Fernanda Baraybar, Author at Synergetic Press

Celebrating 35+ Years of Synergetic Press

by Fernanda Baraybar | November 10, 2023 | Ecotechnics, Featured, Sustainability & Ecology

A Legacy of Regeneration, Consciousness Expansion & Ecotechnic Innovation

Celebrating 35+ years of Synergetic Press as an independent publishing company, we at Synergetic Press have been at the forefront of publishing works on the study of consciousness and planetary health. As a visionary press we have continued to publish groundbreaking works in fields like ecology, sustainability, cultural studies, social justice and psychedelics, with the aim of inspiring both individual and collective transformation.

However, Synergetic Press is more than a publisher. We are also a partner in a collective of enterprising projects that have worked to shape culture, art, and research over the years.

This collective of projects started by the Institute of Ecotechnics range from the Research Vessel Heraclitus to the landmark Biosphere 2 facility, Synergia Ranch, The October Gallery in London, Las Casas de la Selva rainforest project in Puerto Rico are all fruits of collaborative effort from pioneers in the fields of ecotechnology, regenerative agriculture, and the arts.

The origins of Synergetic Press can be traced back to the early activists and the cofounder and Publisher, Deborah Parrish Snyder. It all began with the founding of the Institute of Ecotechnics in 1973, a collaborative effort involving luminaries such as Mark Nelson, a Biosphere 2 crew member; John Allen, co-founder of Biosphere 2; Christine Handte, a director of the Institute of Ecotechnics; and many others, including the cofounder and artistic director of Theatre of All Possibilities, Kathelin Gray, who started Synergetic Press back then to publish some of their early plays

The Institute of Ecotechnics

These projects were the result of a shared vision to explore complex dynamics of biospherics techniques and cultures. The Institute of Ecotechnics stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, with a profound impact on the world being at the forefront of pioneering ecological and sustainable initiatives. This visionary organization developed groundbreaking models for understanding complex dynamics in biosphere management, including dreaming and developing the scientific feat that was the Biosphere 2 project, the world’s largest closed systems ecological system.

Collaborating with experts from various fields, the Institute has been instrumental in addressing critical environmental challenges, from restoring overgrazed lands to setting up wastewater recycling systems in diverse biomes around the world. Its international conferences and project workshops have brought together some of the brightest minds to envision solutions that speak to the inherent complexities of our times. The Institute of Ecotechnics’ contributions have had a far-reaching impact on the world, advancing our understanding of ecology, sustainability, and the intricate web of interactions that sustain life on our planet.

Biosphere 2 and Synergia Ranch

One of the most iconic achievements is Biosphere 2 in Oracle, Arizona. A 3.14-acre closed ecological system designed to demonstrate the possibility of sustaining human life in space and understanding how to tend to life on Earth with more awareness. This monumental project, constructed between 1987 and 1991, remains the largest closed ecological system ever created. While it faced initial challenges and criticisms, the project successfully demonstrated the viability of closed ecological systems. Also providing lessons on sustainable practices, ecological conservation, and resource management. The research conducted within Biosphere 2 has left a lasting impact on our understanding of our planet’s delicate balance and the potential for self-sustaining habitats in space exploration.

Furthermore, Synergia Ranch, the homebase of Synergetic Press, has played a vital role in contributing to the Institute’s pioneering work. Purchased in 1969, the ranch has evolved into a hub of innovation and collaboration. It was not only the original home of several of the inventors and creators of the Biosphere 2 project but also a center for producing “biotechnic” products. As well as raising llamas and sheep for textiles. Synergia Ranch’s existing structures were transformed into workshops and studios for crafting fine wood furniture and architectural items. This dynamic environment has nurtured ecotechnic and artistic endeavors, fostering a wealth of collective knowledge and experience that continues to influence the Institute of Ecotechnics’ groundbreaking work in ecological research and sustainability.

The Research Vessel Heraclitus

Likewise, the Research Vessel Heraclitus, a Chinese-junk research ship built in 1975, has sailed the world’s oceans for over four decades, serving as a platform for arts, science, and ecological research. With over 270,000 nautical miles traveled, this ship has been an instrumental part of the Institute’s collaborative efforts, making invaluable contributions to marine ecologies, documenting cultural oral history in coastal regions, and collecting crucial data on the impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems. The partnership between the Heraclitus and the Institute of Ecotechnics has led to numerous expeditions. Its scientific research spans the entire globe, with the ship serving as a home to seafarers from diverse backgrounds and countries. Their collaboration represents a powerful commitment to understanding and preserving our oceans while exploring the boundaries of ecological research and sustainable practices.

The October Gallery

And finally, The October Gallery, an art space that has achieved remarkable recognition as a prominent art gallery in central London, has significantly contributed to the global art scene. Since its establishment in 1979, the gallery has been at the forefront of showcasing leading international artists, including El Anatsui, Rachid Koraïchi, Romuald Hazoumè, Nnenna Okore, Laila Shawa, and Kenji Yoshida. Its promotion of the Transvangarde, featuring the best in contemporary art from around the world, has solidified its reputation as an artistic powerhouse. Beyond art, the gallery serves as a cultural hub, fostering intellectual exchange among poets, writers, and artists through talks, performances, and seminars. This achievement extends beyond the art world, as the October Gallery’s charitable trust status and dedicated support from artists, musicians, and writers have created a lasting impact. Likewise, The October Gallery offers inclusive educational programs for individuals of all ages and providing an inspiring and dynamic space for creativity and cultural exchange.

In closing, Synergetic Press and its family of cutting edge associated projects stand as a testament to the incredible capacity of human creativity, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. They have opened our eyes to new horizons, sparking a passion for ecological stewardship, artistic expression, and the exploration of consciousness. As we reflect on their collective journey, we are reminded that when brilliant minds come together with a shared vision, the possibilities are limitless.

Synergetic Press at Illinois Psychedelic Science 2023

by Fernanda Baraybar | November 10, 2023 | Books, Consciousness & Psychedelics, Present & Past Events

Midwestern psychonauts, assemble!

After the triumph of the Psychedelic Science 2023 conference this past summer in Denver, it felt more important than ever to continue to find ways to be in community among other psychedelically minded folks. So it was an utter delight to be able to show up and share Synergetic Press’s books at the Illinois Psychedelic Society’s first-ever symposium in Chicago on Saturday, September 30.

The day was packed with incredible speakers and presenters, but just as importantly, it was attended by so many beautiful people eager to engage in conversation. From newbies to seasoned practitioners, the crowd was instantly willing to go deep within the safe container of the day that was established by IPS’s powerhouse founder and executive director Jean Lacy and her incredible network of colleagues and volunteers.

A good handful of attendees had also been present at PS23 and immediately recognized Synergetic Press as the team that had been running the bookstore there–a gratifying recognition! Other new friends were wide-eyed as they browsed our selection of titles for sale. Many had heard of Sasha and Ann Shulgin’s classics PIHKAL and TIHKAL but were excited to thumb through them for the first time. The glorious Donna Torres illustrations on the covers of both volumes of Sasha’s The Nature of Drugs were instant conversation-starters. Chacruna Institute’s essay collections Queering Psychedelics and Psychedelic Justice seemed tailor-made for keeping the trenchant discussions on best practices around the use of psychedelic medicine going. And copies of Saga Briggs’s How to Change Your Body sold out almost instantly–her warm and approachable writing style serving as a welcoming open door for getting us all to consider how we can take effective next steps into more holistic ways of healing.

We at Synergetic Press are so grateful for the opportunity to share the cutting-edge work of our authors with seekers wherever we find them–online, of course, but also increasingly again in person as we come together in the shared space of community.

Preserving Indigenous Wisdom and Spiritual Legacy

by Fernanda Baraybar | October 11, 2023 | Author blogs, Books, Cultural Studies, Social Justice

The Legacy of Bear Heart

From our heart to yours.

“Reading this masterfully architectured book, you will know Bear, and you will know your own heart, and you will know a man about whom not enough can possibly be written – Bear Heart, Keeper of the Sacred Wisdom of the Muscogee Creek Nation, healer, warrior and storyteller who lives on not only in the Forest of Spirit but with us here in the Land of the Seeking. Deep deep gratitude to Bear Heart’s life partner, Reginah WaterSpirit, through whose art and writings, the invaluable teachings of Bear Heart will live on and on far beyond any of us.”
– Rabbi Gershon Winkler

Beart Heart was a Muscogee Creek Native American Church Road Man with a talent for seeing people as individuals, and for making them feel seen and special in their own ways.

He was born in Oklahoma in 1918 and was a member of the Bear Clan dedicating his life to bridging the gap between indigenous traditions and the modern world. He traveled the globe, sharing the wisdom of his ancestors through storytelling, lectures, and workshops. His teachings focused on the importance of balance, harmony with nature, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Bear Heart teachings reflect the spiritual depth of indigenous cultures. His stories and insights provide a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of living in harmony with nature continuing to inspire indigenous youth to embrace and celebrate their heritage. Their stories serve as a beacon of hope for those seeking to reconnect with their roots and traditions.

When Reginah would ask Bear Heart exactly how he made his medicine, he always answered, “I don’t make the medicine, it was here before me. I’ve been entrusted to be a caretaker of certain sacred ways.”

The Bear is my Father is not just a book; it is a profound testament to the enduring wisdom and spirituality of indigenous cultures. Bear Heart and Reginah Waterspirit, through their stories and teachings, leave a legacy that reminds us of the beauty and importance of preserving the traditions and values of indigenous communities. Their work serves as a bridge between the past and the present, inviting us all to learn from the wisdom of our ancestors and live in harmony with the Earth.

Bridging the Gap between Western and Indigenous Cultures

by Fernanda Baraybar | October 11, 2023 | Cultural Studies, Social Justice, Sustainability & Ecology

Recognizing the Role of Indigenous People in our Planet

As we step into a new era, one marked by a growing awareness of the world around us, it is imperative that we acknowledge the invaluable role of indigenous people in our planet’s well-being.

For centuries, our society has been driven by a relentless pursuit of material wealth and personal gain. The insatiable appetite for riches has taken precedence over the harmony and stability of our planet, leading us down a perilous path of environmental degradation and imbalance. Throughout these tumultuous years, indigenous communities and tribes have been pushed to the brink of extinction, their cultures marginalized and their knowledge forgotten in the wake of colonization and the spread of capitalism.

In 1997, a glimmer of hope emerged with the establishment of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act, aimed at recognizing, protecting, and promoting the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples. This act created a National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, paving the way for mechanisms, appropriate funding, and the reclamation of their ancestral lands. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples further emphasized the urgency of respecting and promoting their inherent rights, including their political, economic, and social structures, as well as their spiritual traditions and connection to the land. Yet, despite these efforts, global governments and multinational corporations continue to exploit indigenous lands, particularly in places like the Amazon.

Indigenous peoples, who make up only 4% of the world’s population, play a pivotal role in safeguarding 80% of the world’s biodiversity. It is high time we recognize and appreciate the immense value and importance these communities hold for the survival of our planet.

So, how can we bridge the gap that has separated indigenous cultures from the Western world? We must revere the ancient knowledge they possess and the profound connection they maintain with the Earth.

As we seek to learn from them, it is our duty to treasure their wisdom as much as they do and treat their willingness to share it with us with the utmost respect. Gratitude is essential for the tireless efforts of indigenous communities. They are the guardians of the world’s biodiversity and, in turn, the frontline defenders against climate change and deforestation. Their fight is not separate from ours; it is a shared battle that we must acknowledge and actively support.

Lastly, there is a pressing need for respect—for the land, the knowledge, and the people. Our lack of respect for the land has fueled the overproduction of resources in these areas, contributing to ecological imbalance. It is high time we recognize that indigenous lands are not commodities to be exploited but sacred spaces to be preserved and protected.

To build a more sustainable and harmonious world, we must embrace indigenous cultures with reverence, gratitude, and respect. Their knowledge, connection to the Earth, and efforts in environmental preservation are invaluable gifts that we must cherish and support. It’s time to bridge the gap and stand together for the well-being of our planet and all its inhabitants.

Nature as a Tool for Psychedelic Integration

by Fernanda Baraybar | October 3, 2023 | Consciousness & Psychedelics

Harmonising Psychedelics and Nature: The Path to Healing, Growth, and Integration

In our fast-paced, modern world, many of us find ourselves disconnected from nature and, in some ways, from our own inner selves. The rise of interest in psychedelics for therapeutic purposes has brought with it a profound opportunity for healing, growth, and self-discovery. When we combine the power of psychedelics with connection to the natural world, we open the door to a transformative experience known as psychedelic integration.

The healing potential of nature can be a trusted ally when in your process of unraveling. Research into Ecotherapy, a form of therapy that involves engaging in outdoor activities amidst nature developed by Theodore Roszak, has demonstrated its effectiveness in alleviating mild to moderate depression. This perspective arises from the belief that individuals are interconnected with the broader web of life, and that our psychological well-being is intricately linked with, rather than isolated from, our environment. When we incorporate psychedelics into this equation, we tap into a synergistic relationship that can be profoundly beneficial.

Psychedelics have gained recognition for their capacity to induce non-ordinary states of consciousness. These non-ordinary states can provide insights into our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, allowing us to explore the depths of our psyche. However, this journey can be intense and challenging and nature provides a serene backdrop for introspection.

When combined with psychedelics, Nature becomes a space for profound self-reflection and contemplation, helping individuals gain clarity about their life’s path and purpose. The sights, sounds, and sensations of nature encourage mindfulness and being present in the moment helping individuals navigate the challenges of integrating psychedelic experiences. According to a reflection of the shadow side of psychedelic integration by Lucid News, a study conducted by Anna Lutkajtis and Jules Evans found that 30% of participants that attended a retreat space in the Netherlands experienced difficulties integrating the experience. Some difficulties can arise from an individual’s past health conditions, such as panic attacks, headaches or mental discomforts. Evans mentions, “anxiety and panic attacks seem to be the most common difficulties reported, followed by dissociation and feelings of confusion about what is real. People also report depersonalisation and fear of permanent damage”. As we experience the potential side effects of individual self-exploration, finding ways to create supportive spaces are increasingly important.

Some of the benefits we have witnessed by choosing to spend time integrating psychedelic experiences through nature can be seen through, enhanced connection, emotional healing, clarity and reflection, presence, personal growth, and stress reduction.

Nature facilitates a deep sense of interconnectedness, which aligns with the feelings of unity and oneness experienced during psychedelic journeys. Psychedelics can also bring unresolved emotions to the surface. In the tranquility of nature, individuals have the space and support to process and heal from these emotions.

Clinical psychologist and Founder of ACER Integration, an integration community for connecting to the self, others, and the natural world, Dr. Rosalind Watts, reminds us that, “As we recognise the many ways that we have become disconnected from ourselves, each other, and the natural world, we are called to build new structures and tools that help us come home to our innate belonging together.” Dr. Watts’ implementation of the ACER model Integration Cycle offers a year-long transformative journey that provides a comprehensive framework for individuals seeking a deeper and more thoughtful integration into their lives. The ACER Model, which stands for Accept, Connect, Embody, and Restore, guides participants through a real-time experience within a close-knit community. This collective approach proves invaluable for overall well-being. Rooted in principles of acceptance and commitment therapy and eco-psychology, the ACER Integration Cycle is not a substitute for therapy or counseling. Instead, it serves as a holistic guide to self-discovery and growth, emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for any medical, psychological, or physiological concerns.

When we include psychedelics into our healing journey, the experience often highlights areas for personal growth and transformation that requires patience and time. Nature, with its cycles, offers metaphors and lessons that can guide individuals as they work towards compassionate change in themselves and their surroundings. By merging the profound insights of psychedelic experiences with the nurturing embrace of the natural world, individuals can harness the full potential of these transformative journeys. It’s a harmonious synergy that allows us to reconnect with ourselves, with each other, and our environment, ultimately leading to a more balanced and fulfilled life.