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AXONS FIRING. SO THIS IS WHAT THEY MEAN BY BRAIN POWER

W I T H A N O V E R V I E W O F 1 S I L V A M E T H O D R E S E A R C H A SPECIAL REPORT FROM SILVA INTERNATIONAL ABOUT THE SILVA METHOD AND THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY

O N T H E C O V E R

The tangled circuitry you see on the cover represents a few of the billions of nerve cells that are firing away at any given moment inside your noggin.

The “sparks” of light show the spikes of electrical activity that travel nerve cells, hauling bits of information between different parts of the brain.

Believe it or not, what you see here is a tiny fraction of the total number of cells found in the brain. The empty spaces between neurons are but a mirage-—in reality, they are packed with other cells.

We g rabbed this image from an animation developed by researchers at the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center. The work contributed to the planetarium show "Gray Matters: The Brain Movie," which debuted in 1999.

Image courtesy Greg Hood, John Burkardt & Greg Foss, of the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center.

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2 3 HOW SCIENCE DISCOVERED SILVA Dr. West was impressed. Even though he had visited the laboratories of Dr. J.B. Rhine at Duke The Lone Pioneer University on two occasions, he said that he had never seen so much valid scientific work done on ESP. science that José Silva has named A VERY SUCCESSFUL VISIT In the beginning, José “psychorientology.” Silva was alone in his That led to an A SCIENTIST TAKES A PEEK research. Even his wife invitation by Paula was skeptical and cautious Dr. West for The first scientist who came to until she eventually saw the benefits Silva to come Laredo, Texas, to investigate the in the work he was doing with their to Plainview research that Silva was doing was children. and present a Dr. J.W. Hahn, director of the Mind lecture to the Science Foundation in San Antonio, A few friends in Laredo became psychology Texas. Through Dr. Hahn, many interested and listened to his ideas students at the more scientists became interested Dr. N.E. West and helped him when he asked college. them to, but many more were in the pioneering research into the mind and human potential. suspicious and even hostile. The visit was so successful that Dr. West told his friend Dord Fitz, an art Mind Science Foundation was Eventually Silva’s work attracted professor in nearby Amarillo, that founded by oil millionaire Tom Slick the attention of one scientist, he should invite Silva to come speak Sr. It was Mr. Slick who asked Dr. who became a close friend and to his art students. When several Hahn to check out Silva’s work. He associate, and who brought the of the art students expressed took back a very favorable report. research findings to the attention of an interest in learning Silva’s techniques, Fitz suggested that Silva come teach a class in Amarillo.

More than 80 students attended LECTURING that first Silva Method course. Even TOGETHER are before they had finished their Dr. J.Wilfred training, they were telling Silva that Hahn, left, and their relatives and friends were José Silva, at the also interested, so Silva scheduled Silva Method another class. two-week Ultimate Seminar The Silva Method continued to in Laredo, Texas. grow by word of mouth until today it is being offered in more than 100 countries worldwide, in 29 different languages—and millions of people many other scientists. In fact. Dr. Hahn took the first step have benefited. that led to the Silva Method being This pioneering research, taught to the public for the very first Meanwhile, while Silva was overcoming many obstacles and time. Here’s how it happened: impressing students and artists challenges, has provided José Silva with his findings, Dr. Hahn was with many wonderful memories of After Dr. Hahn’s visit to Laredo, arranging for a visit to the leading the people and events that helped he called Dr. N.E. West, the head parapsychology laboratory in the us to take the first step into the of the Department of Psychology world: The Mind Science Foundation second phase of human evolution at Wayland Baptist University in Laboratory in Los Angeles, on the planet by succeeding with Plainview, Texas, and arranged California. metaphysics. for him to visit Laredo and inspect Silva’s findings. It was here that Silva observed a This is the story about how scientific project with a plant that scientists became aware of the new

2 3 To validate the survey, Dr. Hahn conducted another ART PROFESSOR survey. In this one, he got DORD FITZ, left, responses from every person and José Silva are who attended a Silva Method interviewed by Basic Lecture Series in an Amarillo, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Texas television station in the The results in Albuquerque art studio where were the same as the results the first Silva from the other survey, and Method lectures every person was satisfied were conducted. with the course. See charts on pages 14-19.

Armed with proof that the Silva Method works and that graduates were reporting outstanding benefits. Dr. Hahn now approached other scientists and encouraged MIND SCIENCE them to investigate Silva’s FOUNDATION work. director J. Wilfred Hahn, He helped arrange with left, brought clinical psychologist Dr. José Silva to Puryear to hold a Silva Method the Los Angeles class at the Trinity University branch of the campus in San Antonio. Foundation to observe their Then Dr. Hahn approached the research. University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio. He arranged for Dr. Robert Barns, head of the Psychiatry convinced him that the human mind high percentage. The graduates Department, and Dr. Richard could alter matter just by thinking. seemed eager to express their McKenzie, head of the Psychology opinions. Department, to invite Silva to VERIFIED RESULTS present a lecture and demonstration The results were spectacular. Not of how to control brain waves Silva continued teaching, and Dr. only were people receiving all of consciously. Hahn continued encouraging him. the benefits they had sought when But not everyone believed that such they first came to the course, they Students and professors were trailblazing research and results were benefiting in ways they had impressed, because at that time, were coming out of Laredo, Texas. not expected. They were correcting scientists believed that brain waves problems that they had not even were under autonomic control, and Dr. Hahn needed to demonstrate to considered correcting by using the could not be altered by individuals. the Mind Science Foundation board Silva Method techniques. of directors that Silva’s program Later Dr. Hahn arranged with was valid, so he undertook a major There was also a question about Dr. Fred Bremner, head of the survey. the graduates’ overall opinion Department of Psychology at Trinity of the Silva Method. Only half a University, to test Silva and some of Detailed, comprehensive survey dozen had any complaint, while the the people that Silva had trained. forms were mailed to 10,000 Silva rest—99.6% of the graduates—were Method graduates. More than 1,100 satisfied. of them took the time to fill out the forms and return them, an unusually For the first time, scientists verified 4 5 HOW SCIENCE DISCOVERED SILVA Researchers Learn about Findings

in a scientific laboratory that people and join Silva in Laredo. PRESENTATION TO SCIENTISTS could learn to control their brain waves. Dr. George DeSau conducted The three scientists, now on the numerous studies of the changes Silva International staff. Dr. Hahn, They also conducted a scientific that take place in people after Dr. DeSau, and Dr. McKenzie, were experiment that involved Silva completing the Silva Method instrumental in arranging for 40 teaching his method to 20 of the training. scientists from all over the United students at the university. As States to meet Silva in Houston, usual, the results were successful. Dr. DeSau conducted research on Texas, so that he could explain to They were reported in the British varied groups of people, from junior them what he had done and what scientific journal Neuropsychologia, high and high school students, his future plans were. Those in Vol. 10, pages 307-312 and pages to alcoholics, welfare mothers, attendance were: 467-469. business executives, and others who ∙Rev. Marzel Allard, S.J., Montreal,

NEW PROJECTS SUGGESTED SCIENTISTS While visiting the Mind Science VERIFIED that Foundation in Los Angeles, Dr. Hahn people trained suggested three projects to Silva: by Silva could alter brainwave 1. Investigate a Brazilian psychic frequency at surgeon by the name of Arrigo. will, as demon- strated at the 2. To bring Uri Geller to the U.S. to University of study the energy that he used to Texas medical bend spoons. School in San Antonio. 3. To teach the Silva Method to 49 Ph.D. geologists and petroleum engineers of the McCullough Oil Corp. learned the Silva Method. Quebec Before the project with Arrigo could ∙V.A. Benignus, Ph.D., Univ. of North be started, he died in an automobile One of Dr. DeSau’s first projects Carolina accident. involved more than 2,000 ∙Mrs. Gayla Benignus, M.S., Univ. of adolescent girls at an inner North Carolina Silva decided not to go to the city school in Philadelphia, ∙Mrs. Lendell W. Braud, M.A., Texas expense of bringing Geller to the Pennsylvania. The results, depicted Southern Univ. U.S. for research because he could on the graphs (pages 16-19), are ∙William G. Braud, Ph.D., Univ. of not find any useful application for typical of the results of all of the Houston the spoon bending ability. “If he groups tested. ∙Frederick J. Bremner, Ph.D., and his could straighten them out, it would wife, Trinity Univ. be different,” Silva explained. “Our Dr. DeSau later conducted similar ∙Barbara B. Brown. Ph.D., Veterans’ goal is to correct problems, not to research on schools on Guam, Administration Hospital, Sepulveda, cause them.” as well as in Venezuela for the Calif. Venezuelan government. ∙Melvin Bucholtz, emissary for Dr. The 49 Ph.D.s with the oil company David Shapiro, Harvard Medical were given special training to see Silva met Dr. Richard McKenzie at School if they could use their minds to the University of Texas Medical ∙Thomas H. Budzynski, Ph.D., the locate undiscovered deposits of oil, School and invited him to join the Univ. of Colorado Medical Center using ESP. The oil company never staff in Laredo. ∙Jeffery P. Chang, Ph.D., Univ. of released the results of their efforts. Texas Medical Branch At this time Dr. Hahn decided to ∙Leslie M. Cooper, Ph.D., Brigham leave the Mind Science Foundation Young Univ. 4 5 ∙Arthur J. Deikman, M.D., Mill Valley, ∙Perry London, Ph.D., Univ. of ∙Milan Ryzl, Ph.D., San Jose, Calif. Calif. Southern California, Los Angeles ∙Gertrude Schmeidler, Ph.D., City ∙George T. DeSau, Ed.D., Silva Int. ∙Alejandro Martinez Marquez, College of the Univ. of New York ∙Paul Dunn, M.D., Oak Park, Illinois Ph.D., National Polytechnic Institute, ∙Max Toth, Queens, New York ∙Doug Eddy, Ph.D., Carnegie- Mexico, D.F. ∙N.E. West, Ph.D., and wife, Veterans’ Mellon, Pittsburgh ∙Clancy McKenzie, M.D., Bala Administration Hospital, Fort ∙Stan L. Falor, M.D., McMurray, PA Cynwyd, Pennsylvania Meade, South Dakota ∙Lester G. Fehmi, Ph.D., New York ∙Richard E. McKenzie, Ph.D., Silva ∙lan Wickramasekera, Ph.D., Univ. of State Univ. International Illinois, Peoria. ∙Rev. John Frizelle, Ph.D., Incarnate ∙John Mihalasky, Ed.D., Newark Word College, San Antonio College of Engineering; The following doctors, Ph.D.s and ∙Irving Geller, Ph.D., Texas Tech ∙William Opel, film maker Silva International staff members Univ. School of Medicine ∙Dr. Robert E. Omstein, Langley took part in introducing Silva’s work ∙J.W. Hahn, Ph.D., Silva International Porter Institute, Univ. of Calif. to the visiting scientists: ∙Dr. Paul Henchaw, Tucson Arizona Medical Center, San Francisco ∙W. Lindsay Jacob, M.D., Pittsburgh, ∙Burl Payne, Ph.D., Wayland, Dr. J.W. Hahn, Dr. George DeSau, Dr. Pennsylvania Massachusetts Richard McKenzie, Dr. N.W. West, Dr. ∙Kendall Johnson, emissary for ∙Erik Peper, Berkeley, California Fred Bremner, Dr. William Braud, Dr. Thelma Moss, Ph.D., UCLA Medical ∙William G. Roll, Psychical Research Jeffery Chang, Dr. Gayla Benignus, Center, Los Angeles; Foundation, Duke Station, Durham, Dr. Paul Dunn, Dr. Stan Falor, Rev. ∙Bonnie Kaplan, emissary for North Carolina John Frizelle, Dr. Irving Geller, Dr. Thomas B. Mulholland, Ph.D., ∙José Zarul Braiz, Arch., emissary for Alejandro Martinez Marquez, Dr. Veterans’ Administration Hospital, Engineer Benjamin Rubio, National Clancy McKenzie, Bill Opel, James Bedford, Massachusetts Polytechnic Institute, Mexico, D.F. Needham, and Harry McKnight.

SILVA SCIENTISTS VISIT MEXICO

Silva Method scientists spoke at the Silva Method Convention in Mexico City in 1972. Front row: Dr. Richard McKenzie, Dr. Fred Bremner, Dr. Jeffrey Chang, Dr. William Braud, Dr. Ir- ving Geller, Dr. Alejandro Martinez, and Cleve Baxter. Back row: Dr. Phillip Chancellor, Dr. J. Wil- fred Hahn, José Silva, Juan Silva, Dr. Alberto Sanchez-Vilchis, Dr. N.E. West, and Harry McKnight

6 7 FOUNDER OF THE SILVA METHOD An Interview with José Silva

This interview was research. This was in 1953. conducted with José Silva in 1977 by Alice McKnight and appeared The reply was terse and in the July 1977 issue of Counseling to the point: We had and Values magazine. It is reprinted apparently stumbled onto with their permission. Figures and “natural” psychics because statistics in this interview were the psi phenomenon is not correct in early 1977, slightly more teachable, just observable. than one decade after the Silva Method was first made available to A little dismayed, but the public. undaunted, we continued our mental training McKnight: Mr.. Silva, will you please exercises with different give us a few comments about the individuals and groups of beginnings of the Silva Method? people continuing to prove to our own satisfaction that Silva: The Silva Method was designed the psi factor is teachable to be the American Dynamic and that it is learnable. Meditation System. As such, it is still in process, as all dynamic things are. Since my background is We began the Silva Method in 1944, in electronics, and since but it wasn’t until the 1960s that we I had a wife and family to began teaching the course to groups support while I was doing structured as it is today. this research with the mind, I seemed to draw a logical We like to think of ourselves—the Our original research had as connection between electronics and method and the graduates—as its purpose increasing the IQ human brain-mind function. being pioneers in the subjective of individuals—in particular, education field. children—but when we discovered I studied Freud, Jung, Braid, Esdaile, during our experiments that we Liebeault, Bernheim, and many We organized the Laredo were achieving deep levels of the others. I also studied the principles Parapsychology Foundation, which mind and our subjects were able of yoga and hypnotism, and for a we later named the Institute of to anticipate our questions—that time was an active Rosicrucian. Psychorientology, in 1944. is, they gave us answers before we presented the questions—we knew In those early years, all that I read, McKnight: What does the word that we were on the threshold of a experienced, and put together— “psychorientology” mean? whole new dimension of mind and what turned out to be a new man’s control of his own mind. arrangement and application of old Silva: Psychorientology means: concepts—has become, and is still Educating the mind to function When we had verified to our own becoming the Silva Method. consciously within its own psychic satisfaction that the subjects in dimension. It means becoming our research design were, indeed, In the years since we began aware of the enormity of human using the psi factor—or psychic lecturing to the public, many other potential and learning how to functioning—in answering unvoiced groups, academic and otherwise, actualize this potential for the better questions, giving us information have begun doing research along of humanity. about persons they had not the same line. There are a number personally met, and were doing of “consciousness-raising groups” The main focus of our Basic Lecture this at a level of mind that can best on the market now, and several Series is to acquaint students with be called subjective, we wrote a academic and medical institutions the potential of their whole person letter to a leading university then are engaged in mind potential and how, by using more of their doing research in parapsychology. research. mind, they can slough off limiting We described our work and results, ways of thinking and unproductive requesting that a representative of habits to become, as we are fond the department come to observe our of saying, “the beautiful people that 6 7 they are called to be.” wording—but we have expanded Series? and broadened our lecture material If I may digress for a moment, I do considerably. Silva: The BLS is composed of four want to say that the notion of being sections of twelve-hour sessions “called,” of being in touch with a A graduate of the Basic Lecture each: higher guidance factor, is a central Series from any place in the world ∙101, Controlled Relaxation. concept in the Silva Method. We shall can repeat at no additional cost ∙202, General Self-Improvement. not get into a theological statement the entire BLS any number of times ∙303, Effective Sensory Projection. because our collective semantics anywhere in the world that it is ∙404, Applied Effective Sensory prove to be such stumbling blocks offered. Currently, we have the BLS Projection. in the communication of humanly being presented in all states in the organized spiritual—that is to say, U.S.A. and in 31 foreign countries. In the Controlled Relaxation lectures, religious—systems. (Editor’s note: As of 1995, the BLS the student learns how to relax is being presented in 103 countries physically, mentally, and emotionally, Since we are dealing with human and in 29 languages.) and how to reach in seconds a level relationships and with improving the of profound insight. lot of humanity on this planet, we see Recently we began diversifying our The intelligent use of the techniques presented in this “…it is essential that every person be section of the BLS leads to increased encouraged to realize that he or she can efficiency, use more mind to make this world a better concentration, expansion of place to live in…” learning capacity and self-control— all results of in our work the mirroring of Pierre lectures and conditioning offerings; learning to relax the spinal and Teilhard de Chardin’s concept of for special needs we have designed autonomic nervous systems at will. spiritual evolution and the striving special programs: toward the attainment of higher Techniques presented and consciousness. We are manufacturing and programmed in the Controlled marketing kits that contain pertinent Relaxation segment are Sleep We believe that our concept of homo literature and taped material. These Control, To Awake Control, Awake sapiens can only lead us to a more are useful to the person who feels Control, Dream Control, and all-embracing concept of homo that he or she cannot take time out of Headache Control. amans, which has essentially been a busy schedule to attend the class the central message of the several time required for graduation from Students report an increase in avatars on our planet. the BLS. vitality and energy, and a lessening of tension and stress from the Although historically it appears that Also, the taped programs can be practice of relaxing at will; from humans have hearkened more to the useful to the graduate of the BLS the feelings of well-being, they “wars and rumors of wars” aspects for relaxation or reinforcement experience better self-management of theological tradition, we have purposes. through applying the techniques I reason to believe that we are part of just mentioned. a new phase of human evolution on We are sincere in our belief that it this planet. is essential that every person be I could give you countless anecdotes encouraged to realize that he or attesting to successful applications McKnight: In what ways has the Basic she can use more mind to make this of each technique, including the Lecture Series—the BLS—changed world a better place to live in; we relief and eventual ridding of during the past ten years? believe that the method of mental migraine headaches, but you can training that we have devised is the read testimonials elsewhere. Silva: The Basic Lecture Series as most efficient and effective means it is currently being presented for doing this. About ten hours of instruction and varies little in design from the ten to fifteen minutes of practice first presentation I made outside It is the American Dynamic Meditation every day provide the student of the Laredo and Nuevo Laredo in 1966. System, the Silva Method. first section of the Silva Method with We are presenting the same useful the techniques to relax, and several techniques for more successful McKnight: Would you describe for useful formulas for successful living. living and the same mental us the content of the Basic Lecture exercises or conditioning cycles— The second section of the BLS is the with some constructive changes in General Self-Improvement portion. 8 9 These ten to twelve hours enable the This segment of the BLS is distant person, event, or place by student to make use of the expanded particularly effective in enhancing simple recall; by utilizing memory, levels of awareness acquired in 101 a person’s creativity, be it in artistic imagination, and visualization for solving specific problems. or professional endeavors, or in we are able to educate ourselves everyday life. subjectively, to project our minds Problems are handled as projects to wherever we have points of to be successfully completed, and Too, the student can learn greater reference. Our method of training the creative use of imagination and control of physiological function and for consciously tapping deep levels visualization are presented and how to control pain. of awareness is the most successful reinforced as tools for achieving yet devised for productive value. specific self-improvement goals. Extremely popular because of their success are the techniques Again, I repeat: the Silva Method is a The organization of the material— for the elimination or control dynamic meditation system. the methodology—is a major factor of unproductive habits and the in the success of the application of development and application of McKnight: Mr. Silva, what do you mean techniques. productive ones. by “deeper levels of mind”?

During the course of our public Again we have numerous Silva: I have made reference several lecturing, we have inspired——if I testimonials in our files sent to times to deeper levels of mind. In may demean the term—a number us by appreciative graduates of our Basic Lecture Series we utilize a of spin-offs who present imitations the Method corroborating the chart to illustrate applications of our of our system, our methodology. effectiveness of the techniques. techniques and to show the brain Perhaps we should be flattered at wave cycles—the electric impulses their imitation; as it is, unless they In these first two sections of the BLS of our brains. violate our copyright laws, we that I have briefly outlined, you can merely shrug our shoulders and say, see that the “control” aspect of the Since we understand that a higher “Do not forbid them, for whoever Mind Development techniques have intelligence, through mind, controls does good works in our way is with been largely objective. and alters the brain’s manner of us.” functioning—that is, the brain is By objective, I mean that we have a function of human intelligence Naturally, we encourage our directed our attention to things that through mind—we have correlated professional people to use the we perceive in the five senses world brain wave frequencies with mind Method in their occupations, but that we have long been familiar activity and named the levels of hardly expect them to commercialize with—not really aware of, perhaps, mind accordingly. our methodology. Un-researched before participating in the Silva changes may degenerate the Method—but conscious of their Researches in the brain-mind field effectiveness of the course offering; existence anyway. follow the model passed on by thereby we may lose a valuable Hans Berger in the 1920s that names tool for helping humanity.

And, of course, we prefer that “Our method of training for consciously our lecturers tapping deep levels of awareness is the remain with us, participating in our most successful yet devised…” goal of reaching all of humanity, because we believe Through the mental training Beta waves those brain frequencies that the original is superior to the exercises, the conditioning cycles, above fourteen cycles per second, imitation. which are part of each series called cps; Alpha waves at seven to section, the Silva Method student fourteen cps; Theta waves as four to Be that as it may, to return to learns through practice to enhance seven cps; and Delta waves as one- the content of the general Self- his or her powers of imagination half to four cps. Improvement 202: Memory and visualization. In short, he or Techniques, the Mental Screen, she learns to be aware of his or her During a twenty-four hour period, Three Fingers Technique, Mirror subjective life or inner world, and individuals generally experience of the Mind, Hand Levitation. subjective education begins. each of these cycles. Research Glove Anesthesia, Glass of Water indicates that when the brain Technique, and Habit Control are Being reflective creatures, we are expresses Beta waves, a person is the techniques presented and all capable of bringing to mind a at the five senses level of awareness; reinforced for the students’ benefit. when the brain expresses Alpha

8 9 waves, the person has “turned establishing points of reference in rather than external focus. down” the external world, is still, the inanimate matter kingdom, into and is tuned in to a focal point of leaves of plants for establishing Subjective education involves mentation; when the brain expresses points of reference in the animate the discovery, appreciation, and Theta waves, the person has matter plant kingdom, and into application of the kingdom within withdrawn from virtually all external animal life for establishing points for successful living, whereas stimulation, and is in what has been of reference in the animate matter objective education concerns itself described as a contemplative or animal kingdom. with the discovery, appreciation, and mystical state of mind; and when application of the external world for the brain expresses Delta waves, the person is totally unconscious; that is, unaware of himself and his HONORARY DOCTOR OF environment. It appears HUMANITIES AWARD pre- through current research, sented in 1969 to José Silva however, that man can learn to be conscious at Delta. by Carr P. Collins of the Sangreal Foundation marked These words that I used to the first such recognition of describe the Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta states Silva’s trailblazing contribu- of mind as expressed in tions in the science of the brain wave frequencies are mind and human potential. purely descriptive. Other scientists might express the concepts differently; I am merely making the point that The student’s practice in achieving successful living. our research has shown us that it is increasing awareness at deeper To our way of thinking, a harmonizing from deeper levels of mind that our levels of mind, and his developing of the two makes for a more balanced motivations spring, and from which skill in imagining and visualizing human being, the education of man’s we can effect beneficial changes gained in 101 and 202 increase his inner life has for too long been in in habitual thinking and behaviors. confidence so that the student sees bits and pieces. The Silva Method Hence, the importance of the himself or herself as a more aware offers a successful means by which Controlled Relaxation segment of and perceptive individual. persons can educate themselves the BLS, and also the importance of subjectively through psyche our having planned the series in a Then the student begins to use his orientation at their own pace. sequential order—of 101 before 202, intuitive faculty to aim him in the for example. solution of problems: the mechanic, The BLS consists of as much as forty to solve inanimate matter problems, to forty-eight hours of class time; but The organization and sequential the farmer to solve plant life animate the use, application, and practice presentation of the material, the problems, the animal lover to solve of the concepts and techniques methodology, are vital to the success animal life animate problems. presented—these are the hours of the Silva Method. The movement Human life is, of course, included when the individual educates from objective awareness to in the animate kingdoms; and we himself subjectively. subjective awareness through the progress to the more complex blending of the two consciously, problems, which we call projects, Just as the parent holds the hand what some scientists call “altered in the human realm in stages, just of the toddler learning to walk, states of consciousness,” is a kind as we move from 101 and 202 in and the toddler releases the hand of taking from the outside in and consecutive order. when he becomes sure-footed—so bringing from the inside out—a total it is with subjective education—the experiencing, a true awareness that McKnight: The notion of doing principles are instilled, and they we and our graduates can utilize in things in order seems central to your become manifest in practice. everyday experience. methodology. An important technique or creative The third section of the BLS, Effective Silva: It is. Observing, participating, application of the method presented Sensory Projection, focuses the and absorbing the material in this third section involves the attention of the series participant presented are the means by which subjective creation of a complete on direct experience of his or her the student acquires his subjective laboratory for problem solving. internal sensing faculties through education, much as in the way he psyche-orientation, that is, on the acquires his objective education. It is well known that solving major validity of his subjective perception. The difference lies in internal focus problems and developing new ideas The student projects mentally into is due to the extension of controlled metal cubes for the purpose of awareness into the so-called 10 11 subconscious realm of mind. We call reference at subjective levels. Of those scientists who have not this inner consciousness. This is the personally taken the BLS there are intuitive field, the inspiration area, At the conclusion of 404 graduates two groups: Those who admit the the realm of creative understanding, have successfully learned to possibility of the success of the Jung’s “collective unconscious” of psychically function at the Alpha Method, and those who consider us which we, as human beings on this level of mind. Some are functioning and the Method to be fraudulent. planet partake, according to our own at the Theta level. All our students It’s the same old story; our severest desire and understanding of it. are individuals, all have different critics are those who know the least goals and objectives. What they about us. Creating through one’s own have in common is a belief in the imagination a productive setting for possibility of bettering themselves The interesting thing, though, optimum functioning at a subjective by using more mind—and therefore, is that the laboratory studies level of mind is both an exercise bettering humanity. The Silva about the brain and mind being and a reward for the individual; it Method is a goal-oriented pragmatic published by biochemists, is the working place in his kingdom system designed to enable people psychologists, neurophysiologists, within. to develop positive mental attitudes. and physiological psychologists are Much of our instruction consists of all supportive of our work. We are All theistic systems that I am familiar helping people to stop setting limits well aware of synaptic junctures, of with anthropomorphize their deities, to their achievements, and thereby the electrochemical processing of and in a somewhat similar fashion defeating themselves before they energy, and of the mind that directs we “create ”—we “recognize”—our get started. Our method is geared the embryo before the brain is inner conscious powers in terms to show people how to achieve formed; it is not necessary for us that we can express effectively. specific goals by recognizing and to ground our graduates in current We become aware of and identify reconditioning their self-image. brain-mind theory, just as it is not for ourselves our own counselors necessary to understand electricity or guides in effecting work in the By way of analogy, you might say in order to turn on a light switch. “kingdom within.” The concept of that 101 and 202 enable people guardian angels is a similar but to light a candle, and 303 and 404 I am not belittling research—I more limited notion. enable them to trim the wick and set consider myself to be a research it out, not under a basket, but on a scientists, and I know whereof I McKnight: What kind of work does housetop. speak. The point is that humanity the Silva Method student do in the can improve human life on this laboratory that he or she creates? Being a collector of insights is not planet and the lives of everything sufficient; utilizing insights for the else as well by turning on the light Silva: The work that the student betterment of self and humanity are switch, because the electricity is all does in the laboratory is what the more worthwhile projects. around us just waiting to be put to first three sections of the BLS have good use. prepared him for, and what the final Because of the heightening of section enables him to prove to visualization, the graduate can set McKnight: Following your analogy, himself: That he has increased his before his mind’s eye the desired could somebody get “shocked”? intuitive potential and is using more result of having worked a case or of his mind to solve problems. having solved a problem of whatever Silva: Quite the contrary. What is nature, and it can become done shocking is that some people believe The student has learned to actualize on earth as it is in the “kingdom that knowledge of self-management for the good of humanity, in within.” and internal controls is suspect and intuition. should only be in the hands of the McKnight: What kind of response has educated few. In 404, Applied Effective Sensory the academic scientific community Projection, the student is presented given to the Silva Method? Better that the many be educated to with problem cases. The student their potential and how to activate then becomes aware of actual Silva: That depends on whether you it for their own benefit and for the existing problems at a distance mean the ones who have taken the benefit of their loved ones than that through the psyche orientation of course work, or the ones who have they be victimized by their own self- his or her subjective senses, and not. ignorance. These are scientific times, the ability to do this, the positive and it is good that this is so. The results, convinces the student of Of the scientists who are graduates, wisdom of the ages about humanity the marvelous power of his or her several are using the Method in their is being corroborated by modem subjectively educated mind. work, some are researching and scientific research, by empirical validating objectively our subjective knowledge. Socrates’ admonition, McKnight: Just how do the students work. “Know thyself,” is coming to pass do this? in this technological age for the betterment of more people with the Silva: By establishing points of aid of humanity’s own technology. 10 11 McKnight: You don’t think that people charge money for the courses. centers, prisons, and social service are deifying their own technology? Why don’t you give it away like the programs. Let us put it this way: teachers of old did? For the needy, the Silva Method is Silva: In some quarters, undoubtedly. available in accordance with ability Whenever you have a society where Silva: By teachers of old, I presume to pay. creation is more valued than the you mean the likes of Confucius, creator, you have this situation. Buddha, Socrates, or Jesus. Each of You might be interested to know that these teachers lived in a different there is a money back guarantee. We Look back through history. There economic system from the one we respect federal laws in that regard. are countless illustrations. In our have, and each was recompensed In fact, we were using the money time, however, psychorientology is for his services in accordance with back guarantee before those federal educating persons to the significance the customs of the times. laws were enacted. of their own inner being, is teaching them to use more mind, is educating Free enterprise is the prevailing McKnight: Do you have additional them in a practical fashion to actively custom of our time and locale. As a courses besides the BLS that you can participate in the spiritual evolution matter of fact, we did offer the Silva describe for us? of the planet. Method to the federal government free of charge in 1965 but were Silva: Yes. There is the Graduate One of the maxims of our organization turned down. Lecture Series which three other is: “Welcome to the second phase of lecturers and I present to graduates human evolution on the planet.” We Having invested over half a million of the BLS, and there is our Executive are quite serious when we speak of dollars in the method myself, it 500 Series which is a program using psychorientology as “the science of seems reasonable to me that making the Silva Method tapes and trainers. tomorrow today.” it available to the public via the This series is the result of our free enterprise system is the best ongoing need to diversity through Since we structured the class way to ensure its development and research and development. We are presentation and began teaching dispersion. Besides that, people tend diversifying our offering so as to outside of Laredo in 1966, our to attach little value to something reach a wider spectrum of humanity. graduates keep increasing in that they get for nothing. numbers at a very rapid pace. People McKnight: Would you tell us are eager to be a part of a movement There are hundreds of Silva Method something about the corporate dedicated to the uplift of the planet. lecturers all over the world. Many structure of your organization? The days of esoteric societies, cults, are still active earning their living and covens and numbered. What by presenting the Silva Method. We Silva: The parent organization is the was hidden is being shouted from have printed material, tapes, and Institute of Psychorientology, Ltd., the housetop; all that is necessary electronic training equipment for the governed by a board of directors. is that people have eyes to see and use of our students and graduates; The teaching of the Silva Method ears to hear. we have a staff to support. Money is Basic Lecture Series is done the current means of exchange for through Silva International, Inc., McKnight: Isn’t the Silva Method itself services rendered, it is the way that and the manufacturing of electronic believed by some to be occult? our economic system is set up. equipment is handled by Silva Sensor Systems. Silva: As I understand occult, it We have in the past, and are still refers to information that is secret, conducting special projects, McKnight: Since this interview is mysterious, and supernatural, and— whereby certain groups are offered being conducted for publication as I just said—our movement is the the Basic Lecture Series at no cost in Counseling and Values, whose very antithesis of that. The Silva to them. Copies of such completed readership is in the educational field, Method is a technique designed to research projects are available to would you direct some remarks to enable people to use more of their interested parties. them specifically? minds to make themselves more effective in making this planet a We offer the Basic Lecture Series Silva: It is clear that some degree of better place to live. to schools—elementary, secondary, personal involvement is necessary and colleges—and have had only in anyone whose occupation involves There are no secrets, no initiation, no success where it is accepted. Our consultation. dramatic rites or trials to be met and only requirement is that research be scaled. It is purely and simply the conducted and that we be allowed The person who is trained in most effective way yet devised and to use the published results in our subjective communication and available to all to make one’s self a promotional work. awareness has obvious advantages more effective human being on the over those who are not so trained. planet. This method has also been presented in various types of rehabilitation Psychic growth and development McKnight: You say that the Silva can be valuable tools to educators Method is available to all, but you at all levels—particularly so 12 13 to counselors and all human relationship personnel.

We consider the Silva Method of psychorientology to be the best system of mental training available for developing inner awareness. It is subjective education, and the ot life? person who is subjectively educated is dynamic, activating his or her own potential, and is better able to help others to realize their own potential.

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The general public’s knowledge of this field has increased dramatically in the last twenty years, so much so that José Silva has authorized lecturers to shorten the Basic Lecture Series if they desire. The lecturers who use the shorter version still present every technique in the BLS, but reduce the time spent on the lecture material—the explanations of the Learn how millions of people around the world various concepts, and the time spent convincing people that they are getting more out of life with The Silva Method can actually develop the ability to take control of their own lives and • Improve health, energy and vitality develop their intuition and psychic • Increase income and productivity ability. • Reduce stress and stay peaceful There are specialized presentations • Overcome unwanted habits of the Basic Lecture Series for • Eliminate pain and headaches corporations and for sales people, • Enhance your personal relationships and a series of home study courses are being produced for many • Awaken creativity and intuition areas of interest, such as health, • Heighten enjoyment of your life relationships, sports, family, business management, and more. BASIC LECTURE SERIES SEMINARS ARE REGULARLY The Graduate Lecture Series has PRESENTED IN ALL 50 STATES IN THE U.S.A. AND IN been divided into two parts: The 103 COUNTRIES WORLD-WIDE. Graduate Seminar and the Ultra Seminar. CHECK THE WEB SITE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS José Silva has written more than a dozen books since The Silva Mind WWW.SILVAMETHOD.COM Control Method was first published by Simon and Schuster in the summer of 1977. Titles include The Silva Method for Business Managers, You the Healer, Sales Power: The Silva Mind Method for Sales Professionals, The Silva Method for Getting Help from Your Other Side, The Silva Method: Think and Grow Fit, and others.

12 13 RESEARCH RESULTS Control of Brainwaves 50 49.1% Research by Dr. Fred Bremner 40 Reporting Benefits 30

Since 1966, when the Recent advances in biofeedback 20 first Silva Method Basic Lecture have drawn attention to voluntary 24.2% Series was offered to the public, to control of such functions as brain 10 Seeking the time of this reprint, millions of waves. The ability to produce Benefits individuals worldwide have learned Alpha rhythm has been linked 0 this Method of mental training. to relaxation, reduction of stress, intuition success, and other benefits. Improved Health Reports of beneficial results Subjects trained in the Silva Method In a survey of 1,107 participants, from the Silva Method have have been shown to be able to exert more than twice the percentage been as numerous as Silva voluntary control over the Alpha of those seeking health benefits Method participants themselves. reported improved health as a rhythm. result of using the Silva Method. Through the years, a number of scientific studies have been made concerning the nature of these reported benefits, both 40 physiological and psychological. Below: A comparison of training data to baseline data for Silva Method 30 34.9% This section summarizes the results trainees. Reporting of some of these research projects. Benefits 20

10 10.7% Control of Brainwaves Seeking Benefits 0 7 Silva Feedback Improved Sleep Silva 1 Baseline Greater facility in entering 6 sleep naturally is learned by BLS participants. Natural sleep is vital to the maintenance of proper 5 physical and mental health. r e

w 4 o P 80 % 3 60 70.3% 2 Reporting Benefits 40 1 34.8% 20 Seeking Benefits 0 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Improved Relaxation Frequency in Hz The ability to enter levels of deep relaxation is critical to the reduction of potentially damaging physical tension and psychological stress. 14 15 30 30 32.2% Reporting Benefits 68 25.8% Reporting 20 20 21.4% 67.6% Benefits Seeking Reporting Benefits 65 Benefits 10 10

6.6% 61.2% Seeking Seeking 0 Benefits 0 60 Benefits Dream Control Improved Memory Psychic Awareness Dream Control, a technique Increased memory functioning, The development of a superior for remembering dream and including information storage intuitive sense is thought to learning how to use dreams for and recall are part of the BLS. be related to success in many practical problem-solving, was Again, the number of graduates areas. Students in the BLS used successfully by about four reporting successful results is have experiences of a psychic times as many who were seeking higher than those originally nature, and the intuitive sense is benefits. seeking such results. enhanced by Silva training.

40 100 39.5% The percentage of individuals who 30 Reporting 95.8% express belief in ESP increased as a Benefits 80 YES 81.2% result of BLS class experiences, while 29.1% After expressions of disbelief or uncertainty 20 Seeking YES BLS Benefits 60 Before about ESP decreased. BLS 10 40 14.7% 4.1% NOT SURE 4% 0 20 NO 0.2% Before NOT SURE Improved Creativity Before NO BLS After BLS After BLS 0 BLS Imagination is a key component of creativity. The Silva Method Belief in ESP offers techniques for exercising the imagination and increasing creativity. COMBINED ESP 70 EVENTS 30 Precognition Telepathy 60 27.8% Clairvoyance 61.2% Reporting After completion of Increase 50 Reporting 56.5% 20 Benefits the BLS, there was a Increase marked decrease in the 6 to 10 Psychic Reporting 17.8% number of people who 40 Events 10 or more Seeking reported zero psychic Psychic Benefits 10 experiences prior to Events the class. 30 37.5% Decrease Reporting PSYCHIC 20 EXPERIENCES Zero Psychic 0 The same people Events Habit Control reported an 10 increase in psychic The control of habits such as experiences after the smoking and overeating can Basic Lecture Series. 0 be difficult. Participants report General ESP and Psychic Experiences success using The Silva Method to control habits. 14 15 RESEARCH RESULTS

High School Factor O - 16 PF - N=30 Factor Q4 - 16 PF - N=30 t value p<.001 t value p<.001 Personality Questionnaire 5 5 Research by Dr. George DeSau: 4.8 4 4 This project illustrates the changes that occurred to high school students after The 3.8 Silva Method was taught. The instrument 3 3 used, Cattell’s High School Personality Questionnaire (HSPQ), was selected for its 2 2 wide range of factors which relate to claims for The Silva Method. 1 1 About t Value The t value is obtained by a mathematical formula determined by statistical tables. The higher the t value the 0 0 more significance it has. All t values in these Self-assurance, Tranquility, results have reached the predetermined level of positive statistical relevance. Free of Guilt Relaxation

About p Value As the statistical measure of A test group showed BLS students shifted probability, p indicates the least probable responses indicating toward “self-assured, number of times an exactly controlled “tranquil, composed, placid, serene,” and away experiment must be repeated to obtain the relaxed,” and away from from “apprehensive, self- given results by pure chance. For example, ”tense, frustrated, driven, reproaching, worrying, if p=.01, then more than one hundred overwrought.” This shift is troubled.” repetitions of the original experiment would characteristic. probably be necessary to obtain the results just one time by chance.

Factor C - HSPQ value Lawrenceville High N=112 6 St. Fidelis High N=100 p<.001

Factor C - HSPQ - N=214 Psychological pre- and post- t value 5 p<.001 testing of high school students 5.4 10 showed a strong movement toward 9 9.55 “high ego strength, mature, facing 4 4.4 8 reality, calm,” and away from being 7 easily upset. 3.7 3.9 3 6 5 4 2 Follow-up testing shows that the 3 major changes brought about by 2 the Basic Lecture Series are long- 1 1 lasting. In fact, there is an increase of stability over a period of time. 0 0 Ego Strength Stability of Ego Strength Lawrenceville immediate post-test Lawrenceville 4/5-month follow-up St. Fideliis immediate post-test St. Fidelis 4/5-month follow-up

16 17 Factor H - 16 PF - N=30 Factor L - 16 PF - N=30 Factor F - 16 PF - N=30 Factor A - USPQ - N=30 t value t value p<.001 p<.05 t value p<.05 t value p<.001 5 2.5 2.5 5

4 2.0 2.0 4 2.5 3.9 2.2 3.8 3 1.5 1.5 3

2 1.0 1.0 2

1 0.5 0.5 1

0 0.0 0.0 0 Social Trust, Enthusiasm Warmheartd, Orientation Cooperation Outgoing Development of an Basic Lecture Series BLS participants This scale shows a inner-conscious students showed a showed greater movement toward direction in the BLS greater willingness to cheerfulness, enthusiasm the compassionate leads to the release work with others, rather and joie de vivre. This aspects of personality, of inhibiting in social than being continuously movement away from with qualities such as interaction. A test competitive, suspicious gloominess and “warmhearted, outgoing group shifted toward and mistrustful. pessimism may well and participating,” and “spontaneous and result from a new-found away from “reserved, social boldness,” and freedom from prior detached, critical and away from “shy, timid anxieties and inner aloof.” and threat sensitive.” turmoil.

RESEARCH RESULTS Developments of Self-Image Research by James Motiff: 72 Control Group Before Control Group After There are many aspects to 70 Silva Group Before Basic Lecture Series self-concept and self-image. Silva Group After participants perceived An individual’s self-conception themselves to be is of critical importance in 68 healthier than before life. Psychological testing has the Silva Method confirmed the positive effects classes and were more of the Basic Lecture Series on 66 accepting of their several characteristics of self- appearance, behavior and stature. image. 64

62

60 64 63.75 60 70.09 58 Physical Self-Image

16 17 RESEARCH RESULTS - Self-Image, cont. Control Group Before Control Group After Silva Group Before 78 70 Silva Group After Control Group Before Control Group After 74 Silva Group Before 60 Silva Group After 72 50

70 40

68 30

66 20

64 10 69.51 69.82 64.87 72.43 64.48 64.31 57.95 68.43 62 0 Moral-Ethical Self-Image Personal Self-Image

Adherence to moral or ethical Balance, integration of emotions, and standards, and greater concern for harmony in personal affairs showed a the rights of others were perceived significant improvement. as greatly enhanced by the BLS, along with general self-esteem.

Control Group Before Control Group Before 72 Control Group After Control Group After Silva Group Before 130 Silva Group Before 70 Silva Group After 128 Silva Group After 126 68 124 122 66 120 118 64 116 66.2 66.96 64.39 70.17 114 118.37 118.58 115.75 128.19 62 112 Family Self-Image Self-Image: Identity

Basic Lecture Series participants This factor deals with an individual’s perceived themselves as better total concept of “What I Am.” BLS able to get along with and care for students learned to value themselves members of their own families. more highly.

18 19 Control Group Before Control Group Before Control Group Before 72 Control Group After Control Group After Control Group After Silva Group Before Silva Group Before 118 Silva Group Before 70 Silva Group After 110 Silva Group After 116 Silva Group After 114 68 105 112 110 66 100 108 106 64 95 104 66.65 66.27 65.97 71.73 102.34 102.72 93.46 108.02 102 110.24 110.03 105.4 116.9 62 90 100 Social Self-Image Self-Satisfaction Behavior

Self-image is of great importance in How one feels about his or her Basic Lecture Series participants social interaction. Improvement in this identity is illustrated here. The Silva moved toward patterns indicating area correlates with the ability to deal group learned to be far less critical greater acceptance of their own with people more satisfactorily and negative about themselves. behavior and a decrease in self- criticism.

RESEARCH RESULTS Performance Enhancement through Visualization by Cecelia A. Prediger

In a landmark research study, Cecelia A. Prediger of Nyack Junior High School, Pre-test 160% New York, documented for Improvement the first time the dramatic Post-test amount of total improve- ment, as measured by goals 30 scored, that takes place when athletes combine men- 70% tal rehearsal and physical 25 Improvement 68% practice. Improvement

Studies by other researchers 20 had demonstrated that men- tal practice at the Alpha level 22 Goals 20 Goals 31 Goals has almost as much benefit 15 Scored Scored Scored as the same amount of time spent in physical practice. 10 13 Goals 12 Goals 12 Goals Scored Scored Scored The study confirmed their research, and went on to show an electrifying in- 5 Physical Practice Mental Practice Mental & Physical crease in goals scored when Practice the total practice time is di- vided equally between men- 0 tal and physical practice. Performance Enhancement Through Visualization

18 19 RESEARCH PROJECTS OVERVIEW Effects of the Silva Method in Improving the Quality of Life

EEG Correlates of Attention in demonstrate that the Silva graduates who responded to the Humans Method graduate can increase the survey indicated that they had production of his or her alpha brain received more benefits than they •This research was conducted wave rhythm when entering the had sought when they attended the to demonstrate the capacity of “basic plane level.” BLS. Dr. Hahn reported that 99.6 the Silva Method graduate to percent of the respondents were produce Alpha brain wave rhythm •Clinical Neurology Department, satisfied with the course. voluntarily, and its compatibility San Carlos Clinic Hospital, Madrid with the conscious production of Spain, 1985. •Report presented to the Board images. of Directors of Mind Science •Jose Carlos Oliveros, MD, Head of Foundation, and published by Silva •Trinity University, San Antonio, the Clinical Electroneurophysiology International in 1973. Texas, 1972. Service, San Carlos Clinical Hospital; Tomas Ortiz, MD, Head The Effect of Expectations on the •Drs. Frederick J. Bremner, V. of the Psychobiology Department, Effectiveness of the Silva Method Benignus, and F. Moritz. Computense University, Madrid; Ana Maria Selman, Bs.D., in •This research was done to •The research demonstrated that Biological Sciences; Simon determine whether skeptics who “the Silva subjects were quite Arrigain, BS in physics. Head come to the Basic Lecture Series capable of producing the Alpha of Computer Service, Clinical with a low expectancy benefit rhythm” on demand. Electroneurophysiology, San Carlos as much as people who come Clinical Hospital. expecting a lot. •Published in Neuropsychology, vol. 10 p. 307-312 and 467-469, England. •Results indicated a significant •Bar-Illan University, Department of increase in the median values of Sociology, Israel, 1989. Internal Focus as a Subset of Alpha power in the occipital and Attention temporal areas of the brain while •Rafael Liberman. the research subjects were in a state •This study was done to gather of “dynamic meditation.” •Positive results: “The results evidence on internal focus of show that ‘skeptics’ who take attention as it relates to voluntary Ratio of People Seeking Benefits to the Silva course attain the same production of alpha brain wave People Receiving Benefits from the achievements as those whose rhythm. Silva Method Basic Lecture Series expectations were high[...]. The Silva Method can reduce the level •Trinity University, San Antonio, •This research was conducted for of anxiety and make it possible Texas, 1972. the Board of Directors of Mind to attain achievements beyond Science Foundation so that they die participants’ expectations of •Drs. Frederick J. Bremner and F. could evaluate whether participants success in the course.” Moritz. in the Silva Method Basic Lecture Series are receiving the benefits •Published by Silva International, •Results: There was a relationship they are seeking. Inc. demonstrated between the onset of Alpha rhythm in the EEG, the •Mind Science Foundation, San The Silva Method and Levels of subject’s unique subjective feeling, Antonio, Texas, and Los Anxiety and the subject’s verbal response Angeles, California, 1973. that he or she was at a particular •This research was conducted to state of attention. •Dr. J.W. Hahn, Director of Mind measure the effect of the Silva Science Foundation. Method on both trait and state The Silva Method and Changes in anxiety levels of subjects. EEG Alpha Power •More than 1,100 Silva Method

•This research was done to

20 21 •Psychology Department, Haifa •This research was done to find •This research was done to measure University, Haifa, Israel, 1984. out what benefits the high school the influence of the Silva Method in students felt they received from the personality factors amongst high •Rafael Liberman. Silva Method Basic Lecture Series. school students, with psychometric testing using Cattell’s High School •The results confirm die hypothesis •Incarnate Word School for Girls, Personality Questionnaire. that die stable anxiety level of San Antonio, Texas, 1972. the participants on finishing the •Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1974. course and at the next stage, will •Ray Glau, Don Kreipke, and Ron be significantly less than the stable Bynum from the Silva Method; and •Schools: Hallahan High School, anxiety level at the beginning of Sister Miriam Garana, and Sister 2,000 students; St. Fidelis High the same. Both “state anxiety” and Teresa Connors of Incarnate World School, 120 students; Lawrenceville “trait anxiety” levels were improved High School. High School, 520 students. significantly. Previous researchers felt that trait anxiety levels could •A total of 371 of the 460 students •George T. DeSau, Ed.D. not be altered significantly, but the from seventh grade to seniors took results from this study indicated the Silva Method Basic Lecture •Positive results in all three that trait anxiety levels were Series. The results were very schools. “A factor of change significantly reduced following positive. School officials were which is persistent and strong completion of the Silva Method surprised that so many of the after Silva Method training is that Basic Lecture Series. Follow-up students reported that the Silva of a shifting to internal points of studies showed that improvement Method helped to remove feelings reference—another way of saying continues the most when of depression and fear. the recognition by an individual of participants continue to practice. his own value and a significant step Several students admitted that toward self-control as opposed to •Published by Silva International, they had enrolled in the course being controlled by external others. Inc. because it was better than staying Further, the reduction of guilt… has in class, but afterwards 96 percent tremendous therapeutic as well The Albuquerque Report said they were glad they had taken as educational implications. The the course and felt it was worth the other consistent element is that of •This research was done to measure time. “According to the numerous individuals reporting themselves the positive influence of the Silva interviews, my own observations, as being more relaxed and tranquil, Method on personality factors. and the results of the questionnaire, certainly characteristics that are Conducted with a group of 30 I can honestly say that the much needed in the educational people in a regular Basic Lecture project was highly successful. It milieu, to say nothing of society in Series. is not a panacea, but when the general.” principles of the Silva Method are •Published by Silva Int, Inc., 1974. •Albuquerque, New Mexico, 1974. used effectively, it prepares the atmosphere in which confidence Niños Cantores del Zulia School •George T. DeSau, Ed.D., and Paul can grow, in which there can be Project Seawell. personal and academic growth and achievement—the type of growth •This research was conducted •The results confirm the informal parents and educators ream of—the ten years after the research at observations of definite and total development of the person.” the schools in Pennsylvania to valuable changes taking place Sister Miriam was visited by Father determine the influence of the BLS in Silva Method courses. The John Rilley, principal of Hallahan on students now that there is “a new individuals tested appear to be High School in Philadelphia, which level of awareness and commitment moving away from any indication helped open the way for the Silva to the inclusion of a subjective of neurotic disorders and toward Method to be taught Acre and in mind training program for self- greater self-guidance, fulfillment, two other high schools in the area, development” in school curricula. and balance based on their own with full psychometric testing to internal points of reference. The determine the actual personality •George T. DeSau, Ed.D., and researchers said that, “this shift factors that change when students Marcelino Alcala, 1981. appears significant indeed.” learn to use more of their minds to help them solve more problems. •Maracaibo, Venezuela. •Published by Silva Int, Inc., 1974. Incarnate Word High School Silva Method Courses: Their •The results were consistent with Project Effects in Three Secondary Schools previous research.

•Published by Silva Int, Inc.

International Educational Investigation Project 20 21 •This research was done to measure •Results: “Indications of change •To determine the effects of the effect of the Silva Method in were very positive in terms of teaching the Silva Method in the the learning process, intelligence personal development as well as Parochial schools on Guam. quotient, and personality factors viewed from the perspective of amongst university students. characteristics that should make for •Guam, 1986. effective management.” •Autonomous University of Tlaxcala, •Three parish schools. Mexico, 1986. •Published by Silva International, Inc. •Dr. George DeSau, Sister Mary •Lilia Alcira Vaca, M.D., Bernard Unpingo, Sister Naomi Departmental Director of The Effect of the Silva Method in Curtin, Nelda Sheets. Psychopedagogy of above Enhancing Intuition and Creativity university, Jorge Mario Medina, •Very positive results, as published Edmundo Sanchez Collazos. •A group of 30 individuals who in anecdotal reports by Silva •Results indicate that 67.7 percent participated in the Silva Method International. of the subjects improved their were asked to complete three test IQ classification. There was instruments before and after the The Effect of the Silva Method’s also significant improvement in training: The HCP Profile Test to Three Fingers Technique on the personality traits such as sociability, determine left versus right brain Improvement of Grades of communication, confidence, self- dominance; the HCP-PSY Test to University Students acceptance, unproved self-image, determine beliefs and experiences self-reliance, development of about intuition; and the Intuitive •The students who had learned the creativity, and others. Potentials Test, which measures Three Fingers Technique improved an individual’s current intuitive their test scores nine percentage “Therefore, it can be stated potentials. points—or 17 percent—from one that the practice of the Silva term to the next, while the control Method techniques contributes •Appalachian State University, group actually dropped one point to the improvement of academic Boone, North Carolina, 1988. over the same period. performance.” •Dr. George Maycock, Appalachian •University of Tasmania, Hobart, •Published by Dinámica Mental State University. Tasmania, Australia, 1988. Método Silva, Mexico, D.F. •Individuals who completed •Dr. E. Henry Stanton. Concentration with the Silva the Silva Method BLS showed a Method significant increase in scores for all •Published in the Journal of the three tests. Individuals in the control Society of Accelerative Learning and •To measure the ability of group who did not participate in the Teaching, and by Silva International. concentration and memory with 120 training showed no significant gains people. in scores on any of the tests. The Effect of Very Brief Exposure to •This research study was presented the Silva Method’s Three Fingers •Neuquem, Argentina, 1985. at the American Educational Technique on Reducing Anxiety Research Association 1988 Annual while Taking Tests •Julia Carrigliano. Meeting, and has been published by Silva International, Inc. •With only 30 minutes of class time •Results: 25 percent increase in devoted to learning how to enter concentration, and 26 percent Performance Enhancement the Alpha level and use the Three memory increase. through Visualization and Mental Fingers Technique, almost every Rehearsal one of the 15 college students •Published by the Silva Method of felt the exercise was helpful, and Argentina, 1985. •Measuring and comparing the more than half the students felt that effectiveness in improving athletic they obtained specific benefits in RCA Records Executives skills by: 1) the use of mental reducing test anxiety and improving rehearsal at the alpha level (using test performance. •To determine positive personality Silva Method techniques); 2) the use changes in 25 executives with RCA of physical practice; 3) the use of a •Appalachian State University, Records as a result of taking the BLS. combination of mental and physical Boone, North Carolina, 1990. practice. •Glen Rock, New Jersey, 1982. •Dr. George Maycock. •Nyack Junior High School, Nyack, •George T. DeSau, Ed.D. New York, 1987. The Silva Method and Academic Performance in Higher Education •Cecelia A. Prediger.

22 23 •Results: Mental practice produced and Insight from Dreams.” The most •Positive results. almost as much improvement as the frequently expressed feeling from same amount of time in physical participants was thankfulness for practice, and a combination of the Silva Method experience; the The Consciousness Movement and mental and physical practice second most expressed feeling the Mental Patient for the same total length of time was that of wanting to help others. produced more than twice as much Within a few weeks of completing •This research was conducted by improvement in a specific athletic the BLS, 40 of the 60 women gained two psychiatrists with their patients skill. employment. to measure the effects of the Silva Method on seriously disturbed •Published by Silva International, •Published by Silva International, psychiatric patients. Inc., 1987. Inc., 1974. •Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1980. The Silva Method and Personality The Alcoholic Study •Clancy D. McKenzie, M.D., •This research was done to measure Director of Philadelphia Psychiatric •This research was done to measure the influence of the Consultation Service; and the influence of the Silva Method Silva Method in personality Lance S. Wright, M.D., Senior on personality changes amongst a variables of 200 people. Attending Psychiatrist, Institute group alcoholics and their spouses. of Pennsylvania Hospital and •Computense University, Madrid, Associate Professor of Child •Half-way house, 1973. Spain, 1981. Psychiatry at Hahnemann Medical Hospital. •George T. DeSau, Ed.D., and Hector •Pilar Usanos Tamayo, Psy.D. M. Cantú, M.S.W. •Improvement was observed in all •Positive results shown. Prior of the patients, with the exception of •Positive results. Six months after to the Silva Method, there were two, one of whom it did not help and completion of the BLS, 12 of the no differences between the the other worsened due to factors 15 alcoholics had no alcohol in experimental and the control group. not associated with the Silva the interim. One had taken a After the BLS there were significant Method. An efficient use of the glass of wine and stopped. One differences: The subjects who took control of dreams was also achieved had twice started drinking but the course were more open and to help correct problems. “The managed to stop without becoming communicative than those who course was found to be safe and intoxicated to the point of requiring didn’t. Four months after the BLS, in potentially beneficial for neurotics. hospitalization. One required the follow-up phase, the difference It was relatively safe and definitely hospitalization for excessive between the two groups was beneficial for the highly disturbed drinking of alcohol. greater. individual, when under the care of a psychiatrist familiar with the •Published by Silva International, •Doctoral Thesis: Mind Control program. Both clinical and objective Inc. and Personality Variances; psychological data show that the Experimental Study, Pilar Usanos, benefits far outweigh any negative The Ottawa County Project Madrid Computense University, effect.” 1984. Published in Mexico by 0. •This research was designed to Multicolor, 1981. •Published in Voices: The Art measure the effect of the Silva and Science of Psycho-therapy, Method as a rehabilitation tool in The Silva Method for Improving 1981. Also published by Silva social work. Inadequate Behavior in Children International, Inc.

•Social Services Department, •This research was done to show the The Silva Method and Depression Ottawa County, Michigan, and effects of the Silva Method in the Psychology Department of Hope changing of inadequate behavior •This research was done to show College, Holland, Michigan, 1974. (aggression, rebelliousness, lack of the beneficial effects of the Silva discipline) in children. Method on orphans with depressive •Dr. James Motiff, Psychology problems. Department, Hope University, •Education Faculty - Catholic Holland, Michigan; Larry Hildore, University, Maniales, Colombia, •Reform School and Orphanage, and David A. Wallace. 1985. “Rafael Allau,” Guatemala, 1983.

•Positive results. Test data revealed •Dr. Milena de Munoz and Dr. Gloria •Susana Mury, M.D. that the participants—60 single Nelly Martinez. mothers on welfare—showed •Published in Tests de Licenciatura marked improvement in every en Psicologia, Rafael Landivar category except “Remembrance University, Guatemala, 1983. 22 23 maturity; more acceptance and adapted for this purpose, women Florida Prison Project integration to social conventions; a and their partners can participate decrease in susceptibility, fear, and in the childbearing process from its •This research was conducted apprehensions; higher acceptance beginning to actual delivery.” to determine the effects of the of reality; a disposition towards Silva Method Basic Lecture Series extroversion, becoming more open •Partial results published at the on a group inmates who were and sociable.” Silva Method 3rd. World Convention incarcerated for the first time in the in San Jose, Costa Rica, 1982. Florida state prison system. •Published by Silva International, 29. The Silva Method and Non- Inc. traumatic Induction to Anesthesia •Indian River Correction Institution, Vero Beach, Florida, 1979. Benefits of the Silva Method to •Measured the effect of the Silva Teachers and Counselors Method relaxation techniques •J.W. Hahn, Ph.D., Chaplain Gene M. amongst patients programmed for Little, Ph.D., and Ed Bemd Jr. •This research was conducted to surgery, evaluating the reduction determine how much benefit the in their consumption of chemical •The results were excellent. Prison Silva Method Basic Lecture Series anesthetics and the elimination of Chaplain Gene M. Little, who offers to teachers who have already pain. administered personality tests had considerable formal education, to participants before and after when the BLS is included along with •Specialties Hospital, Mexican the BLS, called it “A very positive their regular university courses. Institute of Social Security, Puebla, program.” He added that none of Mexico, 1981. the 14 participants in the program •Appalachian State University, had gotten into any trouble since Boone, North Carolina, 1985. •Miguel Bautista, M.D. completing the BLS, and that the inmates themselves reported that •Dr. George Maycock. Appalachian •Positive results. 50 percent they were much more relaxed, and State University. reduction in use of chemical their grades in the high school and anesthetic. 90 percent elimination of college courses were improving. •Results: “This study showed that pain during the 72 hours following teachers and counselors can benefit the operation. •Published by the Silva Method of from taking the Silva Method as part Brevard County, Florida, and by of their professional training. In this •Work presented at the Silva International, Inc. way the benefits of the Silva Method Latinoamericano Congress for will multiply as these teachers Anesthesia in Panama in 1981. The Silva Method and its Uses and counselors interact with their classes and clients.” The Effect of the Silva Method on •This research was conducted to Cognitive Controls measure of the influence of the •Published by Silva International, Silva Method on personality factors Inc. •This research was done to amongst university professors. determine the effects of meditation The Silva Method and and relaxation on subjects’ ability to •School of Dentistry, Autonomous Psychoprophylactic Childbirth perceive objective information. University of the State of Mexico, Toluca. Edo. de Mexico,, 1980. •This project was undertaken to •David Miller evaluate the effects of the •Psychology Department of same Silva Method of relaxation for •Silva Method graduates who university. expectant parents, and its performed physical relaxation Influence on the baby. prior to entering laboratory level •With the collaboration of Pilar demonstrated a greater tendency to Usanos Tamayo, Psy.D. •Ministry of Public Health, Puriscal, focus their concentration inwardly. Costa Rica, Central America, 1982. They were able to identify fewer •Researchers reported that objects than they could at the Beta the Silva Method “motivated a •Socorro Rodriguez, M.D., Director level. Graduates who entered their positive change in the subjects of the Mental Health Department, laboratory level without relaxing along the following lines: A Public Health Ministry of Costa Rica. demonstrated an increased ability feeling of healthiness, with less in outwardly focused concentration physical discomfort of possible •”Studies and experience in this field from that of their Beta level. organic origin; an increase in self- in Costa Rica show that through simple confidence, feeling more optimistic psychoprophylactic [sic] childbirth and useful; a certain advance methods and Silva Method techniques in the process of psychological

24 25 SILVA INTERNATIONAL CONTINUES RESEARCH

NEW RESEARCH IN THE WORKS IN 2005 ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE SILVA METHOD FOR: MULTIPLE SCEROSIS PATIENTS AND REMOTE DIAGNOSIS In 2006 we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Silva Method. Honoring José Silva’s memory, we proudly continue to develop vital relations with members of the scientific community. Our ongoing research is discovering new ways the Silva Method BLS program can be effectively and consistency applied in several fields of life. Currently, two accredited universities are studying the effectiveness of the Silva Method in helping patients with Multiple Sclerosis and remotely diagnosing health cases. Thank you for your continued support of this, the original Silva Mind program. We wish you continued success, prosperity and wellbeing.

May you all be better and better Hilda Silva Rubio Chairman/CEO

Silva International Headquarters in Laredo, Texas

COPYRIGHT 2005 BY SILVA INTERNATIONAL, INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT SILVA INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS · P.O. BOX 2249 1407 CALLE DEL NORTE · LAREDO · TEXAS 78044-2249 TELS: 1-800-545-6463 OR 956-722-6391 · EMAIL: [email protected] WWW.SILVAMETHOD.COM

24 25 NEW PUBLICATIONS FROM SILVA INTERNATIONAL

Coming to Our Senses A guide for developing your mind by Harry F. McKnight U o f n Under the Shadows L d e e g r of Legends his special edition commemorates the 38th Anniversary

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s The ability that each of us has to imagine and visualize at a meditative level and use that information for problem solving is being researched and implemented more than ever by healing arts specialists in all professional walks of life, including the medical field. In controlling our subjective abilities, we do control our bodies by focusing mind. Even a qualified lecturer needs two or three hours to share H i l d José Silva’s ideas adequately. For that reason, graduates and a S i

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������������������� Cover photograph by Guillermo J. Lopez Under the Shadows of Legends Grew Wildflowers by Hilda Silva Rubio The Silva Method Store 2005 Edition Learn how José Silva’s 7th The Silva Method Store child chooses to live life! Hilda Silva Rubio relates a The latest catalog from Silva whimsical menu of life as experi- International is jam-packed with enced by the “middle child” who Books, tapes, CDs, clothing and never expected to grow roots many other items designed for under the loving embrace of Silva grads, instructors, or just her legendary parents, José and anyone who would like to know Paula Silva. more about the world’s number It’s a delectable tale, which one mental training program. will trigger your own childhood memories and will keep you hun- Order yours now. It’s FREE! gry for more, wondering if she’ll ever fit in. Call toll-free (in USA) This is a book about hope and 1-800-545-6463 perseverance, a book that will empower you to be always and International telephone forever, better and better. 1-956-722-6391 Stock #9542 $24.95 Email [email protected] 2005 Edition

Chat with the Silva Family on “Community” The Official Silva Message Board SILVA INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Put your ideas and opinions on-line for the world to see. Have a P.O. BOX 2249 ∙ LAREDO ∙ TEXAS 78044 regular pen pal, participate in forums, get the latest news, and ask WWW.SILVAMETHOD.COM advice from Silva Instructors around the planet. Updated regularly, it’s a world of fun. Just go to http://www.SilvaMethod.com and, on the home page, click on the “Community” icon.

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