Invitation to join a Research Group based on the Subsidiary Exercises
The Subsidiary Exercises (given in Guidance in Esoteric Training) can become a tool for research – just as a magnifying glass or telescope can make visible things that were previously not seen, so too can the Subsidiary Exercises, when applied methodically to the observation of phenomena, reveal something novel and new to the observer.
Over the years, Rudolf Steiner was asked by many people about what was necessary in order to develop the faculties required to come to a direct experience of the spiritual world – as distinct from the ordinary material world, perceivable through the senses of sight, touch, hearing and so on. To this end, he described various exercises in meditation and concentration, as well as other exercises to be done alongside, or prior to, the former.
Let no one imagine that he can make progress by any measures applied to the outer or the inner life unless he fulfils these conditions. All exercises in meditation, concentration, or exercises of other kinds, are valueless, indeed in a certain respect actually harmful, if life is not regulated in accordance with these conditions. (Rudolf Steiner in GA 245, Lecture 2)
The aforementioned conditions are the Subsidiary Exercises and these statements illustrate their importance for those who wish to develop a genuine and legitimate relationship with the spiritual world in full consciousness. Meditations upon words, images, and/or feelings, for instance, constitute a separate aspect of the spiritual path that is made available within Anthroposophy. (See also ‘Knowledge of the Higher Worlds’.)
For more information
Download the Open Letter for more background or contact Phil Ingelmo for more information.