Dan Nelson @danload@qoto.org

How do we address the challenges of living costs and homes for future generations?
By transitioning to a community-centric and decentralized model, we allow opportunities to create living spaces that are comfortable and also economically accessible, free from the burden of crippling debt. This shift diminishes the power of large banking institutions, mitigates the impact of inflation, and fights systemic corruption and monopolistic behavior. Embracing this community-first approach tips the scales in favor of the average-low income person.
Here are some ideas I gathered with the help of some local gurus for living affordable and keeping the state and Black R0ck out of your backyard, aside from the classic commune vibe. If you have any successful examples or wild ideas? Let me know in the comments so I can include them and do more research.
1. Cooperative Living with Land Use Agreements:
Emphasis: Establish housing cooperatives where members collectively own land through land use agreements. This model reduces individual financial burden and fosters community living. Each member has a stake in the land, reducing costs through shared resources and responsibilities.
2. Strata Title for Community Living:
Emphasis: Use strata titles to create micro-communities within larger properties. This allows for individual ownership of living spaces while common areas are managed cooperatively, significantly cutting down on individual property costs.
3. Subdividing with Legal Agreements:
Emphasis: Encourage landowners nearing retirement to subdivide their land through legal agreements. This could involve creating smaller, more affordable plots for younger generations or those looking to downsize, leveraging existing land to bypass traditional mortgage routes.
4. Seeking Unzoned or Less Regulated Areas:
Emphasis: Look for areas with minimal zoning laws where innovative, low-cost housing like tiny homes, earthships, or dome houses can be built without the heavy cost and regulation of traditional housing markets.
5. Private Membership Associations and Trusts:
Emphasis: Form these entities to hold land collectively, avoiding individual property taxes and mortgages. Members contribute to a common fund for land maintenance and development, reducing personal financial strain.
6. Sovereign Nation Communities:
Emphasis: While ambitious, creating a community that operates under its own governance could redefine housing norms, focusing on communal living spaces that are affordable and tailored to the community's needs.
7. Extended Family or Church Communities:
Emphasis: Utilize the concept of extended families or religious communities to pool resources for housing. This can lead to the creation of affordable living spaces where costs are shared among many.
8. Year-Round Recreation Parks:
Emphasis: Develop areas as 'permanent camping' or recreational zones where simpler, cost-effective living structures like cabins or yurts are used year-round, reducing the need for expensive housing.
9. Private Community Services Cooperative:
Emphasis: This cooperative would focus on providing services like water, power, and waste management at a lower cost by cutting out profit-driven corporations, directly impacting the affordability of housing.
10. Hybrid Non-Profit Land Share Societies:
Emphasis: Combine various non-profit models to share land where housing is built with community labor and materials, drastically reducing costs.
11. Clubs:
Clubs as flexible governing models can help address the housing crisis through innovative community structures and self-sufficiency:
Community Autonomy: Clubs allow members to make decisions about their living conditions, manage housing units, and share resources.
Regulatory Flexibility: Clubs can experiment with land use policies, housing designs, and economic models, potentially leading to more affordable housing.
Resource Sharing: Clubs promote sharing tools, vehicles, and housing units, reducing individual financial burdens.
Economic Models: Cooperative or mutual aid models help build and maintain housing without relying on external funding.
Skill Sharing: Members contribute skills in construction, law, or finance, reducing costs.
Philosophical Alignment: Clubs based on shared values (e.g., sustainability) lead to harmonious living arrangements.
Inclusivity: Clubs can support diverse groups through shared living spaces, reducing living costs.
Practical Implementations:
Housing Cooperatives: Collective ownership and management of properties.
Tiny Home Communities: Affordable, minimalist living.
ADU Expansion: Flexible regulations to promote accessory dwelling units.
Community Land Trusts: Communal land ownership with individual structural ownership.
This approach shifts housing from individual ownership to community stewardship, fostering sustainability and mutual support.
12. Experimental Townships with Sovereign Status:
Using Auroville, India as a prime example but a lesson in a need to have an oversight and constitution to prevent inside corruption and prevention of the "Guru super-ego complex"
Founded: 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, known as The Mother.
Aim: To realize human unity in diversity.
Governance: Overseen by the Auroville Foundation with a Governing Board, Residents’ Assembly, and International Advisory Council. Various working groups manage different aspects of life.
Structure: Designed around the Matrimandir, with zones for living, work, and cultural activities, integrated with green spaces and ecological projects.
Philosophy: Guided by sustainable living, integral yoga, and a vision for human unity, transcending traditional boundaries of nationality, culture, and religion.
13. Live on a Boat
14. Squatters' Rights
15. Live in a Van Down by the river: https://youtu.be/Xv2VIEY9-A8?si=bUKAyBgLw64Scmas
Community-Centric Strategies:
Community Financial and Legal Support: Use the collective power of these communities to negotiate or appeal for alternative building codes, support green and innovative building techniques, and offer community-backed loans or mortgages.
Technology and AI in Construction: Implement AI and technology for designing and constructing affordable, sustainable homes like 3D printed structures or earth houses, which can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Community Infrastructure: Develop community-owned mills, renewable energy sources, and material production to bypass the expensive, often exploitative market systems. This not only reduces costs but also builds a self-sufficient community.
Philosophical Shift: By focusing on community-first living, these approaches challenge the current economic system's inefficiencies, like inflation and monopolistic practices, by decentralizing power and returning it to the community level.
By integrating these methods, communities can create a robust framework for affordable housing that stands independent of traditional banking and governmental systems, paving the way for a future where housing is both accessible and sustainable.
Here are a few examples of these ideas being put into place locally and globally:
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Mountain Culture Group / Geoship
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyTpcDkwMVQ
Aims to revolutionize housing with bioceramic geodesic homes, focusing on affordability, sustainability, and climate resilience. These homes, made from durable and eco-friendly bioceramic materials, offer excellent insulation and structural strength. Geoship’s goal is to mass-produce these homes to reduce costs, with prices ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 for a 1,200 square foot home. I gathered this info from a talk @ nelson innovation centre & need more specifics and $ depends on the region etc.
See Future Villages:
https://www.facebook.com/FutureVillages/
Kootenay Resilience Festival:
https://smartvillage.ca/.../03/kootenay-resilience-festival/
Episode #27 : Housing How-To
https://headwaterspodcast.com/.../episode-27-housing-how-to/
The design promotes ecological living with natural materials and energy efficiency, potentially integrating renewable energy sources. Geoship envisions creating communities with shared resources and cooperative living to reduce individual costs.
Public perception is mixed, with excitement about affordability and eco-friendliness, but concerns about practicality and ecological impact. Real-world implementation faces challenges like zoning laws and public acceptance, but the concept holds promise for affordable, sustainable living.
Jean-Marc LaFlamme
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Leo Mitrunen's "The KADS Cooperative"
(intention to provide affordable, sustainable and resilient options for lifestyle and housing).
Options for Homes
https://optionsforhomes.ca/
an initiative or organization focused on economic empowerment through cost-efficient housing solutions, utilizes a cooperative model where members can achieve homeownership through strata titles in multi-family homes.
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Heddlestone Village https://heddlestonevillage.com/
A cohousing community designed to foster strong social interaction and cooperative living. It emphasizes sustainability with energy-efficient homes and community gardens. Shared resources like a common house, laundry, and play areas reduce waste and foster bonding. The village promotes self-sufficiency with community gardens and compost facilities, and encourages a low-carbon lifestyle with pedestrian-only areas. The community balances collective well-being with private spaces, supporting personal growth through shared activities. Economically, it aims for affordability by sharing resources and reducing costs.
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Chuckleberry Community Farm
https://www.chuckleberrycommunity.ca/
near Nelson, BC, focuses on community living, sustainability, and personal growth.
Philosophy and Lifestyle: The farm practices regenerative living, emphasizing community health and interpersonal relationships. This fosters a shift in consciousness towards community and nature.
Sustainability Practices: They use no-till farming, composting straw bales, and eco-friendly infrastructure like solar power and water catchment systems.
Community Structure: The farm supports personal and communal growth through daily check-ins and weekly gatherings.
Economic and Social Models: Shared resources and communal living reduce costs and promote sustainability.
Cultural and Personal Growth: Workshops and trainings encourage self-improvement within a community context.
Connections to the Wider Community: They supply organic microgreens locally, integrating into the broader economy.
Philosophical Underpinnings: The “One Health” philosophy connects human, animal, and environmental health, promoting harmony with nature and among people.
The Community Farm blends ecological sustainability, community living, and personal growth, creating a lifestyle integrated with the land and community.
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Philosophies of Cooperative Living for Housing Affordability include the idea:
Collective Ownership: Residents are members of the cooperative, meaning they collectively own the property. This removes the profit motive from housing, which often reduces costs compared to market-driven housing.
Democratic Management: Each member has a vote in the cooperative's decisions, fostering a democratic environment where residents have a say in how their living space is managed, maintained, and developed. This includes setting housing charges (what might be considered rent in other contexts), community rules, and long-term planning.
Affordability: By cutting out the profit element, cooperatives aim to provide housing at cost, which is generally lower than market rates. Additionally, many co-ops have provisions or subsidies for members who cannot afford the standard housing charge, ensuring inclusivity.
Community Focus: Co-ops often emphasize community living. This can mean shared spaces, communal activities, and mutual support systems, which not only foster a sense of community but can also lead to cost savings through shared resources like tools, gardens, or bulk buying.
Sustainability: Many housing co-ops in BC incorporate sustainable living practices, understanding that ecological sustainability can lead to economic affordability in the long run through reduced utility costs, sustainable building practices, and sometimes even food production.
Security of Tenure: Members have security of tenure, meaning they can live in their homes as long as they wish, provided they adhere to the co-op's rules. This stability is a direct counter to the precarity often found in the private rental market.
Broader Impacts and Challenges:
Government Support and Programs: Historically, government programs have supported the development of co-ops, but there's a noted decline in new co-op construction since the early 1990s. Recent discussions and some funding commitments suggest a potential resurgence in interest, recognizing co-ops as a solution to housing crises.
Challenges in Expansion: Despite their benefits, starting new co-ops is challenging due to high land and construction costs, and the need for initial capital investment. However, the philosophy of cooperative living continues to attract interest for its potential to address housing affordability sustainably.
Public Perception and Policy: There's growing recognition of the need for non-market housing solutions like co-ops. However, policy implementation and public funding to support new co-op developments are crucial for their expansion.
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If you feel spiritually guided and brave enough to step outside the matrix (though there’s nothing wrong with choosing to stay within it), here are some options and inspirations I’ve come across that HAVE worked for friends including the idea of learning "contract law" when dealing with unjust acts or statues for example:
(Warning: These movements and philosophies advocate for a return to fundamental, natural laws where individual rights are paramount, and government or corporate power is legitimate only when it respects these natural rights. While these ideas offer remedies, their practical application can lead to legal challenges and court system complexities. Contemporary legal systems may not recognize or might actively oppose some interpretations or actions, such as squatting, when they appear-to/conflict with current property laws (acts) (not capitol 'L' Laws). Therefore, it’s essential to educate yourself and decide if you’re ready for that kind of ‘Red Pill,’ or if you can find spiritual peace without resisting the system, choosing the ‘Purple Pill’ instead.)
From movements like "Natural Person", "Freeman on the Land", "Sovereign's Way", "Sovereign by Design", Using the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and Posse Comitatus, Indigenous Sovereignty etc. several remedies and principles can be gathered for individuals seeking protection under natural law from overreach by big government and corporations. Here's a synthesis based on the philosophies and legal principles these movements often reference:
Understanding Natural Rights: These movements emphasize natural rights, which are not contingent upon the laws or customs of any particular culture or government but are universal and inalienable. The Magna Carta (1215) and subsequent interpretations through to Black's Law Dictionary emphasize rights like the right to due process, the right to property, and the prohibition against arbitrary imprisonment or seizure of property.
Magna Carta: Clauses like Clause 39 (or 29 in later versions) provide that no freeman shall be deprived of his freehold without lawful judgment, which resonates with the idea of protection against arbitrary government actions.
Sovereignty of the Individual: The concept of individual sovereignty suggests that individuals have natural rights that predate government, and thus, they can't be easily overridden by government or corporate actions. This includes:
The Right to Property: Squatters' rights, or adverse possession, can be seen as a practical application of this, where continuous, open, and notorious use of land can, under certain conditions, lead to legal ownership, reflecting the idea that land should be used productively and not left idle.
Common Law and Natural Law: These movements often refer to common law, which evolves through judicial decisions rather than statutes, emphasizing precedents that align with natural law principles:
Black's Law Dictionary: Provides definitions and interpretations that can be used to argue for natural law rights, like the definitions of property, rights, and legal personhood.
Challenging Legal Constructs: Freeman on the Land and similar movements challenge the legal system by:
Distinguishing Legal Person vs. Natural Person: Arguing that individuals as natural persons are not automatically subject to statutory laws unless they consent. This includes challenging corporate or governmental jurisdiction over individuals who declare themselves sovereign or operating under natural law.
Direct Action and Civil Disobedience:
Squatting: While not universally endorsed, squatting can be viewed as a direct action against property laws seen as unjust or against the principle that land should serve human need, not just legal ownership.
Legal and Practical Remedies:
Use of Notices: Such as notices of understanding and intent, claim of right, which are tools used to assert one's rights under natural or common law.
Challenging Jurisdiction: By questioning the jurisdiction of courts or the legal status of corporate entities, individuals attempt to avoid or mitigate governmental or corporate control.
Education and Community:
Self-Education in Law: Encouraging individuals to learn about law to assert their rights more effectively, often referencing historical documents like the British Constitution or Magna Carta for foundational rights.
Community Support: Movements often advocate for community networks that support individuals in legal or practical disputes with governments or corporations.
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Inception/Meta Disclaimer:
Regarding the concept of responsibility and the pursuit of power and remedies outside a system that no longer serves you:
There exists a spectrum between the ‘blue pill’ and the ‘red pill,’ symbolizing an alchemical or spiritual journey. This is encapsulated by the quotes, ‘With great power comes great responsibility’ and ‘For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required,’ illustrating a transformation from base metal to gold.
-Blue Pill, on the extreme, symbolizes mainstream consensus, simplicity, and a lack of critical thinking. It involves following state rules and regulations and adopting an establishment viewpoint, similar to the perspective you might find in a Wikipedia article on a controversial topic, where only an agenda-driven, conformist reality is presented.
-'Purple Pill’ represents learning the system’s tricks and hacks, and making a deliberate choice to remain in a creative grey area without causing too much disruption.
-‘Red Pill’ represents the knowledge and ability to operate outside the conventional system or matrix. This could stem from a deep understanding of historical contexts or the legal and constitutional frameworks that allow one to exist beyond the norm. Sometimes, achieving true legal recognition might require escalating a case to the Supreme Court, as lower courts often align more with the ‘blue pill’ perspective. However, at higher judicial levels, foundational documents like the Magna Carta and the ‘spirit of the law’ become more influential.
In the bigger picture, the idea of men in black for red pillers represents gatekeepers of your spiritual claim, where you have a chance to reinforce your true spiritual boundaries.

The strategy to influence public opinion today might include what some describe as ideological subversion, where various actors, potentially including state or corporate entities, could employ tactics such as:
Creating Fake Social Media Profiles: These profiles can mimic genuine users, spreading misinformation and disinformation that aligns with specific agendas. They might create a false sense of consensus, exacerbate divisions by amplifying fear, or depict certain groups as adversaries.
Co-opting Progressive Movements: Movements advocating for diversity, inclusion, free speech, and anti-corruption could be redirected or manipulated. This might involve tactics like staging false flag operations, supporting controlled opposition, or promoting intolerance towards views that challenge established narratives. Such manipulation could lead to extreme positions on both ends of the political spectrum, potentially fostering fundamentalism or orthodoxy.
Behavioral Manipulation: Utilizing data analytics to tailor content that influences emotions or beliefs, often for economic benefit or political sway.
Generating Fake Consensus: Presenting certain opinions or news as widely accepted or popular to influence public perception or widen societal rifts.
This approach uses psychological tactics to subtly guide or control public thought and behavior, often unnoticed by individuals.
The concept of psychological manipulation through ideological subversion, especially when enhanced by technology and social media, represents a contemporary form of conflict where the battleground is the mind. Discussions around these issues often revolve around balancing national security with personal freedoms, the extent of covert manipulation, and how societies might defend against such tactics.
This entire theme hints at broader global concerns, like the influence of international forums and movements towards digital identities, which could impact constitutional rights for the benefit of a select few.
I hope that as a society, we can begin to explore more deeply our philosophical stance on human existence, focusing on aligning

with abundance and happiness. This perspective stands in contrast to the manipulative tactics previously described.

When I left my parents' house in 1996, I gained the autonomy to shape my diet based on my instincts, spiritual guidance, and intuition. I chose to eliminate all animal products from my consumption, a decision that profoundly transformed my life for the better, leading to numerous extraordinary experiences. At the time, I was unfamiliar with the term "vegan" and was seemingly alone in this dietary choice among my peers. However, I felt an unwavering conviction in the path laid out before me by the universe.
This dietary shift played a pivotal role in opening my mind to profound spiritual visions and insights, enhancing my connection with what I perceive as angelic entities and miraculous energies. I sensed a shift in my karmic energy, fostering greater compassion and love for all forms of life. My ability to communicate telepathically with animals also seemed to sharpen. These new perceptions guided me towards studying "A Course in Miracles" and the works of Carl Jung, which led me through significant personal transformations, including my soul travelling out of the body into a lightning bolt of white light into an awakening. (for another post)
I'm convinced that adopting a plant-based diet helped elevate my consciousness frequency, enabling me to progress further in my spiritual journey and ride the waves of existential exploration my soul yearns for.
Each person's journey is distinct, and it's vital to tune into and follow one's internal compass.
Here’s some information I’ve gathered over the years about plant-based choices. Take it with a silo of salt, as there’s no reason why any diet can’t lead you to a spiritual or ethical path and contribute to doing good in the world. I am aware of many evolved and lovingly-awesome individuals who also choose a meat-based diet.
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Throughout history, various cultures have been known for their plant-based diets, often influenced by geography, religion, philosophy, or economic factors. Here are some notable examples:
Ancient India:
Buddhism and Jainism: Both religions, originating in India, emphasize non-violence (ahimsa), which often leads to vegetarianism or veganism. Jainism, in particular, has strict dietary rules to avoid harming any living being, leading to a predominantly plant-based diet.
Ancient Greece and Rome:
Pythagoreans: Followers of the philosopher Pythagoras were known to practice vegetarianism, influenced by their belief in the transmigration of souls.
Medieval Europe:
Monastic Communities: Some Christian monastic orders, particularly in the Middle Ages, adopted vegetarian diets on certain days or periods as a form of asceticism or penance.
East Asia:
Buddhist Influences: In countries like China, Japan, and Korea, Buddhist monks often follow vegetarian diets. In Japan, the concept of “shōjin ryōri” (精進料理) involves cooking that is purely vegetarian, prepared by monks.
The Mediterranean Diet:
While not strictly plant-based, the traditional Mediterranean diet, which includes regions like Greece, Italy, and Spain, emphasizes plant foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, with moderate amounts of fish and poultry.
The Middle East:
Islamic Dietary Laws: While not strictly vegetarian, Islamic dietary laws (Halal) encourage moderation in meat consumption, and many traditional dishes are predominantly plant-based, especially in regions where meat was historically less available.
Ethiopia:
Fasting Days: The Ethiopian Orthodox Church prescribes numerous fasting days where adherents abstain from all animal products, leading to a rich tradition of plant-based cuisine.
Pre-Columbian Americas:
Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas: These civilizations had diets heavily reliant on maize, beans, squash, and other plant foods. While they did consume meat, their diets were largely plant-based because of agricultural practices.
Modern Movements:
19th Century Health Movements: In the United States and Europe, the 19th century saw the rise of health reform movements like the Seventh-day Adventists, who promoted vegetarianism for health reasons.
Contemporary Veganism:
While not a historical culture in the traditional sense, the modern vegan movement, which began in the 20th century, has roots in various philosophical and ethical movements advocating for animal rights, environmental sustainability, and health.
Ancient Egypt:
While not strictly vegetarian, the diet of ancient Egyptians was predominantly plant-based due to the agricultural bounty of the Nile Delta, focusing on grains, vegetables, and fruits. Meat was often reserved for the wealthy or special occasions.
Ancient China:
Taoism: Some Taoists, particularly in certain sects, practiced vegetarianism as part of their spiritual and health practices, aiming for harmony with nature.
The Essenes:
A Jewish sect from around the time of Jesus, some historians believe they practiced vegetarianism or at least had a strong inclination towards plant-based diets, influenced by their ascetic lifestyle.
The Cathars:
A medieval Christian dualist movement in Europe, particularly in what is now southern France, known as the Albigensians. Some Cathars adhered to vegetarianism as part of their ascetic practices.
The Zoroastrians:
While not universally vegetarian, some interpretations of Zoroastrianism, particularly in its early forms, suggest a reverence for all life that could lead to vegetarian practices.
The Hunza People:
Living in the Hunza Valley in Pakistan, this community was noted for its longevity and health, often attributed to a diet rich in grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts, with minimal meat.
The Rastafarian Movement:
While not strictly vegetarian, many Rastafarians follow an “Ital” diet, which emphasizes natural, plant-based foods, avoiding processed foods and often meat.
The Shakers:
An American religious sect in the 18th and 19th centuries, known for their communal living and simple lifestyle, often adopted vegetarian diets as part of their commitment to simplicity and non-violence.
The Dukhobors:
A Russian spiritual Christian group that migrated to Canada in the late 19th century. Many Dukhobors practiced vegetarianism as part of their belief in non-violence.
The Sadhus of India:
Not a culture per se, but many Hindu ascetics, known as Sadhus, adopt vegetarian or even vegan diets as part of their spiritual discipline, often living off alms which are predominantly vegetarian in India.
The Pythagoreans (Extended):
Beyond just the followers of Pythagoras, there were broader philosophical movements in ancient Greece that promoted vegetarianism, influenced by the idea of the soul’s purity.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church:
While mentioned before, it’s worth noting that this church has been instrumental in promoting vegetarianism and health reform, influencing broader dietary trends in the 20th century.
Health Benefits of Plant-Based Diets
Plant-based diets are associated with numerous health benefits, which include:
Heart Health: Plant-based diets are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, which help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
Weight Management: These diets tend to be lower in calories and higher in nutrients, which can help with weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight.
Diabetes Prevention and Management: A diet high in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cancer Prevention: Consuming a variety of plant foods provides antioxidants and phytochemicals that protect against certain types of cancer.
Digestive Health: High fiber content in plant-based diets promotes healthy digestion and can prevent constipation and other digestive issues.
Longevity: Studies have shown that plant-based diets are linked to longer lifespans and a lower risk of chronic diseases.
Environmental Benefits: Plant-based diets have a lower environmental impact, reducing water usage, and land use compared to diets high in animal products.
These benefits highlight why many cultural and modern movements have embraced plant-based eating as a path to better health and well-being.
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Extended Info:
Roman Gladiators:
Studies have shown that Roman gladiators primarily followed a plant-based diet. Here are some key findings from the research:
Diet Composition: Analysis of bones from a gladiator cemetery in Ephesus (modern-day Turkey) revealed that their diet was largely grain-based, consisting mainly of wheat, barley, and beans. This diet was low in animal protein.
Nutritional Analysis: Researchers used spectroscopy to examine stable isotope ratios (carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur) in the collagen of the bones, along with the ratio of strontium to calcium in the bone mineral. The results indicated a diet rich in carbohydrates and low in animal products.
Health Practices: Gladiators also consumed a tonic made from plant ashes, which was believed to help fortify the body after physical exertion and promote better bone healing. This practice is similar to modern-day use of mineral supplements like magnesium and calcium.
Historical Context: Contemporary sources referred to gladiators as “hordearii” or “barley eaters,” highlighting their grain-heavy diet. This was likely due to the availability and affordability of grains compared to meat.
These findings suggest that despite their rigorous physical demands, gladiators maintained a predominantly vegetarian diet, which was both economical and sufficient to meet their nutritional needs.
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The Okinawan diet:
The Okinawan diet is renowned for its association with longevity and overall health. Okinawa, a group of islands in Japan, is one of the world’s “Blue Zones,” areas where people live significantly longer and healthier lives. Here are some key aspects of the Okinawan diet and its impact on longevity:
Key Components of the Okinawan Diet
Plant-Based Foods: The traditional Okinawan diet is predominantly plant-based, focusing on vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Sweet potatoes are a staple, providing a major source of calories1.
Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Dense: The diet is low in calories but high in nutrients, which helps in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
High in Antioxidants: Okinawans consume a variety of antioxidant-rich foods, such as green leafy vegetables, turmeric, and mugwort. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to better health and longevity.
Moderate Protein Intake: While the diet includes some fish and occasional pork, the primary sources of protein are plant-based, such as tofu and legumes.
Healthy Fats: The diet includes healthy fats from sources like soy products and seaweed, which are beneficial for heart health.
Lifestyle Factors
Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is a significant part of Okinawan life. Many Okinawans engage in farming, gardening, and traditional martial arts, which help maintain physical fitness2.
Social Connections: Strong social networks and community bonds are crucial in Okinawan culture, providing emotional support and reducing stress.
Mindful Eating: The practice of “Hara Hachi Bu,” which means eating until you are 80% full, helps prevent overeating and promotes better digestion.
Health Benefits and Longevity
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: The Okinawan diet is associated with lower rates of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. The high intake of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats contributes to these benefits.
Longevity: Okinawans have one of the highest life expectancies in the world. For every 100,000 inhabitants, Okinawa has 68 centenarians, which is more than three times the number found in the US population of the same size.
Healthy Aging: The combination of a nutrient-dense diet, physical activity, and strong social ties helps Okinawans maintain their health and independence well into old age.
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In Taiwan, the Buddhist plant-based diet is deeply rooted in religious and cultural practices. Here’s an overview of this diet and the reasons behind the choice of veganism:
Buddhist Plant-Based Diet in Taiwan
Dietary Practices:
Vegetarian and Vegan Foods: Many Buddhists in Taiwan follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, avoiding meat and often dairy. Traditional dishes are adapted to be plant-based, using ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, and various vegetables.
Avoidance of Pungent Ingredients: Some Buddhists also avoid five pungent vegetables (garlic, onion, chives, scallions, and leeks) as they are believed to stimulate the senses and disrupt meditation.
Culinary Adaptations:
Mock Meats: Taiwan has a rich tradition of creating mock meats from soy, wheat gluten, and mushrooms. These are used to replicate the texture and flavor of meat in traditional dishes
Innovative Vegan Cuisine: Modern chefs in Taiwan are reinventing classic Taiwanese dishes to be vegan, making plant-based versions of popular foods like dumplings, hot pot, and even desserts.
Reasons for Choosing Veganism
Religious Beliefs:
Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Central to Buddhist teachings is the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence. This extends to all living beings, leading many Buddhists to adopt a vegan diet to avoid causing harm to animals.
Spiritual Purity: Consuming a plant-based diet is believed to help maintain spiritual purity and enhance meditation practices. Avoiding animal products is seen as a way to cultivate compassion and mindfulness.
Health Benefits:
Physical Well-being: Many Buddhists believe that a plant-based diet promotes better health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being.
Longevity: Similar to other plant-based cultures, the diet is associated with longevity and a lower incidence of health issues.
Environmental Concerns:
Sustainability: A plant-based diet is seen as more sustainable and environmentally friendly. It reduces the ecological footprint by conserving water and land resources.
Cultural Tradition:
Historical Practices:
The tradition of vegetarianism in Buddhism dates back centuries and has been maintained through monastic practices and layperson adherence. This cultural heritage continues to influence dietary choices in Taiwan today.
The Buddhist plant-based diet in Taiwan is a reflection of deep-seated religious beliefs, cultural traditions, and a commitment to health and environmental sustainability.
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The Shaolin monks, renowned for their martial arts prowess and spiritual practices, follow a plant-based diet deeply rooted in their Buddhist beliefs and lifestyle. Here’s an overview of their diet and the reasons behind their choice:
Shaolin Monk Plant-Based Diet
Dietary Practices:
Vegetarian and Vegan Foods: The Shaolin monks primarily consume a vegetarian diet, which includes a variety of grains, vegetables, fruits, beans, and tofu. They avoid meat, fish, and often dairy products.
Simple and Seasonal: Their meals are simple and seasonal, focusing on what is naturally available at different times of the year. This approach aligns with their belief in living harmoniously with nature.
Avoidance of Certain Foods:
Pungent Vegetables: Monks often avoid pungent vegetables like garlic, onions, and leeks, which are believed to stimulate the senses and disrupt meditation.
Alcohol and Stimulants: They also abstain from alcohol and other stimulants to maintain mental clarity and focus.
Reasons for Choosing a Plant-Based Diet
Buddhist Philosophy:
Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Central to Buddhist teachings is the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence. This extends to all living beings, leading monks to avoid consuming animal products to prevent harm.
Spiritual Purity: A plant-based diet is believed to help maintain spiritual purity and enhance meditation practices. Avoiding animal products is seen as a way to cultivate compassion and mindfulness.
Health Benefits:
Physical Well-being: Monks believe that a plant-based diet promotes better health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being
Energy and Vitality: Despite the rigorous physical demands of their martial arts training, monks find that a plant-based diet provides sufficient energy and nutrients. They attribute their strength and endurance to the purity and balance of their diet.
Mental Clarity and Focus:
Purification: A vegetarian diet is thought to purify the body and maintain balance within its systems. This purification process is believed to enhance mental clarity and focus, which are essential for their spiritual and martial practices.
Avoiding Negative Energy: By abstaining from meat, monks believe they avoid the negative energy associated with killing animals, which can cloud the mind and impede spiritual growth.
Environmental Harmony:
Sustainability: The plant-based diet aligns with the Taoist teachings incorporated into Shaolin practices, which emphasize living in harmony with nature. This sustainable approach helps preserve the environment and promotes ecological balance.
The Shaolin monks’ plant-based diet is a reflection of their commitment to non-violence, spiritual growth, and overall well-being. It supports their rigorous physical training and enhances their mental and spiritual practices.
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In “Conversations with God: Book 4, Awaken the Species” by Neale Donald Walsch, there is a discussion about advanced extraterrestrial civilizations and their dietary choices. The book suggests that these highly evolved beings often follow plant-based diets. Here are some key points from the book:
Spiritual and Ethical Reasons: Advanced civilizations choose plant-based diets as part of their ethical and spiritual evolution. They believe in non-violence and compassion towards all living beings, which aligns with the principle of ahimsa (non-harming) found in many Earth-based spiritual traditions.
Health and Longevity: These civilizations recognize the health benefits of plant-based diets, which contribute to their longevity and overall well-being. They understand that consuming plant-based foods can lead to better physical health and a longer lifespan.
Higher Consciousness: The book suggests that a plant-based diet supports higher states of consciousness and spiritual awareness. By consuming foods that are closer to their natural state, these beings maintain a clearer and more focused mind, which aids in their spiritual practices.
These points reflect the broader themes in “Conversations with God” about living in harmony with oneself, others, and the environment. The idea is that as civilizations evolve, they naturally gravitate towards choices that promote peace, health, and sustainability.

One reason to take advantage of a VPN or "Community Based" internet is to avoid the strict search result rules in Canada. For example, some of the metaphysical or "fringe"/"non-conformed" sites are not allowed to be shown in Canada. Drastically affecting my ability to research topics such as Metaphysics, ESP, Zero-Point or Scalar physics.
I Suggest, if it fits your purpose in life, proclaim spiritual adulthood and support ethical platforms, or choose a country for your VPN that believes your right to information is important.
(does not treat you as a "child" spoonfeed you regurgitated state "allowed" information)

When I changed my VPN to Mexico, I could get some of the important information I was looking for like "432 Harmonics" a small example.

LINKS:

www.freedominfo.org

https://www.article19.org/resources/international-standards-right-information/

______

Bill C11 and C18 and the Trudeau "Ministry of Truth" have downgraded Canada's access to information to be at a "Banana Republic" status.
I am waiting for a modern global review from internet freedom advocates.
If anyone has a review, please share it.
Fast-tracking of the WEF Digital Services Act in countries like Canada and Australia is only possible because of the lack of education in the history of Constitutional Law and the necessity of civil disobedience in response to state power and corruption.
I suggest we all exercise compassionate communication skills and get educated ourselves. We can Start Here: https://bit.ly/3v1NMPx Since Bill C18 passed so easily, the Canada 2027 Digital ID act will also pass unless people are informed.
Please share this if you read all the way here and believe this is important. Metaphorically the psychopath will keep taking until you respond with the high quality "NO".

Joseph Campbell described the "state" or "empire" as the shadow or the dark side of the ego that we must overcome to find our true self. Cognitive dissonance and insanity must be displaced with curiosity, deep listening and open-mindedness; responding and not reacting. How are we responding to overreaching infected government actions?

If we're taking the effort to switch platforms, it may be time to move away from Centralized Messengers (like Signal/Telegram) and focus on Federated or Peer-To-Peer. (like Element/Delta-Chat) Removing any Corporate (vulnerable) control structure. Unfortunately, many of the decentralized alternatives are still overly techy 😉 However, they're getting easier 🙂

That being said Signal and Telegram are significantly more private and ethical than Google/Facebook/Twitter/Apple; so it's very encouraging to see such a huge shift! 🙂

Centralized messengers are e.g. WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Threema, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat: There is one provider and one application for the service. Everybody who communicates with somebody communicates via the servers of that provider. That doesn’t mean that those messengers are all the same: Some, like Discord and Instagram, are entirely unencrypted – the service provider (i.e. the company) can read and use everything you write. Some, like Telegram and Signal, publish the source code of the apps – that means that everyone can see and verify what the app does on their phone. Some, like Threema and Signal, are always end-to-end encrypted. Some collect more metadata – e.g. the data when with whom, how long, where you communicate – and some less. And so on and so on. Still, there are very privacy-friendly messengers among those – most popularly Signal and Threema, followed by messengers with a smaller user base such as Wire and Wickr. But if any of those messengers implement a feature you don’t like, you’re screwed. All of those messengers are app-reliant: You need to access the application of the service provider, otherwise, you’re excluded from messaging other people.

Federated Messengers
Federated messengers are messengers which rely on a fully open protocol (think of ‘protocol’ as ‘language’). The two existing protocols are XMPP and Matrix. Their main principle can be compared to email: You can register an account at any server (or host a server of your own), and communicate with any other account on any other server. Think of it like sending an email from your Gmail account to your friend’s Yahoo account: There are no limits as to how you can communicate, and if you dislike Gmail, you can just switch to any other email provider and send an email to your friend from your new address. Likewise, you are free to choose any app you like to use your account (people generally speak of apps as ‘clients’). Similar to how you can access a Hotmail email account from different clients (e.g. the Gmail app, Apple’s email app, Mozilla Thunderbird, …), you can access your XMPP or Matrix account through different clients or simply access your account from the web browser. There are people who prefer XMPP and people who prefer Matrix, I personally think that XMPP is the better protocol whilst Matrix offers an easier user experience for people who are new to federated messenger protocols.
An ideal choice for messaging may be Element which uses the Matrix protocol. Element is more organized than Telegram in that it supports a structure such as rooms and encrypted group calls like Discord.

Peer-to-Peer Messengers
Peer-to-peer messengers don’t rely on servers altogether – they just rely on one common protocol (‘language’). Briar, Jami, Tox, RetroShare are all examples of this. Among the three groups, they provide the most anonymity and security. However, this also means that you need to add your contacts manually – as your identity is protected, you can’t simply be identified by your phone number. On the other hand, they provide the comfort of not being able to fail. There is no server that can go offline and you don’t need to place your trust in the availability of the service on a specific provider. You will always be able to message your contacts – in some cases even without needing an internet connection. But pay attention: Not all peer-to-peer messengers support voice or video call functionality.