Microbial Metaphysics
In this post "Microbial Metaphysics," I intend to explore how we can bridge the gap between science and spirituality through the microbiome. In our current paradigm, science focuses on the physical aspects of existence, while spirituality focuses on the non-physical realm. I believe that by understanding the functions of microorganisms, we can unite the physical and non-physical aspects of our reality.
Microorganisms, especially prokaryotes like bacteria and archaea, constitute the very fabric of physical reality. They exist in the air, soil, water, rocks, and are intertwined with every cell in our bodies. This interconnectedness forms a microbial matrix that binds us all together.
It is essential to comprehend that despite appearing as separate entities, we are symbiotic unions of numerous organisms. Scientific research now regards living beings as holobionts—a collection of many species living in symbiosis to form a single unit.
However, our sterile culture has led us to perceive microorganisms as invaders rather than integral parts of our system. This skewed view affects our comprehension of nature and our own bodies. Viewing microorganisms as invaders has created a divide between ourselves and the outside world.
I often share the idea that disconnection is the disease, referring to the disconnection between humans and nature. This lack of connection not only affects our physical health but also has implications for our mental and emotional well-being.
Therefore, my intention in presenting these ideas is to explore new perspectives on our relationship with the world. Science is predominantly focused on the physical aspects, and spirituality pertains to the non-physical, but embracing the power of the non-physical realm we can improve our physical lives. For instance, practices like positive thinking and meditation demonstrate how mental energy can influence physical health.
Microorganisms serve multiple functions in the environment and within living beings, supporting and influencing life through the production of secondary metabolites. For example, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced during fermentation by the gut microbiome, have significant roles in regulating immune response, blood pressure, insulin secretion, and even brain functions.
There are numerous examples showing that the microbiome plays a significant role in nearly every aspect of host physiology. Research in this area has provided substantial evidence of the influence of microorganisms on various physiological processes. Some of these include:
Energy Balance
Cardiovascular Health
Mental Wellbeing
Immune Function
Digestive Health
Inflammation
Neurological function
Skin Health
One of the fundamental properties of microorganisms that contribute to their magical nature is their ability to adapt to change within the environment. Acknowledging the ubiquity of change in nature allows us to view life as a dynamic and interconnected process. It also encourages us to embrace change not as something to fear but as a natural and transformative force that enriches our understanding of our place within existence.
An example of perpetual change can be seen in scientific experiments conducted in vivo, within nature, often yield less repeatability compared to controlled lab experiments done in vitro. The constant state of flux in nature involves countless variables, making it challenging to obtain a whole understanding through in vitro experiences alone.
One intriguing aspect science is beginning to unravel is how microorganisms adapt their DNA and function in response to environmental changes. Horizontal gene transfer is a process that allows microorganisms to incorporate genetic material from their surroundings, into their own DNA. This suggests that microbial species are ultimately influenced by the genetic information present in their environment.
In fact, some microbiologists find is inappropriate to view prokaryotes as individual species due to their ability to easily perform horizontal gene transfer
Not viewing prokaryotes as a strictly defined individual species due to their capacity for horizontal gene transfer challenges traditional taxonomic classifications. Instead, this perspective acknowledges the dynamic nature of microorganisms and their genetic exchange, blurring the lines between different species.
In essence, biology reflects the ever-changing environmental conditions surrounding us because they are the physical manifestation of energy.
One example of this is, the purple non-sulfur bacteria Rhodopseudomonas, can switch between four different modes of metabolism depending on its environment. The most interesting however is its genes that encode for proteins found in light-harvesting complexes (LHCs) and photosynthetic reaction centers typically found in plants. This suggests that microorganisms may respond to different non physical environmental factors such as light, frequency, vibrations, including those from crystals, sounds, music, and even thoughts.
This interconnectedness between organisms and their environment opens up intriguing possibilities, suggesting that spiritual practices and vibrational influences could have an impact on biology. Spiritual practices often involve working with energies, frequencies, and consciousness, and it is plausible that these practices may induce shifts in frequency that could upgrade the DNA within our energetic fields.
The idea of frequency shifts leading to changes in DNA is consistent with emerging scientific understanding. Epigenetic research has shown that external factors, including environmental influences, can affect gene expression and lead to changes in an individual's biology. Spiritual practices that work with frequencies and energies may initiate epigenetic changes, which could influence various biological processes and ultimately lead to positive transformations in health and well-being.
While further research is needed to fully comprehend the extent of these effects, the concept aligns with the understanding that biology is intertwined with the energy and information surroundings.
By embracing spiritual practices that harmonize with our inner and outer environment, we may unlock new potentials for personal growth and transformation, shaping our biology and overall well-being in positive and empowering ways.
Unfortunately, microorganisms have received a negative reputation due to their presence in diseased or damaged environments. However, their function is merely a consequence of dysbiosis in those settings. In response to such conditions, microorganisms switch their function from supporting living processes to breaking down or recycling damaged tissue. For example, the plant pathogen Fusarium infamously causing wilt, has been found to also establish beneficial relationships with plants in healthy environments, akin to mycorrhizal relationships. However, in less ideal conditions, its function shifts to breaking down the plant causing the disease.
This ability of microorganisms to alter their function based on environmental cues contributes to their seemingly magical qualities.
Another way microorganisms can merge the physical and the non physical is through their ability to perform alchemical processes. On a physical level Microorganisms play a vital role in the transmutation of matter during the composting process, creating humus, the nutrient-rich and fertile substance that nourishes life in the soil.
Spiritual alchemy is a metaphor of turning lead into gold to describe spiritual enlightenment. Fermentation is the 5th step in alchemical transformation. In this step the alchemist introduces microorganisms to continue the breakdown of one’s old self to reveal the true authentic self.
Similarly, we can draw parallels to our inner world and engage in what I like to call "energetic composting."
Energetic composting is a transformative process where we integrate and process our traumas, unwanted behaviors, and emotions to create positive change in our lives. Just as microorganisms break down organic matter in a compost pile, we can allow ourselves to break down emotional barriers and negative patterns within us.
Energetic composting is not an instant process but rather a gradual and transformative journey. Just as compost piles need time to mature and become rich in nutrients, emotional composting requires patience, self-compassion, and a commitment to personal growth. With time and effort, we can experience the positive effects of energetic composting on our overall well-being.
By embracing this transformative journey, we can nurture a healthier and more resilient inner landscape, promoting a more balanced and fulfilling life.
The concept of angels or spirits serving as guides through the spiritual enlightenment journey has been a part of various belief systems and mythologies. Interestingly, there are striking similarities between the functions of microorganisms and the magical workings of spiritual entities.
In the context of the microcosm, microorganisms can be seen as "angels" due to their roles and functions such as:
Servants to Gaia: Just as spiritual entities are believed to work for the greater good and wellbeing of the cosmos, microorganisms serve a critical role in supporting the planet's health. They decompose organic matter, recycling nutrients and energy, which fosters the creation of new life and sustains the ecological balance.
Messengers of Our Past: Microorganisms can hold the memory of our environmental history though DNA and can pass on past information though horizontal gene transfer. Similarly, spiritual entities are sometimes considered as carriers of wisdom and knowledge, helping us learn from our past experiences.
Adapting to the Future: Microorganisms demonstrate remarkable adaptability to changing environmental conditions. This ability to adjust their function based on external cues parallels the guidance provided by spiritual entities, helping individuals adapt and evolve on their spiritual paths.
Protectors and Regulators of Health: Just as spiritual beings are perceived as guardians and protectors of human souls, microorganisms play a crucial role in protecting our physical health. They contribute to our immune system, regulate many physiological processes, and support overall well-being.
Guides of the Death and Rebirth Process: In some belief systems, spiritual entities are associated with guiding souls through the journey of death and rebirth. Likewise, microorganisms participate in the cycle of life, decomposing organic matter and transforming it into nourishing elements for new life to emerge.
From these similarities, we can say that microorganisms embody the "angel archetype" of the microcosm. They function as mystical beings, intricately interwoven with the processes of life, death, and renewal. The parallel between microorganisms and spiritual entities highlights the significance of these tiny beings
This perspective encourages us to contemplate the profound interconnectedness of all living systems, reminding us that even the smallest creatures contribute to the greater web of life. By recognizing the wisdom and magic in the microcosm, we may gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of nature and the spiritual journey within and around us.
The last connection I would like to make is between the macrocosm of space and the microcosm of the microbiome, because what inspired this connection is looking through the microscope at soil samples, the images resemble the clear nights sky.
It is evident that the planets were highly significant in ancient cultures. They built megalithic temples all over the world to match the alignment of celestial bodies, for example Gobekli Tepe in Turkey was built in alignment with the star sirius and the giza pyramids in alignment with the orion belt.
The belief that the movement and alignment of planets influence life on Earth has been a longstanding aspect of astrology, shared by ancient cultures and astrologers throughout history. According to astrology, each celestial body or planet carries a unique archetype or "flavor" of energy that can impact our physical experience and shape various aspects of our lives. Astrology utilizes this understanding as a tool to predict future events and gain insights into individual personalities and life experiences.
For example, One's birth chart, a snapshot of the planets' positions at the time of birth, is considered a reflection of the unique energies influencing an individual. Astrologers believe that the birth chart exerts a substantial influence on one's personality traits and the experiences they encounter throughout their lifetime.
The connection you draw between looking through a microscope and gazing at the night sky is captivating. Microorganisms can look like the stars and planets in the galaxy.
As microorganisms interact with their surroundings, they produce secondary metabolites through biochemical reactions, which can have significant effects on our physical health and well-being. In this sense, microorganisms mirror the influence of celestial bodies, where the energies they emit can also impact our lives on Earth.
By embracing this perspective, we gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnected nature of existence, recognizing that even the tiniest organisms and cosmic entities play essential roles in shaping our reality. This understanding invites us to explore the connections between ourselves, our environment, and the cosmos, promoting a deeper sense of harmony and unity with the universe.
I will close out with a poem I wrote called Angels of the Microscosm ~
Ubiquitous but unseen.
In and around each cell,
The fabric of physical existence ,
Creators of living art forms, ✨
Bringing life to everything they touch, ✨🌱
Performing Alchemical transformations, ✨♻️
Guiding us towards balance and harmony,✨☯️
Keepers of memory and wisdom,
facilitating the transfer of codes from one life to another, ✨
Angels of the microcosm.
✨💚🌼🌞🌱🌻🍃🌝♻️
