MOVIE

FindCenter AddIcon

Crazywise

2016

What can we learn from those who have turned their psychological crisis into a positive transformative experience? During a quarter-century documenting indigenous cultures, human-rights photographer and filmmaker Phil Borges often saw these cultures identify "psychotic" symptoms as an indicator of shamanic potential. He was intrigued by how differently psychosis is defined and treated in the West. Through interviews with renowned mental health professionals including Gabor Mate, MD, Robert Whitaker, and Roshi Joan Halifax, PhD, Phil explores the growing severity of the mental health crisis in America dominated by biomedical psychiatry. He discovers a growing movement of professionals and psychiatric survivors who demand alternative treatments that focus on recovery, nurturing social connections, and finding meaning. CRAZYWISE follows two young Americans diagnosed with "mental illness." Adam, 27, suffers devastating side effects from medications before embracing meditation in hopes of recovery. Ekhaya, 32, survives childhood molestation and several suicide attempts before spiritual training to become a traditional South African healer gives her suffering meaning and brings a deeper purpose to her life. CRAZYWISE doesn't aim to over-romanticize indigenous wisdom, or completely condemn Western treatment. Not every indigenous person who has a crisis becomes a shaman. And many individuals benefit from Western medications. However, indigenous peoples' acceptance of non-ordinary states of consciousness, along with rituals and metaphors that form deep connections to nature, to each other, and to ancestors, is something we can learn from. CRAZYWISE adds a voice to the growing conversation that believes a psychological crisis can be an opportunity for growth and potentially transformational, not a disease without a cure.

82 min

FindCenter Video Image
02:13

Michael Beckwith Discusses Spiritual Liberation

Michael Bernard Beckwith, well known spiritual teacher and featured contributor to The Secret, shares his teachings with the world in this powerful and compelling book of spiritual wisdom.

FindCenter AddIcon
FindCenter Video Image
04:09

The 4 Stages of Spiritual Awakening | Michael Bernard Beckwith

Michael Beckwith discusses the 4 Stages of Spiritual Growth and ultimately the dissolution of boundaries between you and the universe itself. What is spiritual growth? Is there a step-by-step process? How do you start your spiritual journey

FindCenter AddIcon
FindCenter Video Image

Spiritual Liberation: Fulfilling Your Soul’s Potential

The well-known spiritual leader and featured contributor to The Secret shares his wisdom with the world in this powerful and compelling book of spiritual philosophy about how to find the key to unlock your future.

FindCenter AddIcon
FindCenter Video Image

Life Visioning: A Transformative Process for Activating Your Unique Gifts and Highest Potential

Why have you been given this singular treasure that is your life―and how will you use it? What is the purpose for the unique blend of gifts, skills, experiences, and perspectives that you alone possess? To support you in answering these questions and living in sync with your inner calling,...

FindCenter AddIcon

EXPLORE TOPIC

Depression