Reading and Movie List

Reading list

Brain Development and “The Big Picture”

With the invention of CAT scans and other brain imaging technology there has been tremendous growth in our knowledge of how the brain works. This knowledge has helped develop new fields of study including neurobiology with its application to understanding how we become attached and learn to love. These books explore and explain these new areas.

John Mosher’s work helps explore the growing link between cutting edge science and spirituality. Quantum physics insights about how an object is affected by how it is viewed is in alignment with John’s idea of personal mythology where we end up creating the reality we live by the way we perceive “our reality.” The work of Stanislav Grof is brilliant in explaining the different levels of human consciousness and how the stages of our pre-birth set the stage for similar experiences later in life.

Relationship Reading

Spiritual Reading

Movie List: Healing Rituals in Film

We live in a culture that is lacking in meaningful ritual. Try to think of the last time you were deeply moved and changed by attending a wedding or church service. The rituals are models for how to grow and become whole. They still exist and are present in certain films, plays, literature or music.

John Mosher, in his Healing Circle model, has identified films that contain the four rituals. I have listed several of each type below. Some films will likely have more impact or importance to you depending on the healing that your life needs. As Joseph Campbell said, “The protagonists in these stories are educators about life.” By watching their journeys unfold they are giving us examples of how we might change and heal.

Separation Films: To heal betrayal myths

These Films are about defining identity and creating intention. They are often about relationships, especially with “parents.” They help us get unstuck and define our purpose in life by taking decisive action: (often leaving, rather than being left). They are about healing betrayal myths.

Transformation Films: To heal disempowerment myths

They often involve an ordeal that we must go through alone. Often there are themes of disempowerment through shame and humiliation and empowerment by surrender of control. They are about stepping into wisdom and knowing about life. They are about healing disempowerment myths.

Incorporation Films: To heal chaos myths

They are about making meaning out of chaos and experiencing forgiveness and amends. We can incorporate (take into ourselves) the useful things out of our experiences and use them to further our own growth. Often have themes of emotional clearing, rebirth and connection to feelings. They are about healing chaos myths.

Continuity Films: To heal abandonment myths

These films are about belonging and knowing our worthiness in our families and communities. They often involve making and breaking of attachment and define ethical behavior. They are about healing abandonment myths.

Most of these books and films are available at Amazon.com and Half.com.