Dr. Liora Birnbaum
yehova1.co.il ; liorachannel@gmail.com
Introduction
This pioneering paper attempts to explain the phenomena by which human consciousness is being used to study the nature of transpersonal reality, a reality which exists beyond the grasp of our physical senses. Moreover, it presents channeling as a human skill available to all. Unfortunately, the scientific world has not yet realized how to approach data which is derived from an invisible library, therefore this technology hasn't been empirically studied. Hence all my hypotheses, in relation to the different channeling processes are based on my extensive personal experience and observation.
Fifteen years have passed since I dared to integrate my channeling skills into my clinical work. As a transpersonal therapist, who integrates psychological theories and techniques into spiritual approaches, I explore what I believe to be the relationship between the human part of the self (personality) and that which is beyond personal: the soul and its connection to the transcendental Self . Years of extraordinary therapeutic work leads me to believe that we are moving toward a new psychology, which is based on an integration between existing and innovative psychological knowledge, gathered by the use of consciousness as a research instrument.
Before attempting to describe the benefits of such integration, it seems to me there is a vital need to explore and explain what does it entail, to channel? Not much has been written about it in the scientific literature despite the growing worldwide interest among people, including richness of written books.
Do we know enough about the mind-consciousness-spirit connections? Have the different functions of the brain, during altered states of consciousness, been sufficiently studied as to clarify what occurs in there, which allows for this unusual communication (still doubtful for some) to take place? Lack of research and given the poor reputation gained by science and academia, I dedicate this article to presenting an integrative view of the way by which human consciousness can converse with the Universe.
What is channeling?
I envision channeling as an extraordinary ability of our consciousness to communicate with our larger surroundings. Our ordinary, everyday communication is carried out through the use of our physical senses and is being mediated to us through the brain. The brain operates on waves and frequencies like any other receptive device. Both left and right hemispheres of the brain function as one unite despite their distinctive functioning. The left hemisphere mainly processes verbal information in a linear sequel manner, whereas the right hemisphere processes information in a spatial manner which is more global-holistic in essence. The linear processing allows for the left part of the brain to be in charge of logical, analytical thought along with reality perception, whereas the holistic right part enables intuition, randomness, imagination and creativity (Nitzan, 2016).
Our brain knows how to shift frequencies according to our varying needs: When awake and active, brainwaves operate on a Beta level , so we can process linear information presented to the sensors of the brain (Freberg, 2009).
When the brain uses a slower frequency, such as Alpha waves, the analytical part and the creative-inspirational part can maintain a high level of communication; Our intelligence is sharp and the brain is ready to extract ideas and contents stored in our unconscious.
Gamma waves are active in the brain when we are in a state of heightened focusing and clarity (similar to deep meditation). When the brain accelerates and a state of higher consciousness is reached, along comes complex thinking and problem solving (Freberg, 2009).
Our five senses act as mediating agents so we can make sense of our physical reality: That which is seen, heard, touched, tasted and smelled. They are not trained to perceive and mediate other realities; That is the role of our sixth sense, intuition, which unfortunately is still treated as a step sister, with great suspicion. To use a metaphor, our dominant mind maintains an exclusive relationship with Ms. physical reality. He is a persistent, almost obsessive admirer who spends most of his time thinking of his lady (reality), her actions, virtues, weaknesses, her past actions and future plans.
Since our suitor holds a rather patriarchal view (rational) on life he finds it hard to believe that somewhere out there, there might be another potential partner (reality) unknown to him. Should you dare raise this possibility with him, he will most likely reject the idea: If a different lady were to be found nearby, it is quite probable that he would use his vast abilities to get to know her, and obviously appropriate her for himself.
In my experience transpersonal realities can be known when brain functioning shifts to different frequencies, just like tuning in to different radio channels enables us to listen to different content. Brainwaves can be tuned up voluntarily in order to reach higher states of consciousness, as was shown in meditation research. Channeling is no different as it occurs in a meditative state. When intently changing our brain frequency the brain adjusts and pulls out “different antennas”, it switches to “night vision”. Its perception changes from sensory to extrasensory so it can process information from a transcendental library. Our eyes are not equipped with night vision sensors. Does this mean that in total darkness everything around us disappears until the light returns? I do not think so.
I assume that during channeling, our brain shifts to a combined wave mode with Gamma being the dominant wave. I also assume that the two hemispheres are synchronized so that while the global-intuitive right hemisphere receives transcendental data the rational-linear left hemisphere translates it into familiar spoken language. This is yet to be studied.
The historical perspective
The human ability to “see” or deliver "inaccessible" knowledge, has traditionally been considered surprising and marvelous. It's been attributed to unique supernatural qualities possessed by 'viewers'. However, most people can recall undergoing at least one, or more, intuitive experience. They might refer to it as a “gut feeling” which guided them and turned out to be accurate. In fact, the existence of a sixth sense is almost uncontroversial, but most people would classify it as a momentary enlightenment passing through the ordinary sensorial reality.
Frequent use of this intuitive sixth sense, may result in an excluding attitude toward such people. The mind, which interprets reality according to predefined patterns of perception, is confronted with an irrational riddle, hence tends to classify it as mystical. Mystical, magical, and irrational are normally attributed to fantasy (Harry Potter's world) and aren’t considered an integral part of the familiar human experience. The "all -knowing" mind may agree to host such an inspirational event for the night, it would not take him in as a regular tenant.
Doubt, cynicism and a negating attitude in regard to channeling have created a dichotomous perception towards channelers. It is supported by the unrealistic expectation, which I often come across, that psychics ought to demonstrate perfect skills, unlike any other ranging efficiency. They are either "extraordinary” or “charlatans”. Paradoxically, people are aware of the ranging variance of the physical senses' functioning among humans, for we all see, hear, smell and taste;"but not everybody can channel”.
The split between mind and intuition, with the first sited on the thrown while the latter collects crumbs is "in our minds": We have created and maintained this split but I feel the time has come to recognize this as a misconception. Whereas the mind knows through thinking, intuition simply knows. The mind's perception is linear while intuition is spatial and quantic. The mind relies on existing paradigms; Intuition breaks through what is known to be familiar and possible. The mind's inquiry is planned; intuition is random and cannot be predicted. The mind provides us with knowledge about feelings, while intuition is feeling which is known; it involves sensations such as: “gut feeling”; “I knew it in my heart”. It seems as if we, humans, were given two complimentary sets of skills: Inspirational and rational which when used together allow for a holistic way of better grasping our complex reality.
The new evolution of the senses
Most people would agree, I think, with the idea that life is constantly evolving and developing on Earth. They are, in fact evolutionary. History shows man has continuously adapted to life's changing conditions, in all aspects. Physiology, psychology, culture, medicine and science at large- they have all changed. This calls for some essential questions:
If, indeed our life systems are evolutionary and adaptive, then logically it is not impossible to assume that our sensory system does the same, allowing for our inner senses to thrive. Why change now? Our world is changing drastically with the spiritual change playing an important role in it. We are moving toward new ways of understanding who we really are. Science has succeeded in developing advanced technologies in fields like astronomy, cosmology, physics etc, all which may expand our understanding of the way in which we are connected to the Universe. Is it impossible then, to assume that simultaneously humans developed internal advanced technologies to further assist in studying the Universe? Are we not an integral part of this Universe?
How does this inner advancement expresses itself globally? By the ongoing worldwide spiritual quest. Without a doubt, more and more people are searching for the transcendental, people seek deeper meaning for their life events, new knowledge about God, higher Cosmic consciousness, other realities etc. Even science is searching for the Higgs' boson…
How can the sensory system develop now days? By enabling the neglected intuitive sense to become more present and accessible to people. Reports about peak experiences, visionary meditations, channeling and the like have become more regular and frequent in people's lives.
How does all this serve us today? Frequent use of the intuitive sense, through channeling, may expand our knowledge regarding the nature of reality, which is beyond regular sensory perception. This allows us to create a "conscious continuum", consecutively bridging between seen and unseen realities, or rather, between personal and transpersonal realities. How? Through our unique ability to reach inspirational states and to communicate with Universal or Cosmic consciousness. This should not come as a surprise since the exchange of energy between us and the Universe has been long established. What needs to be further investigated is our ability to "read" it.
Channeling, if you will, is the expansion, or enhancement, of the intuitive sense. It is the modern evolution of a basic instinctual sense, which has always assisted us in finding our way through life. Its current significance lies in its ability to spread and become more publically activated, since prophets and psychics have always been a part of our society.
Philosophical approaches, gender perspectives, and the attitude toward the Transpersonal
Possible or impossible? Realistic or unrealistic? Channeling certainly raises salient ontological (the nature of beings) and epistemological (the study of knowledge) questions which challenge the answers we each give to two questions: a. Who am I and b. What is reality? How did we come to know these answers? How do scientists know what to tell us? And more important: Is the scientific way the only way to know?
For example, the Platonic Doctrine of Ideas presents us with the possible existence of a metaphysical reality preceding the physical one known to us. In his famous cave allegory Plato visualizes earthly life restricted by the physical senses to living in a dark cave, whereas sunlight can be reached through the acknowledgement that all that is seen here is in fact a reflection of the ideal world.(Howland,1993).
The late great philosopher, Yeshayahu Leibowitz, my philosophy teacher at the Hebrew University, wrote a great deal about the psycho-physical problem, referring to the mind-body relationship. According to him there is an unexplainable wonder which lies in the way the spiritual becomes an influential factor in a material reality. It's the kind of wonder, he said, which cannot be resolved by rational thinking. He chose to doubt man's reality perception and thought maybe reality is not as we see it. He also suspected human ways of thinking are inadequate and insufficient: Hence the world which exists in our consciousness is not the world outside it. (Leibowitz, 1985). By assuming this, Leibowitz might have, unintentionally, hinted to one of quantum physics most peculiar suggestions.
Who is afraid of channeling? Science, academia and transpersonal reality in Israel
I share Leibowitz' view, regarding science' inability to deal with new ontology and epistemology, mainly because it tends to focus on what we have already recognized as existing. Our consciousness' ability to shift states reviles new ways of knowing which is the new epistemology. Similarly, innovative knowledge revealed through channeling may surprise us and broaden our perspective as to what else exists in reality. This is easily said than done, since it suggests a breakthrough in the way science views that which is acceptable as mean of gathering knowledge. The scientific world still relies heavily on logical empiricism, claiming that validation of knowledge is possible only when objective data is collected. By objective they mean it has been perceived through the use of the physical senses and then was organized into logical patterns.
Accepting channeling as a possible natural skill, taking worthy channeled information seriously and finally, integrating such new knowledge into formal academic programs requires a serious conceptual turbulence regarding what is considered mainstream.
This would be a revolutionary mainstream which accepts the fact that transcendental reality is in fact communicative and responsive in ways which are unfamiliar and incomprehensible to the rational mind. This line of thought does not agree, obviously, with the traditional positivist empiricism, which relies on logic and rational thinking. Yet, it might be time for positivist science to expand its horizons and methodology in order to first acknowledge the possibility of conversing with the Universe via human consciousness and then further explore its benefits; Use it for their own purposes.
In Israel, science and formal academia, are lagging behind, compared to growing parts of the public which show openness to channeling, with women being in the lead. That is not surprising, since the traditional view, which acknowledges the thinking mind as the only licensed researcher and the five senses as its assistants, is also patriarchal in essence. For years it undermined the legitimacy of holistic or feminist approaches which placed the individual's subjective world of experience in the center of investigation.
Moreover, women's natural inclination toward the emotional and the intuitive, their openness and often occupation in the spiritual-mystical world has contributed to their gained reputation as “irrational”, “hysterical” and even “neurotic”. This, needless to say, stands in contrast with the “logical” and more “realistic” manly world. Hence it should not come as a surprise that despite the clear feminine domination in the channeling world, women often keep their interest in it to themselves.
Henriette Dahan, in her writing on governability and gender (in Krumer-Nevo, Lavie-Ajayi & Hacker, 2014), describes great women like Deborah the Prophetess, Joan of Arc, and Aisha, Muhammad’s fourth wife as women who became historically known for their leadership. These women established their legitimacy as leaders by publically sharing the voices they heard or the messages they received from a transcendental being, which sent them on holy missions.
However, according to Dahan, this connection with the transcendental often turned against them when accused of witchcraft or working with the devil.
I do not know if Moses shared his burning bush experience with others, in detail. According to the Bible he had a long conversation with God including frequently asked questions, since he was apparently concerned about not being taken seriously by the people of Israel (Exodus, pp.3, 1-14), and rightly so: Israel still lags behind regarding the inclusion of transpersonal studies into academic programs. However, there is no evidence that Moses was labeled or treated as hysterical or hallucinating nor was he thrown to the fire for serving the devil.
Academic research of channeling in Israel is scares and conflictual. For example, Tali Stolovy, in her social work Doctoral dissertation (2011), studied the relationship between “the history of trauma, disassociation and quality of life among women practicing channeling". She wrote: “Channeling occurs within the range of states of consciousness and varies in forms… It is perceived today as related to a state of disassociation. Disassociation is defined as a disturbance in the normal integrative functioning of conscious awareness, memory, identity or reality perception… as a pathological reaction to psychological trauma. Historical trauma is also related to the development of a tendency to narcissism… grandiosity, the need for admiration and a lack of empathy… there are theories which view channeling as the answer to narcissistic needs, but no empirical basis was found for this” (p. 6).
Stolovy’s study, conducted according to traditional methodology, included a sample of 150 women (and no man), 75 in a channeling group and 75 others in a control group. The result section reads: “It is interesting to find that the channeling group scored higher in mental health comparing to the control group… despite the correlation in the trauma score… among channelers, the absorption is not a result of distress… appears to be a low level of disassociation which reflects this groups' ability to control their disassociation… the results lead to the assumption that the channeling group’s narcissism is not the reflection of a pathology, but more of self-esteem” (p. 7).
I must admit I felt relieved: In my late academia years, when I was still fighting for my right to study the implacability of mindfulness meditation to social work education, I called Jung and his collective unconscious to the rescue (Jung, 1969), obviously I needed support to back up my "strange transpersonal ideas". In return, I was gently reminded, by people of high rank, how among the professional milieu Jung was considered "insane". Stolovy’s research, has potentially enriched my personality with a possible “disturbance in the normal integrative conscious functioning" ,a “tendency to narcissism”, and a “need for admiration and lack of empathy”… because I am a channeling women.
Nevertheless, this study reports no distress, pathological narcissism, or post-traumatic behavior among the research group. Moreover, compared to the control group channelers scored higher in mental health, they demonstrated better ability for split attention and a healthy self-esteem which contributes to better well-being and quality of life.
Looking at Dr. Stolovy's study, a women herself, one must ask: Why did the researcher choose to sample 150 women, leaving men completely out? Wouldn’t it be more appropriate to compare between genders? Moreover, a year earlier, in the same university men channelers have been studied as part of a Doctoral dissertation revolving around channelers' stages of development (Barzily, 2010). Twenty one channelers, 12 women and 9 men, participated in this qualitative(!) research and were deeply interviewed about their life experiences as channelers. Might it be that one of the first study's hidden assumptions, associates the feminine gender with disassociation, a tendency to narcissism and emotional distress? Given the common association of women with both mystical -spiritual conducts and neurotic behaviors, the chances of getting a positive statistical significance is much higher with men left out of the study. If this is so, it should have been stated clearly as part of the research hypothesis.
And yet, this study presents channeling as an effective tool for both personal growth and the regulation of mental processes (among women, of course…). Its most important contribution, is the: “contribution to the socio-cultural field in our country today, in a manner which assists in dissolving this esotericism… paving the way for additional studies regarding the phenomena of channeling in Israel, which has hardly been studied” (pg. 8).
Similar results were found in various early meditation studies conducted along the years: Well trained (mindfulness) meditators were better able to regulate emotions and demonstrated better containment and empathy skills (Hayes & Feldman,2004). Prior to those studies, meditation and it's possible mental and emotional outcome were also treated with great suspicion and even dismissal among scientists.
I do believe the time has come to raise questions re- the withdrawal of attention of Israeli academia from formal consciousness studies, with channeling being a part of it. It's time we build a bridge between the two worlds and find a mutual language, similar to what our brain does when shifting to higher state of consciousness.
What seems to me as hiding behind academia's reluctance to acknowledge channeling is simply fear.
Personally, I have witnessed the expansion of channeling among academics, among them mental health practitioners, however secrecy is, unfortunately, still predominant for many of them. They consult with me, they read my channeled articles and share their growth with me but they do not dare to 'come out of the closet' while affiliated with an academic institute or a public organization.
Scientists are afraid of losing their research budgets when asked to research the phenomena itself. Psychologists are afraid of losing their position should they revile their new skills, and professional conferences often squirm and hide behind 'safe' terms such as “consciousness” and “intuition” but will not talk openly about channeling.
Therefore, as of now, channeling in Israel is left mainly in the hands of sociologists and anthropologists, as there is no risk there, or in the hands of social workers attempting to determine channelers' state of mental health, as shown.
Consciousness alone is (Swami Shyam)
In his book The Quantum and the Lotus (2001), Matthieu Ricard, a molecular biologist who became a Buddhist monk, describes a state of pure consciousness, which transcends beyond the dual object-subject sensory perception and breaks through the limitations of thought. According to him the self is apparently capable of experiencing itself adjoin with a larger non- physical conscious being, beyond boundaries of space and time.
It was Richard Davidson, However, from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in the United States, who changed the undermining attitude, which mindfulness meditation has acquired among the scientific world. In 2003, he examined the brain activity of 25 employees of a biotechnological company, who took a meditation course. He reported, for the first time, significant increases in left-sided anterior activation, among the meditators, compared with the non meditators, a pattern previously associated with happiness and positive affect (Davidson, Kabat-Zinn, Schumacher, Rosenkranz, Muller, Santorelli, & Sheridan, 2003).
In 2004, researchers examined the brainwaves of the Dalai Lama and eight Tibetan monks while practicing mindfulness in a state of “unconditional compassion”. A strong gamma wave activity was observed among the monks, both during meditation, as well as in resting time, in relation to the others. These findings were connected to heightened focusing, clarity and emotional control which are present during “high” states of consciousness (Lutz, Greischar, Rawlings, Ricard & Davidson, 2004). Here to, participants referred to the merging of the self with a non-local larger conscious being.
These findings were shown to be long lasting and suggested that consistent meditative practice may lead to permanent change in the brain’s normal functioning patterns as well as to enhanced emotional regulation (Hayes & Feldman, 2004). These and many other following studies have redefined mindfulness' status among scientists and placed its therapeutic ramifications in the mainstream of clinical psychology, social work and other helping professions (Birnbaum,2008; Birnbaum, Birnbaum & Mayzelles, 2008).
Nonetheless, the real conceptual transformation regarding the perception of reality and its linkage to consciousness came from an unexpected direction: Science itself. In the 1990s quantum physics became more familiar, and quantum laws raised great interest among philosophers, spiritual writers and laymen since they suggested a revolutionary idea: "Consciousness alone is" (Shyam).
In fact, there is a growing body of written literature discussing the possible connections between quantum laws and the concept of consciousness, a linkage which did not exist with the laws of the old Newtonian physics. Perhaps because they were never associated with mind – matter relationship (Hameroff & Penrose 1996; Conte 2008).
Consciousness, quantum mechanics and channeling
"consciousness is a system which observes itself, evaluates itself being aware, at the same time of doing so" (Conte 2008, pp 126).
Newtonian linear physics described a mechanical world which operates according to the principle of cause and effect. In this material world particles and objects are perceived as separate from one another; The new (quantum) physics on the other hand, describes this world as that which exists within human conscious sensory perception (Ben Dov, 1997). Those who side by it, introduced consciousness as a major, in fact, sole active factor in forming the physical reality in a material world.
What, then, exists outside our limited sensory perception?
A series of experiments, (Schrödinger's Cat being one of them) have led physicists to conclude that consciousness and matter are synchronized and therefore affect each other. The unpredictability of a particle's behavior in the lab, the inability to manipulate its movement, the effect of observation on the behavior of matter and more, raise the thought that a particle might, in fact, be directed by some non-local conscious choice (Amit Goswaimi,).; It's as if it possess a consciousness of its own.
This among other, have led to the assumption that outside our ordinary human perception, there exists an inter-connected Universal wave of consciousness, surrounding and connecting between all which exists, including the cell systems of physical beings ((Amit Goswaimi,). This Universal wave is described as a wave of infinite pre-materialized probabilities, co-existing simultaneously side by side, like a huge hologram of non physical "plans" (Amit Goswaimi).
How does a certain possibility become real? By what is known to be the collapse of the wave function, which occurs in a moment of observation. To put it simply: The multiple wave of possibilities collapses upon observation, leaving only one possibility to become tangible and accessible to our physical senses. Who makes the choice? You might want to use your imagination, your existential beliefs or both.
It seem as if a non physical wave of consciousness may be the primary form of all which exists, despite limitations of space and time. At the same time it appears that the existence of any particle, including us, isn't local as we think it is; Its presence also extends the limits of space and time.
It follows, then, that there are in fact two vibrating realities; Covert (multiple probabilities) and overt (physical), with an existing gap between them. This gap narrows down when the two are synchronized, meaning, when outer reality meats the inner one, when the wave collapses into materiality.
This idea of synchronicity between realities, and in reference to mind -matter relationship, have been introduced by C.G. Jung, coming from the direction of transpersonal psychology, in the form of his collective unconscious and the Universal archetype (Jung,1969). But not only: Starting from 1930 there was an important correspondence between W. Pauli and C.G. Yung in reference to mind-matter synchronization (Meir, 2001). Pauli was a well recognized theoretical physicist who's interest in depth psychology, as well as his close interaction with Jung, has been publically revealed in recent years. Both scholars stressed the inseparability of the physical and the psychical and called upon a sense of more openness towards the nature of the unconscious (Atmanspacher & Primas, 1996).
Channeling might be one way of bridging between these two realities, seen and unseen, physical and non physical, using consciousness as a go betweener. When used in psychotherapy, Jung may even release a wide smile.
I understand channeling as a manifestation of consciousness' ability to observe itself. In a moment of observation the wave function collapses into a "particle" (a message). In terms of the brain functioning, I assume it challenges the two hemispheres to demonstrate united cooperation when that which is received by the right spatial hemisphere is being translated into words by the left one. My assumption is that when researched, brain wave functioning, among long term channelers, would show clear increase in gamma-band oscillations, similar to the reported findings in the meditation research mentioned earlier.
The following segment was received by me as part of a channeled message:
“…What is it which enables you to converse with other worlds?… As you learn to use the brainwaves, you acquire ability to develop gamma rays qualities within you. These rays charge your thought with an accelerated immediate "nuclear" power, which launches your thoughts back and forth between you and the Universe.
When you are doing so, light is a wave: It carries information from one place to another, crosses speeds unfamiliar to you and enables you to communicate with us, no matter where we are.
When does light turn into a particle? When the left side of your brain translates what was passed to you into words and ideas which then take certain forms in your mind.
An idea, a fact, a word, a sentence, even a letter within a word. These are all particles of light.
As a wave, light enables you to see from far…it enables your soul to remind you of forgotten things through your memory… It breaks through time and space.
As a particle, light enables forgetfulness, but it also enables you to expand on a certain focused prism, on and on… even to the point of fixation and obsession.
As a particle, light enables you to see things and aspects of things, fragments … as separate, and of course, it enables you to see death… What is important for scientists to know is that light wave does not move aimlessly in the Universe, a wave of light is composed of a continuum of knowledge and purposes” (Birnbaum,2012).
Quantum physics introduced the law of unpredictability given the inability to predict the electron's direction of motion upon observation. This unpredictable leap is often demonstrated in channeling, when unexpected information is received. Whereas one can refer a question to this non- local consciousness, one cannot predict the nature of the answer received, although it is highly connected to the question asked. The following examples illustrate this quality
“Someone sees me over there”
A. Lorri, a woman in her mid-thirties, came to see me expressing a profound frustration from feelings of lack of fulfillment. According to her, she is “not in the right places, not doing the right things". She asked for an explanation for what she described to be an unfortunate course of life. The reply came as a surprise for both of us:… “We will not deliver any information at the moment, regarding these questions, until a thorough physical examination takes place; To be precise a complete and urgent body scan is required".
A few days later, I received a phone call from Lorri, affirming that three tumors had been found in her body. I must admit that physical health isn't my turf, I am a mental health practitioner, but Lorri seemed to benefit from that message; She never came back for what she had originally come for.
B. Sara, a bachelorette in her forties came for a consult regarding her current employment and a possible romantic relationship. This is what she heard for a preface: “Despite your questions, you did not come before us to hear only about relationships or work search… should we comply with your requests… it will bring forward your tendency to get caught up in some old familiar issues of denial… without being able to break through them. What did you come here for? You came to hear about your rage, revolt and stubbornness. Traits which as of now stand in your way, and which you refrain from acknowledging. Our reply will, no doubt raise your rage and disagreement and we are prepared for that…" etc.
C. Here is how a 43 year old business man was approached after expressing interest in transpersonal psychotherapy:“We choose not to get into details with you today… you do not like to feel so transparent…we are being sensitive to the fine nuances of the personality sitting before us, who built firm defense mechanisms…and do not wish to disarm you from them just now… this is neither necessary nor helpful at the moment. …you are smart enough to understand and connect our words to your present world.”
Conclusion
This article presents an integrative view on channeling, based on 15 years of integrating channeling into clinical work. These years of transpersonal work allow me to conclude that channeling lays before us the possibility of obtaining innovative knowledge, unlimited by space and time; It is our knowledge about channeling which is still limited.
Making sense of channeling is a challenge for the thinking mind, as it calls for accepting the existence of a non physical reality, which is both knowledgeable as well as communicative. To channel means to know how to use one's brain and consciousness as mediating devices, allowing humans to connect to a non local Universal consciousness, which might be the origin form of physical reality, as suggested by quantum laws.
Shifting between states of consciousness and change of brainwaves, similar to deep meditation, are the main visible occurrences in channeling. In this state a mutual conscious bridge is created, between personal and transpersonal realities, between local and non local consciousness, and knowledge can be obtained from Cosmic libraries.
In psychotherapy it allows us to observe the private self as a developmental motion shifting through phases, and as a single manifestation of the larger transcendental Self.
Despite the spreading interest, channeling still suffers from poor reputation, often because its public relations is limited to the mystical arena, which is still looked at with suspicion, leaving science almost alien to this spreading phenomena.
Unfortunately, In Israel, consciousness studies are not included in formal academic programs and knowledge obtained from channeling is normally viewed with disbelief.
Despite this a different reality is vibrating: Many academics show genuine interest in learning how to channel and even do so themselves. For things to change here, and in order to further explore the potential embedded in using consciousness as an investigative instrument, an empirical study is required. Such research should combine EEG and fMRI examinations of the channeling brain. It will enable us to actually observe brainwaves in action during channeling, as well as to map the location of the observed participating areas. This will allow for establishing a more balanced view on channeling, and may encourage varied uses of the practice for the benefit of all.
In addition, it is important to remember that channeling is a human mental and spiritual skill, it is not a miraculous quality, although it may seem so to the observer. As such, it should not be treated as a perfect skill- it comes in varied ways just like any other human skill.
A "miracle" or charlatanism? We haven't completely figure out the mechanism which allows humans to converse with the Universe, although the exchange of energy between us and the Universe is considered common knowledge. Our left rational hemisphere might tell us this is unexplainable, nevertheless, this does not logically mean that the "miracle" does not exist.
This (i) rational leap brings this discussion closer to what quantum physics tells us: There are phenomenon in reality which can be mathematically illustrated but cannot be logically explained or predicted, like the electron's quantum leap (Ben Dov, 1997). This leap opened the door to some mysticism to enter the physical lab, as it shifted the discussion from being strictly mechanical to one which involves consciousness-matter mutual influence.
In the case of channeling we might be witnessing one possible way of bridging between physical and non physical realities with consciousness serving as a mediator. If so, and if non local consciousness is indeed the origin of all, including our physical reality, one should wonder whether we are people who undergo spiritual experiences, or are we spirits undergoing human experiences?
Funny to note how brain researchers continue claiming that we understand a very small portion of the brain’s real functional capabilities, but when new functions are discovered, they are classified as “peculiar” or “impossible"; Simply because they fail to pass the mind's rational filters.
Rational filters never stopped people, laymen or scholars, from turning to God in time of great distress. At such times, even a well established set of beliefs may change. We are accustom to pray to God, unfortunately some still don't believe that he would answer.
What are we prepared to see as real? When we send spaceships and satellites to the Universe, what do we expect to find? Is it more of what we are used to see here, on our tangible world? How may we prepare our consciousness for encounters with unfamiliar realities, or, would we continue to dismiss their possible existence, because our "well learned" mind and eyes tell us so?
Or may be its time to seriously consider implementing Mark Twain's suggestion when said: "I have never let my schooling interfere with my education".
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A Doctoral dissertation, Haifa University
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