As I reflect on an extraordinary series of events that unfolded last year, I'm reminded of how our lives are often intertwined with moments of unexpected connections.
It all started with a visit from a dear friend who arrived one weekend at my doorstep in Lisbon. Just back from Basel, Switzerland, she regaled me with stories of the philosopher and educator Rudolf Steiner, along with her enchanting experiences at the Goetheanum.
The following day, I enjoyed coffee with a new friend from Singapore, who had recently made Lisbon her home. What began as a relaxed conversation over caffeine quickly unveiled an unexpected connection—she, too, had ties to my friend from Basel and had even travelled there with her.
And the day after, while at my go-to CrossFit box, I bumped into a guy. As we chatted, he mentioned he was from Basel and enthusiastically recommended I visit the Goetheanum. We exchanged Instagram handles, and to my surprise, I discovered he was classmates with my new friend from Singapore!
Could all of this be what Carl Jung referred to as "synchronicity"? In any case, my life is brimming with such marvellous coincidences. It seems Basel is definitely a place not to be missed.
And now, I sit here, in Basel, writing this article, marvelling at the intricacies of fate and chance, and sharing a glance of Rudolf Steiner and Goetheanum insights gained from my time in Basel.
To truly know the world, look deeply within your own being; to truly know yourself, take real interest in the world.
- Rudolf Steiner
Rudolf Steiner
Rudolf Steiner, a philosopher, social reformer, and esotericist, led a rich life marked by diverse achievements. His work encompassed a wide range of fields, including education, agriculture, medicine, and the arts, leaving a profound impact on various aspects of contemporary society, including over 40 books and 6,000 lectures, inspiring generations with his wisdom.
The Creation of Anthroposophy
Drawing from his profound spiritual insights and broad expertise spanning philosophy, science, and the arts, Rudolf Steiner formulated anthroposophy. Commencing with lectures on spiritual matters in the early 20th century, Steiner established the Anthroposophical Society in 1912.
Steiner emphasized the importance of individuals setting their own guidelines to navigate the material world, advocating for a conscious connection with the spiritual dimension. His major achievement was establishing a method similar to natural science for understanding spiritual reality. Anthroposophy not only encourages independent spiritual orientation but also influences various cultural fields, driving innovations in education, medicine, agriculture, and architecture.
In the latter part of the 20th century, spiritual ideas gained wider acceptance, leading to the establishment of over 10,000 anthroposophical establishments worldwide, including clinics, schools, farms, and care homes.
Waldorf Education
One of Steiner's most enduring legacies is the Waldorf education movement. In 1919, he was invited to develop a new educational approach for the children of the Waldorf-Astoria cigarette factory workers in Stuttgart, Germany. His holistic educational philosophy, rooted in anthroposophical principles, emphasizes the physical, emotional, and spiritual growth of every child. His vision has inspired the establishment of more than 1,100 Waldorf schools worldwide, dedicated to nurturing children following his principles.
Biodynamic Agriculture
In 1924, Steiner gave a series of lectures on agriculture, known as the "Agriculture Course," in response to concerns about the declining health of soil and crops. These lectures laid the foundation for biodynamic agriculture, an ecological and holistic approach to farming that integrates spiritual principles with practical farming methods. Steiner's insights into the interconnectedness of soil, plants, animals, and humans continue to inspire farmers and gardeners around the world.
Organic Architecture
Steiner oversaw the design and construction of the Goetheanum, a centre for anthroposophical activities located in Dornach, Switzerland. The First Goetheanum, built between 1913 and 1920, was a wooden structure that served as a hub for lectures, conferences, and artistic performances. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by fire in 1922. Undeterred, Steiner initiated the construction of the Second Goetheanum, a unique concrete building that stands as a masterpiece of organic architecture and artistic expression.
Eurythmy
Steiner developed eurythmy as a new art form that combines movement, gesture, and speech to express spiritual and cosmic rhythms. Eurythmy is based on the idea that each sound and gesture has its own inherent meaning and spiritual significance. Today, eurythmy is practised as a performing art, therapeutic modality, and educational tool in anthroposophical communities worldwide.
Live through deeds of love, and let others live with tolerance for their unique intentions.
- Rudolf Steiner
The Goetheanum
The architectural history of the Goetheanum, especially the construction of its Second Goetheanum, is captivating. After the original building was destroyed by fire in 1922, Rudolf Steiner and a team of architects took on the challenge of designing and erecting a new structure.
This project was notable for its innovative use of concrete and sculptural forms. Steiner envisioned the Second Goetheanum as a fusion of architecture, sculpture, and spiritual symbolism. Working closely with architect Edith Maryon and sculptor Emil Stejnar, they meticulously hand-sculpted concrete forms inspired by natural phenomena like waves, shells, and leaves, blurring the lines between art and architecture. Each building element carried symbolic significance, reflecting Steiner's anthroposophical teachings.
Despite facing challenges such as financial constraints and logistical obstacles, the Second Goetheanum was completed in 1928, serving as a testament to the creative vision and collaborative spirit of its creators. Today, it continues to be a hub for anthroposophical activities, hosting lectures, conferences, and artistic performances.
Grosser Saal Main Auditorium
As I step inside, I'm immediately drawn into the narrative of 'Evolution' that unfolds across three levels of the Goetheanum. The sculpted concrete walls, adorned with intricate details like twice seven capitals, plinths, and architraves, vividly illustrate the journey of our planet from its beginnings to the distant future.
Turning my gaze upward, the painted ceiling captivates me with its twelve motifs, each depicting a different stage in humanity's evolution—from our creation to the present day, spanning through various cultural epochs. Last but not least, the nine windows, crafted from coloured cut glass, tell the fascinating story of both the cosmic and individual development of humankind.
I’m struck by the wealth of symbolism embedded within the ceiling painting and meticulously crafted windows. They depict spiritual concepts, cosmic forces, and the evolution of human consciousness in a vibrant and engaging manner. The intricate patterns, lively colours, and symbolic imagery reflect the profound anthroposophical principles that underpin the Goetheanum's design.
Strategically positioned to harness natural light and align with celestial movements, these windows not only enhance the spiritual ambience but also play a practical role in regulating ventilation and acoustics. It's a truly immersive experience, where every detail contributes to the sacred atmosphere of the Goetheanum, enriching my understanding and appreciation of its profound significance.
The Representative of Humanity
As I take in the sculpture, I notice a male and female figure, each cradling a child, their forms captured in a dynamic, upward-reaching gesture. These figures symbolize humanity's spiritual journey, with the male representing active willpower and the female embodying receptivity and nurturing. The children nestled between them symbolize the potential for growth and renewal.
What captivates me about this sculpture is its fusion of artistic expression and spiritual symbolism. Steiner intended this sculpture to be more than a mere artwork—it's a visual representation of anthroposophical concepts, inviting viewers like me to ponder the mysteries of human existence and the interconnectedness of the spiritual and material worlds.
Having survived the fire that consumed the First Goetheanum, the sculpture now resides in the Second Goetheanum, where it continues to captivate and stimulate contemplation among visitors like myself, prompting reflections on humanity's ongoing pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and personal evolution.
Two thoughts from Rudolf Steiner
"It is important that we discover an educational method where people learn to learn and go on learning their whole lives."
"We are fully human only while playing, and we play only when we are human in the truest sense of the word.”
Final Reflection
On my first day in Basel, I experienced 12 hours of deep sleep and vivid dreams, a testament to the remarkable energy of the region. It's no surprise that famous folks and Nobel laureates are drawn to this land; you can feel the spiritual vibe in the air.
Reflecting on the signs that brought me here, I couldn’t help but ponder the inevitable recurrence of themes in life. Just as in CrossFit, where confronting disliked exercises is essential for progress towards the RX stage, life similarly demands facing and conquering challenges. There's no escaping it; avoiding problems only ensures they'll haunt you wherever you go.
In last night's dream, reminiscent of a scene from one of my favourite movies, "Arrival," I was confronted with a profound choice: knowing the inevitability of tragedy, would I still choose the path that leads to it? Surrounded by my children in the dream, I received heartbreaking news about my youngest. A voice questioned if this was truly the life I desired. Despite the turmoil, I remained strangely calm and chose to endure the hardships once more.
This sentiment resonates with the words of my first love, written in a high school yearbook: "Each life has its own destiny; even amidst sorrow, leaving behind memories is a treasure." Back then, I didn't realize that these words would become one of my guiding principles. We only live once, so staying open-minded and embracing every experience is what makes the heart vibrant.
As my physical strength rebounds and my social circle evolves, clarity emerges from the chaos. With patience and diligence, concentrating on current tasks, I'm confident that everything will fall into place.
Last but not least, I’m back in Manchester now and here is one of my favourite food traditions from England - The Sunday Roast! Enjoy :)
I am in between jobs at the moment, you have to stay positive; be optimistic, the wheel is always turning as they say.
Here is a great article that was in my in box today.
Create More Than You Consume if You Want to Worry Less and Feel More Fulfilled
https://www.omaritani.com/blog/create-more-consume-less?ck_subscriber_id=2266612161
I will read their other articles too.
Have an awesome day !
Of course things will fall into place! You make small plans, build up and direct your energy to the task at hand ...
Your final reflection is uncanny, I just finished reading: Days At The Morisaki Bookshop - Satoshi Yagisawa. No spoiler alert. Takako's uncle tells her that she must face her fears directly .... she was avoiding this until now and her uncle clearly saw what was needed and she realized he was of course right!