The HeathenMachine Chronicles The HeathenMachine

Prepare for an eerie, yet entertaining journey as we dissect the concept of surviving a zombie apocalypse. We've all watched those zombie movies and wondered, "How would I survive if this happened in real life?" Well, we're about to dig into those gritty realities and ponder over the best strategies to come out alive. From the significance of being armed to the wisdom needed in navigating a zombie-infested city, we're evaluating every survival tactic you can think of.  We'll talk about the practicalities of survival, the use of suppressors and other weapons, and the impact of zombies that have evolved to manipulate doorknobs. Expect a lively discussion on the tactics of surviving a zombie apocalypse, from the importance of being in shape and using stealth, to the advantages of choosing a location like a forest or mountain. Whether you're a zombie enthusiast or just a fan of fascinating discussions, this episode will leave you captivated. Come join the circle!

Riding on the wings of the god Odin, we soar through ancient Norse wisdom, landing right in your modern lives. This episode is a treasure chest, filled with pearls of wisdom from the Havamal, an Old Norse poem with timeless lessons. We dissect its profound teachings, discuss its relevance in our daily existence, and offer you thick slices of wisdom to chew on. From fitness to finance, relationships to self-awareness, this episode covers it all, sprinkling ancient wisdom on contemporary issues. Join the Circle.

Today's conversation goes beyond the usual health chat, probing into contemporary issues like the impact of the body positivity movement and convenience culture on our collective well-being. We're also lifting the lid on some disturbing trends, like the rise of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and the labeling of health-conscious individuals as extremists. And that's not all, we explore unconventional training methods, offer insights on training for athletic performance, and discuss the significance of circuit training for conditioning and longevity. Come join the circle. 

Are you ready to harness the power of Jiu Jitsu, not just as a physical exercise, but as a methodology for mental resilience and personal discipline? We navigate the thrilling world of Jiu Jitsu, the mental fortitude it demands, and the valuable life skills it offers. Join us as we share captivating tales of Jiu Jitsu's evolution, its transformative effect on martial arts, and the unique perspective competition brings to your training. More than just a martial art, Jiu Jitsu is a pathway to understanding one's physical and mental thresholds. 

What if there was a way to unlock profound insights within your own mind, and even potentially aid in the treatment of mental health issues? On today's episode, we discuss the fascinating world of psychedelics and their potential benefits. We explore the research, effects, and how to set yourself up for an optimal experience.

We delve into the history and stigma surrounding psychedelics, and how a new generation of psychedelic advocates like journalist Michael Pollan are helping to bridge the gap between counterculture and mainstream understanding. We also touch on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for combat veterans and cancer patients, and discuss ongoing research on safety and efficacy. Comparing the effects of psilocybin to traditional medications like SSRIs, we share personal experiences and emphasize the importance of intention, set, and setting for a positive and transformative journey.

Join us as we navigate this compelling topic and uncover the power of psychedelics to transform lives, expand our understanding of ourselves, and connect us more deeply with the world around us. Whether you're curious about the psychedelic experience, or seeking insights on how these substances may be applied therapeutically, we invite you to tune in and explore the possibilities with us.

Links to published studies:

Ross, S. Bossis, A. Guss J. Agin-Liebes, G. Malone, T. Cohen B.  Mennenga, S. E. Belser, A.  Kalliontzi, K. Babb, J. Su, Z. Corby, P. Schmidt, B. L. (2016) Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychopharmacology 30(12) 1165-1180 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116675512 http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0269881116675512

McRae, M. (2017, July 8) Research Shows Magic Mushrooms Can Offer Real Benefits in Depression Therapy. Science Alert. Retrieved from https://www.sciencealert.com/therapy-for-depression-gets-a-significant-boost-when-combined-with-psilocybin

Schiffman, R. (2016, December 1) Psilocybin: A Journey Beyond the Fear of Death? Scientific American. Retrieved from https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/psilocybin-a-journey-beyond-the-fear-of-death/

Vollenweider, F.X. Kometer, M. (2010, September) The neurobiology of psychedelic drugs: implications for the treatment of mood disorders. Nature Reviews: Neuroscience. 11(9) 642-651. Retrieved from http://www.biblioteca.cij.gob.mx/Archivos/Materiales_de_consulta/Drogas_de_Abuso/Articulos/neurobilogypsychedelicdrugs.pdf

Griffiths, R. R. Johnson, M.W. Carducci, M.A. Umbricht, A. Richards W.A. Richards B.D. Cosimano M.P. Klinedinst M.A. (2016) Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer: A randomized double-blind trial. Journal of Psychopharmacology 30(12) 1181-1197 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116675513 http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0269881116675513

Join us for a discussion on dreams, what they are, and why we dream them.