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Chapter IV

Discovering Your Inner Self

(Tools and Techniques for Understanding Your Patterns and Lessons)

Understanding comes with study, contemplation, and seclusion. I am going to offer you three proven methods of studying and evaluating your inner self, as a means of gaining a deeper understanding of your larger self. Choose the method that feels most comfortable to you. This is the way to obtain the best results. Examine the ideas and choose one, or any combination of them, or create your own innovative approach. The most important thing is actually to use a method of discovering your inner self. This is the way to understand both yourself and your patterns.

A. Journal Writing

This is a fun, free, and enlightening method. All that you need is to set aside 15 — 20 minutes a day, and to bring a pen, and paper. To get the most out of journal writing, put your expectations aside and have fun with it. You will find that you will laugh, grasp at an illusive memory, and so piece together your patterns. Journal writing leads to active learning about yourself, your world, other people, and life.

Keeping a Journal can be a journey to self-discovery and a potent morale booster, especially if one writes about one’s feelings and emotions. It can be one of the most important tools for building a happier, more productive life, as it helps to open doors that might have remained closed — doors to the deeper inner self as well as doors to the outer, every-day world.

One of the nice things about Journal writing is that there is almost no cost involved, except that of pen and paper. If you like, you may purchase a spiral-bound notebook, or a 3-ring binder, which will make it easier to categorize your subject material. Another nice aspect of keeping a Journal is that you don’t have to undergo any special training, take any classes, or do any other preparation. You can start right now —TODAY! You simply begin right where you are in life by putting your thoughts and feelings on paper. It’s that easy.

Many people associate journal writing with keeping a diary. A diary is, certainly, one form of journal, but it is not the only one. Other types are autobiographical writing, intuitive writing, dream records, writing of future goals and ambitions, and even letter and story writing.

Keeping a journal:

* helps you to discover goals, Ideals, hopes, fears — just about everything there is about you,

* teaches you to listen better — and listening more acutely inspires better writing,

* teaches you to observe better — and observation brings vision to your writings,

* teaches you to touch life more deeply — and this depth brings more feeling into your writings,

* helps with self-honesty, personal integrity, and clarifies thinking,

* Is a safe outlet for hurt, rejection, or reaction; you communicate with the real you,

* substantiates your thoughts and experiences. Reflecting on them brings different perspectives over time,

* gives a feeling of accomplishment; Like exercising your physical body, writing exercises your mind, and

* opens a door to self-discovery by accessing your subconscious mind. Past-life insights are often revealed in writing.

Your best writing often comes through the most difficult times — from the most challenging lessons and experiences.

Patterns will begin to show throughout your life as you study your journal. Those patterns are vital to your learning and growth — they are the real lessons in your life.

Use all of your senses as you write. Use words descriptive of what you: SEE, HEAR, TOUCH, SMELL, TASTE. Also, be aware of the 6th sense that you will discover inside. This is your INNER RESPONSE.

Parents, give your children a diary (with a lock) and encourage them to write in it, so that they can discover, early in life, the immense value of such creative writing. They will learn the healing power of expressing themselves through sincere expression of their thoughts.

If your language is imperfect or limited, learn to use a thesaurus. To improve your grammar, there are many books that could help. One favorite is a slim volume entitled THE ELEMENTS of STYLE, by Strunk and White, published by the McMillan Company. For a spelling problem, get a dictionary or use the spell check that comes with most word processors. If you plan to do any professional writing, use of a word processor will make editing your documents much easier and will increase your productivity.

Keeping a journal helps you to write better, to think more clearly, to assimilate the experiences of your life. In time you may return to your writing and re-live those great experiences and more wisely reevaluate the challenging times. Reading something you wrote in the past gives insight as to how your life has changed — progressed. This is part of your personal history which, often, is lost if it is not recorded. Reflecting upon the past helps to facilitate personal growth.

Finally, as emphasized earlier, don’t procrastinate. Go ahead and start your journal writing now. You will find it an enriching experience. Use the power of the pen to get a better understanding of your lessons and patterns — and yourself

Here are some suggested “story starters” to motivate you and to get you going:

“I behave just like my Mom when I…”

“A recurring dream I’ve had is…”

“The quality I admire most in others is…”

“The thing that irritates me most in other people is…”

“I find myself attracting the same kind of man/woman …”

“If I have had a past life, I would have lived in…”

“I would have worked in that life as…”

“My forefathers came to this country from…”

After you’ve written your story, let your family or friends critique It. You’ll learn how to discipline your thoughts, how to use correct grammar, how to research material, and many other useful techniques. Furthermore, you will give pleasure or impart knowledge to those who read your story. You may even get a story published. Then you can call yourself an author!

Your journal is the “BOOK OF YOUR LIFE,” a document of the real you. It is for you and you alone, unless you wish to share all or part of it with others.

1. Keeping a Diary

In its most basic form, a diary is simply a day-by-day account of the events in your life that you would like to record for future reference. Many people in the business world or in public life keep such records to refresh their memories of past events or commitments they may have made. They often include in the diary a calendar of future engagements and so forth. The diary, or daily journal, thus becomes an important reference in their daily activities. In their private lives, people who keep journals often include such entries in their autobiographical journals.

2. Autobiographical Writing

Autobiographical writing can be for you alone (unless you wish to share it with very special friends). Knowing that it is for your eyes only, you can feel more comfortable in expressing your innermost feelings and emotions. In times of stress and trouble, keeping this journal can be very therapeutic. The simple act of putting your thoughts on paper can give you a new perspective to your problems. Studies conducted by James Pennebaker, Ph.D., Professor of psychology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, have demonstrated the benefits of writing about traumatic experiences. Dr. Pennebaker asked students to write for 15 minutes a day, choosing as their subject either a traumatic experience or a superficial topic. “We found those people who write about thoughts and feelings typically show significant improvements in physical health and improved function, have fewer doctor visits, and report feeling happier and healthier in the months that followed,” says Pennebaker.

Dr. Pennebaker added that although the initial effect of the writing sessions might have made the person sadder, a positive outlook and lighter mood resulted within two to three weeks, and persisted for as long as six months afterward. So, although you may feel sad or depressed immediately after writing, within a day or two you should begin to feel a sense of relief and contentment. In writing about such experiences, describe the event and your deepest emotions, but do not rationalize or lay blame. Just try to understand your thoughts.

In addition to writing about difficult experiences, you may also write about your accomplishments, your successes, your joys, and your hopes — all to your benefit. When you write about any of your thoughts and experiences, you automatically assimilate them, learn, and grow wiser. This prepares you to face similar situations in the future. So, let’s get started on this wonderful discovery of self. To make the initial effort easy, let’s begin with a small project. Later you will want to begin your permanent record, or your autobiographical journal — this can be its beginning.

Write a few paragraphs about:

1. Childhood experiences

a. Positive or pleasant

b. Negative or unpleasant

2. Present-day experiences

a. Family

b. Work

c. Travel

d. Pets

e. Hobbies

f. An influential person in your life

3. Future Plans

a. Hopes

b. Fears

c. Work

d. Personal plans

3. Intuitive Writing

If you encounter difficulty in writing about your hopes, plans, emotions, and feelings, try writing from a different level — adopt a new style. What I’m describing here is not a type of journal, but a writing style which can be used in any of the journal types. This writing style is called free-form, or free-flow. It has no rules except just to write — let the writing go where it wishes. Get out of your own way and just DO IT! Let’s examine the techniques of this writing style:

1. Stream of consciousness technique

You simply begin by writing down everything that comes into your mind, regardless of whether it makes any sense.

2. Ideals

First, sit quietly and reflect upon a problem that is currently affecting your life. Next, ask your inner mind, or your higher mind, for a solution to that problem. When you receive the answer, write down the solution in your journal. For example, experiment with this technique to connect with your higher self to ask the following questions:

a. What do you really want to do with your life, and why?

b. How would you act even if you were certain you’d never be found out or blamed?

c. How would you act even if you were certain you’d never receive any recognition or credit?

3. Poetry and prose

Often the language of the subconscious, or the inner mind, comes through in either rhyme or blank verse. If it does, work with those tools in your intuitive writing. Work with whatever tools your subconscious advises. Just follow the guidance of your intuition. Those who are musically inclined may wish to write songs.

4. Dreams

Most self-help, spiritual, and psychological materials will advise you to keep a dream journal. They also advise you to encourage dreaming by telling yourself that you will remember your dreams upon awakening. If you have an unresolved problem from the day’s activities, relate the problem to your subconscious mind and ask it to give you a solution in a dream. Tell yourself to awaken after each dream so that you can record it before it is lost. The dream journal can be kept separate from, or included within, your writing journal.

Dreams are an important part of your communication with your inner mind. Your dreams are messages to you from your subconscious; they are intended to give you guidance from your higher self. Unfortunately, most people do not recognize that their dreams contain guidance, and they forget them immediately upon awakening. Your conscious mind, which is controlled by your ego, or personality, does not recognize dreams for what they are. When you awaken, you, most likely, will be conscious of your latest dream, and think that you will remember it. But if you stir around, or get out of bed, your conscious mind may take over and the dream will be gone.

In view of the unique manner in which dreams are received, if you are to benefit from them, you must record them immediately upon awakening, or they, most likely, will be lost. Thus, you could keep a separate dream journal by your bedside, where you could make entries before your conscious mind becomes alert enough to erase them. This can be done by keeping a notebook and pencil by your bed and recording the dreams before you engage your conscious mind. If you sleep alone, or have a tolerant partner, you can record them into a cassette recorder. If you tell yourself to wake up after each dream, you may be able to record several dreams in a single night.

You will observe that your subconscious speaks to you in symbols, some symbols are universal, some are personal. You will have to learn to interpret those symbols, and you will be able to do so with practice. Go back through your dream journal from time to time and you may be able to identify trends, patterns, or other signs by which you can learn to use the messages your dreams are sending you, for surely they are messages from your subconscious.

5. Letter-Writing

Most people would not associate letter writing with keeping a journal; however, it is much akin to it. In fact, many famous people in the past published such correspondence. Thus you may think of your correspondence as a type of journal writing. If you kept copies of your correspondence, you would realize that it was actually a part of your autobiographical journal. If you like, you can use parts of your autobiographical journal in your letters.

Sometimes letter writing can be therapeutic. By way of illustration, let me give you an example taken from the experience of a friend. “Once, many years ago, I became incensed with what I perceived to be lack of proper recognition for certain work I had performed, and wrote an angry letter to the individual concerned. Before mailing the letter, I showed it to a colleague for whom I had great respect. He said, ‘Okay, you’ve written a good letter, and got the matter off your chest. Now throw it in the trash basket.’ I thought about it and agreed with him. The act of writing the letter had, indeed, released the matter from my system, and I felt better about it. Many times since then, I have remembered that advice and followed it.” The next time that you need to release some tension, try writing a letter about it and then throw the letter away.

As with any other activity, one learns and gains experience and wisdom with practice. So let’s begin by writing three letters to friends, loved ones, someone in a nursing home – anyone you know. Your letters will be appreciated and you will gain from it. But this time, put stamps on them and mail them! Even More challenging, but very productive, is to write “letters to the editor” of any state-wide or national publication concerning topics of current interest or of particular concern to you. You may be surprised at the response.

6. Story-Writing

I can hear some of you say, “Story writing!! I’m not an author. I can’t write a story.” In fact, statistics reveal that 90% of Americans think that they cannot write creatively. Well, you’ll never know unless you try. First, don’t think about writing an entire book; think in more modest terms. Write about something familiar — a few pages about your family, or your family history. Write as though you were talking to a friend; just let the story tell itself. So don’t procrastinate; sit down and do it!!

B. A Spiritual Sanctuary

Create a Spiritual Sanctuary. Find or make a special place in your home or on your land where you can go for contemplation. This place does not have to be of a certain structure — just a secluded nook, or area. Bring your favorite mementos and most cherished objects.

Learning is a life-long experience. We are in this Earth School to learn and to grow, not only during our adolescent years, but throughout our entire lives. Our goals can be to grow, to develop, to improve, to accomplish, to have adventures, and just to be kind! Learning can improve with age.

Distractions in daily life make continued learning difficult. The creation of a spiritual sanctuary will set up the environment for your continued growth. This will be your personal space — a place where you can go for quiet time, for contemplation, and for rest. There are many ways to create your space. For example, use a library, take over a large closet in your home, use the corner of a room, or find a secluded place on your property that might work for you.

If you are having a problem creating a space for yourself because your home environment is so cluttered that you can’t clear out a little area for your spiritual sanctuary, something is definitely wrong! Make your spiritual goals primary, not secondary. Learn to be still, to be sincere, to simplify your daily life, and to magnify your spiritual life. Grasp the REAL MEANING of your life and live it exuberantly.

Our spiritual sanctuaries are there for our growth. They provide a place for rest. This rest is vital for growth and learning. Following periods of great activity, we often need quiet time to evaluate and to understand what we have just experienced. This quiet time often provides us with more than just understanding. It is often a time of inspiration and the incubation of new plans and strategies.

If music is an important part of your life then, be sure to include it in your plans. If your sanctuary is out of doors then, bring chimes, drums, or a portable cassette player.

A spiritual sanctuary is your own wonderful, peaceful, and private place to explore your thoughts, your feelings, and your innermost heart. This is your peaceful place to pray and to meditate.

Have fun creating your own personal, restful, healing place. It is easy to build anywhere, indoors or out. Just make the focal point your favorite items, your mementos — anything from your life that has meaning. Decorate your space with elegance or simplicity; it’s up to you. Create beauty — bring hope and harmony, and enjoy the doing. Start with a candle or two if you wish, a gift from a friend or a loved one, a beautiful piece from nature herself — some special rock or mineral, a feather or a sea shell, souvenirs from enchanted journeys or vacations. Sacraments are any objects that are sacred to you. Bring them to your sanctuary.

Now begin to add the personal, human element. Perhaps a small mirror so that you can look deeply into the eyes of your own soul. Add to this a photo if you wish, a picture of a favorite saint or other holy person — anyone whom you hold as an ideal. Bring anything which reminds you of your real essence, of the real you, that unique, wonderful, precious you. A you that is kind, generous, and loving, the you that you truly wish to express with an attitude of reverence in the fullness of your heart and soul. Continue adding new items from time to time as your life grows, progresses, and evolves. Acknowledge and appreciate each adventure in this great school or learning center that we call the Earth School.

Your sacred place — your Altar — is for you to enjoy. It is good to come here. Come at regular times simply to commune, to relax, just to be you. Is it only your imagination that this place — this sanctuary —has made a difference in your life? Even if it is only imagination, there is wisdom in accepting that there may be more to life than some would openly admit.

This is the place to contemplate your spiritual friends, your loved ones, your guardian angel, your protectors, those that may not be visible to the outer eyes but may be seen by the inner eyes. Do the inner eyes see more clearly? Do the inner ears hear more acutely? Does the inner heart feel more deeply? Your friends in the Spirit Lands may wish to come to visit you in your sacred sanctuary. If you will it, they will come.

It is always good to connect with loved ones from the past and even into future time. Just build your sanctuary! Just do it! They will come.

Bring your journal to your spiritual sanctuary so that you may record your heart’s memories and your soul’s visions in your peaceful, quiet space. (Your spiritual sanctuary may become the place where you always engage in journaling.)

Important things to remember are: practice silence — don’t talk about it; do it. Be joyous — being spiritual does not mean being somber, morose, or withdrawn. It does mean to live your life fully and thankfully.

We have examined journal writing and the spiritual sanctuary and we can see how the two of them could act separately or together to work for your growth and learning. Let’s look at a third way, a personal retreat.

C. Take a Learning Vacation:

A Personal Retreat

Take time out for a personal retreat away from your daily routine. I like to describe this experience as a spiritual adventure. Others call it a “weekend get-away.” It is a meditative “outward bound” for the “inward bound.” The rewards may be life-changing. The cost involved may be as small or as large as you choose to make it.

About thirty years ago, after graduating from high school, I contemplated what my life’s direction and vocation might be. Although I had a good job working at an apple orchard, I knew that it would never be my career. I decided to take a few days out of my busy schedule to go on a personal retreat. A friend in New Hampshire owned a small mountain lake completely surrounded by woods - a winding trail was the only access. It sounded like the perfect place to go. Because I did not own a tent, I brought a tarp to construct a temporary “lean-to” shelter. I carried in my sleeping bag, books, paper, and toilet paper. I brought no food because I had read that the American Indians fasted when they went on “vision quest.”

Originally, I planned a four-day weekend retreat. The first two days passed slowly — too slowly. I read, built a campfire and seriously wondered why I had decided to do such a “boring” thing. I probably would have given-up and returned home, except that I had told people about my adventure and I didn’t want them to think that I had “chickened-out.”

The next two days were more productive. As I meditated, used self-hypnosis and prayed for guidance, I began to list what I wanted to do with my life. Then I wrote what I did NOT want to do. Slowly the realization came that, with work and dedication, I could do just about anything! So what did I really want to do? What interested and excited me the most in life?

In the process of writing the things I most wanted to do, the answer became obvious. After reading The Search for Bridey Murphy, by Morey Bernstein, I had been conducting experiments in past-life exploration for a couple of years, this work was very exciting, but what could I do, realistically, with such information? Then I remembered reading about Edgar Cayce, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, who spoke about past lives. Slowly, a thought started to form, “Why not go to Virginia Beach to learn more?” Although Mr. Cayce had died the year before I was born, I knew that an organization of people was carrying on his work.

A thought was born, a spark was ignited in the chasm of my brain! An inner prompting, a plan or action was formulated on the shore of that secluded New Hampshire lake. This was not some blinding vision nor did trumpets sound in the sky, but a real direction was now evident: “Travel! Go to that Cayce place.”

Perhaps the thought and the plan would have come to me in spite of taking a retreat. Perhaps a few days of fasting were unnecessary — who knows? But I did gain something. I made a decision to take a new road — and certainly one less traveled!

Within a few months I was on my way to Virginia Beach to become a member of the Association for Research and Enlightenment. Now, three decades later, I journey the same pathway. I continue to reach out through presenting workshops and educational programs around the world for the A.R.E. OUTREACH is my mission!

You also can take a personal retreat — your own inner quest. Plan your spiritual adventure now. It does not have to be a trip to the woods. Do what is comfortable for you, yet will allow you the opportunity to explore your inner self and to receive any messages that you may be given. Whatever kind of retreat it is, should it make you more comfortable and more willing to take the spiritual adventure, do it. You might choose a safe motel that is secluded, with no distractions, or go to a cabin in the woods, or to a hotel on a secluded beach, or to the house of a friend who is away for a few days. Your expenses may be increased but the important thing is that you go away and explore your inner being.

Perhaps your experience will be as mine; perhaps not. Nonetheless, your spiritual retreat can bring you various benefits. You can:

* connect with your innermost self,

* be given valuable guidance — a dream, a vision or a plan of action,

* enjoy the beauty and splendor of nature,

* receive insight into what is REALLY important in your life, and

* experience solitude, rest, and quiet reflection.

Best of all your spiritual adventure can cost very little; yet, it can give you high-yield returns. You could choose to do as I did, keeping things simple and easy. Choose a safe, secluded site (not during hunting season)! Bring what you already have, or borrow from friends:

- a tent or tarp

- sleeping bag

- pen, paper, toilet paper

- knife, matches, drinking water

Leave the electronic gadgets at home. This is a spiritual adventure, an inner quest.

Although most people are aware of the importance of building their minds and bodies, few are aware of the greater importance of building their spirits. Though often neglected, spirit is the life essence — the vital living force.

Eventually, each person must stop and re-evaluate life. Sometimes a tragedy triggers such a situation. It is better not to wait for circumstances to propel us onto a higher path. Specifically choose a spiritual adventure or exercise. When that is accomplished a larger view is presented, an inner guidance is heard, a deeper purpose is realized. Such profound revelations guide us to our spiritual destiny. Pivotal or transformative events can bring positive change and betterment.

In the time of the American Indian, a “vision quest” was practiced by the young men. Sadly, there is little recorded history of the importance of spiritual exercises and quests for the young women. It is even more ironic that, today, women are more interested in building their spiritual lives than are men. Perhaps this is a natural balance, or perhaps women have grown wiser while men have become more distracted. In any case, women can now take the great journey — the holy quest — as equally as men. Perhaps they will be even more dedicated in purpose, richer in ideals, braver in discovery. EVERYONE has the God-given right to become a spiritual seeker, and to experience the adventure!

After my own youthful quest, another decade passed before I located a book that gave practical information about how the American Indian approached his spiritual retreat. That book, THE SOUL of the INDIAN, by Charles Alexander Eastman (Ohiyesa), was first published in 1911 “to paint the religious life of the typical American Indian as it was before he knew the white man.” In 1980 the University of Nebraska Press reprinted that small but immensely valuable book.

Eastman wrote powerfully yet poetically:

“The worship of the ‘Great Mystery’ was silent, solitary, free from all self-seeking. It was silent, because all speech is of necessity feeble and imperfect; therefore the souls of my ancestors ascended to God in wordless adoration. It was solitary, because they believed that He is nearer to us in solitude, and there were no priests authorized to come between a man and his Maker.

“There were no temples or shrines among us save those of nature. Being a natural man, the Indian was intensely poetical. He would deem it sacrilege to build a house for Him who may be met face to face in the mysterious, shadowy aisles of the primeval forest, or on the sunlit bosom of virgin prairies, upon dizzy spires and pinnacles of naked rock, and yonder in the jeweled vault of the night sky! He who enrobes Himself in filmy veils of cloud, there on the rim of the visible world where our Great-Grandfather Sun kindles his evening campfire, He who rides upon the rigorous wind to the north, or breathes forth His spirit upon aromatic southern airs, whose war-canoe Is launched upon majestic rivers and inland seas

— He needs no lesser cathedral!

“That solitary communion with the Unseen which was the highest expression of our religious life is partly described in the word bambeday, literally “mysterious feeling,” which has been variously translated “fasting” and “dreaming.” It may better be interpreted as “consciousness of the divine.”

“The first bambeday, or religious retreat, marked an epoch in the life of the youth, which may be compared to that of confirmation or conversion in Christian experience. Having first prepared himself by means of the purifying vapor-bath, and cast off as far as possible all human or fleshly influences, the young man sought out the noblest height, the most commanding summit in all the surrounding region. Knowing that God sets no value upon material things, he took with him no offerings or sacrifices other than symbolic objects, such as paints and tobacco. Wishing to appear before Him in all humility, he wore no clothing save his moccasins and breech-cloth. At the solemn hour of sunrise or sunset he took up his position, overlooking the glories of the earth and facing the “Great Mystery,” and there he remained, naked, erect, silent, and motionless, exposed to the elements and forces of His arming, for a night and a day to two days and nights, but rarely longer. Sometimes he would chant a hymn without words, or offer the ceremonial “filled pipe.” In this holy trance or ecstasy the Indian mystic found his highest happiness and the motive power of his existence.”

Eastman continues to explain that when the individual returned to camp, he (or she), must again enter the vapor-bath (sweat lodge). The sign or vision given to the seeker was usually kept private or personal, unless instructed otherwise. Occasionally, at the end of his life, a man may discuss his original vision-quest. Eastman wrote, “Sometimes an old man, standing upon the brink of eternity, might reveal to a chosen few the oracle of his long-past youth.” Obviously, I didn’t wait as long to reveal to you my “vision,” or decision to travel. Nonetheless, the passage of time has proved my original guidance to be both wise and productive.

Of the three methods presented for gaining guidance to the inner self, any or all of them may be compatible with your needs as you begin to contemplate, to evaluate, to test, and to understand yourself — your lessons, and your patterns. Your life and how you live it are of the utmost Importance. Learning and growing are necessities. I urge you to take action to understand yourself better and to come closer and closer to finding your eternal being. Engage in your own vision quest.

Chapter V

Self-Hypnosis and Ideals

(Inner Adventure)

A. Ideals: A Practical Standard of

Excellence

The evaluation of ideals is an important part of our work with patterns. Patterns reflect our Ideals of the past, and our current ideals create future patterns.

Recognition of the need for ideals offers an invitation to explore your mind, your reasons, and purposes for living. We use our Ideals to evaluate important things in our lives. Often, this is done unconsciously. At an inner level we weigh circumstances, decisions, and goals by our ideals. We ask ourselves, “Is it in line with my Ideal, or against my better good?”

The motivating force behind - and actually, in the forefront of - our actions is our ideals which might change and grow as we mature. Ideals are on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels, and their development is in accord with our learning on each level.

Sometimes we seem to have opposing ideals. For example, a spiritual Ideal might be the decision to meditate for an hour daily, simply for the benefit of the spiritual balance which it brings. On the other hand, a physical need requires us to work long hours at a job in order to earn enough money to feed our families, and to pay our bills. Both are valid and positive ideals.

The solution might be to compromise and to allow less than an hour for meditation, but also to take some time out from the heavy work schedule. Other valid solutions might exist as well. In either case, the ideal governs how we invest our time and our energy for what we deem to be the expansion of Self.

The central force in life — the over-riding principle, the guiding light — reflects our ideals. The vision of ourselves that surpasses our ordinary selves, our pattern of excellence, and our highest purpose, all indicate what we hold as IDEAL. Personality is a reflection of ideals and character.

The Edgar Cayce readings helped to express this concept by advising people to maximize the virtues and minimize the faults. This does not mean to look only for the good while pretending the faults are absent, but rather to focus more fully on the good that it may grow still more. The ideal is a conception of you in your perfection.

Kahlil Gibran, writing in one of the most widely known and beautiful books of our age, The Prophet, delivers the same concept:

“Of the good in you I can speak, but not of the evil. You are good when you walk to your goal firmly and with bold steps.

Yet you are not evil when you go thither limping. Even those who limp go not backward.

In your longing for your giant self lies your goodness: and that longing is in all of you.”

Gibran also explains how we may have conflicting goals and purposes. “For a divided house is not a den of thieves; it is only a divided house.” He proceeds to suggest the importance of establishing an ideal, which he likens to the rudder of a ship that keeps your life “on course.”

Cayce’s source focused often on ideals, reminding us that the real ideals are within, and that there is a great difference between being good, and in being good for something. He counseled people to find self, first. Know in whom and in what they believe in order to make their lives constructive. Know what you believe and why you believe it. Begin with self, for Self is the best help.

There are few rules regarding what constitutes an ideal. Ideals are as varied as the people who hold them. Living your ideal is different from having an ideal. The living requires work and commitment. Stand firmly for your ideals. Someone has said, “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.” Set a higher ideal than everyone expects of you. Set the highest ideal you can possibly set for yourself.

There is, moreover, a difference between goals and ideals. A rather big difference. A goal is what we wish to achieve; the ideal is the motive behind it. We might have goals of developing psychic ability, or managing our stress, or overcoming insomnia — things we strive for. Now, why do we want those abilities? Do we want psychic ability to be able to show off to our friends, or to help humanity with the gift? If we want it to gain foresight and to help in our spiritual development, fine; but, if we merely flaunt this ability it can prove to be a major stumbling-block in our lives. The reasons we want things are of the utmost importance. They are vital clues to our ideals.

Cayce’s source stressed that ideals are not to be confused with goals. An ideal may be a principle or a person whom we use as a model because he or she lives according to the principles we wish to strengthen. Find self first. Know in whom and in what you believe, the source cautioned. One might choose Mother Teresa or Elizabeth Kubler-Ross as an ideal of a life to emulate. Another might choose Jesus or Ghandi to emulate or to learn from. Some might even choose a favorite relative.

One might select a basic physical goal, such as losing weight with the motivation of looking better, improving one’s general health, or protecting, specifically, the heart and vital organs. Such goals might, in the long run, serve a higher spiritual ideal if we wish to maintain good health in order to pursue our own higher growth, and to be more productive in terms of sharing that growth with the world. Similarly, those with mental ideals might pursue further education in order to develop their minds and to avoid stagnation.

Many people develop spiritual ideals by meditation and prayer, by communion with their higher selves, or spirit guides. There are many levels of ideals. There are personal ideals, community ideals, national ideals, and planetary ideals. Who could deny the validity and importance of working toward world peace, or ecological and environmental balance, as a commendable planetary ideal.

In this first guided session you can focus on your personal Ideals. Keep in mind that your ideal is the central motivating force of your life. It is your vision of yourself that surpasses the ordinary you. It is your pattern of excellence, your highest purpose.

First we formulate our ideals and then apply them to our lives; therefore, study your ideals and then seek to apply those principles. To “apply” means to use, or do, utilizing whatever is available to you. Jesus said, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” That means that you shall be known by your actions and your works - not by your version of your life story, or your prospectus, or financial statements - but by what you do. First, search out with whom or what you have placed your ideal, and then put those ideals into action.

Cayce’s source suggested that if we spiritualize and visualize purposes in the manner in which we desire things to be done, we shall have them done! Then the source advises, recommending the use of hypnosis to aid in applying the ideals: “(this) ... may be best done by suggestive forces to the body through hypnosis....” (3483-1) and “ . . .In other words, put the body under what is commonly called hypnotic influence to bring about the normal condition of the action of the body itself….” (4506-1)

Self-hypnosis, by itself, can do very little for you except to bring you to your natural level of relaxation and comfort. What is beneficial is what you do while at that level! It is the Program, or the series of suggestions and visualizations, that brings accomplishment and success.

Self-hypnosis is just the first step in an entire program! In the same way, reading this book is a first step.

To gain fully, you must perform the activities — complete the tasks, do your work of self-improvement. Reading alone does not do it, but application does.

Hypnosis has been called “Mind Dynamics,” or, by Dr. Herbert Benson, “The Relaxation Response,” and several other things; but basically it is Self-Hypnosis, by which means we bring ourselves to a natural level of relaxation.

This process of self-hypnosis is shown in the diagram, “A Model for Self-Hypnosis.” We can simplify self-hypnosis by dividing it into four component parts. The first part is the train engine, or the Relaxation, the first step in self-hypnosis.

In relaxation, there are four levels of brain-wave activity. The normal waking level is called beta. The alpha state is the beginning of self-hypnosis and the beginning of meditation; it is the level at which most people remain while in hypnosis. If, however, they have been working with relaxation techniques for some time, they probably will move to the next deeper level, called theta.

The alpha level is completely natural. We each experience this level at least twice daily: as we go to sleep at night, and as we come out of sleep in the morning. In effect, this means we have all been in self-hypnosis. Research shows that we may enter alpha several times throughout the day as we become engrossed in a book, as we daydream, or as we watch television. Statistics now show that, two thirds of the time, people watching television have entered into an alpha state. Why is this?

Television uses what may be termed “electronic” hypnosis. It uses, primarily, visual images (visualization), and spoken words of suggestion. This combination makes it the perfect medium for hypnosis, for it engages both right and left hemispheres of the brain simultaneously.

This is only one example of how hypnosis is already in our lives, oftentimes without our awareness of it. Each of us experiences alpha which leads to deeper level theta, which is deep hypnosis, deep meditation, and also sleep. Furthermore, at every ninety-minute cycle, most of us move into the delta range, the third and final level of the deep sleep mode, or “quality” sleep time.

It is important to emphasize here that self-hypnosis is not, in itself, an end, but rather the primary tool to help you to reach your natural alpha level of relaxation, which, in turn, enables you to be receptive to suggestion and to visualization exercises. The two latter terms are represented in the diagram by the two boxcars: Suggestion (the left brain activity of logic) and Visualization (the right brain property of inspiration and creative genius).

In the model for self-hypnosis, the two boxcars represent the right and left hemispheres of the brain. This is the real work of any self-help session, to utilize a full brain approach, thus enlarging your mind’s potential.

The left brain is associated with linear, logical thought. It covers information, analysis, details, grammar, and language. It recognizes the parts of things, and processes items one by one. For example, studying the various components of the train model is a left hemisphere activity. The left brain remembers complicated sequences of actions and it works with established rules, bringing form and order to our work.

The right brain perceives the whole picture; it recognizes the forest (not the single trees). It sees an overall design or a larger plan, usually by means of pictures or emotions. The right hemisphere responds to rhythmic patterns of prose, poetry, or song. Most of all, it is fresh, innovative and creative, bringing a new vision to our work.

When scientists have found it necessary to dissect half a brain because of a tumor or the presence of some other condition, they have found that the healthy half of the brain has taken over the tasks of the impaired half. There is much debate regarding the workings of the human brain but, for simplicity’s sake, study of the two hemispheres enables us to understand the different functions. There are many books on the market which deal with creative visualization. There are also many books about positive suggestion and its benefits, as well as the use of affirmation and self-talk in our lives. Unfortunately, there are few books which can instruct us as to how we may combine both hemispheres and so empower the mind to build our lives the way we want them to be.

When you begin to make your own tapes for self-hypnosis, be sure to include exercises for both hemispheres — the left-brain “positive suggestion,” and the right-brain “visualization.” During this session you will guide yourself into alpha level, then proceed with those suggestions and visualizations you wish to reinforce. After the session, wake-up procedures are vitally important — just as important as those which allow you to enter the self-hypnotic state.

Self-hypnosis is not sleep. People only appear to be asleep; actually, the person is fully aware of everything that is going on. You will be in complete control at every level of your mind to accept, or to reject, anything. You will be aware of everything that is going on, and you will remember everything.

Some have asked, “Why, in stage demonstration, do people return to their seats unable to remember all the crazy things they did on stage?” This behavior was not caused by the hypnosis itself. It occurred because of a suggestion given by the stage entertainer to the volunteers, so that they would not be embarrassed by anything they had done once they returned to their seats. Hypnosis does not create amnesia, nor anesthesia. They result from suggestion. When suggestions are given to any person, that person must accept them in order for them to be effective. It is just as possible that the individual may reject them.

Now let us proceed to the topic of wake-up procedures. Wake-up procedure is actually a “coming out” procedure. The term “wake-up” is, however, the way most people think of it.

While experiencing self-hypnosis, some people progress into a sleep mode. If you find that you have a tendency to fall asleep — especially when using your tapes at night — sit up during the process. This usually will solve the problem. Remember, the greater benefits of self-hypnosis exercises (suggestions and visualizations) are best derived while fully aware and not at a night-time sleep level. In other words, while you are aware in alpha, and only while aware, can you repeat the suggestions mentally, and actively perform the visualizations. Nothing, of course, is wasted in sleep; but when we use self-hypnosis, taking a more active part in it proves to be much more effective.

Excellent courses in self-hypnosis are being taught, but the word “hypnosis” is seldom used. Why is this so? Surveys have shown that many people have a negative reaction to the word, but not to the process. They enjoy the relaxation, they enjoy the process, and they do very well with it. They retain a negative reaction to the term, however, because of the strange connotations it has garnered by dramatized and fictionalized misuse. The very word “hypnosis” frightens some people. Even today, if you have a headache and have to choose from two remedies on the drugstore shelf — one labeled Acetylsalicylic Acid and one labeled Aspirin — which would you choose? Probably the latter, because it is much less intimidating than a remedy with “acid” in its name; yet, Acetylsalicylic Acid and Aspirin are one and the same. Aspirin is the same substance marketed under a different name. We are all aware of the importance of marketing in our society. There are brand names and there are generics. You might say that “hypnosis” is the generic term for all the off-shoot catch phrases.

A book called Self-Talk, for instance, is geared toward the business sector. It expounds the techniques that hypnotists have been teaching for years, but under new terminology. There is no mention of the word “hypnosis,” not even in the appendix. The author is simply marketing the same principles in a new package. This is good marketing practice. If people have a negative reaction to one package, why try to reeducate the masses? Why not just re-package?

B. Mind Management

One of the most familiar expressions from Cayce’s forty three years of readings was: Spirit is the life; mind is the builder; the physical is the result. Everything we have made or built in the physical world began in someone’s mind. Somewhere in time, everything started in someone’s imagination. Mind is the builder.

We all have had this feeling of consciously wanting something and pushing our lives in that direction. Another part of us pushes — at times — in the other direction, toward our subconscious desires. We are not robots; we can program our lives the way we want them to be. Because we are human, however, there is a time lapse from the programming to the manifestation into our reality. For some, this gap could be a few minutes or a few days; for others, it could be a few months, or even years. It is very different for everybody, and much depends upon how much we really want it subconsciously. Often, our want is at a superfical level.

The value of self-hypnosis is that it enables us to unify our subconscious desires with our conscious desires. As the diagram illustrates, with both subconscious and conscious pushing the will together in the same direction, our life is guided in the direction we want it to go. Although this model is a simplified version, it does explain the integration of conscious mind with the subconscious.

Without even realizing it, the conscious mind and the unconscious desires sometimes work against each other

— pushing in opposite directions.

The result is a lot of effort with little accomplishment. The will to succeed is stuck. Sadly, your goals and desires may not be congruent with your words and actions. Using self-hypnosis, you can synchronize your (known) conscious purposes with your subconscious (hidden) patterns.

As your conscious ideals and subconscious desires unite to work together — pushing and building in the same direction, there is no limit to what you can do.

MIND AS THE BUILDER

Artist: Jeffrey Winchester

C. The Journey Inward

There is no “best time,” in a general sense, to use self-hypnosis tapes. Timing is very individual. The best time for you is at the high-time of your day. Pay attention to your circadian rhythms, or biological clock. If you reach your peak at around 10:00 a.m., that would be the best time for you. It might not, however, be practical if — for instance — you must be at work at that time. In that case, you will have to determine another time when you can profit best from the tapes. They may be used as often as you like.

What is the difference between self-hypnosis and meditation? The levels are the same, alpha and theta, but there is a difference. In meditation we generally open ourselves to guidance coming to us at the conscious level from a higher level of consciousness, the subconscious or superconscious. Symbolically, we open ourselves to guidance and to inspiration from our own higher mind, which is an eternal and everlasting source. In self-hypnosis, we focus the conscious mind and use it as a tool to instruct and to guide the unconscious in the direction that we consciously want our lives to go. The difference lies in how we use the alpha and theta levels, and not in the levels themselves. Meditation can be likened to a telescope looking out into the vastness of space. Self-hypnosis can be symbolized by a microscope focusing on a specific goal or objective.

If this is your first time working with self-help or self-hypnosis programs, you may wish to read, first, about the field. Self-hypnosis is a safe, 100% natural and direct way to improve your life. My book, Self-Hypnosis - Creating Your Own Destiny, can help you to gain a deeper knowledge of this science and the art of hypnosis.

The art of self-hypnosis concerns timing, tone, and delivery — not going too fast nor too slow, being too forceful nor too meek. The inner mind responds very differently from the conscious mind. It contains profound depth and wisdom; yet, it works slowly and requires clear, simple questions or instructions. It has a natural simplicity and honesty, and is uncomplicated in its approach. Speak s-l-o-w-1-y, very slowly, less than half your normal pace; even slower is best. Some people say they don’t like the sound of their own voices on cassette tape. Paradoxically, the very apparatus that you don’t like is the very tool that will help you. It may sound ironic, but you could work with your cassette recorder, in the privacy of your room, and practice speaking differently. If you have a high pitch, speak lower or deeper. If you mumble, begin to speak distinctly. If you normally speak in a monotone, add life and enthusiasm to your voice. Do whatever is necessary to improve the pitch, modulation, and speed of your voice. In just an hour or even less you will have improved the quality of your voice.

The good news is that you TRUST your own voice more than you trust other voices. As you learned to improve your voice in the DOING (not just reading about it), so also you will learn best about self-hypnosis — in the doing. Theory is fine, but there is no substitute for practical experience.

You are ready now to make your own self-help, self-hypnosis tape. Get a cassette recorder with a good microphone and a blank tape. To record, find a place where you will not be distracted for about half an hour. First, read the following script aloud and make any changes, deletions, or additions which suit your personal preferences. Now read the script slowly into your cassette tape. Use your watch and time the one minute pauses for one FULL minute. The inner mind needs that much time to process the question and give you the information requested.

In time, when you become more proficient at making self-hypnosis tapes, you can add the sound of a grandfather-clock ticking in the background, or the soothing music of one of the “Old Masters,” or the gentle sounds of the “New Age” genre.

Once your tape is completed, find another quiet time to enjoy using your tape. Self-hypnosis relaxes the body, builds the mind, and energizes your life in amazing and wonderful ways. It is a “win-win-win” activity with great benefit to be gained and no downside. Remember to breathe deeply throughout the session, for deep breathing is one of the oldest and most effective methods of relaxation.

Use your tape more than once if you wish, perhaps as often as once a week during the coming month. Keep a journal or diary, and log-in the results. Describe whatever you receive: what did you see, what did you feel, what did you hear, what did you perceive? For some people, the information is fleeting, as in a dream. For others, it comes clearly and strongly. There is no right or wrong method for receiving and processing information; whatever you receive is correct for you, and will improve over time and with experience and patience.

You may use your tape for yourself and share it with friends and family. (Better still, teach them to make their own tapes!) If you prefer, you may also read the script aloud to loved ones. If you, or they, do not like the word hypnosis, then you may substitute any other appropriate words you prefer. Some term this kind of work a “guided reverie,” an “inspired meditation,” or a “working dream.”

In fact, let’s term the following scripts an “inner adventure” which allows you, or others, to experience the session without pre-conceptions or pre-conditions. It is simply — and profoundly — an inner spiritual adventure. You can experience as much of the adventure (or as little) as YOU wish.

Be gentle with yourself, be kind to your mind! Whatever you receive in your session is a gift from your subconscious mind. If you accept and welcome that gift, then, surely, more will be given another time. If you criticize your inner mind and negate or belittle your gift, you limit your potential.

TRUST is the key to the door of spiritual growth, and APPRECIATION makes the opening easier. BE THANKFUL for all that you receive and you will gain and grow as you journey the spiritual path, both by clarifying your Ideals and by experiencing other sessions yet to come!

D. An Ideals Inner Adventure

(Begin to record your tape here)

As soon as you are ready, ask yourself to close your eyes. If you take a deep breath, you can feel your body relaxing. As you slow your breathing, you let your mind relax.

Begin by comparing your mind to the surface of a quiet pond. My voice can be as a breeze whispering in the trees along the shore. The pond remains smooth and calm, even though things go on beneath the surface. There may be much happening beneath a still surface. The gentle surface conceals an extraordinary depth. Reflect upon nature, its beauty and elegance.

(Pause, one minute)

Now it is easy to dissolve this image and to form another — perhaps a stairway leading down — you can see yourself leisurely descending. The stairs are covered with a thick, plush carpet, a carpet that is like a cloud beneath your feet. Perhaps there is a brass handrail or a walnut banister. The stairs lead you to a ballroom with sparkling crystal chandeliers, or to a comfortable room with books and crackling logs in a fireplace. And while you are here, the outside world will stay outside. You can take a few minutes and notice just how good you feel here.

(Pause, one minute)

You can do anything you want to do. You don’t even have to listen to my voice, because your subconscious hears with new awareness and responds all by itself.

You are now learning to recognize the feelings that accompany inner relaxation. You may experience a light, medium, or deep level of relaxation; you choose what is best for you. Your body may feel heavy or it may feel light, or it may seem to be asleep so that it doesn’t feel anything at all. It may float up, or it may sink down, or it may very pleasantly drift. It may do whatever you wish. Perhaps your body feels as if it has gone to sleep even though your mind seems to be awake. Of course, you don’t have to concern yourself with that.

This experience is for learning and growing. Of course, you may go very deep — and safely. Your inner mind is aware; it knows when it needs to respond and it can do so in just the right way. It already has gained more awareness.

If I count from ten to one, then you may go deeper — more in perfect harmony — by picturing yourself descending a flight of stairs, or going down in an elevator or on an escalator — any pleasant image that you wish ten… nine… eight… seven… six… five… four… three… two… one.…

And if I count from ten to one again, you may go twice as deep, enjoying a pleasant, comfortable feeling — any sort of feeling that you wish ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one.

As you relax, take a deep breath, and slow down, you may go even deeper. As you enjoy the comfort, you will note that there is less and less importance to my voice. You may find yourself drifting in your own ideal, joyful place of relaxation.

(Pause, one minute)

Now we can begin a series of exercises using Creative Imagination and Positive Affirmation. In your mind, now, you may begin constructing a box. This box may be of any size, any shape, any dimension, any color, or any material that you wish.

Make an easy-off lid for your box. I will be quiet now, so that you may construct your box. Then, when I begin to speak again, you can take a deep breath and go deeper. Build your box now.

(Pause one full minute, or longer)

Take a deep breath and go deeper.. .more in perfect harmony. Now, open the lid to your box and carefully place in this box all of your cares, all of your concerns, all of your worries, your hopes, your expectations, your fears. Place them safely in the box —whether actually or symbolically, full size or in miniature, or even written on little pieces of paper. Whatever you choose to do is correct for you. And as you place all your concerns safely into the box, I will be quiet.

(Pause, one minute)

Now, when you are ready, gently close the lid on your concerns. And, as you put the box aside, the following words echo deeply, within your mind:

“An ideal is a central motivating force in life. It is a vision of self that surpasses the ordinary self. It is a pattern of excellence, the highest purpose, character, and integrity.

A goal is something to be achieved in life. An ideal is much more important; it is the deeper, underlying reason related to the goal. An ideal is often private and sacred — the most positive, and often hidden, motive and purpose.

An ideal is a standard or measure to assess activity. It is a long-term investment in life.

(Pause)

Now, I am going to ask a series of questions that you can answer from deep within. Allow the answers to come from deep within and accept the information you are given:

What do you REALLY want to do with your life?

(Pause, one minute)

What are you doing in your life that is working well?

(Pause, one minute)

What are your greatest strengths?

(Pause, one minute)

How would you act, even if you were certain you’d never be found out or get blamed?

(Pause, one minute)

How would you act, even if you were certain you’d never receive any credit or recognition?

(Pause, one minute)

What are the strongest POSITIVE PATTERNS you have noticed in your life?

(Pause, one minute)

What are the most CHALLENGING PATTERNS you have worked with?

(Pause, one minute)

Whom do you hold as an ideal? — It can be someone living or someone from the past. What is the signifigance of that person to you?

(Pause, one minute or more)

And now, just imagine that you are wearing a T-shirt which can have a message printed upon it. In a moment you to write or print a specific message on the front of your T-shirt, a short sentence or a few words in answer to this question:

“What was your mother’s message to you?” (Note: If you do not know your biological mother, substitute a person who filled the “mother role.” In other sessions, the father may be substituted for the mother). “What did she say, or convey to you countless times, in countless ways, whether spoken or unspoken?” Write that message to you on the front of your T-shirt.

(Pause, one minute or more)

Now, on the back of your T-shirt, write or print your answer. How do you respond to your mother’s message? Write those words on the back of your T-shirt.

(Pause, one minute)

Now, your mother’s message on the front of your T-shirt can give you insight into HER ideals for you —her fears, her hopes, her concerns, her prayers for you.

(Short pause)

Your answer on the back gives you insight into your ideals, your purposes, your direction for self.

(Short pause)

Remember those messages that you may bring them back with you later. Remember ALL the information that you have been given here today — the gifts from your inner guidance. You may wish to leave the cares and concerns safely in the box. You may return to them later, whenever you wish.

You have done so very well here today. I will count slowly from one to ten. At the count of ten you may open your eyes and be wide awake.

One: coming up slowly.

Two: remember what you have been given here today.

Three: total normalization at every level of your being.

Four: you may wish to move hands, or feet, or neck.

Five.

Six.

Seven: coming up to your full potential.

Eight: revitalized.

Nine: re-energized.

Ten: open your eyes and wide awake now.

Wide awake!

E. An Ideals Project

Now that you have experienced the IDEALS inner adventure, it’s time to recall and to utilize the information received. In the process of writing, you will probably recall even more of the information. This may sound odd, but it’s true. Technically, it’s called “writing to learn,” and it helps people to get more out of their experiences. It is thinking on paper! In the writing, you will discover interesting connections and will observe new processes; your understanding will broaden, you’ll ask questions, and then proceed to answer them yourself! So let’s get started. We’ll call this an “I-D-E-A-L-S” project! And you’ll remember it with this anagram:

1. Identify the ideal

_________________________

2. Describe the situation, and challenges

_________________________

3. Explore possible solutions or actions to strengthen the ideal

_________________________

4. Act upon the information; what can you start doing?

_________________________

5. Look for results: imagine them already accomplished

_________________________

6. Save the information for future analysis and study

_________________________

When you answer the questions and work with the material you WILL have found an IDEALS solution!

Writing, speaking, and listening are the important tools for learning. Take time, every day if possible, and write in your journal or diary. Write any inspirations that come to you concerning your ideals. Sometimes the greatest inspirations come as a fleeting thought, or are triggered by an event. Grab that thought - it may be exceedingly valuable to you.

What did you receive or perceive in the session that surprised you?

F. Notes to Remember Regarding Self-Hypnosis

1. The best way to learn anything is in the doing of it. You will learn far more by making your own tapes, for instance, than by using commercial tapes that someone else has made. Of course, you may purchase or borrow commercial tapes from bookstores, pharmacies, libraries, and by mail order to learn different approaches to the subject.

2. Next, I recommend that you study the excellent material from the Edgar Cayce readings under the titles of “Suggestive Therapeutics,” and “Mind: The Builder.” I also suggest that you study books by and about Dr. Milton H. Erickson, on whose methods the Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) courses are based. Erickson was the first to teach that all hypnosis is self-hypnosis.

3. Incorporate what you learn from Cayce, Erickson, and your other readings into your own. self-help, positive programming tapes. Soon, people will notice important and profound changes in your life and will ask you (directly or indirectly) the reason for those changes. When you start to radiate new light, people always notice it! Explain to them about self-help tapes and show them how to make their own. The goal is to learn personal empowerment, not power over others.

4. A course in hypnosis is another option toward achieving personal transformation. Many community colleges offer such courses at a modest cost. Atlantic University in Virginia Beach, VA., offers excellent certificate courses on the subject of hypnosis. Remember, all you need for this study are high ideals and a sincere desire for personal improvement. Even a small amount of time invested now pays off later in big dividends.

5. The most exciting and inexpensive way to learn hypnosis is to start a small study group. It is easy, productive, and fun. Simply find a friend or two, and start an informal study group. Meet once a month, or once a week, at home, or in a library conference room. Often, meeting rooms are free when meetings are open to the public. You may place free announcements in your newspaper calendar section or on radio community bulletins. New people will hear of your work and will attend. Here are some tips for starting your hypnosis study group:

(a) A small group of even two or three people working together is more influential than two or three dozen people working alone. Meeting together on a regular basis produces great accomplishment.

(b) Your group may have a different moderator each meeting. Start with the study of traditional areas of hypnosis and branch out into the more innovative and newer methods. This is a “learn as you study and share” approach.

(c) An established group can invite guest speakers. Occasionally, you may ask a professional in some related field to speak. Most are pleased to do this. Soon you may start to guide sessions for individuals or for the entire group itself. Of course, this is a bit harder at first as you realize that you are all amateurs and still learning. But “amateur” comes from the root-word meaning “love:” that is, you love this study and this work.

(d) In your love of learning, you begin to reach out and to inspire others — helping others to help themselves. Then, as the months fly by, you and your group will begin to realize that you have educated yourselves in a personal and profound manner. You have “drawn-out” what was already there deep within yourselves; and, having brought it out, you’ve shared your light with others.

(e) From the seeds of small study groups (as Christ explained about the mustard seed) in time and with patience — with care and nurturing — the great plants of spiritual fulfillment grow. Your study group may not enlighten the entire planet, but it will bring light to illuminate your own area. It is said that If you wish to plant for days, plant flowers; if you wish to plant for years, plant trees; but it you wish to plant for eternity, plant ideas. And IDEALS. Begin now to search inward for your highest self!

Chapter VI

Embracing Your Eternal Child

(Inner Adventure)

A. Your Inner Child Learns

Almost all researchers, teachers, psychologists and parents agree that most of our patterns and behaviors are linked directly to our youth. Even the first few months and years of life have profound bearing on the rest of our lives. With this understanding, you can glimpse how important this chapter will be for you in understanding the foundations of your current life.

How did you do with the Ideals Inner Adventure? If you have not made and used your tape, please do so now. If you received only a little information, please wait a few days and use your tape another time. If you received valuable insight and information, USE that in whatever ways it can help you. Write the information in your journal, sketch the messages on your T-shirt.

We have come a long way together and have learned much. Learning comes in two ways: ACTIVE and REFLECTIVE modes. Participating in the exercises in this book helps you to accomplish both.

ACTIVE LEARNING is in doing things, and is often called “hands-on” work. Examples are in the making and using of your Inner Adventure tapes, going on a retreat for a weekend, or involvement with a study or support group.

REFLECTIVE LEARNING takes place when you pause for a few moments (or a few days) and ponder what you are learning. Journal writing and withdrawing into your spiritual sanctuary are reflective exercises. Rest and silence are vital to learning as it helps in the assimilation of experiences. Pauses and spaces are very important In the same way that spaces between the words on this page make it easier to read the words, and to comprehend the thoughts. (Aspacemakesitmucheasier!)

Sometimes our active and reflective learnings overlap. Learning is not always sequential; it is erratic and comes in leaps and bounds. There are quiet times of rest and reflection mixed with active times of challenge and endurance. There is a rhythm to the process of learning. Learning is growing - and, often, growing involves pain and anxiety.

Although pauses and rest are necessary, in a general sense, growing is better than not growing, good learning is better than not learning, and wise-action is better than stagnation. Dilemmas and challenges can lead to resolutions. Even failure can bring valuable learning. Difficult lessons may later produce profound accomplishment. It is possible to learn from all of life’s experiences. Even tragedies can lead to growth. Adversity need not be an end; it can be a beginning. As humans in the continuing saga called “life,” we learn and grow in numerous ways. Perhaps the best metaphor for our many grades and classes would be a school — a vast School of Life. This school — let’s call it Earth School — is like a vocational school in practical learning and application. There are rules, there is some theorizing, but, primarily, it is a place of experience and activity.

In our metaphor, this school is unique because we are all students AND teachers, at different levels of learning. Those who graduate go on to further realms. The rest of us continue to learn - hopefully! To me, the very fact that we are enrolled suggests that we still have something to learn — or to teach.

Many people ask, “What is the purpose of this Earth School?” I feel that we are here to EXPERIENCE life - all of life, with its benefits and its struggles, its highs and its lows. Our courses blend blessings and challenges, struggles and successes, grand opportunities and subtle simplicities.

For example, a few students may be engaged in a philosophical debate: “Is the glass of water half-full or half-empty? It might seem a ponderous question for some, but other students drink and enjoy the glass of water. They ponder not how full or not-full it may be; they wholeheartedly drink of the cool, refreshing water. Those are the students who live the experience; those are the adventurous ones.

The most adventuresome students choose a self directed course of study. True education means to “draw out” what is already within oneself. When we go deep into our own minds, we can discover our hidden talents and abilities, our patterns and potentials. This course of study can be very rewarding, but it requires self-discipline and courage.

Self-education has no bounds or limits! Each day becomes an adventure in learning, with discoveries which can bring pain, but also joy! Our world is an unlimited opportunity for the self-motivated and self-determined student. Travel in this world may well be one of the most valuable lessons in Earth School curriculum. Venturing beyond what we know challenges our courage, values and adaptability. It offers adventure and invitation to mystical experiences.

When you travel upon this wondrous Earth, be sure to go to the sacred places where other students and teachers from times past have built centers and shrines. It will help to connect you to your ancient past — and open possibilities to your future. Take pilgrimages to the holy centers of humanity and see the wonders created by nature. Wander in reverence throughout the lands, among the peoples, and fully ENJOY the adventure.

B. Reflections in the Face of Time

In times of reflection, study the lives of spiritual leaders, saints and mystics: perhaps they can be as mentors to you through their writings and examples. Though their legacy is of courage and strength, you may also find that their lives were fraught with struggle and pain. Hurt and suffering may have been a necessary ingredient — or even the catapult — to spiritual heights. This pattern is a common factor with holy women and men throughout time, and from all lands and civilizations. Spiritual courses hold little — if any — personal glory in a worldly sense. Certainly, after their death some spiritual leaders are recognized and revered, but during their lives the opposite is more often the rule. For every recorded life of a spiritual leader (whether in story or in legend), there could be hundreds who lived, did great works, and died virtually unknown. Though history may fail to record their lives, it IS stored and recorded in the deep memory of that person, and within those people who were touched, helped, or healed by that one. The lesson — love and giving — is what is most important, not necessarily a paragraph in a history book.

Perhaps those spiritual leaders were just too far ahead of us, and of their time. Some challenged the political establishments of their era. Others questioned the temporal religious powers, and were branded as witches or heretics. Though the spiritual path be a lonely and desolate trek at times, there are sublime moments of enlightenment and wonder.

As challenging or as easy as your spiritual journey may be, it is the BEST course to help you to graduate from Earth School into the University of Eternity.

C. Preparing for Your Next Adventure

In this Earth School, perhaps you are ready for your next lesson, your next homework project. This assignment is to help you to make a better connection with your inner child. There is, deep within you and within every other person, a timeless aspect — your eternal self. This part of you reaches far beyond the boundaries of time. Each person also has an inner quality of wisdom and strength, beyond the limits of present time and location.

This Inner Adventure will assist you in making a stronger connection with those parts of you that are already within, and will draw them out for your benefit. This is not a session to work with psychological problems or to heal a “wounded” part of your youth. Did you have a happy childhood? Not everyone did; and sad to say, some people have no pleasant memory to their early years.

This guided adventure begins with remembering a time when you felt safe and comfortable. If you cannot find such a time in your memory, just imagine how wonderful it would be IF there had been such a time. Essentially, you are using your constructive imagination to bring a feeling of safety and comfort — this feeling allows you to open yourself, to start trusting yourself and your inner guidance more carefully.

Use the guidelines from the previous Inner Adventure for making a cassette tape of the following script. After completing the session, fill in the analysis sheet that follows. Write in your journal about the insights and information that come to you, or from you. Even if the insight might be subtle, be sure to log it in; if information should flow in abundance, be thankful.

The Inner Adventure is designed for your personal use, but you may also read it to friends, to loved ones, or to a study group. Remember to time all pauses for one FULL minute (or more). Read the script slowly at one-third the usual rate of speech. Read it distinctly.

D. Embracing Your Eternal Child — The Incredible Healing Power of Love — An Inner Adventure

Before we start, make yourself comfortable so that you can relax and be at ease without distractions for about 40 minutes.

We'll begin the exercise by taking two full minutes for you to relax, allowing you to use your favorite method of relaxation. If you have worked with Edgar Cayce’s material, you may wish to use his head and neck exercises. If you’ve done any Yoga or deep breathing exercises, use those. If you have a favorite method of self-hypnosis, use it. If you do not have a favorite method, I suggest that you just remember a time when you really felt safe and comfortable. If you don’t remember a time like that, just imagine how wonderful it would be if there had been a time when you truly felt safe, comfortable, and at peace.

(Pause full two minutes)

Now, with your eyes closed, it becomes easier and easier for you to become more and more aware of a number of things that could often go overlooked or even unnoticed. Thoughts, feelings, sensations, impressions —just remember now to breathe deeply and smoothly, for deep breathing is one of the most ancient and also one of the most effective forms of relaxation there is. So remember to breathe deeply and smoothly throughout the entire exercise. Just allow yourself to drift pleasantly and easily. You don’t have to think, or to move about, or to make any sort of effort. You don’t even have to try to listen to me, because your subconscious is here and can hear every word. You are about to enter a magical realm — please leave all doubts safely behind — then proceed.

As you take another deep breath, just experience the feeling of letting go — just letting go. Becoming more in perfect harmony, more centered with every breath you take.

Can you remember being a child and going to school? (Pause) If you recall a pleasant, happy memory, your mouth automatically forms a little smile. A smile comes easily and naturally with the memory.

As a child, did you dream? Can you dream here again, as when you were a child? Perhaps in the dream, you may be walking along the shore by the water’s edge with your bare feet in the sand. Feels cool, but good. Feel the warm sun shining on your skin; there is a cool breeze that balances the warmth of the sun. And there go the sea gulls. Are they laughing? Spontaneous joy and laughter. And as the dream continues, you also continue to go deeper and deeper, softly into the season of gentle dreams. Perhaps you may remember a special song or a tune from your childhood, and that song or tune echoes deep, deep within. Don’t analyze your responses, just allow the tune or music to return pleasantly.

(Pause one minute)

If you don’t recall a favorite song or tune from your youth or childhood, perhaps you can recall the tune and words of “Row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream.”

(Pause one minute)

The melody takes you even deeper within, deeper into your dream. And there is another dream within the dream. The dream of your eternal self, your eternal child. That carefree, innocent part of you — the part of you that is eager to learn, eager to experience, eager to grow, eager to love, to be loved. Connect now with your inner child, that joyful, wonderful, innocent part of you, and I'll be quiet while you enjoy this experience.

(Pause one minute)

You may now even wish to communicate with your inner child, or to embrace this child and to experience the incredible healing power of love.

(Pause one minute)

Your child may even wish to give you a gift, something tangible or intangible — a word, a phrase — I don’t know what your gift will be, but receive the gift now from your inner child.

(Pause one minute)

Hold your gift close, in fullness and thankfulness. You may even wish to wrap it around your heart so that you may keep it always. Thank your inner child for your gift.

Now as the dream progresses, you can continue to walk along the water’s edge. In the innocence of the child are the wisdom and strength of the universe.

Now the dream beckons you to a river — the river of life — down through the shadows of millions of yesterdays flow the waters of a life everlasting. Now when you’re ready, you may float upon the waters of life. And you go to the very source — to the headwaters, the wellspring. Notice the air. It may be rarefied, but it leaves you with a feeling of wonderment. There is excitement here - and strength and wisdom, for this is the abode of your higher self, the very highest aspects of your being. Here is your holy woman or your wise man within — the sage, the counselor — the friend who watches over and helps you, guides you, and protects you — your most special and wonderful friend. Greet this holy man or wise woman within. You may wish to communicate with your mentor — so I will be quiet while you do so.

(Pause one minute)

You may even wish to embrace your wise counselor or mentor. Permission is given, and once again, you experience the incredible healing power of love.

(Pause one minute)

This wise being also has a special gift for you. Receive your gift now from the holy man or the wise woman.

(Pause one minute)

Receive your gift in fullness and in thankfulness. Wrap it around your heart also, if you wish, so that you may bring it back with you. Now bid farewell to this spiritual being, with the understanding that you may return here at any time you desire.

And now the dream fades and melts into the river of life with its everlasting waters, and brings you into your very own home, or dwelling place. It feels good to be here — to be back. In your home or on your land, you may wish to create a special place, a sacred place for rest and repose — of relaxation and peace. How do you do this? First, simply find a favorite place, a certain area or section that has a special meaning to you. Then, perhaps you can bring a candle or two, but even that is not necessary. Bring, perhaps, a shell that you once found — or someone gave you — from the seashore. Bring a special rock, a mineral or crystal. Bring a feather — bring anything you wish to your sacred place.

(Pause for one minute)

Surround yourself with the sacred objects of your life or reminders of other lives. Those sacred objects are called sacraments. Bring a picture of a friend or a loved one — a memento from some enchanted time or place — from a special vacation, perhaps. Bring a picture of a holy person, a sage, or a special healer. Bring a mirror so that you can look deeply into your soul. There are no rules; there are no regulations. When you create a family altar or a home temple, you bring whatever your heart inspires you to bring. Bring the gift that you Just received from your inner child. Bring also the gift that you received from your inner counselor. And if you wish, you may bring a loved one or a special friend to your sanctuary — Angels may come also. If you build it, if you will it, they will come.

(Pause for one minute)

This private sanctuary is where you come to reenergize — to center yourself, to focus on your ideals. It feels good to come here. It is a place where you take time to enjoy and to have fun. So I will be quiet now, so that you may envision - or mentally create - your sacred sanctuary.

(Pause for one minute)

And just imagine that this is already accomplished — that you already have built your sacred and special place. Now the dream melts into another dream — a dream within a dream — which is in yet another dream, the dream we call “life.” For is life not a dream?

And as you begin coming back from the dream, walking along the water’s edge, the songs of your youth echo deeply within. And it’s sometimes hard to realize when one dream ends and another begins —just as when one life ends and another begins. In just a short while after you end this current life, this life itself may seem like just a dream. What you perceive as reality may become nebulous and vague. Reality melts into the dream as dreams create your next reality. Even more amazing revelations may dawn in some future life. If you experience a regression in that life, you may wonder whether you are “just imagining” the current life.

Now it is time to begin returning to this interesting dream we call the present day — our current reality. Bring yourself up slowly. Bring back your special gifts. Bring back with you all that was helpful. Let the dreamer awaken. Just take all the time you wish.

E. Embracing Your Eternal Child — An Analysis

Writing the answers to these questions will bring further insights:

Now that you have completed this Inner Adventure, what are your feelings?

What did you bring back that can help you?

What did you process? What are your reflections?

Write what you’d like to investigate further. Would you like to talk to parents or any grandparents for confirmation of information?

What will you now DO with the information and insights?

What message and gift did your inner child give to you?

What was the message and gift of your mentor?

Will you actually build a home sanctuary or keep it at a symbolic level?

What did you receive in this session that you didn’t expect to receive?

Chapter VII

The Soul’s Remembrances

(Inner Adventure)

A. All Things to Your Remembrance

As we approach the beginning of a new century —and a new millennium — a grass-roots revolution is taking place in human consciousness. It is a peaceful revolution in human potential and spiritual vision, a revolution in healing the whole person — beyond what we experience in the physical and mental realms —which reaches into the heart of a deeper reality. As a part of this revolution, brave new plans are birthing, old institutions are dying, entire nations are turning, and people everywhere are growing. Change is everywhere; almost everything, as everyone, is experiencing profound changes. What was once feared is now open to the light of day.

My work is an exploration deep into the very soul of humanity itself. I feel fortunate to be a part of this healing revolution. I am a past-life researcher, and as such, I would like to share my unique perspective of a quest for discovery.

When I began this strange and wonderful career, the title of “past-life researcher” did not exist. My early goal to be a priest was nurtured as I grew up in a Catholic family, even as was my sister who has been a nun all of her adult life. We both were imbued with the idea that we could help humanity in a spiritual way. As a teenager and an avowed television watcher, I decided that the life of a detective was for me. Although that goal was never achieved, I have discovered that I am actually a detective of sorts, investigating clues, which involve the mysteries of time and of the soul. I sincerely pray that my work helps others to grow spiritually.

In spite of a thirty year search, I still have much to learn. In fact, it seems that my search is still just beginning. The secrets of the ages are not revealed in the blink of an eye in cosmic time. During those years I have gained much insight through exhaustive testing and research. Certain peak episodes have been experienced which I would like to share with you.

The belief in past lives is centuries old; but, the methods of testing and exploring this belief are modern. Edgar Cayce, probably the greatest psychic of modern times — if not of all time — gave life readings for hundreds of people. He is credited with hundreds of psychic readings in which he stated that each of those people had all experienced numerous lifetimes, and most would return again and again to the physical world. In a few readings he said that a certain soul had reached a proper state of development and need not incarnate again.

While in a psychic trance he stated repeatedly that we are far more than merely physical beings who possess a sense of identity or ego. He reported that we are immortal, spiritual beings who, from time to time, temporarily inhabit a physical body in the Earth plane. He suggested that an evaluation of one’s past lives would enable one to make better progress in the current life.

B. Spiritual Pioneering

Modern hypnosis now presents us with a relatively new method to explore the “inner space” which includes the heart, the mind and the uncharted sanctuary of our deeper selves. Past-life researchers, using a “mind awake, body asleep” state of consciousness, work to bring out Information and emotions that are already in one’s mind. Hypnotists are not magicians; we put nothing in, but simply draw out what is already there. That information may come from the present life, a past life, or even life seen from a future perspective.

Bringing a past problem or pattern into awareness is the first step. That way it can be encountered honestly and released, solving the problem or changing the pattern. In some cases this can be accomplished in one or two sessions. Often, multiple sessions are required to achieve complete success.

People vary widely in their responses to initial regression experiences. The secret is in the level of trust. For some, the vision is clear. Emotions and feelings are strong; even hearing and smelling are acute. Pictures unfold easily. For others, it is like looking through a glass darkly. It could take several sessions for some to accept themselves fully.

In those sessions people begin to fit together the jigsaw pieces of their puzzled pasts. But even most importantly, they discover the positive patterns of their own pasts, their eternal gifts, and the wonderful talents waiting deep within which they may not have recognized. There is far more depth to the human mind than we can possibly imagine.

Past-life memories are like gifts from the inner mind, or pieces of a puzzle. Regressionists work like Sherlock Holmes. They are meticulous detectives who search and assemble the clues of time and place. As disciplined detectives, they decipher and decode the territory of mind and its long-term memory. With time and work, one may fit the pieces of the past together to form a full picture.

Such insight does not “prove” a past life (or lives) to anyone but themselves. Attempting to verify the authenticity of past lives is like trying to prove the existence of love. Most people would agree that love exists; yet, how can it be proved? Can you explain why you love someone? Which of the five senses can you rely upon for evidence? If you cannot prove the existence of love, does this stop you from experiencing it? Furthermore, is it necessary for you to believe in love in order to share its rewards? Of course not! The real question is not proof, but spiritual evolvement. Love, like past-life memory, is simply to experience and to enjoy — to study, to learn, to utilize, and to grow.

Our research is controversial because the implications are so profound. If, in fact, we do live numerous lives, then our present actions and insights take on far more importance in long-term reality. Many are not ready for this responsibility. Thus, it is much easier for them to discount the entire concept. Avoidance requires little effort; it is always easier to discredit than to study and to learn.

C. Critical Mind or Compassionate Soul?

There is good reason for skepticism in all fields of science and discovery; but, equally essential is the need to be open-minded. Debunkers always have decried those who assert that they have lived before as someone famous. In my three decades of active regression and past-life exploration, not once have I encountered a person who reported being famous (or infamous) in a past life. The recalled experiences are, most often, those of common people performing everyday activities and leading normal lives.

Authentic past-life exploration is the study of the history of individuals, replete with the events, struggles, accomplishments, creations, foibles, and adventures of humanity. Everything in human experience comes to light in regression. The soul may have grown during terrible times, or stagnated in the best of times. The interrelationships among people can be the driving force that connects all events. The greatest discovery is that, at the level of mind, all people everywhere are interconnected, and all are similarly connected to God.

Although numerous therapists in the mental health field are rightly impressed with the healing aspects of regression therapy, for me, it is still, primarily, a work of the soul and spirit — one of demonstrating God’s great love for humanity. The immense popularity of past-life regression has been realized because people are discovering important new answers to ancient queries. The mind stands ready to yield great secrets, if relevant questions are asked. Each mind is like a time capsule — a vast treasure trove of wonder, experience, and expression.

Who can benefit from regression or progression? Anyone who has ever asked those two questions which beg for answers: “What did I do to deserve this?”, “Why am I going through this again?”, questions which, up until now, have been purely rhetorical. Today, using modern hypnoregression techniques, we may begin a search for the answers to those questions. The search requires vision and foresight. It can reward us with great insight and understanding. In my own search, I have gained knowledge and experience, and have attempted to refine my own skills and techniques toward the purpose of helping to guide others in their quests for discovery. It is a work of great responsibility, requiring total integrity for mending hearts and minds, and for healing ancient wounds.

Reading about new possibilities gives knowledge; studying gives purpose. Applying knowledge, along with purpose, brings wisdom. Wisdom can be gained only through experience — not in a classroom, nor from books — but only in real-life lessons of “Earth School.”

Beliefs once held as absolute truth in the past have changed as new knowledge is revealed. Unfortunately, there always will be those who, out of fear, ignorance, or foolishness, distrust new discoveries and resist change. Often, the very people who most loudly demand proof are those who adamantly refuse to see the truth when it is there before their eyes.

As we continue this great work of discovery, we must acknowledge all those pioneers who have gone courageously before us. It is with their spirit of adventure that we must strive to trace the pathways of the mind and to advance our understanding. Brave new trails are being opened into the heart of our deeper reality. I encourage you to venture deeply within your mind, to explore the highway of the soul. Approach the unknown with respect, high ideals, and trust in God.

D. Origins of Your Patterns

You may ask, “How can I learn from my past if I don’t remember it?” Or, “How can I learn from my mistakes if I don’t recall them?” Good questions. We could just as easily ask, “How are you linked to your ancestors even though you don’t remember them?” Or, “Where do our instincts come from?” Those questions could continue, but to what advantage? Those who accept the continuity of life need no further proof. Skeptics will continue to live by their codes of skepticism. Each is entitled to his or her own reality system.

The reality of past lives is not the most important question; the application of what is learned from the subconscious is of primary importance. How can this study help us to become happier, healthier and wiser individuals? How can this research lead us to the realization of our unconscious patterns, our talents or our shortcomings?

For myself, the work with past lives has been the most productive work over a lifetime. I cannot predict what it will or will not bring to you. If you acknowledge and appreciate whatever you are given —whether a little or a lot — then you open the door to more. For some people, the inner mind gives only a little at first, almost as a test to see what they will do with that information. In subsequent sessions, more and more is given.

With a few sessions completed, major patterns will begin to surface or will come to light. You will soon recognize those patterns as habits or beliefs from deep within yourself. Regressions are like spiritual evaluation sessions. They allow you to chart or to measure your progress in the Earth School continuing educational program.

E. Remembering Who You Are

Assuming that you have completed the chapters on IDEALS and EMBRACING YOUR ETERNAL CHILD, and have used your tapes, you are now ready for your third Inner Adventure - THE SOUL’S REMEMBRANCES. Here is an inner adventure that can bring fuller understanding of your higher self; the You that encompasses numerous lives and countless experiences.

The adventure progresses — there is a quickening and a feeling of excitement each time we take the sacred journey, deep within, to our stored memories. This is not a journey over distance or time, but a journey through the dimensions of your being. The pathway is TRUST, the purpose is forgiveness through enlightenment.

Regressions respond to the rhythmic beat of your ancient heart — they are the true “roots” of your deeper self. Progressions are the fruits of your tomorrows —even though those fruits are still buds. Progressions are the history of your future. They are your road to spiritual recovery: A HEALING JOURNEY.

F. Remembering the Future

Throughout history, people have been fascinated, tantalized, and awed by life’s greatest mystery: death. The inevitability of death and fear of its unknown aftermath bring apprehension and dread to many. What happens when one dies? What becomes of one’s identity, one’s personality, one’s ego, when the transition is made to the state of death? Many people fear that at death their identities will be annihilated and that the consciousness of being a unique individual will be lost forever. This mystery and the concerns that it causes have prompted virtually every civilization —from the ancient Egyptians and the early Eastern religions to those of modern times — to try to answer this question, hoping to provide comfort and reassurance to their followers.

Most religions teach that there is an existence after death, but not all agree on its form. There is no way to prove (or disprove) their teachings; belief has always been a matter of faith. In modern times, however, in spite of skepticism, and even hostility in some cases, several enlightened researchers have been making efforts to unravel this mystery and have had encouraging results. There are many documented cases which suggest that individuals have re-entered the physical world with memories of a past life. There are also thousands of documented cases of what is known as a “Near Death Experience,” in which people have been pronounced “clinically dead,” but then returned to their bodies reporting startlingly similar experiences, all suggesting that there is an existence beyond the material plane.

What can we do to improve our lives and to prepare better for the death experience and the life beyond? Hospice is a highly respected international organization of professionals and volunteers who assist people through the process of dying. In my training to be a hospice volunteer, I was taught that most of us wait until our final days to evaluate our lives. Sadly, at that stage it is too late to make many changes. Thanks to Dr. Milton H. Erickson, along with other pioneers and innovators in healing and hypnosis, people can now evaluate their lives while there is still time to do something constructive.

During the next guided exercise a safe, spiritual environment is created for maximum accomplishment. The exercise will take you on an extraordinary journey of discovery and enlightenment. It begins with a review of short-term present life events, and then proceeds to explore long-term, past-life memories. The past and present are assimilated through a dialogue for application and betterment. You are then guided safely to pre-view the future of your present life. Future insights or prophecies are “probabilities,” or “possibilities,” based upon your current ideals and directions. Future potentials can always be changed by your actions, decisions, and free will.

You also can choose to envision the events and circumstances that lead to your death, and even rise above the death experience itself. From this unique perspective, you honestly and wisely can evaluate the gains and losses of this lifetime.

Objectively studying your death experiences (both past-life and present-life future) allays any fear of death and teaches the “continuity of life.” Self-hypnosis, used spiritually, is one of the safest approaches to soul exploration — past, present, and future. This is an enriching adventure of self-discovery and spiritual purpose.

The following 14 steps will help you to understand the regression and progression procedure. Then, make your tape. You’ll need an hour length tape, or a tape that has 60 minutes on one side. Use your tape only about once a month, as you need ample time to assimilate the meaning and lessons of each session.

G. Accessing the Soul’s Remembrances

1. Inner Adventure — Procedure

This Inner Adventure begins with Age Regression exercises from your current life. Then you will proceed to a past-life that is pertinent and meaningful to your current work with Patterns. You will analyze the Soul Lessons and then complete the Forgiveness exercises.

Next you can explore present life in the future. If you wish to continue, you may progress to the death experience, not in a macabre manner, but as a healing and helpful exercise.

There are 14 basic steps in past-life exploration sessions. The depth level of self-hypnosis varies with each individual, as does the pace and timing. Everyone responds with his or her own temperament, style, and experience.

Here are the steps.

Each step flows naturally into the next:

1. Self-Hypnosis — entering your own relaxed, receptive, 100% natural level of mind. This experience belongs to YOU. You do the real work. You are in control. You accept or reject anything you wish.

Begin with progressive relaxation, relaxing first the head, then the rest of your body in sequence, working to the toes. This method first relaxes the head and mind — the rest of the body follows easily. As you count down, you easily reach your natural level of relaxation. This is the Alpha state; there is no hurry, so don’t rush.

2. Present-life Regression — you recall or process pleasant memories from your life, if possible. A few individuals have no pleasant memories. In this case one could recall youthful memories of family, friends, or of going to school.

There are two common types of recall: detached and total immersion. To illustrate each, you might recall stubbing a toe. In detachment you might say, “I remember that I stubbed my toe.” In Immersion you exclaim, “Ouch! I stubbed my toe!” — you relive the event.

Detached narrative is more frequent. Some people respond in both detached and immersed modes as they process information.

3. Prenatal Regression — you recall the time just before birth.

4. Blue Mist Experience — here you experience the dimension between your current life and a previous life. Many perceive it as a “blue mist,” others as a light of varying shades, yet others as a mist of different colors. Any way you perceive it is correct for you. Most people experience peace, detachment, and timelessness; a timeless place in a place-less time.

You may bring all things to your remembrance as you journey upon the “avenue of the heart.” This is a spiritual exercise, not an intellectual one. You’ll find much satisfaction and accomplishment in working with your emotional and spiritual memory.

5. Entering the Past Life — with your eyes closed, you mentally look down at your feet and note what you are wearing there, if anything. If you perceive several kinds of footwear, you may be trying to process several lives — choose one.

If your perceptions are predominantly visual in that life, you’ll SEE your feet. If more kinesthetic, you’ll FEEL what’s on your feet. If you’re more auditory, you’ll HEAR inner promptings or information.

Going slowly up the body, “What are you wearing? How does it look? How does it feel?”

6. Processing the Life — TRUST what you are now given, what you receive or perceive. Let the story tell itself; just “step aside” and allow the information to come in its own way, at its own pace.

There is no foretelling what life you will relive, nor your race, religion, gender, or personality. Each person has had many lives and has been different characters in each of them. Some have been notable and some notorious. Most were as ordinary as we are in our present life. Specific dates, places, and names are not as important as the major events of a life. More feeling and emotion are associated with significant events than with details of time, place or “coins of the realm.”

Simple open-ended questions prompt a wealth of information and clear memory. i.e. “What happens next?” “What’s going on now?” “What are you doing?”

7. Death Experience — a safe and positive way to complete the life’s memory. You detach from any physical pain or discomfort and view the actual death with calm and detachment. You may respond with curiosity and interest as you look down upon your lifeless face and body. Now comes a realization of spiritual immortality.

Some souls seem to linger for a while without knowing quite where to go or what to. Some go to a light, others have departed friends or family waiting for them. Some reported that after just a few days the lifetime started to seem as if it were just a dream. One woman drifted to her far-off childhood home, hoping to resolve childhood conflicts with her brother. Her spirit was seen by the brother, but he could not hear her.

8. Soul Lessons — the lessons learned from your deep past are the most important reasons for this work. The reasons for a life may be unclear, but the lessons and patterns profound. You may discover talents and values you have not recognized or appreciated. Many find reservoirs of generosity, patience, service, or other qualities for which they rarely give themselves credit. They come away with knowledge that builds understanding and self-esteem. Names and dates are only the bones of the past; soul lessons are the lasting gift of life.

9. Forgiveness — release anger and grief, allow spiritual and emotional traumas to heal with those exercises. This is a time to experience love and gratitude for past-life relationships with friends and lovers. Especially forgive those who have hurt you, or that you have hurt.

Mentally look into the eyes of each person from that life and send love and forgiveness. You bless them, release them and let them fade.

Take plenty of time for this important step, there is no rush. You may hold an inner dialogue to integrate past-life self with present-life self. Some people desire to give themselves a specific activity or task to help in forgiveness of self or of others. Any way you wish to do this is correct for you, as you are guided by your ideals and higher wisdom.

10. Return through Blue Mist — bringing back with you something special, a gift, a lesson learned, or a positive pattern realized.

11. Protective Suggestions — you retain in your conscious mind only that which is important, helpful, and beneficial. On rare occasions someone may choose to pass through a “veil of forgetfulness” and not bring back any conscious memory of the life.

12. Return to Present - Onward to Future — returning to current time and place; or, you may progress ahead in time. It is possible to gain valuable foresight in processing the present-life future, even evaluating the present life from the perspective of going beyond its completion. Patterns, lessons, and opportunities of the current life are examined. Future progression exercise is optional, included only if you wish to do it.

13. Wake-up Procedure — suggestions for total normalization, adapted to your own pace and well-being.

14. Discussion and Evaluation of Session - you were encouraged not to evaluate the information as it unfolds, but rather to save all self-analysis for discussion after the session. Treasure the gifts you were given from your deep memory; discuss your experience with close friends or loved ones.

In discussing the information, you may find that the door to your memory is still open. It is possible that more material from the past life may come to light at this time. For some, the door remains open for days or weeks. They may dream or daydream about the life. Keep a diary or journal of those memories for further insight and understanding.

If you fell asleep during the session, then learn from that mistake. Next time, use your most energetic part of the day to do this important work, even to the point of sitting up or kneeling in an uncomfortable position.

With time and patience, as you study your past-life lessons, you can analyze your patterns and help solve problems in your current life. Each regression session is a sacred experience — a true vision quest. The experience is uniquely personal and different for everyone. Evaluate the learning for yourself by using the “Personal Evaluation and Self-Study Sheets” at the end of this chapter. Then, and only then, should you accept the validity of your own experience. Most of all, ENJOY your adventures through time. Experience the sheer JOY of discovery.

Alter you experience your regression sessions, whether guided by self or another, you can begin the process of synthesis:

(a) First you observed the session or felt it or heard or perceived information and experiences and feelings.

(b) Now, you transcribe the information into a journal, diary, or onto the appropriate sheet at the end of this chapter, entitled, “Analyzing the Life.” Who were the people? What did they do? What did you do, when — in time — was the general era of your experience? Where was the location? What did you learn? What was the lesson? Whom did you forgive?

(d) If possible, you might investigate that specific era of history. Check your library for historical materials and other books related to that time or place.

(e) Finally, decide how you feel about the life itself. Do you recognize it inside you? Is it plausible, or even probable? What can you do to use this memory in your current life?

The time that you use now to apply those vital steps will be well spent. It will be exceedingly worthwhile, rich and valuable. You will notice the evidence in the positive results harvested in the months and years to come.

Also, feel free to talk. Share your memories and experiences with trusted and loving friends. Avoid discussing past-life memories with skeptics and disbelievers; you will find this an exercise in frustration. Share only with your dearest and most positive friends.

2. Inner Adventure — Exercise

(Read at about 1/3 your normal pace)

Before we start, make yourself comfortable in a place where you can relax without being disturbed for about an hour.

Now that you are ready, just look forward or upward; you may focus you eyes on a spot or you may choose not to focus your eyes. I am going to count down slowly from ten to one. With every descending number, just slowly blink your eyes, as if in slow motion, with every number.

Ten, that’s good, do it nice and slowly.

Nine, that’s good

Eight (2 second pause)

Seven (2 second pause)

Six (2 second pause)

Five (2 second pause)

Four (2 second pause

Three (2 second pause)

Two (2 second pause)

One.

Now just close your eyes, and I'll tell you why we did that exercise. We are going to do an exercise called progressive relaxation, where we simply relax the different parts of your body sequentially. That was just to relax your eyelids. Right now, isn’t there a feeling of relaxation, or a comfortable tired feeling in your eyelids? Whatever the feeling is, just allow that to multiply, to magnify, and to become greater. This is something that you do; nobody else can do it for you. So just take your time, and don’t be concerned if there is any little movement in your eyelids. That is called REM, or rapid eye movement, and it is a perfectly natural part of this experience.

Now, just allow that feeling of relaxation to move outward, as in imaginary waves or ripples, to the entire facial area. Just think about relaxing the face. Feel the relaxation going on outward to the entire head area, relaxing the head. Now let the relaxation flow down to your neck, to your shoulders, down the arms and into the hands, relaxing that entire area.

You travel toward the light, not on the pathway of the head or the intellect, but on the pathway of the heart and feelings. For through the avenue of the heart, all things are revealed to you. Soon you come into the light. The light comes in through the top of your head and fills your entire being with light. The light heals you, it surrounds you and protects you, and you feel the life energies throughout your entire being.

You take a deep breath now. You go beyond the Blue Mist and find yourself at a still earlier time. You look downward and place your feet firmly on the earth in fullness of strength. This happens quite automatically, without any effort or forethought on your part. Simply allow it to happen.

As you step firmly onto the earth in fullness of strength, mentally look down and note what you are wearing on your feet. What do you perceive on your feet? (Pause one minute) Going slowly up your body, note what you are wearing. How does it look or feel? Feel the texture, see the colors. (One minute pause) TRUST the impressions that you receive, even though it might seem like imagination, at first.

Do you have anything on your head? (Pause) Do you have anything in your hands? (Pause) What gender are you? (Pause) What are you doing? How do you feel? Let the story tell itself.

(Pause for one minute)

Now in your mind’s eye, slowly look around the place where you are standing, and make a mental note of what you see. Look around and note what you perceive. Again, I'll be quiet while you make a complete turn, looking in all directions about you, making a note of the important things that you see. Process the information and record it so you can bring it back later.

(Pause one minute).

Note your home or dwelling place. (one minute).

And now, you may look for other people, or a time when you feel yourself near or with other people. Make a note of the people, your impressions, and feelings. Perhaps there is someone special, someone with whom you have a close bond, an affinity, or a strong connection.

(Pause one minute)

Now look for some vehicle of transportation, something you might have ridden on or in, something that feels familiar when you sit in or on it. Or note anything that others are using for transportation. Make a note of the methods of transportation.

(Pause one minute)

At this time you might also wish to taste some food. What are you eating? Can you smell the food cooking? Can you taste it? Make a note of it; record the information.

(Pause one minute)

Now, if you listen carefully, you may hear your own name being spoken by a friend or someone calling out to you. What do they call you? What is your work or profession? What are you learning?

(Pause one minute)

As you look for clues, can you tell what land this is? Perhaps you can perceive what century or what period this is. Record this information. (Pause)

Now move to the time of an important event in your life, a significant episode. Note what is happening. (Pause) What do you see or feel? (Pause) Do you hear any sounds, or notice any smells? (Pause one minute) Move now to the next important event or another significant time in that life. What is happening now? (Pause) What are you doing? (Pause one minute)

You may move now to the event and circumstances that lead to your death, and to the death experience itself. Detach yourself from any physical pain or discomfort but note the events and the death experience, itself. (Pause one minute) As you pass from that life, you may float safely and gently above your body and above the life, going to that timeless place and placeless time where all things are revealed clearly in all their fullness.

From this higher perspective, what were the lessons you learned from this life? (Pause) How did you grow? (Pause) What could you have done better? (Pause) What brought you the greatest happiness or fulfillment in the life? (Pause) What caused the most sadness or hurt? (Pause) What did you learn or accomplish in that life that can help you in your present life? (Pause)

In light of those new discoveries and understanding, please relay a message from your past-life self to your present-life self. What does your past-life self wish to communicate to the present-life self? (Pause) In return, give a message from your present-life self to your past-life self. (Pause) What does the present you say to that part of your past? (Pause)

What task or activity could you perform in your current life that would help to heal and to balance that life? (Pause one minute)

Now look into the eyes of that past-life self from your present eyes and send your blessings, your love, and your compassion. (Pause) Bless that part of you and let it fade. Look also into the eyes of everyone you saw, those you have loved, that person who was special to you, and send love. And as you do this important step, as you bless them and send them your love, release them, let them fade. As they fade, let them go as they bless and forgive you. Let the veil slowly drop. Allow the curtain to close slowly. Allow a full healing of that life and that time. (Pause one minute)

Now as you prepare for the journey back, you will bring back with you only that which is helpful and beneficial for you in this life. Bring back something holy or special — a gem of wisdom, but only what you want. You may release other feelings, memories, or impressions now, and retain in your conscious mind only that which is important, helpful, and beneficial for you to retain at this time.

Now slowly you return through the Blue Mist, traveling on the avenue of the heart, where all things are revealed to you through that warm and safe place where nothing can harm you — returning through the levels of your mind and bringing back the information that you have recorded. Slowly come back through the years into what we call the present life.

Now move forward in time to five years from now. (Give the current date.) What is happening now? (Pause) What do you see? What do you feel? What is going on? (Pause) Now move forward to ten years from now. It is now ten years later than the current year, trust the impressions. What are you doing? (Pause) What is happening?

(Pause) Move on forward to the time of an important event in your life beyond 2010. What are you doing? (Pause) What is happening? (Pause one minute)

The final exercise is optional, only if you wish to do it. You have full understanding and realization that death is merely the next step in every life. With this understanding, if you wish, you may move to the events and circumstances leading to your death. What are the events and circumstances that lead to your death and the death experience? (Pause one minute) now as you review your present life from beyond death, what was a pattern or lesson of this life? (Pause 30 seconds) How did you gain or grow in this life? (Pause 30 seconds) How did you lose, or what could you have done better? (Pause 30 seconds) What brought you the greatest happiness or fulfillment? (Pause 30 seconds) What caused you the most sadness or hurt? (Pause 30 seconds) What were your greatest strengths — what worked well? (Pause 30 seconds)

Remember this information so that you may bring it back with you in order that it may be of help and betterment in your eternal journey, in your evolution through time and timeless time.

It is now time for you to return to what we call the present time, this day and this place. As you return, realize that you have done very well. You have opened in trust and thankfulness. In a little while, I'll count from one to ten. As I count, reorient yourself fully into the present, and at the count of ten you will be wide-awake, refreshed, feeling better than before.

I'll count very slowly:

One, stepping firmly and fully into the present.

Two, feel total normalization at every level of your being.

Three, feel the life energies returning to your extremities.

Four, you may wish to move your hands, feet, or neck.

Five

Six

Seven, coming up to your full potential.

Eight, reenergizing.

Nine, Revitalized, and

Ten, slowly open your eyes. You are wide awake, wide awake. Welcome back!

Now it’s time to synthesize the information you received. Gather your subconscious memories and put them into written form. The process of writing them will help to open even more impressions and feelings, and it will sharpen your recall. You could draw or sketch scenes or objects that you saw.

Later, when you can evaluate that information, you can begin the process of slowly and wisely changing your behaviors. Changing behaviors will change patterns. Take realistic steps, proceeding from a place of strength based upon your new-found knowledge and guided by your ideals.

Adventures Into Time Publishers

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