat on the bookshelf just gathering dust. The author explains the power of attraction and what we think about, we bring about and how outcomes are manifested once we commit ourselves. I recommend reading it, if you have not done so already. It’s also available as a movie. If someone now gives me a book or recommends one to me for whatever reason, I now read or listen to it as quickly as possible.
I take the view that people generally want to help you and they only make a recommendation for positive reasons. There can be exceptions of course. One of my other favourite books is ‘Human Design’ by Chetan Parkyn. I read this in my 40’s and I knew then that I had so much to learn, which I would probably never truly understand. I’m starting to appreciate only now.
I often reflect what the planet would be like if you could bring together the best minds, past and present, from the arts, sciences, astrology, spirituality and philosophy. If you could distil all this wisdom and knowledge. Just imagine what could be possible? So what’s the short-circuit to this wisdom? Neither of us have the time to read and absorb all this information and experience. Reading and listening to developed people certainly helps.
I think it will come from a combination of applying artificial intelligence to better effect, great collaborations and partnerships and an awakening of more people. We will hit bumps in the road relating to trust, but when we go with the flow and reduce protective behaviour, the magic can happen if we want it to. Profit and greed will be barriers because when you remove the veil of what is possible, everything becomes eminently possible. I have worked on some very challenging projects and, at the outset, we knew there would be many risks and frustration, but piece-by-piece obstacles were overcome and eventually a solution was found. It’s all about belief, conviction, having hope and never giving-up.
I see a planet powered by nature for nature and every living inhabitant. A perfect symbiotic relationship where energy, and therefore matter, can flow naturally within the rules and construct of Gaia. In Greek mythology, Gaia is the Goddess of Earth and daughter of Chaos. Chaos was the mother of Uranus (Heaven). At this point, you might think that I’m going to go all religious, philosophical or scientific on you. I am not going to do that. Why, because the majority of readers will switch off. I will say this, every single one of us is unable to fully understand and appreciate the power of the universe unless you connect all the dots simultaneously. So how do you do that with one brain and in one life time? Impossible? Maybe not with some help from AI and quantum processing. We will talk more about the power of AI and quantum, super intelligence later.
For now, some of the answers are surprisingly simple. STOP. Slow down. Observe carefully. Be guided by your own wisdom and instinct. This does take patience and practice because there are so many teachers to learn from and signposts to follow, but like any journey, it is each step that counts, the direction of travel, not the end objective that are most important. Maybe reflect on that for while before continuing…
For now, some of the answers are surprisingly simple. STOP. Slow down. Observe carefully. Be guided by your own wisdom and instinct. This does take patience and practice because there are so many teachers to learn from and signposts to follow, but like any journey, it is each step-by-step that counts, the direction of travel, not the end objective that are most important. Maybe reflect on that for while before continuing….
Rather like preparing a delicious meal, you start with an idea of what you want to cook, select a recipe, who you are going to invite, select the carefully chosen ingredients and then prepare the meal. There are many other part steps within each action, but you get the gist. Start with a good plan and be prepared to adjust as you go.
To reach true inspiration and therefore potential contentment and happiness, you need to surrender to your teachers and guides. This takes considerable faith and trust and with that you will need to select your teachers and guides carefully because there are good ones and not so good ones. The good guides will only help you if your idea or mission is with good intentions and in harmony with your immediate surroundings and in-sync with Gaia. By good intentions, I mean gratitude and love.
If we accept that we are part of a greater being, we will only be able to start our own journey when we love and appreciate ourselves, everyone around us and everything along our path. Many people do not love or appreciate themselves and never move off first base. I believe some people only discover this reality just before they die. We come into this world with nothing (physical), we leave with nothing (physical). It’s up to us if we want to depart happy having led a fulfilled life. Sure, there are going to be challenges, disappointments and sadness along the way, but if you think of these experiences as lessons and not just bad luck, then your perspective and attitude will change. Two of the happiest and sadist days of my life were the funerals of my parents. I was sad to lose them, but they left the most wonderful memories and apart from teaching me how to love and be loved, whilst being a decent human being, they gave me the gift of life for which,I will be eternally grateful.
Creating the right environment to spend time to relax and meditate is vital. You can’t be creative or reflective sat around a table on a hard chair. You need to create a space, which enables energy and thoughts to flow. For me, the lighting is also important. Too bright does not work. Candlelight and quietness work for me. You also need to be aware and awake and not falling asleep, so adopting the right position is important. There are many good books on how to meditate and practice mindfulness and gain some level of control over an active, healthy mind. Here’s a list from Waterstones. Famous inventors like Nikola Tesla and the founder of Apple, Steve Jobs, are well known for being active meditators.
The connections are certainly complex and difficult to draw logical conclusions. The point I am making is that as humans we are far more capable than perhaps we realise. Try creating space for deep thought and reflection, it does not happen in an instant. It takes practice, patience and guidance along the way to capture the full power of our minds individually and collectively.
I know from being a creative person that no one idea was ever really unique, but a combination of ideas brought together in a new structure or recipe. A great idea is sometimes an old idea using a new process, which makes it work better. The development of new technology is making these discoveries easier and faster to evolve at pace and scale. For example, the rapid invention of Covid vaccines in 2020, which were developed and produced at scale in a matter of months thanks to unprecedented collaboration, political will, automation, AI, computing power and modern distribution systems. Imagine this level of capability to resolve the energy crisis and in doing so reduce the impacts of global warming. It is possible, if we put our minds to it and overcome the political, legal and commercial barriers. Will we do it? Well, the survival of our planet is at stake and I have no doubt only so much suffering and displacement will take place before we collectively act for the greater good.
Chapter 4 – Quantum Dynamics
According to Wikipedia:
‘In physics, quantum dynamics is the quantum version of classical dynamics. Quantum dynamics deals with the motions, and energy and momentum exchanges of systems whose behaviour is governed by the laws of quantum mechanics. Quantum dynamics is relevant for burgeoning fields, such as quantum computing and atomic optics.
In mathematics, quantum dynamics is the study of the mathematics behind quantum mechanics. Specifically, as a study of dynamics, this field investigates how quantum mechanical observables change over time. Most fundamentally, this involves the study of one-parameter automorphisms of the algebra of all bounded operators on the Hilbert space of observables (which are self-adjoint operators). These dynamics were understood as early as the 1930s, after Wigner, Stone, Hahn and Hellinger worked in this field.’
Unless you’re a scientist or mathematician this might not yet make much sense to you. I will do my best to simplify and why this is relevant when explaining the importance of light and energy at an atomic particle level.
This is how ChatGPT explains quantum dynamics in layman’s terms…
‘Quantum dynamics is a branch of physics that deals with how things behave on a very small scale, such as atoms and subatomic particles. It’s a bit different from how we normally think about the world because it involves some strange and fascinating phenomena.
In classical physics, we often describe objects in terms of their position, velocity, and other properties. But in quantum dynamics, things are a bit more uncertain. Instead of having definite values for these properties, particles can exist in multiple states at the same time. This is known as superposition.
Imagine a particle like an electron. Instead of being in one place or another, it can be in a combination of different positions simultaneously. It’s like a cloud of possibilities, and we can only know the probability of finding the particle in a particular state when we observe it.
Another weird thing in quantum dynamics is that when we make a measurement on a particle, its state can “collapse” into a definite value. For example, if we measure the position of an electron, it will suddenly be found in a specific location. This collapse is random, and we can’t predict exactly where it will end up. It’s as if the act of observing the particle influences its behaviour.
Additionally, there is a concept called entanglement in quantum dynamics. When two particles become entangled, their properties become linked, no matter how far apart they are. Changing the state of one particle instantly affects the state of the other, even if they are light-years away. This phenomenon has been called “spooky action at a distance” by Albert Einstein.
Quantum dynamics is a complex and mind-boggling field, and scientists are still trying to fully understand its implications. It has led to incredible technologies like quantum computers and quantum cryptography, which have the potential to revolutionise computing and data security.
So, in summary, quantum dynamics is the study of how things behave on a very small scale, where particles can exist in multiple states at once (superposition), measurements can cause their states to “collapse,” and particles can be entangled, influencing each other’s properties regardless of distance’.
If we assume everything that exists is a form of energy held in suspension waiting to be transferred or transformed from one state to another, the interconnectedness can only be fully understood if we look at how tiny particles relate to each other in time and space. The movement of subatomic particles is not yet fully understood or agreed upon by scientists, but we can assume it’s highly complex and possibly random – or is it? When you look closely at the complexity of a flower or human eye you appreciate the unique visual and physical qualities of both these examples and witness that there is no exact repetition. However, there are similarities that can be clearly identified and described. The DNA and micro-structure maybe different, but the general formation and rules of design are the same. They share the same patterns and can be easily identified from one species, colour, size or shape with another.
Now let’s think about something less tangible such as thoughts and ideas. These are not physical notions, but nevertheless they do actually require energy to create. Does an idea have mass? Apparently not, accordingly to scientists, but one could argue that to create a thought or idea you do need energy in the first place. Often from shared experiences, posing searching questions, which then lead to brain processing and dreaming, which might lead to a new idea. I’ve always been fascinated at how ideas are born. I’m often dreaming-up new ways of approaching challenges and most of these come in the earlier hours of the morning when it’s quiet and peaceful, when I’m in the shower, on a dog walk, day dreaming or during conversation. Where do they come from? I’ve no idea, but I believe being curious is a key ingredient. Asking the right questions and trying to understand why things happen, how they work and relate to each other is also relevant.
We are all too often spoon-fed information through multiple media channels where it’s easier to watch rather than than read a book to absorb knowledge. However, you can’t beat conversation, collaboration and practical experience to understand what might be possible.
Back to quantum dynamics. Why is this so relevant? Imagine if data processing power was unlimited and we could ask a series of questions of the universe and the answers were presented immediately. We are already seeing a limited version of this with Google and Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI can perform a series of highly complex actions like summarise millions of web pages into a short paragraph in seconds. It can create photos, videos, write poetry, speeches, presentations, music in whatever style and genre you prefer. It can and will do so much more, connecting data and creativity tasks in ways, which only 10 years ago, seemed impossible. Quantum financial trading is another development, where computers will be faster and more efficient than expert traders. Creating realtime problem solving and task creation will elevate the human species to another level of global communication. Yes, it will have many pitfalls, that I have no doubt, but in the right hands and put to good use, could solve some of the undiscovered mysteries of science, technology and much more. For example, how do we convert the sun’s immense solar energy to power our lives without extracting non-renewable resources? AI might help solve this with the assistance of engineers and scientists.
The fossil fuel industry is still in growth and today we could not live our lives only powered by renewables. However, within the next 10 years this might change. It does need the political and legal framework to make this possible, but I believe it will happen. We really have no choice if we are going to move away from an extractive economy toward a regenerative, sustainable option.
Could AI bring world peace? I doubt it. Too many people are greedy and self-obsessed for this to be remotely possible. We would have to stop being consumers and become global citizens, sharing resources in a way that does not pander to a particular political, religious or profit-focused ideology, which for many people is an uncomfortable prospect. For change to become infectious, people would need to be motivated and want to know how they will benefit. Who needs world peace anyway? That’s impossible given the common traits of man. Let’s list some of them shall we?
Common Traits of Man
• Greed – one of the biggest motivators of the modern world
• Lust – a natural drive to want to reproduce
• The feeling of power and importance – the ego expressing itself
• Ignorance – possessing a myopic world view, which often leads to misunderstanding and conflict
• Distrust – a fear of showing weakness and unwillingness to share and be vulnerable
Greed
Money makes the world go round – right? Wrong. Energy makes the world go round, powered by the Sun. Fact.
Lust
Since the dawn of time, the need to reproduce to survive and thrive has been an imperative. Unfortunately, this natural urge, if not satisfied, can lead to poor judgement.
Power of Importance
Read ‘How to win friends and influence people’ by Dale Carnegie to gain an insight into what motivates many powerful and influential people. People feel most valued when they’re appreciated, have their voice is heard and have influence and significance within their tribe etc.
Ignorance
Until you appreciate different cultures and belief systems, it’s hard to understand every person’s point of view. Add to this the expertise of appreciating the contribution by and knowledge gained from each discipline of science, philosophy, astronomy, technology, engineering etc. it’s understandable why we don’t have all the answers at our fingertips – yet. General Artificial Intelligence (GAI) could potentially change all of this.
Distrust
It’s against the natural instincts of humans to trust others easily. Our instinct is to protect our community and keep the enemy out of reach and potential harm.
Chapter 5 – World Peace
We’ve never had anything like world peace and the prospect of achieving it is probably impossible. Take a forest of trees, plants, fungi, insects, birds and mammals manage to live in harmony and constantly regenerate? Of course they fight and eat other, but they share resources in a holistic and eternally connected way. The symbiotic relationships between each organism creating life and a neural network are quite extraordinary. People used nature to survive before technology – it’s as old as time.
Can we learn more from nature? Yes, but to do this we need to spend time understanding and appreciating it. Just consider ancient forests. Trees that have survived for centuries providing bio diversity at scale. Some mammals, like Greenland sharks, can live for more than 400 years. Then along comes man, polluting and then destroying it.
The only way we can achieve world peace is to come together, respect each other and agree a plan as smart as nature has already done. Sounds simple doesn’t it? If only it was!
The United Nations is probably our best bet to resolve this challenge, but it needs more support and collective power to overcome political and commercial headwinds. You can’t have companies and individuals being more powerful than countries and the UN because this leads to conflict.
The reality is that the time we live in now is as peaceful as any time in our history. However, we can do so much better. The planet’s survival is at stake. Our survival is at stake.
Chapter 6 – Nikola Tesla
One the most fascinating people to have ever lived, in my opinion, and invented so much during his life, was Nikola Tesla (1856 – 1943). He was Croatian, an inventor who made many incredible discoveries that helped shape the modern world. Some of his most famous inventions include alternating current (AC) electric power systems and wireless communication using radio waves.
Tesla struggled financially for most of his life even though many saw him as a genius. He worked for Thomas Edison for a time, but later they had disagreements over money and patents. Tesla believed that wireless electricity and free energy from natural sources could power the world.
His groundbreaking work in electricity, physics, and wireless technologies helped shape the modern world in countless ways. This story shows the importance of thinking differently and believing that big ideas can change the world, even if others don’t see the vision at first.
Tesla invented the following:
- Tesla invented the following:
- AC electric power systems – allowed electricity to be transported over long distances using power grids.
- Wireless communication – Tesla was the first to demonstrate radio communication without wires in 1893. He patented the idea of wireless power transmission in 1900.
- Fluid dynamics – Tesla studied how fluids flowed, which led to innovations in hydroelectric power and improvements in turbine engines.
- Robotics – Tesla built early prototypes of remote-controlled models and plans for robotic devices. He believed robotics could someday help with dangerous or repetitive tasks.
- The Tesla coil – a transformer device, which produces high-voltage, low-current, high frequency alternating currents, is still used today in some medical and industrial equipment.
He spent many late nights in his lab conducting experiments. Apparently, his best ideas came to him in a flash of insight rather than through step-by-step reasoning. He dreamed of a future with widespread wireless electricity and devices running with perpetual energy from natural sources; wind, solar, and wireless transmission through air.
One of Tesla’s most notable achievements was the construction of the Wardenclyffe Tower located in New York. The tower was intended to be the centrepiece of a global wireless transmission system, capable of delivering electricity to any point on Earth. He believed that the wireless transmission of energy would eliminate the need for power lines and provide unlimited access to electricity for everyone. However, due to financial constraints, he was unable to complete the project, and the tower was eventually demolished. Despite setbacks, Tesla’s ideas and concepts paved the way for future advancements in wireless communication and power transmission.
Tesla’s story serves as a reminder that innovation often comes with challenges and setbacks. It is a testament to the power of perseverance and believing in one’s ideas, even when faced with adversity. His legacy inspires us to think ‘outside the box’ and pursue our passions, knowing that our big ideas have the potential to change the world. His achievements were stymied by the banker and financier, JP Morgan, because of a lack of financial support. JP Morgan refused to fund the tower project because he was skeptical of the project’s feasibility and potential profitability. It is worth noting that Morgan also had investments in the exploration and distribution of oil, which probably influenced his decision-making. Although Morgan initially provided funding, he soon became frustrated and refused to continue funding due to the lack of a clear and sustainable business model for this futuristic, unproven project. Tesla’s grand vision of providing ‘free energy’ to the world did not align with Morgan’s profit-oriented mindset. As a result, the project ground to a halt.
This was a significant blow to Tesla’s ambitions. It not only hindered the realisation of his wireless transmission system, but also impacted on his ability to fund and develop other inventions. This is a reminder that even the greatest innovators can face immense challenges during the development and testing phases. Sadly, Tesla died a poor man in New York 7th January 1943.
Chapter 7 – Resonance
Resonance is the phenomenon where an object or system vibrates with increased amplitude at a specific frequency. It occurs when the frequency of an external force or stimulus matches the natural frequency of the object or system. This causes the object or system to absorb and store energy, resulting in larger oscillations or vibrations. Resonance can occur in various physical systems, such as mechanical, electrical, or acoustic systems. It is a fundamental concept in fields like physics, engineering, and music.
It’s been proven that sound and music with different frequencies and rhythms can have a profound affect on our mood, which leads to both physiological and psychological benefits. Let’s explore this in more depth.
440 Hz is considered “cerebral music” that helps with the listener’s cognitive development and is associated with the activation of the third eye chakra. Listening to this higher frequency is extremely potent and an effortless way to experience a deeper dive within our consciousness. The third eye chakra, also known as the Ajna chakra, is associated with intuition, perception, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to be the centre of higher consciousness and inner wisdom. When the third eye chakra is activated, it is said to enhance our ability to see beyond the physical world and tap into our intuitive abilities. Listening to music at a frequency of 440 Hz can be a powerful tool for activating and balancing the third eye chakra. The vibrations of this frequency resonate with the energy of the chakra, helping to open and align it. As the chakra becomes more balanced and activated, we may experience a heightened sense of awareness, clarity, and insight.
The standardisation of modern music frequencies can be attributed to the development of equal temperament tuning, which emerged during the Baroque period in Western classical music. Equal temperament tuning divides the octave into 12 equal intervals, allowing for more flexibility and modulations in music composition. This system became widely adopted because it provided a more versatile and harmonically balanced sound. However, this standardisation came at the cost of deviating from ancient tuning systems that were based on natural harmonics and ratios. In ancient times, music was often tuned to specific frequencies that were believed to have spiritual or healing properties. For example, the ancient Greeks used the Pythagorean tuning system, which was based on the mathematical ratios of whole numbers. Over time, as music evolved and spread across different cultures and regions, various tuning systems and frequencies emerged. These systems were often rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, and they varied widely. For instance, Indian classical music uses a tuning system called just intonation, which is based on natural harmonic ratios and differs from the equal temperament tuning system.
The standardisation of music frequencies in modern times was driven by the need for a universal system that could be easily replicated and communicated across different musical contexts. This allowed musicians to perform together in harmony, regardless of the key or tonality of the music. The equal temperament tuning system provided a practical solution to this challenge, but it also meant that the frequencies used in modern music no longer align with the ancient norms that were based on natural harmonics. While the standardisation of music frequencies has its advantages, some argue that it has led to a disconnection from the inherent qualities and resonance of the natural world. There is ongoing interest in exploring alternative tunings and frequencies that align with ancient norms, as well as exploring the potential effects of these frequencies on our consciousness and well-being.
The impact of natural vibrations and music tuning protocols on spiritual development is a subjective and personal matter. Different cultures and individuals may have varying beliefs and experiences regarding the spiritual effects of different types of music and vibrations.
In some cultures, specific tuning protocols and natural vibrations are believed to have spiritual or healing properties. For example, certain frequencies are associated with chakra balancing or meditation practices. These traditions emphasise the importance of harmonising with the natural world and connecting with spiritual energies. The significance of the 528Hz sound and music is rooted in its association with the “Solfeggio Frequencies” or the “Ancient Healing Frequencies.” These frequencies are a set of musical tones that are believed to have profound healing and transformative effects on the body, mind, and spirit.
The 528Hz frequency, in particular, is commonly referred to as the “Miracle” or “Love Frequency.” It is thought to resonate at the core of everything in the universe and is associated with a range of positive effects. Here are some of the key significances of the 528Hz sound and music:
DNA Repair and Healing: potential to repair and restore DNA. It is thought to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, promote cellular regeneration, and support overall well-being. Some proponents of the 528Hz frequency claim that it can even repair damaged DNA strands and bring them back into a state of harmony and balance.
- DNA Repair and Healing: potential to repair and restore DNA. It is thought to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, promote cellular regeneration, and support overall well-being. Some proponents of the 528Hz frequency claim that it can even repair damaged DNA strands and bring them back into a state of harmony and balance.
- Emotional and Spiritual Transformation: associated with emotional and spiritual transformation. It is said to facilitate the release of negative emotions, promote a sense of inner peace and harmony, and enhance spiritual connection. Listening to music at this frequency can evoke feelings of love, compassion, and joy, and help to align the body, mind, and spirit.
- Positive Energy and Vibrations: it is said to resonate with the heart chakra, which is associated with love, compassion, and emotional well-being. By listening to music at this frequency, individuals may experience an increase in positive emotions, a sense of uplifting, and a greater connection to themselves and others.
- Restful Sleep and Relaxation: it is believed to have a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Listening to music at this frequency before bedtime or during relaxation practices can help induce a state of deep relaxation and promote a more peaceful sleep.
- Harmonising Relationships and Environment: believed to have the power to harmonise relationships and the environment. It is said to promote a sense of unity, understanding, and compassion, which can help to improve interpersonal connections and create a harmonious atmosphere. Some proponents of the 528Hz frequency suggest using it during meditation or playing it in shared spaces to enhance positive interactions and create a more peaceful environment.
It is important to note that while many people have reported positive experiences and benefits from listening to music at the 528Hz frequency, scientific research on the specific effects of Solfeggio Frequencies is very limited. Sound therapy and frequency-based healing approaches should be seen as complementary practices and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice.
In conclusion, the 528Hz sound and music are believed to have significant healing and transformative effects. Whether it is repairing DNA, promoting emotional and spiritual transformation, enhancing positive energy, inducing relaxation, or harmonising relationships and environments, the 528Hz frequency is thought to hold immense potential for promoting well-being and personal growth.
Chapter 8 – Mind-Over-Matter
“Mind-over-matter” is a phrase that suggests the power of the mind or consciousness to influence or control physical reality. It implies that one’s thoughts, beliefs, and mental state can have a significant impact on their physical well-being, performance, and overall life experiences.
The concept of mind-over-matter has been explored in various fields, including philosophy, psychology, and spirituality. Here are some key aspects and interpretations of mind-over-matter:
- Mental Influence on Health: The mind can play a crucial role in influencing physical health and well-being. Positive thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes have been associated with improved immune function, faster recovery from illnesses, and better overall health outcomes. On the other hand, negative thoughts and stress can contribute to the development or exacerbation of physical ailments.
- Performance Enhancement: The power of the mind is often emphasised in sports and performance-related activities. Athletes, for example, use techniques such as visualisation, positive affirmations, and mental rehearsal to enhance their performance and achieve their goals. By harnessing their mental focus and mindset, individuals can overcome physical limitations and achieve higher levels of success.
- Emotional Regulation: The mind has the ability to regulate emotions and influence one’s emotional well-being. By cultivating a positive mindset and adopting techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), individuals can manage their emotions more effectively and improve their overall mental health. This was something I learned, whilst recovering from my first episode of bipolar.
- Law of Attraction: The concept of mind over matter is sometimes associated with the Law of Attraction, which suggests that positive or negative thoughts and beliefs can attract corresponding experiences or outcomes into one’s life. According to this perspective, focusing on positive thoughts and beliefs can manifest positive experiences and desired outcomes.
- Spiritual and Metaphysical Interpretations: Mind-over-matter is also explored in spiritual and metaphysical teachings. Some belief systems suggest that the mind or consciousness is fundamental and has the power to create and shape physical reality. These teachings often emphasise the importance of aligning one’s thoughts, beliefs, and intentions with their desired outcomes.
It’s important to note that while the power of the mind is recognised, it should not be seen as a replacement for professional medical advice. Physical health conditions often require appropriate medical intervention, and mental health issues may require therapeutic support. Mind-over-matter should be seen as a complementary approach to overall well-being, working in conjunction with other practices and interventions.
Chapter 9 – Focus to Infinity
‘Focus to Infinity’ is a compelling concept that encapsulates the power of collective consciousness and the potential it holds in overcoming life’s hurdles. It is not merely a philosophical idea, but a practical approach to tackling problems and addressing challenges.
At the nucleus of this idea is the belief that every individual mind is a powerhouse of thoughts, ideas, and solutions. It is a wellspring of creativity and innovation. When multiple minds come together, their combined potential is magnified exponentially, creating an infinite reservoir of problem-solving capabilities. This is the essence of the ‘Focus to Infinity’ concept.
In the context of overcoming life’s challenges, this concept is not merely relevant, but necessary. In our rapidly changing world, individual capabilities, while significant, are often insufficient. Our challenges are complex and multifaceted; they require diverse perspectives, a multitude of skills, and a collective determination to overcome. ‘Focus to Infinity’ embodies this collective effort. It encourages us to pool our mental resources, cooperate, collaborate, and conquer our shared problems.
Moreover, this concept underscores the importance of unity and interdependence. It emphasises that while each of us is unique, our combined strengths and collective willpower can make us invincible. Each individual’s ideas, when combined with others, can generate solutions that no single mind could have conceived. This is the essence of collective power.
‘Focus to Infinity’ is not just about solving problems, though. It is also about creating a positive and supportive environment for growth and development. It fosters a culture of inclusivity, where each individual feels valued, heard, and encouraged to contribute. This, in turn, fuels creativity, innovation, and resilience, further strengthening the collective power of the group.
The power of teamwork in sports, or any field for that matter, is undeniable. This stems from the fact that each player or member of a team bringing unique skills, perspectives, and strengths to the table. When these diverse abilities are harmoniously combined, they form a robust and dynamic force capable of achieving shared objectives.
The most successful groups set themselves apart with their ability to skilfully execute a strategy. But what does this mean? It means that every member understands their role within the team and performs it to the best of their ability. The team’s strategy serves as a roadmap, guiding each member towards the end goal. This collective understanding and coordinated effort lead to a smooth execution of the plan.
However, the ability to adapt to changing circumstances is equally essential. In sports, for instance, opposing teams often change their tactics mid-game. Weather conditions might alter, or a key player might be injured. In these situations, the team’s ability to swiftly adjust their strategy and respond effectively becomes vital.
Adaptability in a team comes from a strong foundation of trust, communication, and mutual respect. When these elements are present, team members feel safe expressing their ideas, which can lead to innovative solutions to sudden problems. Moreover, a team that can adapt quickly is resilient. They do not let setbacks deter them; instead, they use these challenges as stepping stones towards their goal.
In conclusion, ‘Focus to Infinity’ is a testament to the power of collective consciousness. It underscores the potential that lies within each of us and the infinite possibilities that arise when we combine our strengths. It is a call to action for all of us to come together, share our ideas, and work collaboratively to overcome life’s challenges. It is a reminder of the infinite power that lies within our collective minds and the incredible feats we can achieve when we focus our energies together.
Chapter 10 – Listening Blind Spot
Listening is a critical skill that often goes under appreciated and under utilised in our bustling world. It holds the key to understanding, empowers us to build strong relationships, and is integral to effective communication. However, most people, unknowingly, suffer from a ‘listening blind spot,’ a phenomenon that hinders the true comprehension of what is being communicated.
The ‘listening blind spot’ refers to the common tendency to hear words without truly understanding the intent behind them. It is the gap between hearing and understanding, where the essence of the message often gets lost. This blind spot can cause misinterpretations, confusion, and even conflict, affecting personal and professional relationships.
This reality is further complicated by the fact that communication is not limited to spoken or written words. A significant portion of our communication is non-verbal, transmitted through facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, and even pauses. These non-verbal cues often carry more weight than the actual words spoken. However, many of us, preoccupied with our own thoughts or biases, fail to recognise and interpret these signals accurately.
Active listening is the antidote to the ‘listening blind spot.’ It involves not only hearing the words being spoken, but also observing the speaker’s body language, tone of voice, and other non-verbal cues. It requires us to put aside our own thoughts, judgments, and distractions to truly focus on the speaker. This level of attentiveness allows us to understand the complete message, both verbal and non-verbal, thereby eliminating the listening blind spot.
Moreover, active listening fosters empathy. When we listen with the intent to understand, we are better able to relate to the speaker’s emotions and perspectives. This empathy can strengthen our relationships, promote open dialogue, and cultivate a deeper understanding of those around us.
Furthermore, active listening can greatly enhance our learning and problem-solving abilities. By fully engaging in the listening process, we can absorb new information more effectively, comprehend complex ideas, and develop innovative solutions.
Cultural and language barriers can significantly impede effective communication, often leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. They can create several obstacles, some of which are outlined as follows:
- Misinterpretation: Different languages have different structures, idioms, and nuances. Even when the language is translated correctly, the underlying intention can be lost. This can lead to misinterpretations and confusion.
- Non-Verbal Misunderstandings: Non-verbal communication forms a significant part of our interactions. Gestures, facial expressions, and body language can have different meanings in different cultures. What is considered polite in one culture might be seen as rude or offensive in another.
- Stereotyping and Prejudice: Cultural barriers often lead to stereotyping and prejudice. People might make assumptions about others based on their cultural background, which can hinder open and fair communication.
- Ethnocentrism: This refers to the belief that one’s own culture is superior to others. Such a mindset can lead to a lack of respect and understanding for other cultures, thereby obstructing effective communication.
- Difficulty in Expressing Ideas: For non-native speakers, it can be challenging to express complex ideas or emotions in a second language. This can lead to frustration and a lack of effective communication.
- Lack of Trust and Understanding: Cultural and language barriers can foster a sense of alienation and misunderstanding. This can lead to a lack of trust, which is a vital component of effective communication.
- High Context vs. Low Context Cultures: Some cultures rely heavily on implicit communication and context (high context), while others depend on explicit, direct communication (low context). Misunderstandings can occur when people from these different types of cultures interact.
- Loss of Critical Information: Critical information can be lost in translation or when non-native speakers lack complete fluency.
- Ineffective Business Negotiation: In business scenarios, cultural and language barriers can lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings, which can hinder successful negotiations and collaborations.
Overcoming these barriers requires cultural sensitivity, patience, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn and adapt. It may involve learning new languages, understanding different cultural practices, and adopting inclusive and respectful communication styles. There are several barriers to active listening that can hinder effective communication. Here are some examples and how to potentially overcome them:
- Distractions: Distractions, both internal and external, can prevent us from actively listening. To overcome this, practice mindfulness to stay focused on the conversation and reduce distractions. If you are in a noisy environment, try to move the conversation to a quieter location.
- Prejudgments: We often enter conversations with preconceived notions or biases, which can prevent us from truly understanding the other person’s perspective. Try to enter each conversation with an open mind, setting aside judgments and being open to new ideas.
- Emotional Reactions: Sometimes, strong emotional reactions can prevent us from listening effectively. If a topic is emotionally charged, it may be helpful to take a moment to calm down and process your emotions before continuing the conversation.Poor Listening Habits: Some people have a habit of interrupting, not making eye contact, or not providing feedback, all of which can hinder active listening. To overcome this, practice good listening habits such as nodding in agreement, maintaining eye contact, and providing feedback when appropriate.
- Information Overload: In today’s fast-paced world, we are often bombarded with information, which can make it difficult to focus and listen actively. To manage this, prioritise your conversations and give your full attention to the person speaking.
- Physical Barriers: Hearing impairments or physical distance can also be barriers to active listening. Overcome these by using hearing aids if necessary, or utilising technology like video calls to close the physical distance.
- Multitasking: Trying to do multiple things at once can prevent active listening. To overcome this, focus solely on the conversation at hand and avoid multitasking.Lack of Interest: If the subject matter doesn’t interest you, it can be challenging to listen actively. Try to find a point of connection or interest in the conversation to help engage your attention.
In conclusion, the ‘listening blind spot’ is a widespread issue that hinders effective communication and relationship building. However, by practicing active listening and becoming more attuned to non-verbal cues, we can overcome this challenge. It is essential to remember that listening is not merely about hearing words; it is about understanding the complete message being communicated. This understanding forms the foundation of effective communication, fostering empathy, enhancing learning, and strengthening relationships.
Chapter 11 – Health, Wealth & Purpose
In our fast-paced modern world, achieving a balance of health, wealth, and purpose has become increasingly important. These three pillars are integral to our overall well-being and success. They are interconnected and often influence one another, creating a delicate balance that requires careful management.
Health, both physical and mental, is the foundation of our existence. It is the vehicle that allows us to navigate through life. Without good health, wealth and purpose would be meaningless. In our modern world, where sedentary lifestyles and processed foods are common, maintaining good health has become a challenge. However, by adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep habits, we can maintain our health. Mental health, too, should not be neglected. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and maintaining positive relationships can help to keep stress at bay and promote mental well-being.
Wealth, in this context, extends beyond mere financial stability. It encompasses resources such as time, knowledge, and skills. Good healthcare, education, and other resources are necessary for a contented life. In the modern world, achieving wealth often requires hard work, smart planning, and financial literacy. It’s essential to invest in oneself through education and skills development, to increase earning potential, whilst simultaneously understanding financial management can be important.
Purpose is the driving force guiding the direction to our lives, in our decision-making and shaping our experiences. Having a clear sense of purpose can make life more meaningful, as it provides motivation, increases resilience, and leads to higher levels of satisfaction. Finding purpose is a personal journey that requires self-reflection. It might be found in a fulfilling career, in service to others, or in the pursuit of a passion. Whatever it is, our purpose should resonate with our values and aspirations.
Balancing health, wealth, and purpose is a dynamic process that requires continuous effort. It starts with self-awareness, understanding our needs, values, and aspirations. Once we know what we want, we can set realistic goals and plan steps to achieve them. It’s essential to regularly review these goals and make adjustments as needed.
Maintaining balance requires setting boundaries in our pursuit of wealth, we must not sacrifice our health or lose sight of our purpose. Similarly, our purpose should not drive us to ruin our health or financial stability.
Having a purpose-driven life or business offers numerous benefits and substantially adds value to our existence and endeavours. Here are some reasons why living a purpose-driven life or operating a purpose-driven business is valuable:
- Direction and Focus: Purpose provides a clear roadmap for where we want to go, enabling us to focus our efforts effectively. It helps us avoid distractions and stay on the right path.Motivation and Resilience: When we have a purpose, we’re driven to take action, even when faced with adversity. Purpose fuels motivation and fosters resilience, allowing us to overcome challenges and bounce back from setbacks more quickly.
- Fulfilment and Satisfaction: Living a purpose-driven life or running a purpose-driven business brings a deep sense of fulfilment. When we know that our actions align with our core values and contribute to something bigger, we experience heightened satisfaction.
- Improved Performance: For businesses, having a clear purpose beyond just profit can enhance overall performance. It can attract and retain talent, foster employee engagement, and command customer loyalty. Studies have shown that purpose-driven businesses often outperform their competitors in the long run.
- Positive Impact: A purpose-driven life or business often prioritises making a positive impact on society or the environment. This focus on serving others or addressing societal challenges brings about meaningful change and leaves a lasting legacy.Health and Longevity: Research suggests that having a sense of purpose can enhance our health and even prolong our lives. It can reduce stress, lower the risk of disease, and improve mental health.
- Decision Making: Purpose serves as a guiding principle in decision-making processes. It helps to clarify what opportunities to pursue and which ones to let go, both in personal life and business.
A purpose-driven life or business is not just about achieving goals, but also about the journey and the impact made along the way. It infuses our lives and work with meaning, propels us forward with determination and resilience, and allows us to make a significant contribution to the world around us.
Chapter 12 – Paying It Forward
‘Paying it forward’ is a simple yet powerful concept that has the potential to make a significant difference in our world. It refers to the practice of responding to a person’s kindness by being kind to someone else, rather than merely repaying the initial favour. It’s about creating a chain of goodwill that ripples out into society, touching lives and making a positive impact that goes beyond the immediate recipients.
The concept of paying it forward dates back centuries, with mentions in ancient Greek comedies and religious texts, but it has gained contemporary attention through the 2000 film ‘Pay It Forward’, where the idea was beautifully illustrated and shared with a wider audience. This principle, when adopted and practiced, can significantly contribute to the enhancement of the social fabric and communal well-being.
The importance of ‘paying it forward’ can’t be overstated. At an individual level, acts of generosity and kindness can brighten someone’s day, inspire hope, and alleviate suffering. It can be as simple as a smile, buying a coffee for the person behind you in line, helping a neighbour with their groceries, or volunteering your time for a local charity. These actions may seem small, but they can have a profound effect on the recipient, potentially changing their perspective and encouraging them to extend similar kindness to others.
At a societal level, the ripple effect of ‘paying it forward’ can foster a more caring and empathetic community. It strengthens social ties and builds trust among individuals, promoting social unity and cohesion. In a world often characterised by division and isolation, these acts of kindness can help bridge gaps and bring people together.
Moreover, ‘paying it forward’ can also stimulate positive psychological effects. Research has shown that acts of kindness can boost the mood and mental health of both the giver and the receiver. It can instil a sense of purpose and fulfilment, increase happiness, and reduce stress and anxiety. In essence, ‘paying it forward’ can contribute to overall well-being and happiness in society.
In a business context, ‘paying it forward’ can enhance corporate social responsibility. Businesses that engage in acts of kindness toward their employees, customers, suppliers or community can foster goodwill, enhance their reputation, and build stronger relationships. This can result in improved employee morale, customer loyalty, and ultimately, business success.
Furthermore, ‘paying it forward’ can play a crucial role in addressing social issues. For instance, if more people were to contribute their time, skills, or resources to help those less fortunate, it could significantly alleviate problems such as poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.
The concept of ‘paying it forward’ has deep roots in historical and cultural practices across the globe. Even though the exact phrase ‘pay it forward’ is relatively new, the underlying principle has been a part of human societies for millennia. One of the earliest recorded instances of the ‘pay it forward’ concept can be traced back to ancient Greece. In 317 BC, the play ‘Dyskolos‘ by Menander introduced the idea of doing a favour for someone without expecting anything in return, hoping that they would then do the same for others.
The concept also appears in religious teachings. In Christianity, the Bible teaches, “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31). The Talmud, a central text in Judaism, encourages practitioners to do deeds of loving kindness. In Buddhism, acts of generosity and compassion towards others without expecting anything in return are highly valued.
In 1784, Benjamin Franklin wrote a letter to Benjamin Webb, expressing a variant of the ‘pay it forward’ concept. He lent Webb some money, not asking for repayment, but instead requesting that Webb assist someone else in need in the future.
The term ‘pay it forward’ was popularised by Robert A. Heinlein in his book ‘Between Planets‘, published in 1951. Heinlein’s character was helped by a stranger, and when he wanted to pay him back, the stranger declined and instead suggested that he find someone else in need and help them.
The concept gained widespread attention and popularity through Catherine Ryan Hyde’s 1999 novel ‘Pay It Forward‘, which was later adapted into a movie in 2000. The story revolves around a young boy who, for a school project, develops the ‘pay it forward’ concept, encouraging good deeds to be repaid by doing good deeds for others rather than the original benefactor.
Since then, ‘pay it forward’ has become a cultural movement, inspiring numerous acts of kindness and generosity worldwide. Various organisations and initiatives have been established with the sole purpose of promoting and implementing the ‘pay it forward’ philosophy, demonstrating its timeless relevance and appeal.
The concept of ‘paying it forward’ is a testament to the power of kindness and generosity. It’s a simple philosophy that, if widely adopted, could transform our societies by promoting empathy, unity, and well-being. It can help individuals and societies thrive by creating a culture of kindness where each act of goodwill creates a ripple of positivity. ‘Paying it forward’ is more than just a concept; it’s a lifestyle choice that encourages us to look beyond ourselves and contribute to the greater good. It’s a reminder that in a world where we can choose to be anything, choosing to be kind can make all the difference.
If you’ve not trying ‘paying it forward’ yet, I can highly recommend it. It will definitely make you feel happier 🙂
Nature’s Gift To Humanity
In nature’s embrace, we find our guide,
A teacher wise, standing by our side.
With every whisper of wind and song of bird,
She imparts lessons, too profound to be heard.
She teaches us balance, a delicate dance,
To nourish our souls and give life a chance.
In her gentle rhythm, we learn to be still,
To listen to our hearts and follow our will.
For nature knows the secret to a happy life,
To nurture our mind, body, and soul in strife.
She shows us the way to a contented heart,
To cherish each moment, a precious work of art.
In her vast landscapes, we witness the truth,
That we are all connected, from old to youth.
Like the rivers that flow and the trees that sway,
We need each other to thrive and find our way.
Paying it forward, a lesson she imparts,
To share love and kindness, from our very hearts.
For in giving, we receive blessings untold,
A cycle of abundance, a story to be told.
Nature reminds us of our duty and role,
To care for the Earth, with every heart and soul.
To be stewards of creation, in harmony we strive,
For a sustainable future, where all life can thrive.
So let us learn from nature’s wise decree,
To live in harmony, in perfect unity.
With gratitude and love, we’ll find our way,
Guided by nature, towards a brighter day.
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