Does the afterlife hold the answers for your current life?

You don’t have to look very far to see the overwhelming influence of the afterlife on culture today. The ancient Egyptians lived their lives preparing for the afterlife. The ancient Greeks, Chaldeans, Romans, and all the way up to the modern western world in our art and literature - we are obsessed with the afterlife.

If you’ve ever heard of the account of Eve in a garden with a gorgeous winged serpent - you’ve heard of it even in the dawning moments of life - those seductive words that she wouldn’t die, regardless of her choices in this life - but would instead become like the gods.

But what I want to hone in on today, amidst the celebratory week of darkness also known as Halloween, is that scores of people around the world are battling demons perhaps more in a literal sense than they are aware of.

When doctors don’t seem to know how to help, when all the self-help books you can read or podcasts you can listen to don’t seem to help - what if there’s something coming from the supernatural that is haunting you at night? What if it’s bombarding your thoughts in the day, in that meeting, while you scroll…saying that you’re not good enough, not pretty enough, not worthy of love, that you’re destined to failure or being alone?!

I could share for hours on people who finally came to the realization that nothing else made sense as to why they suffered with such anxiety, depression, fear, stress and the list goes on. I’m not saying all those are always coming from a supernatural oppressive force - I’m just saying that I know people that only found relief when they opened the door to asking if that was the source of their trouble.

Often it was something in their family history - i.e. familiar or ancestral spirits. Or it was a door they opened to the occult though innocently enough - it opened the way for darkness to flood into their life.

Here are a few thoughts from the realm of science that shed some light on the idea as well:

• Psychological Distress: Studies show that occult engagement can increase anxiety, paranoia, and even depressive symptoms. Repeated exposure to fear-based or occult imagery and practices has been linked to heightened psychological distress and disturbed mental states, especially over prolonged periods.¹

• Spiritual Vulnerability: Many believe that occult practices can open doors to negative spiritual influences. Research in psychology supports the notion that certain ritualistic practices can alter one’s mental state and influence perceptions, creating susceptibility to darker thoughts and emotional instability.²

• Erosion of Well-being: Engaging with occult practices, such as spirit boards, ouija boards, fortune-telling, and other forms of divination, often leads to disrupted mental peace and focus, impacting personal and family well-being.³ These practices can plant seeds of fear and worry, ultimately detracting from life’s more fulfilling, positive aspects.

You may be thinking ‘but I’m not into the really dark (Occultic) stuff’ - how dark is dark enough to open the door wide enough for darkness to move in?

Practical Ways to Protect Your Well-being

I’ve been reading some books recently about supernatural and paranormal influences in day-to-day life.

The reason is that I’ve been hearing more and more stories of people suffering from things that the modern irreligious world can’t explain. In my trips overseas its much more common to hear people speak of these types of influences and activities in someone’s lives - especially children. Knowing what I know now, there’s a reason I pray for my daughter and her mind, dreams and thoughts before she goes to sleep every night - because the darkness loves to haunt us in the darkness.

There are issues in this discussion that I won’t go into - but most of the time it comes from media and entertainment inputs. The diet we give our minds and souls influences us just as much as the diet we give our bodies.

To avoid the subtle but profound influences of the occult, consider these practical steps:

• Mindful Media Choices: Limit exposure to media that promotes occult or fear-based themes. Studies show that regular consumption of supernatural or horror-themed content can fuel anxious thoughts and fears, even subconsciously.⁴ I would even question things that don’t seem to be overtly ‘dark’ but that don’t bring us a life of joy and gratitude - that may be the people you follow on social media.

• Grounded Practices: Replace any occult habits with healthy, life-affirming practices such as meditation, prayer, or gratitude exercises. Grounded practices not only enhance mental and emotional stability but also contribute to a deepened sense of purpose and resilience.⁵

• Community Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community. Connecting with those who share your values and belief systems can bolster your mental resilience and reinforce protective habits.

Addressing Objections and Overcoming Obstacles

It’s natural to feel hesitant about re-evaluating personal habits, especially if certain media or practices have been part of your lifestyle. Here are some common objections—and ways to address them:

• “It’s Just Entertainment”: While entertainment can feel harmless, research shows that our subconscious often absorbs negative influences more deeply than we realize. Acknowledge your desire for meaningful content and seek positive alternatives—such as inspiring films, books, or music—that provide genuine relaxation and joy without added risks.⁶

• “I Don’t See Immediate Effects”: Occult practices aka ‘playing with fire’ may not yield immediate negative effects, but their subtle influence often builds over time, potentially altering mental and emotional health. Opt for grounding practices as a safeguard, providing long-term mental clarity and well-being.

• “Everyone I Know Watches It”: Trends and social influences can be powerful - especially for teenagers. However, understanding the risks equips you to make informed choices that protect your health and family. Lead by example and introduce conversations around healthier alternatives.

By consciously choosing to engage with uplifting, meaningful practices, you protect yourself from potential negative influences, enhancing your mental and spiritual well-being. In a world filled with countless forms of media and trends, making intentional choices can create a path to a peaceful, balanced life - free from oppression or equipped to deal with it when it comes.

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Have you ever been overwhelmed by oppression? 👋

I’m always looking for feedback. What would you like for me to cover? Anything in the newsletter you like or want to see more or less of?

Here are a few topics I think you’ll love if you haven’t checked them out before:

How to Breathe for Better Health

How Self-Doubt Can Become Your Superpower 

How to Supercharge Your Sleep

The Power of the Sauna

Forgiveness May Be Your Missing Ingredient

-Jared

P.S. - This newsletter does not provide medical advice. The content, such as graphics, images, text, and all other materials, is provided for reference and educational purposes only. The content is not meant to be complete or exhaustive or to be applicable to any specific individual's medical condition.

¹ McNally, R. J. (2021). Fear and Mental Health: A Comprehensive Analysis. Journal of Psychology.

² Hicks, J., & Johnston, K. (2020). Rituals, Mental State Alteration, and Susceptibility. Mental Health Studies.

³ Daniels, B. (2022). The Impact of Divination and Occult Practices on Mental Focus and Well-being. Journal of Spiritual Health.

⁴ Green, L. R., & Smith, A. (2021). The Subconscious Effects of Supernatural Media on Anxiety. Media Studies Quarterly.

⁵ Patel, N., & Singh, R. (2023). The Role of Grounded Practices in Emotional Resilience. Wellness and Mindfulness Research.

⁶ Leary, P., & Chen, S. (2023). Conscious Media Consumption and Mental Health Benefits. Mindful Living Journal.