Welcome to the Tome of Rituals
Ancient and modern practices, thoughtfully examined through a scientific lens to understand their enduring benefits.
Our expert-guided sessions honor traditional wisdom while revealing why these methods have transformed lives for thousands of years.
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Coming soon!
Guided Practices Available Soon
Here you'll find what practices we have in our members area. We are adding more consistently. If you believe others would benefit from your own ritual, email me at [email protected]
Dream Incubation
Enhance problem-solving through targeted dream programming. Research shows purposeful dreaming can boost creativity, improve memory consolidation, and facilitate solution-finding during REM sleep.
Drumming Journey
Traditional rhythmic drumming practice shown to alter brainwave patterns and reduce stress hormones. Studies indicate potential benefits for emotional processing and stress reduction through auditory-driven trance states.
Mayan Cacao Ritual
Ancient Mesoamerican ceremony utilizing cacao's natural compounds including theobromine and anandamide. May enhance mood, focus, and social bonding through neurochemical pathways. (Cacao Required)
Mindfulness Meditation
Scientifically validated practice shown to reduce cortisol levels and increase gray matter density in areas associated with attention and emotional regulation. Evidence-based techniques for stress management.
Holotropic Breathing
Intensive breathing technique that alters oxygen and CO2 levels, potentially inducing non-ordinary states of consciousness. May facilitate emotional release through autonomic nervous system modulation. (We require a signed waiver for this practice due to its intensity.)
Chanting
Rhythmic vocalization practice shown to stimulate vagus nerve activity and increase heart rate variability. Research indicates benefits for stress reduction and emotional regulation through respiratory synchronization.
Jhakri Energy Cleansing
Traditional Nepalese shamanic practice combining breath, sound, and movement patterns. Research suggests potential benefits for autonomic nervous system regulation and stress reduction through ritualistic cleansing techniques.
Sound Bowl Therapy
Acoustic stimulation using resonant frequencies. Studies suggest potential benefits for stress reduction through autonomic nervous system response. We highly recommend headphones for this ritual.
Nature Bathing
Japanese Shinrin-yoku practice backed by research showing reduced cortisol levels and increased natural killer cell activity. Proven benefits for immune function and stress reduction.
Polynesian Ho'oponopono
Traditional Hawaiian reconciliation practice focusing on personal responsibility and forgiveness. Studies indicate potential benefits for interpersonal conflict resolution and stress reduction.
Amazonian Icaros
Traditional healing songs from Amazonian shamanic traditions. Research suggests melodic patterns may influence neurological and emotional states through auditory pathways.
Dreamtime Walking
Aboriginal Australian meditative practice combining movement and environmental awareness. May enhance mindfulness and connection to natural surroundings through guided attention exercises.
Empirical Enlightenment Podcast
Join host Dr John-Paul Andersen as we bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science. Each episode uncovers evidence-based insights into spiritual practices that have stood the test of time - from holotropic breathwork to sound healing, meditation to cold exposure.
Through in-depth conversations with spiritual leaders, scientific researchers, and experienced practitioners, we explore how traditional practices can be optimized for modern life. Our mission is simple: to understand what really works in the realm of spiritual growth and consciousness expansion, backed by both scientific research and centuries of human experience.
Whether you're a curious skeptic, a seasoned spiritual practitioner, or somewhere in between, each episode offers practical insights for your journey to enlightenment. We dive deep into the techniques, examine the evidence, and share the tools you need to enhance your spiritual practice.
New episodes release weekly, offering a fresh perspective on timeless wisdom.
Join us as we uncover the science of spirituality, one practice at a time.
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST
I'm Dr. John-Paul Andersen, and I hold a PhD in Physiology and Pharmacology from the University of Texas. When I’m not doing genetic engineering, or working on nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals, my passion lies in uncovering the scientific benefits of metaphysical and spiritual practices using scientific rigor.
"After just the first session, I’ve had some massive shifts in my mindset and my daily mood. I’m hopeful for the new future I’m creating."
- Steve
"This time last year, I was a frazzled mother of 2, just barely getting by. Thanks to these courses, I’m a happier, healthier person for myself and my family."