Fernanda Baraybar, Author at Synergetic Press

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.

70 Ads to Save the World: Winner of IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award

by Fernanda Baraybar | September 6, 2023 | Books, Reviews, Social Justice

In an era where advertising often seems synonymous with consumerism and manipulation, Jerry Mander, an advertising visionary, took a bold step forward to harness the power of the medium for a greater cause. In his captivating book, 70 Ads to Save the World: An Illustrated Memoir of Social Change, Mander invites readers on a remarkable journey through his groundbreaking work that challenged the status quo and aimed to make a positive impact on society.

The IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards, a prestigious recognition in the publishing industry, recently acknowledged the remarkable achievements of 70 Ads to Save the World. By winning the silver award in the Political and Current Events category, the book has received well-deserved acclaim for its innovative approach to advertising and its potential to create a better world. This recognition further solidifies Mander’s position as a visionary and validates the impact of his work in driving social change.

70 Ads to Save the World is more than just a memoir; it serves as a catalyst for action. By sharing his journey, Mander motivates readers to rethink their own relationship with advertising and consider how it can be harnessed as a force for positive transformation. The book challenges us to question the prevailing narratives, examine our own beliefs, and explore creative solutions to pressing global issues. It empowers readers to believe in their ability to make a difference and inspires them to take action in their own lives and communities.

Mander’s perspective on advertising was unlike any other. Rather than utilizing advertising solely for corporate gain, he believed that it could be a powerful tool for social change. Mander’s book showcases 70 compelling ads that were designed to provoke thought, inspire action, and challenge societal norms. These thoughtfully crafted advertisements covered a range of pressing issues, including environmental sustainability, social justice, and political reform.

An illustrated memoir that masterfully combines images and narratives to create a lasting impact, Mander understood the potency of visual storytelling, recognizing that captivating visuals could communicate a message more effectively than words alone. Each ad presented in the book is accompanied by an insightful commentary, providing readers with an in-depth understanding of the creative process and the underlying social message. Mander’s work defied conventional advertising norms by breaking away from the relentless pursuit of profit and redirecting the focus towards the greater good. Through his thought-provoking ads, he aimed to promote critical thinking, encourage dialogue, and ultimately inspire positive change. By challenging societal assumptions and exposing the flaws within our systems, Mander’s ads stimulated discussions that had the potential to reshape public opinion and drive collective action.

Jerry Mander’s 70 Ads to Save the World: An Illustrated Memoir of Social Change represents a groundbreaking work that pushes the boundaries of advertising. By utilizing the medium to challenge societal norms and advocate for positive change, Mander demonstrates the immense potential of advertising to shape the world we live in. With its thought-provoking content, visually engaging illustrations, and recent recognition at the IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards, this book serves as a rallying call to harness the power of advertising for the greater good. Let Mander’s memoir inspire us all to explore new avenues and embrace advertising as a means to save the world

A Day at the Johnson-Su Compost Inoculant Field Trial Event held at Synergia Ranch

by Fernanda Baraybar | August 23, 2023 | Ecotechnics, Present & Past Events, Sustainability & Ecology

At Synergia Ranch, nestled in the heart of New Mexico’s serene landscape, a unique and transformative event recently took place that left participants inspired and deeply connected to the natural world around them. Joining hands with the wonderful on site ecologists, this event was more than just a gathering; it was a step towards understanding our planet better and fostering regenerative practices.

Held within the embrace of the ranch, which has been a center for innovation and retreats since 1969, this event brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a common commitment to cultivating a more sustainable and harmonious future. Joined by Chloe Buzzota, our Marketing and Community Engagement Coordinator, the Johnson-Su Compost Inoculant Field Trial Event was a convergence of minds, passion, and purpose.

The history of Synergia Ranch is a testament to the power of innovation and human spirit. Originally degraded, overgrazed land from when it was a dairy farm, it has evolved through time to become a hub of creativity, fostering collaboration in ecotechnic endeavors across the globe. Home to visionaries who played integral roles in the Biosphere 2 project, the ranch is a living laboratory of innovation, ecology, and artistic expression.

The July event was an opportunity to engage with the earth in a way that transcends boundaries. Attendees delved into the intricacies of Johnson-Su compost inoculant and its impact on heritage grains and garlic. Through data collection techniques such as infiltration tests, soil sampling for carbon and nitrogen analysis, biomass measurements, and yield data assessment, participants gained insights into the ecosystem’s delicate balance.

From infiltration tests to soil sampling for microscopy, from meticulously documenting shoot biomass for grains to measuring yields for garlic and grains, the event offered a hands-on experience that bridged theory and practice.

The day was more than just learning; it was a journey of connection. As the participants connected over a sumptuous lunch, the atmosphere was charged with shared dreams and a collective vision for a sustainable future. From seasoned agriculturists to eager learners, everyone present found themselves woven into the fabric of a community working towards regeneration.

Synergia Ranch and its collaborators showed that learning and growth can happen amidst the most serene and inspiring settings. The legacy of the ranch, spanning innovation, creative arts, and now regenerative agriculture, continues to shape a world where harmony between humans and nature is not just an aspiration but a lived reality.