In the struggle for survival, the natural world provides profound lessons for humanity. Consider the lobster, an often-cited example by Jordan Peterson, which fights relentlessly to secure its territory and assert dominance. This struggle is emblematic of a broader, intrinsic truth about life: we inhabit a world characterized by duality. There is good and evil, light and darkness, order and chaos. Recognizing and confronting this duality is crucial for navigating the complexities of modern existence. We live in a world where beings fight for survival, animals eat each other and everyone wants their piece of personal space and personal truth.
The New Age movement, with its emphasis on love and light, offers valuable lessons in compassion and kindness. However, an unbalanced focus on these ideals can become a trap, blinding us to the necessity of confronting life’s darker aspects. The movement is full of some big important events, hope, and change where people tend to listen, and dream, but not take action. To fully engage with reality, we must acknowledge the interplay of opposing forces and understand that passivity in the face of adversity can lead to stagnation and depression.
In today’s world, people are increasingly being numbed down and trained to be submissive, restrained by the pervasive fear of cancel culture. Cancel culture, a phenomenon where individuals are ostracized for expressing opinions that deviate from the accepted norm, has created an environment where free speech is stifled, and conformity is rewarded. This culture of fear suppresses genuine expression and critical thinking, leading to a homogenized society where only one narrative is allowed to flourish.
From a psychological perspective, this suppression is detrimental to mental health. Human beings are inherently social creatures who thrive on authentic interaction and the exchange of diverse ideas. When individuals feel they cannot speak their truth or express dissenting opinions, it leads to a sense of isolation and alienation. The fear of being publicly shamed or losing one’s job for holding unpopular views, for not wanting to take a jab to be allowed to go to work, creates a self-censorship that erodes personal integrity and stifles intellectual growth.
There are societal control mechanisms where the system perpetuates this state of conformity. By promoting a singular narrative and marginalizing alternative viewpoints, the system maintains control over the masses. This method of control is not new; it has historical precedents in totalitarian regimes where dissent was brutally suppressed to ensure compliance.
Consequences of Suppression
The psychological impact of living in such an environment cannot be overstated. When people are unable to express their true thoughts and feelings, it leads to a condition known as learned helplessness. This is a state where individuals feel powerless to change their circumstances, leading to apathy and a passive acceptance of the status quo. The chronic stress associated with self-censorship can also result in increased levels of anxiety and depression. Moreover, the lack of diverse viewpoints and critical discourse stunts societal progress. Innovation and growth stem from the clash of ideas and the synthesis of diverse perspectives. When a society discourages dissent and enforces a monolithic way of thinking, it becomes stagnant and less resilient in the face of new challenges.
The Importance of Balance
From a metaphysical standpoint, the suppression of dissenting voices disrupts the natural balance of duality that is essential for growth and evolution. The universe operates on the principle of balance between opposing forces—light and dark, order and chaos. When one side is artificially suppressed, it leads to an imbalance that manifests as societal dysfunction and individual suffering. It’s important to integrate our shadow side—the darker, more primal aspects of our nature—into our conscious self. This integration allows us to harness the power of our aggression and assertiveness constructively, rather than letting it fester and erupt destructively. By acknowledging and confronting our darker impulses, we can achieve a more holistic and balanced existence.
The Trap of Perpetual Positivity
Many spiritual teachings advocate for responding to negativity with love, turning the other cheek, and avoiding confrontation. While these principles are noble and can promote harmony, they can also lead to a state of inaction if not tempered with the recognition of life’s inherent challenges. The world is not a utopian fantasy; it is a battleground where survival often necessitates assertiveness and, at times, aggression. Societal structures and manipulations can suppress individual freedom and expression. This suppression is evident in today’s culture, where expressing anger or dissent is often stigmatized. People are conditioned to avoid conflict, leading to a collective resignation and the loss of individuality.
The Consequences of Suppression
The psychological impact of societal suppression is profound. When individuals are discouraged from expressing their true feelings and standing up for their beliefs, it affects their mental and physical well-being. The body and mind are interconnected; our posture, facial expressions, and social interactions influence our brain chemistry. Smiling can trigger the production of serotonin and oxytocin, promoting a sense of well-being, while cowering in fear or sadness increases cortisol levels, leading to stress and depression.
The societal pressure to conform and avoid conflict can create a generation of passive individuals, unwilling to assert their rights or defend their beliefs. This passivity is not only detrimental to personal health but also to the collective resilience of society. A community that does not challenge injustice or stand up against oppression is vulnerable to manipulation and control.
The Power of Posture and Physical Action
Tony Robbins, a renowned motivational speaker and life coach, emphasizes the significance of physicality in influencing our mental states. He teaches that by adopting powerful postures and engaging in vigorous physical activity, we can transform our emotional states. Robbins often discusses how standing tall, with shoulders back and head held high, can immediately change our internal chemistry, boosting confidence and reducing stress.
Jordan Peterson, in his book “12 Rules for Life,” also underscores the importance of posture. His first rule, “Stand up straight with your shoulders back,” highlights how adopting a confident physical stance can positively impact our mental health. This rule is not just about posture but about embracing responsibility and facing life’s challenges head-on. By physically embodying confidence and strength, we signal to our brains that we are capable and resilient, which in turn reduces feelings of helplessness and depression.
The modern world, with its technological conveniences, has distanced us from our primal, instinctual nature. This disconnection from our fundamental human needs and natural rhythms has left us vulnerable to depression and existential angst. Reclaiming our connection to nature and our primal selves is crucial for overcoming these modern afflictions. The comfort of technology has indeed taken away many of our primitive need satisfactions. In the past, humans were required to engage in physical activities for survival—hunting, gathering, building shelters. These activities naturally regulated our body chemistry, ensuring a balance of hormones that promoted physical and mental well-being. Today, many of these activities are no longer necessary, and our sedentary lifestyles contribute to the epidemic of depression and anxiety.
One of the fundamental aspects of combating depression is establishing a regular routine. Waking up at a consistent time each morning helps regulate our circadian rhythms, which in turn stabilizes our mood and energy levels. Engaging in regular physical exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Additionally, spending time outdoors and connecting with nature can significantly reduce stress and improve overall well-being. To counteract the depressive effects of modern life, it is essential to reconnect with our primal selves. This means embracing physical activity, engaging with nature, and adopting routines that mimic our ancestral lifestyles. Simple actions like walking barefoot on the earth, practicing mindfulness, and spending time in natural settings can help reestablish this connection.
The Power of Saying “No”
One of the most powerful tools at our disposal is the ability to say “no.” In the face of coercion and control, asserting one’s boundaries is an act of defiance and self-respect. It’s important to set personal boundaries and use the transformative power of asserting one’s will. By saying “no,” we establish clear limits that protect our integrity and well-being. This simple act of self-assertion can have profound effects on our mental and emotional health, signaling to ourselves and others that we value our autonomy.
Martial arts teach us the importance of self-defense—not as a means to harm others but to protect oneself and one’s loved ones. This principle can be applied beyond physical combat to all areas of life. Recognizing our inner strength and potential for assertiveness is crucial for maintaining our autonomy and integrity. Being someone who can say “no” when necessary is importnat.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we witnessed how quickly personal freedoms can be taken away because of a one-truth mainstream media (MSM) narrative. Small businesses were shuttered, and individuals were coerced into compliance through fear and economic pressure. This period underscored the importance of vigilance and the need to question authority when it overreaches. Saying “no” in such times is not just an act of personal defiance but a crucial component of maintaining a free and open society.
Throughout history, there have been numerous examples of ideologies that led to the suppression of individual freedoms. The rise of Nazism and Communism provides stark reminders of how powerful narratives can be used to control and manipulate populations. Under these regimes, dissent was not tolerated, and the failure to conform often resulted in severe punishment.
The Nazis, under Adolf Hitler, created a totalitarian state where propaganda was used to control the narrative and suppress opposition. The infamous Gestapo (secret police) enforced conformity, and the consequences for saying “no” or resisting were often fatal. The regime’s propaganda machine promoted a singular truth that justified its actions and silenced dissenting voices.
Similarly, in Communist states, particularly under leaders like Stalin and Mao, the centralization of power led to widespread repression. Karl Marx’s satanistic ideologies were twisted into tools of control while preaching liberation of the working class. The state dictated every aspect of life, and those who dared to oppose the official narrative faced imprisonment, torture, or execution. The fear of retribution forced many to comply silently, stifling any form of opposition.
These historical examples illustrate the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of maintaining the ability to say “no.” They highlight how ideologies, when used to centralize control and suppress dissent, can lead to devastating consequences for individual freedoms and societal well-being.
Embracing Our Inner Monster
To navigate this complex world, we must acknowledge and integrate our darker aspects. Understanding our capacity for aggression and destructiveness allows us to control and channel these forces constructively. Denying our inner monster does not make it disappear; it only weakens our ability to harness its power for good.
This concept is not about advocating for violence or cruelty but about recognizing that we possess the strength and resilience to stand up for ourselves and others. In times of suppression, when our voices are silenced, and our freedoms are threatened, tapping into this inner strength is essential.
We’ve seen it in the movies too. In Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight,” Batman embodies the struggle to balance light and darkness within. Bruce Wayne, as Batman, uses his inner darkness—his pain, anger, and aggression—to fight against the criminal underworld of Gotham City. His willingness to operate in the shadows and employ fear as a tool against his enemies showcases the constructive use of one’s inner monster. Batman’s actions, though often morally ambiguous, ultimately aim to protect the innocent and uphold justice, demonstrating the potential of channeling darker aspects for the greater good. In “Gladiator,” Maximus Decimus Meridius channels his inner monster to seek justice and restore honor. After losing his family and being betrayed by the corrupt emperor Commodus, Maximus transforms his grief and rage into a relentless drive for revenge and justice. His prowess as a gladiator, fueled by his inner turmoil, inspires others and exposes the corruption within the Roman Empire. Maximus’s journey highlights how harnessing inner darkness can lead to personal redemption and societal change.
Jordan Peterson has become a prominent figure in the battle against the suppression of free speech and the rise of cancel culture. Known for his staunch defense of individual rights and his critique of political correctness, or his opinion about the woke movement, the gender identity crisis, and more. Peterson has faced significant backlash for his views. Despite this, he continues to speak out, encouraging others to do the same. His work emphasizes the importance of standing up for what one believes is true, even in the face of intense social and professional pressure. By confronting the woke movement and cancel culture, Peterson demonstrates how embracing one’s inner monster—facing criticism and adversity with courage—can lead to significant societal impact.
David Icke has long warned about the dangers of centralized control and the suppression of dissent. His willingness to speak out against mainstream narratives exemplifies the power of saying “no” to overreaching authority. Icke’s advocacy for questioning official stories and promoting independent thought highlights the importance of vigilance and critical thinking in maintaining a free society. His work reminds us that embracing our inner monster involves challenging the status quo and defending our freedoms, even when it is unpopular or risky.
We can see that acknowledging and integrating our inner monster is not about succumbing to violence or cruelty. Instead, it is about recognizing the full spectrum of our human nature and using our inner strength and resilience to stand up against injustice, protect our loved ones, and drive meaningful change.
Moving Forward with Balance
The path forward lies in balance. Embrace the ideals of love and compassion, but do not let them blind you to the necessity of confrontation and assertiveness. Understand that life is a duality, and true growth comes from navigating the interplay of light and dark, order and chaos. By standing up for ourselves, expressing our true feelings, and saying “no” when necessary, we can create a world where both compassion and strength coexist, fostering a society that is both kind and resilient. By acknowledging our inner strength and refusing to be passive in the face of adversity, we can build a life that is not only rich in love and light but also grounded in the reality of our shared human experience.
Simple Practical Steps for Overcoming Suppression and Depression
- Stand Up Straight: Adopt a confident posture. Standing up straight with your shoulders back can immediately boost your confidence and signal to your brain that you are in control.
- Establish a Routine: Wake up at the same time every day. A regular sleep schedule helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which is crucial for maintaining mental health.
- Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise releases endorphins and reduces cortisol levels. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s walking, running, or practicing martial arts.
- Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors. Nature has a calming effect on the mind and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness or meditation to help stay grounded and present. These practices can reduce stress and improve overall mental clarity.
- Express Yourself: Do not suppress your feelings. Find healthy outlets for expression, whether it’s talking to a friend, writing in a journal, or engaging in creative activities.
- Set Boundaries: Learn to say “no.” Protect your personal space and do not allow others to suppress your voice or beliefs.
- Self-Awareness: Acknowledge your darker impulses and understand how they can be channeled constructively. This self-awareness is the first step in harnessing your inner power.
- Role Models: Study the lives of individuals who have successfully harnessed their inner monster for good. Historical figures, fictional heroes, and real-life mentors can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can counteract the numbing effects of societal suppression and technological comfort. Embracing our primal instincts, maintaining physical health, and standing up for our beliefs are essential steps in reclaiming our mental and emotional well-being.