#Consciousness Studies

[frank-olivier]

In the interview, Dr. Burkes shares his experiences with using mental techniques such as visualization and meditation to initiate visual contact with UAPs. He reports having had two-way communication with glowing orbs and lights in the sky, as well as instances of missing time. These claims are certainly intriguing and raise questions about the nature of consciousness and the possibility of non-human intelligence. Dr. Burkes’ conclusion that the intelligences behind the UAP phenomena are capable of manipulating human consciousness and belief systems is a significant one. It suggests that these entities, if they exist, may have a profound impact on human perception and understanding of reality. This idea is both fascinating and unsettling, as it challenges our conventional understanding of the world and our place within it.

Joseph Burkes: Human Initiated Contact Experiences (Jeffrey Mishlove, New Thinking Allowed, March 2019)

Friday, April 18, 2025

[raffaellopalandri]

Cognition Enclosed: Agency, Attention, and the Architecture of Thought in the Age of Algorithmic Capture

We often think of our thoughts as ours. Photo by Google DeepMind on Pexels.com As private, sovereign, and untouched. But what if that’s no longer true? What if, without realising it, the architecture of our minds has been quietly reshaped by the apps we open first thing in the morning, the feeds that anticipate our desires, the notifications that punctuate our days? I wrote this piece not just…

[wickedzeevyln]

The Mind

The mind is a billion-dollar database, the most sophisticated biological device in the known universe. It archives, deciphers, and reconstructs fragmented thoughts with an efficiency that puts supercomputers to shame. It is a master craftsman of patterns, an unseen architect that assembles meaning from chaos, often before we even realize it. Our consciousness, bloated with self-importance, takes…

[shamanflavio]

Shamanism: A Journey Through the Mind, Body, and Spirit Connection

Shamanism, a spiritual practice that spans across various cultures and epochs, serves as a profound testament to the universality of human psychobiological experiences. Through the lens of Winkelman’s (2002) research, we can understand shamanism not merely as a cultural artifact but as a manifestation of innate brain processes, representational systems, and psychophysiological dynamics inherent…

[apricustar]

when it comes down to it, when you're really, truly in love, it's about stepping into their life and everything that comes with that--mess and all.

this is the undeniable truth laying the foundation of buddie--the undeniable truth they've woven throughout all the current canon couples. it's a ribbon that's threaded through both buck and eddie's respective list of failed relationships.

in a lot of ways, love is an unfolding—not an undoing, but an unfurling: the slow, achingly tender process of being known, and knowing in turn. it’s feeling safe enough to open yourself up entirely. to love and be loved is to be at rest, at peace; it is not a performance or something you perfect. it is allowing someone to witness your pain, your chaos, your history—and not turning away when they do the same.

take maddie and chimney: from the very beginning, he doesn’t flinch at the weight she carries—doesn’t try to fix it or rush it. he simply stays. he isn’t swayed by the shadow of doug—not even when the shadow becomes far more real. he meets her where she’s at, even when all she has to offer him is friendship. he never asks her to be more than she can give. he’s there—consistent, dependable, loving in his safety and presence. she takes a step, he is right there, taking his cues from her; from everything she says, and everything she doesn’t.

so much of bobby and athena’s love is rooted in mutual understanding, in the depth of the pasts they carry, but i think one of their most raw moments comes when we learn about athena’s ex-fiancé. we know athena to be a powerhouse: independent, fierce, and capable. she gets shit done on her own. she is her own partner. and we see bobby struggle a bit with fitting into that space—with finding his footing in a relationship where the other person doesn’t naturally lean on him. but bobby? bobby doesn’t try to force his way in. his love is in his patience; similar to chim, it’s in his dependable nature and consistent presence. he waits, he listens, he offers himself; and knowing athena as he does, he gives her what he knows she needs even when she herself can’t, or won’t, ask for it. when the case is finally solved, it’s bobby she goes to, whose arms she breaks down in. there’s is an intimacy born from quiet knowing and learning. love, here, is not about rescuing—it’s about witnessing. and staying.

karen and hen!!! again, so many different moments i could bring up. but the one i thought of while first thinking about this post was when we get the background of their relationship—specifically with denny. when hen tells karen she didn’t say no to eva, karen leaves; not because she doesn’t love hen, but because she isn’t ready for the gravity of that choice, for the responsibility that comes with it. and still, when all is said and done, she comes back. love isn’t linear. there isn’t always a clear-cut answer to things. karen returns, ready to choose all of hen, not just the easy parts. and in doing so, they build something solid. they co-parent. they raise denny. they navigate life together, as partners.

so, buddie. what’s wild is that this exact pattern—the showing up, the choosing, the stepping into the mess—it’s been baked in since day one. it is an integral facet of their entire relationship!!!!!!!! from the moment buck helped save the guy with a bomb in his leg during eddie’s first shift, they have each other’s backs. without fault, without expectation.

this is truly set in motion when buck gives carla to eddie. he bears witness to eddie’s problems with finding childcare and doesn’t hesitate to step in and offer a solution that is deeply personal to him. carla isn’t just a recommendation—she’s someone buck trusts, someone who supported him through his own mess. and he hands that over to eddie, because that’s what buck does. he sees a need and he fills it. he steps into the chaos, into the overwhelm, and with his actions says: you don’t have to do this alone.

and eddie accepts it!!! not just carla—but buck’s presence. his help. his heart. and from there, it builds on both sides. not in grand, sweeping gestures, but in steady, consistent moments of being there. of knowing each other’s silences. of anticipating needs. of showing up. of existing together in life’s most happy and sad and scary and terrible moments and knowing being together is better than doing any of this shit alone.

over the course of 7 seasons, they’ve built a life around one another without ever needing to define it. and isn’t that the most honest kind of love? the kind that just is, because you’ve chosen each other so fully, so completely, that no other reality makes sense?

this isn’t subtext. it’s not speculation. it’s the same emotional blueprint we’ve seen over and over in canon couples: vulnerability, mutual care, mess, and the willingness to stay anyway. and buck and eddie? they’re already living it!!!

and that’s why it feels inevitable. because the show has always told us that real love is about staying through the hard stuff, about choosing someone every single day, especially when it’s not easy. love is partnership—being there through it all and helping one another heal. it’s a willingness to hold space for each other’s vulnerability; a willingness to grow and learn together.

like thomas told buck back in season 2, a real love is not something you found, but something you made. buck and eddie have been making it all along.

[knightforflowers]

You are spontaneous, both in character and in origin. You set out on a mission to discover the world and discover yourself, and you have completed that mission with aplomb. So. Now I ask you...what do you want now?

I— want to help my friends.

[gerardwaysoggytowel]

Favorite tweets from just scrolling aimlessly because I miss this guys stream of thoughts:

[tears-of-taelia]

How many times have we done this, Interceptor? You betrayed me at one point.

composition

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Magic for the college witch

In honor of finding out I am set to graduate in December with my associates in science I have decided to celebrate with you all by sharing my tips and tricks I used to help pass some of my classes! Each tip will be sorted into circumstances as to where they may be applicable. Please enjoy, and congrats to all my future grads!

Reminder: In dorms and such you wont have access to many tools, but if your living in an apartment things are less strict. every time you see candles and such if you live in a dorm replace it with either electric candles or even colored stones you can rub together or place in a grid!

Registering for classes

Often times we try to register for classes as soon as possible, especially when you are an incoming freshman. When it comes to getting accepted and starting the process congrats your here.

Set up registering appointments on lucky number days, during the new moon, or on Mondays and Thursdays because those times represent readiness and preparation

Manifest getting good classes and teachers by sending off a prayer out to the universe

Do divination when registering opens to see if a teacher is a good fit or not (Also check out rate my professor)

If you are having trouble establishing classes, or just cant seem to get that *one* class you need, light a blue candle and put mint at the base of it to promote an opening

If your facing a situation where you are trying to get into an exclusive class (this also works if your presenting a thesis) put a sugar packet under your tongue to sweeten your words and make you more convincing

Getting to class on time

The commute anywhere can be a really hard thing to do, whether your commuting from a dorm to a classroom or city to campus it can be hard to be on time or find the motivation to show up to class

To motivate yourself to go to class keep a carnelian under your pillow to help you rise in the morning

Keep a consistent schedule, not only is this helpful psychologically but magically consistency helps build up magical energy towards motivation

enchant your walking shoes (or get heelies) to put pep in your step and always be on time when walking. You can optionally put a sigil in your shoe

enchant cars to avoid red lights by charging your keys in full moon light

Light a green candle before important days to make sure your morning commute runs smoothly

Setting up magical space in the dorms

Most dorms don't allow things like candles or flames, heaters, strip lights, etc. With this in mind people assume it must be hard to create a magical space without some of the key items, but we do have solutions!

Instead of regular candles, use electric ones as votives on deity altars

Instead of incense use MILD essential oil diffusers like lava stones in the corners, or a defuser. Bonus points if you use a dehumidifier

Chances are you wont have a lot of space, so opt for small placements on desks via mini figures and small stones

Set up sachets around your space and put them in clothing areas, not only do they smell good and keep moths away, they act as magical protection

Start working on energy based practices like meditation or enchantments with only your body

Navigating relationships

College can be a hard time, your adjusting to life without the friends you grew up with, most people start their dating life, and friends begin to come and go as you go through classes. Don't restrict what you experience

When you brush your teeth, enchant it to represent you 'speaking your truth' and 'biting back' so your protected from people who have bad intentions or are deceptive

When at parties and such put a sigil of protection on your left thigh, this represents protection from people looking to harm you

blow cinnamon at your door, or use a light cinnamon essential oil wash to invite new people and opportunities

Keep amber under your pillow or by photos to maintain friendships and help you let go of ones that no longer serve you

wear silver to repel energy vampires or people who are looking to use you

Studying success

Studying and how effective it is will depend on you and how you like to study, there are hundreds of posts online that look at how to find your study style, this more focuses on magic you can do for memory retention

Chew mint gum during studying AND during your test for memory recall

Draw sigils on your physical flash cards to make the information easier to retain

On the third of each month save that day to brush up on all information from the class, not only does this prep you for the final but this day is Athenas ritual day

Study the most on Wednesdays as they represent wisdom

Use a shungite worry stone during studying and testing to help keep your mind focused and stress free before tests

Test taking

Test taking can be a really hard part of college, I know it was for me. We do a lot of things to help prepare but what can we do during a test?

Create a sigil of good luck on top of your exam

Wear green on exam days

Eat and drink something enchanted (I swear by a snickers and a red bull) before a test for good luck

Create a superstition like a lucky shirt or pair of socks after your first good exam grade

Wear gold accessories to enhance your test taking skills, and speed up your test (Great when you are being timed)

Mental Health

Your mental health in college is very important, it can be hard being separated from your home town or family and just know that it does get better. College is a mix of emotions, from the loneliest point in your life, to the most social. You will be navigating new challenges, new feats, and its important to take care of yourself. Seek out the college mental health resources available to you like counseling as needed. you matter!

Use words of affirmations when you wake up and before you sleep to remind yourself you matter, my favorite is from the help "You is smart, you is kind, you is important"

Carry rose quartz and carnelian on you for self love and energy

Before bed drink lavander tea for rest and revitalization

Pray over your food to nourish your spirit as you go through college

Write down letters and petition to the universe for stability and how you feel.

I hope you all have enjoyed! Again, congrats to all my future grads, and I hope you all can come with me as I journey to getting my bachelors

Tip Jar

[maream2636]

2025.29.4

Hello everyone, I haven't updated for a long time, and that's because I was negligent, no excuses, and currently I have exams that start on 12/5, and I have little time and a lot of subjects, and I have accepted that I won't finish them.. I had a panic attack a few days ago, and as a result, my whole body was itching and pimples were everywhere, as if I had an allergy, and it turned out that it was due to stress. I asked myself why I was doing this, and if I didn't complete a subject and if I didn't succeed, nothing would change. As for future plans, this is a phrase that makes me laugh because my previous plans didn't include any of what I am experiencing now. I am not saying that my situation is bad, but it is not planned, so I will do what I have to do today and leave tomorrow alone

So:

1. Completing the pituitary gland file

2. Thyroid gland

3. The effect of calcium with their ministerial questions

Despite the limited time, I chose to review the five files (their total number is 14, and I studied five) that I studied because trying to fully understand a section is better than completing it without understanding, but I don’t know if I am slow or if there is a lot of material, but I will try to adopt summaries. My problem is really in English words because my curriculum is in English, and it is not my mother tongue, so studying is slower and more difficult.

[frank-olivier]

The Illusion of Objectivity: Challenging Traditional Views of Reality

Donald Hoffman's groundbreaking research and theories fundamentally challenge our understanding of reality, consciousness, and perception. By positing that consciousness is the foundational aspect of the universe, rather than a byproduct of physical processes, Hoffman's work has far-reaching implications that transcend disciplinary boundaries. This paradigm shift undermines the long-held assumption that our senses, albeit imperfectly, reflect an objective world, instead suggesting that our experience of reality is akin to a sophisticated virtual reality headset, constructed by evolution to enhance survival, not to reveal truth.

The application of evolutionary game theory to the study of perception yields a startling conclusion: the probability of sensory systems evolving to perceive objective reality is zero. This assertion necessitates a reevaluation of the relationship between perception, consciousness, and the physical world, prompting a deeper exploration of the constructed nature of reality. Hoffman's theory aligns with certain interpretations of quantum mechanics and philosophical idealism, proposing that space, time, and physical objects are not fundamental but rather "icons" or "data structures" within consciousness.

The ramifications of this theory are profound, with significant implications for neuroscience, cognitive science, physics, cosmology, and philosophy. A deeper understanding of the brain as part of a constructed reality could lead to innovative approaches in treating neurological disorders and enhancing cognitive functions. Similarly, questioning the fundamental nature of space-time could influence theories on the origins and structure of the universe, potentially leading to new insights into the cosmos. Philosophical debates around realism vs. anti-realism, the mind-body problem, and the hard problem of consciousness may also find new frameworks for resolution within Hoffman's ideas.

Moreover, acknowledging the constructed nature of reality may lead to profound existential reflections on the nature of truth, purpose, and the human condition. Societal implications are also far-reaching, with potential influences on education, emphasizing critical thinking and the understanding of constructed realities in various contexts. However, these implications also raise complex questions about free will, agency, and the role of emotions and subjective experience, highlighting the need for nuanced consideration and further exploration.

Delving into Hoffman’s theories sparks a fascinating convergence of science and spirituality, leading to a richer understanding of consciousness and reality’s intricate, enigmatic landscape. As we venture into this complex, uncertain terrain, we open ourselves up to discovering fresh insights into the very essence of our existence. By exploring the uncharted aspects of his research, we may stumble upon innovative pathways for personal growth, deeper self-awareness, and a more nuanced grasp of what it means to be human.

Prof. Donald Hoffman: Consciousness, Mysteries Beyond Spacetime, and Waking up from the Dream of Life (The Weekend University, May 2024)

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

[nelkcats]

Case Study: Gotham

Seeing all the trouble that the ghosts had caused that year and how much they had affected his city, as a final project for the class, Mr. Lancer let his students investigate a haunted city, and see if it was really haunted or if they were just simple rumors.

It would probably have been considered unethical or dangerous a few months earlier, but in that case they had an important help: the ghosts. Now that they were at peace, and the GIW had been kicked out of Amity (literally, Danny didn't know how, but they couldn't get in, or near the ghosts in general) many of them offered to help with the investigation. Probably to combat their own boredom.

Of course, Danny chose the most rumored city of all: Gotham. He didn't know much about Gotham, as Amity preferred to isolate itself from the outside world and deal with it's own problems, but the stories had reached his ears. Sudden deaths, living cities, crazy clowns, shadow bats and more.

He asked some friends for help and they headed to the city. It was part of his project to explore after all. What he didn't expect was a zombie (was it a zombie or not?) walking in his direction very slowly. He got into a defensive position but the zombie... just steal a tire from Johnny's motorcycle, before start laughing and crying.

That was how he met Jason Todd. And accidentally regained his consciousness. He unfortunately didn't have time to focus on it, so he just dragged him into his investigation.

[turiyatitta]

Universal Consciousness

The Unity of All ExistenceIn philosophy and spirituality, the concept of a universal consciousness presents a fascinating and thought-provoking perspective. This idea posits that consciousness pervades every aspect of the universe – from the smallest atom to the vastest galaxy, and even across dimensions beyond our immediate perception. This universal consciousness is not just a passive observer;…

[mariocki]

RIP Rachel Herbert (5.1.1935 - 7.3.2025)

"[On speaking a fictional language in The Prisoner:] It gives you - not to have words, which people know the meaning of - it actually gives you an added power because you're putting all your meaning through something which they don't know [...] What they receive is the impetus of what you're doing, so what you're putting over is what you feel, what you mean, it doesn't matter about the word-meaning, that's not there anymore. It's quite fun. In a way."

[tardistective]

just went through all five stages of grief when the phrase “and if it begins anywhere, it begins here” popped into my head and I was like huh wonder what book or fic that’s from! so I googled it and. its. it’s uh. um.

[starstruckodysseys]

running circles around everyone you know —

completed, 1.1k words

There’s a lot of things Dang’s not good at, but running? He’s been doing that his entire goddamn life.

(or: what are choices to an action movie hero? what’s an action movie hero to a regular ass guy?)

read here on ao3