NDENewsBlog

Ken Ring NDE Research Project & OBE Article

2012-05-05T15:09:00.001-05:00

***Ken Ring is back again, with a new research project. He has joined up with Cheryl Fracasso, Ph.D. (Saybrook University) and Harris Friedman, Ph.D. (University of Florida) - Ken is affiliated with University of Connecticut - to tackle the anomalous aftereffect of near-death states - electrical sensitivity. The invitation:

“We would like to invite you to participate in a study dealing with some of the physical aftereffects and sensitivities of near-death experiences. This research simply involves completing some questionnaires and possibly a follow-up interview over the telephone. If you would be interested in participating, please click on the link below, which will take you directly to the survey site:

www .surveymonkey .com /s /69 QP 5CM

“Should you have any questions, please e-mail us at NDEresearch @hotmail .com or info @near -deathexperienceresearch .com

This is a very important study. Please participate!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks.

***There is a wonderful article on near-death, entitled “Near death, explained: New Science is shedding light on what really happens during out-of-body experiences -- with shocking results.” This article is by Dr. Mario Beauregard, and can be found at:

www .salon .com /2012/04/21/near _death _explained /singleton

Dr. Beauregard did not go far enough for me, but he did establish research details that any skeptic will find difficult to counter. His article was excerpted from the HarperOne book: The Brain Wars: The Scientific Battle Over the Existence of the Mind and the Proof That Will Change the Way We Live Our Lives. New cases and new research are proving that the scientific understandings we have at present about the brain/mind are false.

***The Internet is really buzzing about claims of a former Buddhist Monk in Myanmar that, during his near-death experience in July of 2011, he saw Buddha in Hell. I do not know the details of this case, but I do think that it is wise to know something about the experiencer’s life before, what caused the episode, and something of his or her culture, language constraints, and before-and-after belief system. It could be that Buddha’s appearance to this man could have been comforting - showing him that even in the most negative conditions, help is there. Or it could have been a warning to him about how he practiced his religion and under what conditions. We cannot jump to conclusions with near-death states. The more we know about conditions, the better able we are to grapple with possible meanings.

A Free Seminar

2012-02-22T18:26:00.007-05:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

*** There are so many articles about near-death experiences appearing in newspapers, seemingly across the land, that I can hardly keep up with them. I suggest that you also access the News Section of my website at www.pmhatwater.com for links to my E-News, Facebook and Twitter pages.

 ***  One particular seminar coming up  on March 6, 12:45 PST, is online and it's free.  "The Keys to a Joyful, Healthy Life," features 40 leading experts - among them Gordon Davidson, Joan Borysenko, Dan Millman, Dr. Bernie Siegel, and many others.  And you can listen in. Register in advance (registration is also free) at:  https://shiftnetwork.infusionsoft.com/go/wowGD/gdavid/.

 ***  Don't forget the Afterlife Conference to be held in Virginia Beach,  VA, March 9-10-11.  Contact info@afterlifeconference.com.

Gary "Cody" Johnson, The Voyage of Purpose, and an NDE Handbook for Clinicians

2012-01-13T19:32:00.001-05:00

*** Gary “Cody” Johnson passed away on December 18th. Cody was a renaissance man and maverick who founded The Prophets Conference, The Great Mystery online programs, and many other events down through the years that made an incredible difference to thousands of people. His own life was turned around by a near-death experience. After that he dedicated his life to the transformation of consciousness – to help the conscious evolution of humanity. His wife, Robin, plans to continue some of his programs.

*** David Bennett has appeared on “George Noory’s Coast-to-Coast AM Radio” on Wednesday, January 11. The two talked about David’s book, Voyage of Purpose – an important book, not only because it describes what “killed” David, but what he went through integrating the aftereffects of his near-death episode. Few near-death books go into the aftereffects like David’s does. Consult the archives of Coast-to-Coast for a replay of this show.

*** Finally, there is a near-death book for clinicians. There has never been one before, so this is very important. The book is Making Sense of Near-Death Experiences: A Handbook for Clinicians, edited by Mahendra Perera, Karuppiah Jagadheesan, and Anthony Peake. Published by Jessica Kingsley: London and Philadelphia, 2012. Please, buy a copy for your doctor, clinics and hospitals, for mental health-care professionals, educators, nurses, any and everyone connected with physical/mental health-care and educational efforts. I feel so strongly about this book that I am having it posted on my website Home Page, as a permanent entry. Clinicians need to know about this book. It is relatively small, so should not be a reading issue for anyone.

NDErs Spiritual Retreat, Earth Video, and Books of Interest

2011-12-10T11:07:00.004-05:00

You can sign up now for the NDErs Spiritual Retreat, to be held at the Mercy Center, St. Louis, MO, April 27-30, 2012. Spaces for only 25 people exist, so sign up as soon as you can. These Retreats are incredible. Register at http://neardeathexperiencers.org. Should you need more info, contact Linda A. Jacquin at jacadv@centurytel.net, or Bill Taylor at wmmtaylor@gmail.com, or David Bennett dharmadb@mac.com, or Sinead Wilder srwilder@comcast.net. I have been to one of these, and there is nothing else like them, anywhere!

For a stunning YouTube-type video on the earth, and it’s free, access www.youtube.com/embed/nGeXdv-uPaw.

Three important books:

"Science and Psychic Phenomena: The Fall of the House of Skeptics,” Chris Carter. Rochester, VT; Inner Traditions, 2012.
"Dark Light Consciousness: Melanin, Serpent Power, and the Luminous Matrix of Reality," Edward Bruce Bynum, Ph.D. Rochester, VT; Inner Traditions, 2012
"The Last Lecture," Randy Pausch. New York, NY; Hyperion Books, 2008.

Atwater Monthly Newsletter - it’s free. Sign up on my website at www.pmhatwater.com. Content varies. I’ll have a big announcement to make in the next several months. Yup, another book. No, it’s not about near-death. Surprise!!!

Spiritual Retreats, Leaders, & Publications

2011-11-19T15:59:00.001-05:00

*** SPECIAL: News about the Annual Spiritual Retreat for Near-Death Experiencers has now been released. Dates are April 27-30, 2012. Starts Friday April 27th at dinner and ends Monday April 30th at noon. To be held at the Mercy Center in St. Louis, Missouri. For more information, please contact David Bennett at
(315) 350-9900, dharmadb@mac.com. The committee putting this on, besides David Bennett, consists of Linda A. Jacquin, Bill Taylor, and Sinead Wilder.

*** The Watkins Review in London, England, has released their list of the 100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People. The Dalai Lama was #2, Deepak Chopra #5, Nelson Mandela #19, the Pope #34, and best-selling author Eckhart Tolle at #l. For more information, access www.marketwire.com/press-release/-1418721.htm.

*** Anita Moorjani’s book about her near-death experience comes out next year. Here’s the title: “Dying to be Me: My Journey from Cancer to Near Death, to True Healing." Publisher, Hay House, Carlsbad, CA, 2012.

*** If you have not signed up already for my free monthly newsletter, please do. You’ll find that section on my website at pmhatwater.com. Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

NDE Research

2011-10-12T12:56:00.001-05:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS

There are several NDE research opportunities you can participate in. Take your pick -

Electromagnetic Aftereffects:

Contact Cheryl Fracasso, M.S. She is working on her Doctoral Thesis for Saybrook University. This is not the same project being done by Dr. Bruce Greyson. This is another one, equally important. Contact her at cherylfracasso@hotmail.com for details. This study runs between 10-1-11 and 9-1-12. So, you can easily jump in now.

Parenting and Survey Issues:

Ryan Rominger, Ph.D. has two assistants for this duo-study. One concerns Near-Death Experiences and Parenting. For this contact Jennifer Hill, Ph.D. at Jennifer.Hill@myitp.itp.edu or call her at (727) 772-3888. You may also contact Dr. Rominger. The other covers Surveys and their appropriate use. Contact him at rrominger@itp.edu or call him at (650) 219-5016 or (650) 493-4430, extension 7309.

Dr. Moody’s latest book is causing quite the buzz

The book is Glimpses of Eternity. In it he establishes a new mode of study, as concerns “shared-death experiences.” I have written quite a bit about this phenomenon and show you how to participate in one (under the heading of empathic experiences), in my book The Big Book of Near-Death Experiences. There is more and more coming out, now that more people are reporting being able to accompany their loved one as the individual dies. Yes, these journeys automatically stop once individuals go as far as they can (so there’s no fear of “going too far”). Still, for those who share their loved ones death, their lives are forever changed.....almost as if they had undergone a near-death experience themselves. These are powerful shared journeys, that are changing how we regard life as well as death.

No longer discussed...

Is that most near-death episodes that happen to women occur during or because of birth, miscarriage, rape, or hysterectomies. Most of the data collected today comes from research with cardiac patients - because it’s easier to do and because verifications come naturally from the machinery hooked up to the patients. This is skewing figures, research papers, and the material available to experiencers. One person very concerned about this is Eileen Tapper-McKelvey. A particular project she has undertaken concerns miscarriages and how the NDE that occurred affects the woman involved. Since all three of mine followed in fairly quick order after a miscarriage, I am acutely aware of the effects. Eileen has designed “The B.I.R.T.H Model Curriculum for Miscarriage Bereavement” as a result. It consists of a book entitled Into the Clear Blue Sky, articles, therapy protocols, classes, discussion groups, etc. She needs help increasing the scope of this project. Please contact her if you want to participate, have ideas to share, or access to funding. Eileen’s e-mail eltapper@yahoo.com . This project is well-done yet needs a little kick-start to involve more people and expand the program. Do get a hold of Eileen.

The Afterlife Awareness Conference

This conference slated for March 9 through 11 in Virginia Beach, VA will be huge. The cast of speakers is among the best I have seen for this topic, authentic talent of exceptional skill and heart. Contact Terri Daniel about registering at info@afterlifeconference.com . Website is www.AfterlifeConference.com.

One more announcement

Susan Babcock notified me that the global movement for peace that began in September has morphed into the growing movement about corporate greed. Their goal is to connect with 144,000 world peacemakers in every country by October 28th - just two weeks away. There will be sacred ceremonies all over our planet on 11-11-11 to change world consciousness. You can participate in this. Link to www.prweb.com/releases/2011/10/prweb8867419.htm . Please do what you can.

A Reply to Scientific American

2011-09-24T19:27:00.001-05:00

On September 12th, Scientific American Magazine carried an article by Charles Q. Choi, entitled “Peace of Mind: Near-Death Experiences Now Found to Have Scientific Explanations by New Research on Abnormal Functioning of Dopamine and Oxygen Flow.” I would like to reply to Choi’s assertions.

Scientific explanations for some of the common aspects of near-death states have relevance, but not as causal to the phenomenon. In keeping with Choi’s assertions, let’s discuss what he mentioned.

There has been no recent survey of experiencer percentages done by the Gallup Poll, but research in the field of near-death studies now estimates that between 4 to 5% of the general population worldwide has had a near-death experience. In crisis and hospital settings, the number hovers between 12 to 21%. Not all experiencers who undergo the phenomenon are actually at the edge of death or are clinically considered dead, although some revive in the morgue, even hours later. There are near-death-like experiencers: those who thought they were going to die but didn’t (a fear death), those who it seemed as if they would die but revived, those who were in a crisis situation but were never harmed, and those who were in good health and had no reason to suddenly experience the phenomenon.

Most of the biological “explanations” for various aspects of the scenario itself have been overturned in clinical studies. Extensive work to this end has been done. To examine these studies and their authors, access the website of the International Association for Near-Death Studies, (IANDS) at www.iands.org, and by referring to the peer-reviewed Journal of Near-Death Studies.

The idea of a “walking corpse” (a delusional belief that one has died) does not apply, even remotely. Only a few experiencers ever thought they were dead. Most had no idea they had died and frankly rejected any such notion. It was only after they were resuscitated or revived, that medical personnel or relatives indicated that vital signs had been lost and that the individual had either been near death or had actually died, much to the experiencer’s surprise.

The notion of the out-of-body component to near-death states is indeed common, most child and adult experiencers speak of it. There is no sense of paralysis. In fact, during episodes like this, the individual has the sense of full movement with vivid, often startling scenes observed, and with details the experiencer could never have known or been able to see. Most of these, at least those I am familiar with, have been verified by third-party testimonials afterward. The experiment conducted August 24, 2007, written up in an article entitled “Out-of-Body Experiences are All in the Brain” and published by Science Journal, described a lab experiment where the illusion of being in a virtual body outside one’s own was created by disturbing the visual input of volunteers wearing virtual-reality goggles connected to video cameras. What these experimenters produced was the “doppelganger” affect and not a real out-of-body experience. The making of “phantom” bodies is a regular part of shamanistic practice, both in ritual work and to increase the spread of information coming to them through the phantom (about their environment). This image supposedly confuses enemies or “signals” that a shaman is present. Superficial at best, doppelgangers have no relation to genuine out-of-body states or to near-death experiences.

A variety of explanations were given for seeing the deceased in a near-death experience, especially as related to what may cause patients who have Parkinson’s disease to report visions of ghosts - that may apply to what causes near-death experiencers to do the same thing. No attempt by the author was made, however, to explain how, during a near-death episode, one can be met by a deceased friend or relative, revive, laugh at what just occurred as that person was known to be quite alive and healthy; and then, upon later investigation, find out that the individual in question did indeed die at time and in the manner revealed. Again and again, the deceased recount information, stories, details that the individual could not have possibly known, that later check out as accurate. This happens so often, it is considered a “signature feature” of a near-death state.

The euphoria experienced in near-death states seems to mirror what can be gleaned through drug highs, ketamine experiences, and even through taking DMT in supervised trials. Yet in case after case when an individual who took drugs compared the highs once obtained with drugs to the euphoria of a near-death state, their reply in essence said “no contest.” What they felt during a near-death state could not be compared to any other experience. In my book, Beyond the Light (Avon Books, NYC, 1994 - in both Chapter 4 and on page 128), I discuss the case of Steven B. Ridenhour who spent 20 years trying to re-create his near-death episode through drug use, and was unsuccessful. His is not the only such case. Adult experiencers sometimes describe the experience as “more powerful than a million suns.”

As concerns the infamous “tunnel” effect, this is more myth than reality. Not that many people report tunnels, and never did. In the Gallup Poll survey conducted in 1982 about people who may have had a near-death experience, only 9% even mentioned a tunnel. It was not until the media sensationalized Raymond Moody’s first book Life after Life (Mockingbird Books, Covington, GA 1975) that reports of tunnels became more comonplace. Were people lying? No, I don’t think so. These experiences are ineffable. How do you describe something you do not have language for? For those who encountered darkness and lights, all of a sudden there was now a word they could use and that word was “tunnels.” Whether I’m right about that or not, the fact is only a few report or describe tunnels. Certainly not enough to account for the exaggerated claim by scientists that oxygen flow explains tunnels which explains near-death states. Not hardly. Yes, the “classical model” of near-death states still includes the tunnel feature as a basic component of scenarios, yet it is only one of many aspects that can occur during the phenomenon. In this regard, I suggest to you that the classical model isn’t always that classical.

Near-death states as a self-fulfilling prophecy about life after death? The public does indeed listen carefully to these stories with the hope that they might illustrate what happens after we die. A check of the various religions and clerics shows that each will endorse only those episodes that apply to their own belief system or dogma, rejecting anything that varies. It’s as if only the “proof” they want to hear is declared “genuine.” If you really study these accounts as I have, you begin to notice that “across the board,” the near-death phenomenon faithfully reveals the core wisdom common to all spiritual and religious traditions - as if these traditions may have sprung from the telling of such stories farther back in time than can be recounted. No research can be certain. What we know is that the phenomenon puts names and faces on life’s “mysteries” in ways no dogma or tradition can.

What is glaringly missing from the article by Charles Q. Choi is the fact that the scientific community he speaks for, investigates only in piece meal fashion some of the various aspects of near-death states without viewing the phenomenon as a whole, and completely devoid of the pattern of physiological and psychological aftereffects which follow. No skeptic that I know of, and none of the scientists Choi uses as references, has ever done a full study of all aspects of the experience and its aftereffects and in numbers acceptable as a valid study. I am quite certain that Choi would lose no time trying to invalid my voice. However, 33 years of mostly fieldwork with nearly 4,000 adult and child experiencers and their significant others, gives me at least a unique lens in which to observe, cross-compare, and analyze.
If the scientific community wants to make a point and inform the public in a credible fashion, I suggest that they know more about their subject before they try to explain it away.

Thank you, P. M. H. Atwater, L.H.D., author of
10 books on near-death findings, among them
The Big Book of Near-Death Experiences and
Near-Death Experiences: The Rest of The Story.

Afterlife Awareness Conference & Miscarriage Bereavement

2011-09-16T10:39:00.001-05:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS

*** Register now for the AFTERLIFE AWARENESS CONFERENCE, to be held March 9, 2012 through March 11, in Virginia Beach, VA. The lineup of speakers is incredible. You really do not want to miss it.

Contact: Terri Daniel, President,Afterlife Education Foundation;
info@afterlifeconference.com ; (541) 549-4004;
AfterlifeConference.com .

*** This announcement is a little more involved. It concerns a project of Eileen Tapper-McKelvey that concerns Miscarriage Bereavement. She is a near-death experiencer herself, and was quite taken that my first death/near-death state came from a miscarriage. She has created “The B.I.R.T.H. Model Curriculum for Miscarriage Bereavement” that includes a simple, almost child-like book she wrote called Into the Clear Blue Sky, and a manual on how to use the book in therapy. She has applied for a grant for enough money to start training programs. The work she has already done on this project is quite astounding. She is especially interested in providing counseling for the uninsured. In my research of near-death states, a whooping 70% of women had theirs in conjunction with either a miscarriage, birth, or a hysterectomy. I would add rape to that. If this project “speaks to you,” if somehow you want to get involved, know more, or support Eileen’s efforts, please contact her directly. Her e-mail address is eltapper@yahoo.com . Her snail mail is Eileen Tapper-McKelvey, P. O. Box 604, Waterbury, VT 05676.

Quake and Weather Sensitivities

2011-08-26T17:04:00.001-05:00

S P E C I A L B U L L E T I N
Electrical Phenomena with Weather Extremes

This special bulletin is brought about because of the aftereffects from Virginia’s earthquake, which was felt across 20 states and caused unexpected damage. In my research of near-death states, 75% of the people experienced electrical sensitivity afterwards. I am one of them. When we think of electrical sensitivity, what we think about first is the inability to wear watches, sometimes popping light bulbs, computer glitches, microphones which “fight you,” recorders and projectors that suddenly begin to smoke or won’t work - with the only cause for these strange effects being our presence. Having a near-death experience somehow changes your electromagnetic field and that change can affect all sorts of equipment. This does not go away as the years pass, although it may alter some. You learn to live with it.

What nobody talks about is what happens to us during weather extremes such as tornadoes/ lightning storms, and earthquakes. Each of these extremes have electrical phenomena that accompany them. This can affect near-death experiencers, near-death-like experiencers, and anyone else who is quite sensitive or who has gone through a transformation of consciousness.

EARTHQUAKES

The electrical phenomena that accompanies earthquakes is powerful. Displays tend to be wild and will fill your home, go through you, and “dance” around outdoor areas. Those in a closed space are felt the strongest. You can often hear or feel a “buzz,” maybe many buzzes, like bees flying around. Air brightens, whatever you see becomes brighter, lighter. Instantly, your head tends to turn numb. You lose body coordination. You find it hard to think and may start crying or feel dizzy or feel like falling down. When the quake’s movement is through, it’s not through with you. Effects continue. With those who are sensitive, these effects may last hours, very probably for days. My assessment of this: The electrical phenomena connected to an earthquake strips you of your electrical field.

As soon as possible, take whatever supplements or emergency remedies you have that will:
…...............strengthen your heart
…...............strengthen your thymus
…...............help to reconnect your electrical circuitry

I doubt that any medical doctor will know how to help you. Some are into alternative healthcare measures. Most are not. Those health-care practitioners familiar with energy medicine, flower and oil remedies, and realigning the body should know what to do.

What I have found that makes an incredible difference and quickly are the following:
…................take Ribonucleic Acid (RNA)
…................take Thymex, or something like it.
…................eat meat, chicken or red meat preferred, or some type of solid protein with all 8 amino acids (not all protein sources have all 8 amino acids - chicken and red meat do).
…................chanting, affirmations, meditation are seldom that effective until after your bodymind has regained some control. Prayer can be helpful immediately, though.

In taking supplements like mentioned above, I prefer those obtained from Standard Process. I get mine by mail, but I hear their products are now available over their website. Large doses are not needed. I only take one of each per day, and only for those days when brain and body are still uncoordinated, dizzy, or not grounded. A sensitive person does not need a lot of anything for full effect. Many people use Essences of Perelandra successfully. Perelandra has a section in the Marketplace of my website, www.pmhatwater.com. There are other sources and supplements. Look around.

TORNADOES
(effects noted below can also be true in strong lightning storms)

Electrical phenomena with tornadoes can center around wild lightning strikes that spread out from the spinning vortex. But, what few ever mention are the electrical streaks (sometimes a light blue) that can cover a distance of 10 to 40 miles away from the main cone. Sensitive people can feel these streakers and can be affected by the electrical buzz that crowds air space (strong lightning storms can produce similar effects).

If you are within that 10 to 40 mile radius you can feel some of the same effects as with earthquakes. However, if a number of tornadoes touch down within a short radius (as if together), you could feel a temporary paralysis - especially around the neck, larynx, shoulders, and major joints.

What I have done when caught in this type of situation, is to grab a lemon. Put it up to my nose, breathe its scent; if I can, squeeze some of the juice into a glass of water and drink it right down. Cranberries are also good for this. Drink a lot of water. Recenter yourself through meditative practices or good yoga stretches. Read outloud with the goal of speaking the words your eyes see. You may have to force this for a while, as speaking may be difficult or feel clumsy. Engage in hand/eye games, and jumping in place. Swallow, clear your throat, swallow again. Do head and neck exercises.

Under no condition eat sugar-anything, or drink any form of soft drinks or alcohol, or smoke, during or after the electrical effects accompanying either earthquakes or tornadoes (or lightning storms). You can usually clear up all biological effects within about two to three days, and return to normal diets/behaviors. You can be exposed if your electrical field is stripped or compromised. Fortunately, such exposure can be reversed using suggestions like given here. Do not hesitate to seek medical care if you feel you need it. Usually, though, a good healthcare professional can do the job and better. Self-care is fine once you know what to look for and how to handle it.

Blessings to all, PMH

Hit by 5.9 Quake

2011-08-23T17:29:00.001-05:00

We were hit a few hours ago by a 5.9 earthquake. The equicenter was a few miles northeast of us at Mineral, VA. Because it is so close, Charlottesville is considered part of the epicenter. D.C. and Richmond are also quite close, but not as close as we are (we live north of town).

I had clothes in the dryer downstairs. At first I thought it was the dryer, but I could see the walls and ceiling buckling toward me, the entire townhouse we have jumping up and down, and there was this loud awful roar - just roaring and roaring, shaking and shaking. My head felt numb and I could hardly move, still I streaked downstairs to stop the dryer. One thing you can depend on with me - if there is an emergency, I am a good person to have around. I move. I act. It wasn't the dryer. I fled outside screaming, thinking it was that huge machinery in back of us turning what was once a forest, now a moonscape, into a housing development. Susan next door screamed, "What is this?" I yelled for the men to stop their machines, they were destroying our home. Finally the foreman yelled back, "It's not us. It's an earthquake." An earthquake? I told Susan, and asked her to be sure and check all her pipes and connections. I would do the same. I did. Every room. Every floor. Pictures needed straightening, a few things fell off, the fireplace flue was opened and a wasp was flying around.

Our home passed the test. Everything seems to be fine. No cracks. Pipes and connections working. There were several small aftershocks, but I couldn't tell you when they stopped or started as I felt the ground moving continuously. The electricity in the air was phenomenal. I cried. I shook. Then I went next door to help Susan and her son. We are all fine. Terry is too. So many friends called to check in on me. Steff, my webmaster in Northeastern NY State felt it. Ellen Louise felt it in New York City area, bounced the doors off her bedroom closet. Natalie in North Carolina felt it. According to TV a broad sweep of states felt it. I don't know what the final assessment will be, but I doubt that this was just a fault-line shaking. It had to be a rift that was hit, to have involved such a huge swath including Georgia, Michigan, West Virginia, even Toronto in Canada.

I am barely able to think again but am still shaking. My legs are picking up discomfort from the earth. We'll know more about our home this weekend when Hurricane Irene hits our area. For now, thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who prayed for us, called to check in on us - and thank you, God. Mercy reigns, and I am very grateful. God bless us all, PMH

LENGTH OF TIME DEAD - NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCERS

2011-08-09T13:00:00.001-05:00

I am very concerned about claims from near-death experiencers concerning how long they were without vital signs, as if this were the single sign of legitimacy (which it is not).

The average length of time without vital signs in my research (and corresponding with most of the researchers I know) is from five to twenty minutes. The longest in modern history is George Rodania, supposedly a corpse for three days. I say "supposedly" because the only evidence I have for this comes from his wife Nino and their two children, not from the hospital in Tbilisi, Georgia - although their account, especially hers, is not only riveting but evidential. Historically, in the writings of Plato, we do have the case of Er, the soldier, dead for 10 days before he revived on his funeral pyre, but we have no way to validate that story, tantalizing as it may be.

Thanks to my latest book, NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCES: THE REST OF THE STORY, we now have the case of Bruna Reyn (62-63). Bruna drowned in the cistern of the convent of The Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross when she was three. At the time, the near-death episode she had was considered a dream, as a raging fever took precedence. In 1994 her mother contacted her to say The Sisters wanted to talk with her. Apparently, The Sisters who had rescued her and the physician who had treated her, had recorded every detail of the event and had submitted their documentation to the Catholic Church for an official investigation of a possible miracle. . . she had been dead for at least six hours. The Church did indeed investigate her case. Because of what they found, she was invited to attend the 1995 Beatification Mass for Sr. Maria Theresia Scherer, had an audience with the Pope, and received a medal, acknowledging the validity of what had happened to her and her miracle survival. Bruna, by the way, throughout her life, has exhibited most of the aftereffects pattern. --PMH

Beyond Belief

2011-08-06T19:58:00.001-05:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS

**** If you missed the ABC show “Beyond Belief” about the near-death experience,
you can still watch it at http://abcnews.go.com/nightline/beyondbelief . There is
also an interview you can watch about the show between Jeffrey Long, M.D. and
Caroline Myss - http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/beyondbelief/experts-death-
experience/story?id=14221154 . No, my work is not mentioned. I was
interviewed for the show. They dropped me when I was unable to find a child
near-death experiencer able to appear with me.

**** Registration is now open for the Second Annual Afterlife Awareness Conference.
This one will be held in Virginia Beach, VA, March 9 through 11, 2012. Guest
speakers are many - one of the most exciting lineups I have seen in a long, long
time. Yes, I will be there, too. Terri Daniel is the producer of this event. You
can contact her at info@afterlifeconference.com. Her website is http://www.Afterlife Conference.com.
You can also access information about the conference from
http://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?EventID=975447 .

**** For those who want to tap into inner guidance and the eternal quest for self-
discovery, here is a clear, inspiring and lucid explanation of how to do this via the
book Soul Writing by Joanne DiMaggio. E-mail Joanne at are.cville@gmail.com
for more information. You can order the book directly from Olde Souls Press,
P. O. Box 6475, Charlottesville, VA 22906. It is just out. The website, by the way,
is http://www.oldesoulspress.com .

Primetime Special on NDE's

2011-08-03T20:43:00.000-05:00

Airing on ABC (US) TV at 10 pm ET.

http://blogs.abcnews.com/pressroom/2011/08/abcs-bob-woodruff-probes-the-mysteries-of-near-death-experiences-including-his-own-on-primetime-nigh.html

Live from the streets of Oslo, Norway.

2011-07-29T20:53:00.004-05:00

Dateline: 7-25-11

The following report is from my dear friend, Liv Evensen. Like all Norwegians she has been shocked and saddened by the terrorism committed in her country, and more determined than ever to heal the wounds caused by this senseless act. ~PMH

I just returned home from downtown... have been glued to the telly for two days,and now I wanted to join all of us here...in a rose ceremony, a rose parade through town.. We all met in front of city hall and was going to walk to the main church where there is a sea of flowers and lights already. We were about 200,000 people or more. We didn't make it to the church, we all carried roses, we all stayed in front of behind up all the side streets of the city hall and listened to the prime minister, the leader of the youth movement and various music and we waved our...roses every time we agreed to something and it was very often and very beautiful....

We left the roses all around town...stuck in construction site fences, on street corners, around statues, floating in the city's fountains and lining these fountains..so beautiful. I walked with people to the National Theatre, three ambulances were parked there and they were covered in appreciation by people...with roses...further up on the main street people had stuck the roses down in cracks in the street and at the parliament hill the gates were covered by roses... even further up the street, where the devastated government buildings are people had covered the street in...roses...and down the street to the main church, in front of it, the sea of flowers and lit candles....but before that at a temporarily erected fence to fence people off from the street devastated the most, the fence was covered... with roses. People are hugging each other and speaking to each other and rooting for even more tolerance, even more freedom of speech, even more love and caring....and people, most people seem happy at being able to pay such deep respects for our Labour Party who lost so many youths in their youth organization. The Crown Prince said it: Today our streets are covered by love. We will not be silenced. We will not hide our sadness nor grief, some will need longer time than others, but our streets are covered by love. This is the effect that the bombing has had on us...

The Mayor of Oslo said that we would punish the culprit by becoming more.... open, tolerant, generous and warm. As a nation, as a city, as a people...Some people say the feel that Norwegians are kind of "aloof and not so outgoing", but we are...when it really really counts....

I was interviewed at the telly from the Faraoe Islands, lol, and told them that I had hoped that Norway would shine her face of peace and love to a world in great changes. That is what we are doing. And the politicians are kinder to each other, they have decided to postpone the election for one month in reverence for the grief of the Labour Party. I have hugged two politicians today:))...that too:))...

Thought I would let you know....in kindness and care and much love, Liv

“Afterlife: What Happens When We Die?”

2011-07-16T18:06:00.001-05:00

There is now a new documentary DVD for sale called “Afterlife: What Happens When We Die?” The producer is Paul Perry, guests are Drs. Raymond Moody, Melvin Morse, and Jeffrey Long. The documentary follows along Dr. Moody’ latest book Glimpses of Eternity (which Perry co-wrote) and demonstrates the reality and power of near-death states and what is revealed through them about the Afterlife. It focuses on crystal-clear consciousness and alertness during NDEs, realistic out-of-body experiences, heightened senses, consciousness during anesthesia, perfect playback in life reviews, family reunions, children’s experiences, worldwide consistency of accounts, and the aftereffects. The DVD is 70 minutes long, and should be available through regular sources. Dr. Raymond Moody and Paul Perry are now claiming to have had an NDE.

A Tribute to Sai Baba

2011-07-07T13:49:00.000-05:00

This blog posting is a special tribute that appeared in the June 2011 Newsletter of the American Society of Dowsers, featuring their "Water for Humanity" project. The tribute is about the passing of Sai Baba, a revered holy man in India. Should you wish to know more about the dowsers program, please access http://dowsers.org/water-for humanity . Since so many people know about and have followed the life and times of Sai Baba, I felt it a service to carry "the rest of the story" for you. Blessings, PMH

The Passing of Sathya Sai Baba

On Easter Sunday, the 24th of April, Hindu guru Sathya Sai Baba passed from his physical form at the age of 84 near his southern Indian ashram. Considered an avatar and revered around the world, this spiritual master played a part in the history of Water for Humanity when on the occasion of former WFH Chairperson Joe Ann van Gelder’s trip to India in December of 1993, the work of the WFH Fund was blessed by Sai Baba.

Sathya Sai Baba was hospitalized on March 28th, taken to the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences, an institution established as one result of a several billion dollar charitable trust he himself initiated to help others. He had been confined to a wheelchair since 2005 and since his admission to the hospital was on breathing support and undergoing dialysis up until the time of his death. A funeral was held on Wednesday morning, the 4th of May in Puttaparti in Andhra Pradesh state with state honors.

Sai Baba was born November 23rd, 1926, given the name of Sathyanarayana Raju. Even at a very young age he was spiritually precocious and displayed great intelligence, expressing both through music and dance, and the writing of poetry and plays. At the age of fourteen, he revealed himself as an avatar, the reincarnation of a Hindu holy man from the western region of Maharashtra state known as Sri Baba of Shirdi, who died in 1918. On countless occasions, his followers witnessed him to perform miracles, such as the materialization of items such as jewelry and other precious objects, vibhuti – sacred ash with metaphysical properties, or lingams – small crystal, stone or precious metal objects formed within the Master’s body and ejected through the mouth. Sai Baba had his detractors, but he was respected and revered by millions all around the world. His ashrams have been established in 126 countries. He inspired all through his example of true compassion and embodiment of the Divine to live a morally pure and purposeful life, encouraging them to do so while following the religion of their own choice.

The Theatre of Life + Working with Near Death and Anesthesia States

2011-06-25T14:49:00.001-05:00

**** In regards to integrating NDEs and other life transforming episodes, there is a special book about to come out, authored by Arleen Lorrance (OSO), called The Theatre of Life. I’ve known OSO for well over four decades, and I can say without hesitation her work and her ideas are exceptional. The Theatre of Life has been an experiential workshop run and facilitated by OSO and Diane Pike (Mariamne Paulus) for 26 years. Both are teachers of the highest order; their work utterly profound. I was lucky enough after I died to take several classes from them, and I am glad I did. This book (that has evolved from their workshops) is about uncovering your motivating forces, identifying purposes and objectives, becoming more adept at expressing artistically through your body, writing your own life story. Above all, making your life a work of art. To obtain a copy, contact: Teleos Institute, 7119 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 109, PMB 418, Scottsdale, AZ 85254.

**** Another giant who does profound work with people, helping them to integrate their experiences and face all aspects of who they are and what has happened to them in life, is Steven Levine. He is best known for his work in the death and dying field, deathbed experiences, hospice, and trauma. He is now offering workshops for practitioners and students who want to learn his techniques. The Advanced Level I is coming up October 29 through 31 in the Tiburon/Northern California area. Part of that event will be a Group Case Consultation day that is open to all levels of training. He calls this new step in his work, Through the Eye of the Needle: Working with Near Death and Anesthesia States. The integration techniques he offers have stunning effects. If you are interested in attending the classes scheduled for this fall, or in finding out more about his techniques and how you can find a trained practitioner, access this website: www.somaticexperiencing.com/events/48-two-workshops-for-seps-happening-in-northern-california.html . If you scroll down this website, about halfway, there is a video of Levine doing a session with a car accident survivor. Dramatic.

September IANDS, New Books, DVDs, and Interviews

2011-06-07T13:08:00.001-05:00

*** The International Association For Near-Death Studies (IANDS) celebrates their 30th Anniversary with an incredible conference, September 2-4 in Durham, NC (come a day early, there are activities then, too). Raymond E. Moody, Jr., M.D. and Bruce Greyson, M.D. will be the keynote speakers. It will be held at the Millennium Hotel, right across the street from IANDS headquarters on Campus Walk Avenue. Register as soon as possible. Contact: http://www.iands.org; (919) 383-7940; services@iands.org. You will need to register separately for the Hotel. I will be presenting my last research paper at this conference, entitled “The NDE as a Threshold Experience.” The theme is “Lives Changed Forever.”

*** To hear a radio show with me (as the researcher) and Eben Alexander, M.D. (as the experiencer), access www.jennifertill.com, scroll down to the show on 4-23-11. Dr. Alexander was brain dead for a week after a deadly attack of bacterial meningitis. During this time of no neocortex activity, he had a long and detailed near-death experience that completely changed his life and his idea of neurosurgery. The radio show is “Real Life with Jennifer Till.”

*** Out of the blue, as a complete surprise, Brian Hardin, the film maker, called me and said, “Do you remember in late 2007 when I filmed a two-hour interview with you? Well, I just put it on YouTube.” I had completely forgotten the whole thing. The two-parter is basically “Atwater Unplugged.” Yup, it’s a little embarrassing, as I said a few things I wish I hadn’t, but, it’s all true.”

*** Nancy E. Bush has a blog now and is inviting people to climb aboard and participate in the discussion. She calls it “Dancing Past The Dark.” Nancy’s goal is to discuss and explore the deeper issues in near-death experiences, especially those that are unpleasant or frightening. Access: http://dancingpastthedark.wordpress

*** Diane Corcoran was interviewed by “News Line for Nurses.” Nurses are an important link with near-death cases. Access: http://www.news-line.com/online/20110L/1103NLnsF/ .

*** News is starting to trickle out from the huge study concentrating on near-death experiences. Called AWARE (Awareness through Resuscitation), it involves over 1,000 cases of cardiac arrest. Early report from Sam Parnia, M.D.: “Near-death experiences are real and we have the proof.” Access: http://horizonresearch.org/main_page.php?cat_id=253. Also access http://ht.ly/4NvXG.

*** On April 23, 2011, Drs. Sam Parnia, Bruce Greyson, and Melvin Morse were guests on NPR - The People’s Pharmacy radio show. Consciousness is one of the great puzzles of modern neuroscience. As well is the question, what happens when we die? To hear this show, here are two access portals: http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/siteassets/pp-713B.mp3 , and http://ht.ly/4Nw1Y .

*** Three new books: There Is More...18 Near-Death Experiences, put out by Sharon Lund and available through http://www.SacredLife.com ; (619) 692-9507. Glimpses of Eternity: Sharing A Loved One’s Passage From This Life To The Next, Raymond E. Moody, Jr., M.D., with Paul Perry (Guideposts; Harlan, IA, 2010). Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back, Colton and Todd Burpo (Thomas Nelson Publishing; Nashville, TN 2010).

*** There is a DVD available now called The Afterlife Investigations: Has Science Proven the Afterlife? Tim Coleman is the producer, and it comes out of England. The best way to get a copy is through http://www.theafterlifeinvestigations.com and use PayPal.

"Setting the Record Straight"

2011-05-06T08:17:00.001-05:00

If you have read Amazon.com lately, and the page for Near-Death Experiences: The Rest of The Story, you know about the biting criticism I received from Dr. Harold Widdison and comments by others that are misleading. Everyone has the right to say whatever they please. I honor that. Dr. Widdison is a wonderful man, and he is sincere in whatever he does, and this includes his attacks against me. Normally, I do not reply to such comments. This time I feel the need to set the record straight on some of the points that have been made.

1. I practice the police techniques as shown/taught to me by my police officer father. He was not a detective. He was a “gumshoe” who walked the beat or rode around in his squad car for many years, before being promoted. He never used a tape recorder or notepad that I ever saw, although he did fill out extensive reports and quite often. His advice was brief: a person’s body says more than his or her mouth does. He taught me how to observe, catch things quickly, and never, never use a word in advance of the witness. And he taught me how to cross-check everything. On pages 257-258 in my book, is verification of my protocol by one of the finest officers ever to wear a badge or teach police science. His name is Raymond A. Reynolds, and I am humbled by his support of what I have done and how I work. Unfortunately, Officer Reynolds died several years ago. He never lived to see his statement published in my book. I can only hope his family has, and that they are pleased with the recognition of his expertise.

2. I do not base my work on questionnaires. Frankly, I do not like them. Even the most scientific uses words in advance of individuals, and such words, even if cleverly chosen, put ideas in people’s heads. I have used questionnaires, though, three times, to cross-check previous findings and for no other reason. The first was mentioned in my book Coming Back to Life and was used to test first responses; the second on electrical sensitivity I put in the back of Beyond the Light, to show how the intensity of the near-death scenario was the leading factor with the incidence of electrical sensitivity - not length of episode nor exposure to etheric light; and the last to double check the responses of child experiencers - originally published in Children of the New Millennium, later in The New Children and Near-Death Experiences. I only published the findings of the questionnaire because it matched what I had previously established through sessions I had held with child experiencers of near-death states. Where percentages deviated, I said so in the text.

3. There have been, over the years, many complaints about my book Children of the New Millennium and rightfully so. I didn’t like it either. The original manuscript was on my editor’s desk one week before her company was bought out by another publisher and I was assigned another editor. About half my material was edited out, in an effort by the publisher to create a “fluff piece for new millennium fever.” I had no choice in the matter. As might be expected, the book did not sell well, so they returned my world rights to me and cancelled the contract. Some good resulted from the book, but mostly it left people hanging. Dr. Widdison stripped apart most of the book and me with it. The entire situation - who was complimentary and who hated the thing - is published on my website in the Article Section, and with the permission of all parties involved. Nothing is hidden from the public. The replacement book is truly a fine piece, which made up for the problems with the first. Few people know about it, however, thus sales have been low.

4. It is true that several of my peers have asked me to use “proper” protocol, like the rest do, so my work will not be subject to so much attack. I refused. The reason is simple, at least to me: my distrust of questionnaires, and my distrust of the so-called “classical model” that must be used for comparison if you want your work to be accepted. Please remember, I had never heard of Raymond Moody nor his book when I began my work. It was Ken Ring who told me about both after I had been conducting research on my own and for nearly four years. What I found deviates in some major ways from what is now “acceptable.” For instance, I was able to identify four patterns to the original model of scenario types, a pattern of both physiological and psychological aftereffects, four major phases of integration, and so forth. I was the first to uncover numerous things, and since then have had some of my findings verified in clinical studies, including the prospective study done in Holland and published in Lancet Medical Journal. What I have claimed in numbers, stands.

5. Only those who are not that familiar with near-death research would think this book has nothing new in it. Admittedly, I did start out “easy” in the book, carefully going over my previous work and then slowly adding more and more, going deeper and deeper with each chapter, until, in Chapter 16, I let go of “nice.” I did this on purpose to establish that the near-death experience is not some kind of anomaly after all; rather, is part of the larger genre of transformations of consciousness, no matter how caused. The second half of the book “grinds” this in by showing how near-death patterning is present in numerous other traditions, religious and mystical orders, psychological discoveries, and so forth. My call is for near-death studies to move up a notch or two and include the spiritual. Until we do, there will always be “missing” material that is crucial to making sense of the phenomenon. Up until now, researchers have only “tip-toed” around what they thought constituted things spiritual. Perhaps now they will be more brave.

6. My research of near-death is NOT metaphysical, nor is it “new age.” It is objectively done following a strict protocol. And I can say this: I have cross-checked my findings with experiencers and their significant others more than anyone else in the field, and for year after year after year. I did this to ensure that I was not kidding myself, finding only what I wanted to find, allowing my own near-death experiences to overlay what I was seeing in others, or misinterpreting what I was finding. Irrespective of what anyone else thought about what I did, I wanted to be able to live with myself and be honest about my work. I could not do that without this extra effort. I never chose to be a researcher. I became one because of what I was told to do in my third near-death experience. Anyone who actually chooses to do something like I have done, is nuts.

The upshot of this is, if you feel inclined to make a review comment on that page of Amazon.com where my book is described, I will be forever grateful. Say what you feel led to say. Supportive or not, I appreciate the kindness of your time and effort.

Thank you for reading with this “special announcement.” ~ PMH

Unpleasant NDEs

2011-04-28T19:43:00.000-05:00

There is a new blog - about unpleasant, distressful, and frightening near-death experiences. Done by Nancy Bush, long-time researcher in the field of near-death studies, retired President of IANDS, and a fellow experiencer herself, the material covered is exceptionally helpful and insightful. This blog celebrates, that at last, unpleasant near-death experiences can be recognized and discussed with understanding and respect. Check out: http://dancingpastthedark.wordpress.com .

New Website, Child Experiencers' Books, Rhine Research Center, New Books

2011-03-15T11:01:00.001-05:00

*** My website has been totally redesigned by my webmaster, Steff Wiltse (I am convinced she is a genius). It is so new you may encounter glitches from time to time. If you need any help finding what you want, contact Steff directly. Visit the site. See for yourself what I mean when I say it is beautiful, elegant, and completely modern (perfect for I-Pads and all manner of e-readers and I-Phones). Praise be to Steff!

*** Two best sellers now out cover near-death episodes experienced by children. One is The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven, by Alex Malarkey (then aged six) and his dad Kevin Malarkey. Peabody, MA: Tyndale House Publishers, 2010. The other is Heaven is Real by Todd Burpo (then 4) and his family Sonja Burpo, Colton Burpo, and Lynn Vincent. Nashville, TN; Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2010. These books have sold over 500,000 copies already; those involved in the stories cleave to Christian tenets. How much influence their parents and church attendance has had on the stories told by both boys I cannot say, as I have not investigated either case. But I can say that what these children remember from being on “the other side” of death is well worth considering. Any books out by child experiencers are rare. I do have a list of them on my website, and will add these two books to that list.

*** The Rhine Research Center in Durham, North Carolina, is making a come-back. The Center boasts the oldest continuously operating parapsychological research program in the United States. Founded by and named for J. B. Rhine, the Center is now run by Dr. Rhine’s plucky 81-year-old daughter, Sally Rhine Feather, Ph.D. Her father introduced laboratory science into parapsychology research, and coined the now widely-used term “extra-sensory perception,” or ESP. To find out more about the Rhine Research Center, go to their website at www.rhine.org.

*** Two books of mine came out this week. Near-Death Experiences: The Rest of The Story is now available at any bookstore or can be ordered by them. You can also get copies at amazon.com and through my online catalog (if you want an autographed copy). This book will be very controversial. If you want to know why, get a copy and read it. Among the reasons for the book is to take near-death research to the next level. We cannot call near-death states spiritual experiences if we are not willing to address what that might be saying. The second book, a complete surprise to me, is the availability of I Died Three Times in 1977 - The Complete Story as an e-book or a real, printed book, complete with “before” and “after” photographs. This is available through my website, Lulu.com, or on Amazon's Kindle.

Book Debut, St. Louis Retreat, Dr. Kevin Nelson, Euro Herb Ban

2011-02-16T22:37:00.002-05:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS

*** Only two more weeks before Near-Death Experiences: The Rest of The Story is available worldwide. The debut talk about the book occurs March 5, 2011 from 1 to 4 pm, Unity Church, 2825 Hydraulic Circle, Charlottesville, Virginia. The A.R.E. is sponsoring this. Details through are.cville@gmail.com. The big notice goes out on February 23rd as a newsletter from my website. These newsletters are free. To sign up for them, go to www.pmhatwater.com; bottom of Home Page is where you submit your info. This list of subscribers is totally private.

*** Please hurry if you want to attend the Spiritual Retreat for Near-Death Experiencers. It is May 12-15 in St. Louis, Missouri - held at a very lovely, sacred place. Contact Dave Bennett for more information, dharmadb@mac.com.

*** To read more about the work of Dr. Kevin Nelson, a professor of neurology at the University of Kentucky, and about his book,Wait, What is that White Light Anyway? The Science Behind Near-Death Experiences, please refer to: (all this is a single address) http://www.mydaily.com/2011/02/02/science-behind-near-death-experiences/?icid=maing%7Cmain5%7Cdl9%7Csec1_lnk3%7C41480.

*** I have just been notified of the following that will affect near-death experiencers living in the United Kingdom and in Europe: In April 2011, European legislation which has already been passed, will come into force - which will effectively mean that all herbal medicines will disappear from the UK. No Ayurvedic (Indian) herbs, no Chinese herbs, no Western herbs, no Tibetan herbs - no medicinal herbs whatsoever. You will only have access to treatments which are pharmaceutical drugs based in order to treat your own and your family’s ailments. No access to any medicinal herbs. With no access to the full range of herbal treatments, Herbalists, Ayurvedic doctors, TCM Practitioners, and other herbal traditions will disappear overnight from the UK, as well. This news is of utmost importance to near-death experiencers, because the typical experiencer comes back no longer able to handle pharmaceuticals as before; some, not at all. For instance, after my leg surgery last year, I threw away the doctor’s prescription to pain medicine, and took two gels of Zyflamend instead (put out by New Chapter and available just about everywhere, but especially at Whole Foods stores). Zyflamend is a mixture of herbs as an anti-inflammatory (also good for heart and joints). Not only was I pain-free, but the herbal mixture went on to become a reliable agent in healing and still is, considering other leg injuries I had last year. Certainly, one would not just “take” Zyflamend. You read the label and check out the herbs listed. I did, and I could handle all of them. My oldest daughter also takes Zyflamend. It has prevented her from needing knee replacement surgery. My question is: why did this bill ever pass? Yes, we need herbal regulation, but not a complete ban. This is insane. Can it happen here? Yes it can. Contact your legislators immediately should something like that be attempted in this country.

Latest Announcements...

2011-01-05T09:37:00.005-05:00

*** Two more months before my new book comes out. It is possible to pre-order through www.amazon.com. The title is Near-Death Experiences: The Rest of The Story (Hampton Roads). The description now shown for the book will be changed. To keep abreast of things, sign up for my free newsletter at www.pmhatwater.com. At the bottom of the Home Page is where you sign up. Issues are infrequent.

*** Alister Hardy Religious Experience Research Centre has been asking this question: “Have you ever had a spiritual or religious experience or felt a presence or power, whether you call it God or not, which is different from, or more than, your everyday self?” to date, they have over 6,000 cases, including mystical experiences, out- of-body experiences, visionary experiences, near-death experiences, and after- death communications. Recently, their website address changed. Check them out now at: http://alisterhardysociety.org/.

*** Todd Murphy, a researcher of near-death states (some of his work published in the Journal of Near-Death Studies) has designed a computer screen saver that shows the point of light that appears in many Near-Death Experiences, unfolding into “The Light.” It’s compelling images evoke an otherworldly experience, sometimes also appearing in hallucinations. Its otherwordly images evoke feelings that don’t go into words. Contact Todd Murphy directly for price and installation instructions. . . brainsci@jps.net.

*** Pim van Lommel sent me this link to a short and very funny movie about a “near-death” experience. You may enjoy watching it: http://www.kuriositas.com/2010/07/lady-and-reaper.html.

*** Also, there are now links (Part I and Part II) to an interview done with Pim about his book and the research he and his associates conducted. Pim’s book, by the way, is Consciousness Beyond Life. His research is the best yet done about the near- death phenomenon. Find them both in my NDE News Blog: "A New Interview with NDE Researcher and Author Pim van Lommel."

*** There is a new TV series called “I Survived ...Beyond and Back” and it is on the Biography Channel each Sunday night at 10:00 pm Eastern Time. Each episode features interviews with three people who died, went to the other side, and came back. This show is well done, yet there is no reference to IANDS or the near-death experience, unless the one being interviewed brings it up. If a viewer wishes to learn more about the subject, no links or suggestions are provided (the only “downside” to the show).

*** Thanks to Katie Couric for her interview with Raymond Moody about his new book, Glimpses of Eternity, with excerpts from his “Life After Life” video. It's within this article: "Investigating the Afterlife." Date is October 31, 2010.

A Dollar for Dee?

2011-01-04T17:12:00.006-05:00

Dee Yoh is a very gifted artist and instructor for Family Constellation Therapy. She is bravely fighting a battle with cancer that has cost her her home, her business, her insurance policy, and her income. She has been reduced to living at near poverty levels, unable now to afford either medicine or doctors. I know many people in our country are facing a similar dilemma. Dee Yoh is one more. And, yes, she is an angel who in the past has never hesitated to help another in need. She is not asking for this help, I am asking for her. Give what you can. Thank you, PMH

Whaling Resumes

2010-12-28T23:26:00.004-05:00

Blogpost by John Hocevar - December 8, 2010 at 9:56

As you read this e-mail, the Japanese whaling fleet is steaming towards the Southern Ocean to begin their annual whale slaughter. Their planned death "quota" this season: nearly 1,000 minke whales, 50 humpback whales, and 50 endangered fin whales.

We must stop this massacre now.

During the 2008 campaign, then-Senator Obama said, "As president, I will ensure that the U.S. provides leadership in enforcing international wildlife protection agreements, including the international moratorium on commercial whaling." Three more whaling seasons have come and gone since Obama spoke those words, and no change has been made.

Please rush your most generous contribution as we put pressure on President Obama to fulfill his campaign promise!

"Allowing Japan to continue commercial whaling is unacceptable," as President Obama himself has stated, and Greenpeace is rallying support to put a stop to the slaughter, once and for all.

Commercial whaling is not only unacceptable—it's a violation of international law.

Picture a Japanese harpoon ship speeding through the Southern Ocean. Suddenly, the harpooner spots a mother whale and her calf. The sounds of the ocean are drowned out by the blasts of exploding-tip harpoons being fired at the whales.

The pair struggles to free themselves from the harpoon lines for nearly an hour, desperately thrashing their tails in the water, before a gunman finally steps onto the deck and shoots them dead. The mother whale and her baby are dragged up the ship’s slipway, leaving a long trail of blood behind them.

Much to our frustration, in a few days time this tragic scene will play out in the Southern Ocean over and over again. Greenpeace needs your help, and the help of President Obama, to put an end to the slaughter of our oceans’ most unique, intelligent, and emotional creatures.

Please help us stop this terrible massacre and save the lives of these whales with your most generous donation NOW.

Together, we can let Japan know that commercial whaling has no place in the 21st Century.