How do our interactions with the seemingly mundane objects around us reflect and influence our deeper psychological processes and connections with the broader universe? Jung held a fascinating belief in the soulful essence of inanimate objects. He engaged in daily greetings with his kitchenware at Bollingen Tower, expressing a unique form of animism that extended deeply into his personal and professional life. His collection of beer steins, each with its name, served not only as vessels for drink but as partners in dialogue, reflecting his practice of active imagination. This relationship with objects underscores Jung's broader theories on the collective unconscious and synchronicity, suggesting that everything is interconnected and ensouled. His approach, echoing through the practices of figures like Marie Kondo, invites us to reconsider our relationships with the material world, hinting at a deeper, more mystical interaction with the everyday items that populate our lives. Prepare to discover… Jung truly was beyond the textbooks: a visionary who conversed with the soul of the world, from the kitchenware in his hands to the beer steins that whispered archetypal secrets; the curtain between the animate and inanimate thinned for Jung, revealing itself in the quiet dawn at Bollingen Tower and in the sacred routine of morning toast preparation; Jung transformed mundane interactions with objects into profound dialogues with the unconscious; depths of meaning Jung found in the ordinary, where beer steins became the custodians of myth and a toaster named "Gemütlich" embodied the alchemical transformation; Jung's theoretical explorations took physical shape; Jung's practices were mere quirks of genius or essential keys to unlocking the mysteries of the psyche; of Jung's possessions were not just objects but talismans, each named beer stein and the cherished toaster "Gemütlich," serving as conduits to deeper understanding and self-realization; Jung embraced such a mystical relationship with the material world, illuminating his belief in a universe where every particle, every object, speaks the language of the soul, urging us to listen and learn from the symphony of the seemingly silent. FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE:   TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/    Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/  

39m

Apr 01

How does the interplay between vulgarity and societal norms reflect and shape the human experience of freedom, creativity, and psychological depth?   Our collective fascination with vulgarity, obscenity, and profanity lies in the thrill of transgression and the need to articulate the unspoken aspects of human experience. As we navigate social acceptability, the vulgar mirrors our deepest shadow and wildest laughter, a space where sacred and profane dance in the liminal light of truth and rebellion. Engaging vulgarity challenges the rigid confines of propriety. Embracing discomfort and delight, it forges connections, releases pent-up emotions, and confronts the complexities of existence. In the laughter that follows the shock, the shared glance of understanding, and the relief of tension, we discover the power of vulgarity to unite us, to reveal our shared vulnerabilities that bind us as a community. By acknowledging and exploring the collective allure of vulgarity, we embrace a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other, where we discover the full spectrum of our humanity with all its messiness, beauty, and transcendent potential. Prepare to discover… societal norms around vulgarity have shifted, revealing the acceptance and rejection of vulgar expressions as mirrors of cultural transformations; vulgarity serves as a complex tool for challenging, mocking, and sometimes reinforcing societal norms, acting as both a disruptor and a reflector of cultural attitudes; roles vulgarity plays in humor, rebellion, and the psychological exploration of shadow; vulgarity is variably accepted or condemned; vulgarity acts merely as a social faux pas or plays a more profound role in challenging taboos and sparking necessary dialogue; aspects of vulgarity transcend cultural boundaries to be universally recognized; vulgarity continues to be a potent and dynamic form of human expression, serving not only as a mirror to society’s evolving values and limits but also as a catalyst for reflection, dialogue, and change…and so much more. FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/vulgarity/      TRY NEW STUFF Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/    Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 19m

Mar 28

How do we interpret and evaluate C.G. Jung's complex legacy in light of his interactions with Jewish individuals and the allegations of antisemitism, considering the nuanced historical context in which he lived and worked?"   Assessing Jung's possible antisemitism is complex and requires a nuanced understanding of his historical context and personal relationships. His involvement in psychoanalytic societies during the Nazi era has led to accusations of antisemitism, yet his actions and writings suggest an intimate, dynamic, and protective relationship with Jewish colleagues and theories. Jung tried to shield Jewish analysts by leveraging his position, indicating his efforts to mitigate the impacts of Nazi policies on his Jewish colleagues. His correspondence and professional interactions with Jewish individuals, including Freud, show admiration, critique, and misunderstanding, reflecting the complicated dynamics of early psychoanalytic circles. Critics and supporters of Jung need to consider the evolution of his views over time, acknowledging both problematic aspects of his work and his contributions to psychoanalytic thought that transcended racial and ethnic boundaries.   Prepare to discover… Carl Jung was, his relationships with Jewish individuals and communities, and the controversy surrounding allegations of antisemitism in his work and personal beliefs;  Jung's significant interactions with the Nazi party lead others to question his allegiances;  Jung's theories, were influenced by and, in turn, influenced Jewish scholars, demonstrating a complex interplay between Jungian psychology and Jewish thought;  specific allegations of antisemitism have been made against Jung, the evidence for and against these claims, and the broader implications of his work within the context of 20th-century antisemitic movements;  Jung stood in relation to the Nazi regime and antisemitism, including his professional and personal actions that have been scrutinized for either complicity or opposition to antisemitic policies;  Jung's interactions and theoretical disagreements with Sigmund Freud, as well as his comments on Jewish psychology, can be considered antisemitic or reflective of the era's complex cultural and scientific dialogues;  aspects of Jewish mysticism and philosophical thought, particularly Kabbalah and Hasidism;  the narrative surrounding Jung's work, his alleged antisemitism, and his relationship with Jewish intellectuals remains a subject of intense debate, reflecting the challenges of disentangling a historical figure's legacy from the socio-political context of their time…and so much more.   FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/antisemitism/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/    Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 38m

Mar 21

Can we grow by facing and integrating our ferocious instincts? The Three Little Pigs isn't just a children's tale; it's a sharp commentary on resilience, preparation, and the strategic mindset required to navigate life's challenges. This story strips back the layers of our decision-making processes, questioning whether we opt for quick fixes or invest in durable solutions. Prepare to discover… embodies the stages of ego development, from initial vulnerability to mature resilience; when the processes of ego fortification and psychological maturation are catalyzed by the confrontation with and integration of our shadow; the engagement and assimilation of unconscious drives within the psyche contribute to the development of a more integrated and resilient ego structure; the symbolic elements of the Three Little Pigs fairytale reveal about the universal struggle with internal fears and the path to self-realization;   within the psyche the battle between fleeing from versus confronting one's deepest fears and instincts unfolds; the developmental journey towards self-awareness and ego strength is more profoundly influenced by facing one's internal wolves or by avoidance; themes of resilience, shadow integration, and ego development are exemplified in each pig's approach to building their house; the integration of instinct and shadow is essential for psychological wholeness and personal empowerment…and so much more.  FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/three-little-pigs/    TRY NEW STUFF Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/     Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/     Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 12m

Mar 14

How does resolving inner conflicts enhance external relations? Conflict, both inner and outer, is a fundamental part of the human experience. We engage in conflicts externally with others and internally within ourselves, reflecting the complex nature of human relationships and the psyche. Our external conflicts often mirror internal struggles, serving as manifestations of unresolved or unacknowledged inner turmoil. Recognizing the projection of our inner conflicts onto external situations can lead to deeper self-awareness and understanding. Delving into inner conflict necessitates introspection and the willingness to confront uncomfortable aspects of ourselves. This involves exploring our desires, fears, and contradictions to gain insight into our true motivations and feelings. Experiencing ambivalence—holding conflicting desires or feelings simultaneously—signals the presence of inner conflict. Acknowledging and exploring this ambivalence can be a path to understanding and resolving internal struggles. Projecting our inner conflicts onto others can obscure their true source, leading to misunderstandings and unnecessary external conflicts. Recognizing projection as a defense mechanism allows us to address the root causes of our struggles. Engaging with and working through inner conflicts can lead to significant personal growth and development. This process can enhance our relationships, increase our self-acceptance, and contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Cultivating self-awareness is essential for effectively navigating both external disagreements and internal dilemmas. Understanding our own part in conflicts enables us to approach them with greater empathy and insight. By resolving our inner conflicts, we can improve our external relationships. A clearer understanding of our inner selves allows for more authentic and harmonious interactions with others. The process of understanding and resolving inner conflicts is ongoing. As we grow and change, new layers of the Self emerge, requiring continuous exploration and integration. Prepare to discover…who explores inner and outer conflicts, including Carl Jung's insights; when inner conflicts require deeper introspection across one's life stages; how inner conflicts are projected externally and the importance of self-awareness; what differentiates inner from outer conflicts, focusing on personal struggles with ambivalence; where conflicts appear, in relationships and within, showing the interplay between internal and external worlds; whether conflicts are internal or external, underlining the need for introspection; which methods, like Jungian analysis, help resolve conflicts for growth and better relationships; why confronting inner conflict is key to a balanced life and transformative for self and relations…and so much more. YOU CAN FIND  A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/strife/  GET INVOLVED WITH THIS JUNGIAN LIFE: Suggest a future podcast topic: https://bit.ly/thisjungianlifesuggesttopic   Share your dream with us: Submit your dream for a possible podcast interpretation: https://bit.ly/thisjungianlifeshareyourdream  Please give us a hand: become our patron and help keep This Jungian Life podcast up and running: https://bit.ly/thisjungianlifepatreon  Join Dream School, our year-long online dream interpretation course. Transform your sleep into the greatest adventure of your life: https://bit.ly/thisjungianlifedreamschool  Yes, we have merch! https://bit.ly/thisjungianlifemerch  Check out all our previous episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcE4RL3VIbzGWHI-Sq0Y2lZc7R6Zxmfb6  FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  ARE YOU INTERESTED IN A SERIOUS STUDY OF JUNG? Take a look at the Philadelphia Association of Jungian Analysts, Advanced Clinical Practice Program: A case seminar for experienced clinicians to read, explore, and apply Jung's concepts to clinical practice: https://bit.ly/cgjungphiladelphia  Enroll in the 2024 Philadelphia Jungian Seminar and start your journey: https://bit.ly/cgjungphiladelphiaseminar

1h 27m

Mar 07

Can Jungian psychology shed light on the archetypal forces shaping gay identity?" Our guest, Robert Hopcke, examines how Jung and Jungians have regarded homosexuality both clinically and theoretically, demonstrating that within a great diversity of opinion, there exist many ways to deepen an understanding of the lives and loves of gay men and lesbians. Hopcke proposes a view of homosexuality that is archetypally based, empirically supportable, psychologically profound, and spiritually evocative. Jungian psychology has a fresh take on integrating the shadow and the individuation process for LGBTQ+ folks. It encourages everyone to embrace their identity to achieve authenticity and wholeness. Reinterpreting Jung's anima and animus concepts challenges the traditional binary notions of gender and sexuality, leading to a more fluid and inclusive understanding of these concepts. Dreams and fantasies can help people understand themselves better, showing them the archaic strata of desires, conflicts, and potentials hidden within their psyche. By engaging with the collective unconscious and its archetypes, LGBTQ+ individuals can better grasp themselves, fostering a sense of belonging and connection to the broader human experience. Jungian psychology recognizes and validates the complexity and diversity of human experiences, offering a framework that acknowledges and explores the many ways LGBTQ+ identities manifest and evolve.  Prepare to discover...who was the first researcher to investigate and publish Jung’s writings on homosexuality; when Jung challenged heteronormative psychology and introduced radical ideas of femininity and masculinity; how ruthless dreams and the collective unconscious become the battlegrounds and playgrounds for individuals embracing their unique desires; what Jungian concepts empower us to explore varied expressions of love and gender to sculpt identity narratives beyond binary constraints; where Jungian psychology challenges and enriches our collective understanding of human complexity and the quest for authenticity; whether Jung's writings embrace or alienate LGBTQ+ identity formation; which aspects of Jung’s writings offer a beacon of understanding and acceptance;why Jungian thought enriches the discourse on identity beyond heteronormativity, fostering a universal narrative of integration, acceptance, and the celebration of the self in all its diverse manifestations…and so much more.  LEARN MORE ABOUT ROB HOPCKE HERE: https://www.robhopcke.com/ FIND A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZED HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/robert-hopcke/  TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 52m

Feb 29

 DEEP IN EACH OF US, A VITAL SPARK FIGHTS TO FREE US AND SET US BACK ON THE PATH.  Lisa, Joe, and Deb were joined by more than 300 audience members for their first-ever live podcast to celebrate the launch of Lisa's new book, The Vital Spark: Reclaim Your Outlaw Energies and Find Your Feminine Fire.  The "Vital Spark" is the core essence of our innermost fiery qualities—creative aggression, fiery sexuality, emboldened disagreeableness, sharp-witted trickery, burning desire, clearsighted shrewdness, empowering anger, and bold authority—that fuel creativity, assertiveness, desire, and personal power. It is the crucial energy and passion necessary for fueling one's true Self and facilitating personal growth. We achieve this by reclaiming and embracing these once-outlawed or neglected aspects of Self that transcend societal constraints. We are called to confront and integrate shadowy, fierce, and raw qualities. Through this transformative journey of acknowledgment and integration, the Vital Spark seeks to guide individuals toward a life marked by heightened consciousness, power, and agency, enriching their experiences with vibrancy and authenticity.  Prepare to discover: Who can embody the transformation from pleasing to authoritative, navigating generational conflicts and self-assertion. When it is crucial to confront and integrate shadow aspects of Self to reclaim power and agency in one's life. How to engage with and harness one's aggressive capacities for personal growth and authenticity. What constitutes the vital spark within and the importance of embracing one's full spectrum of qualities, including those deemed dark. Where internal and external journeys of self-discovery and confrontation with one's fate can lead to transformation and fulfillment. Whether it is possible to change one's fate by courageously facing and integrating aspects of Self that have been neglected or exiled. Which qualities and traits are essential for breaking free from limiting roles, enabling a richer, more empowered existence. Why loving one's fate, including embracing the challenging process of self-integration, is key to living a life of depth, purpose, and authenticity...and so much more… HERE'S A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZE: https://thisjungianlife.com/the-vital-spark/ BUY LISA’S NEW BOOK THE VITAL SPARK HERE: HTTPS://A.CO/D/5YXPU4O https://a.co/d/5YXPU4O TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products   TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/   

1h 49m

Feb 22

When we offer our heart and it is refused, even the gods become angry.  One day long, long ago, Aphrodite was a new mother. Her son, Eros, was the living symbol of her endless passion for his father, Aries. Despite her divine gifts, Eros failed to thrive. Desperate, she brought the goblet to the ancient mother, Themis, who knew the boy was dying at once. Aphrodite was instructed to bear a second child who, when presented to Eros, would cure him. Dutifully, she lay with Aries and begot a second son. She brought them close and was astonished to see her new son leap toward Eros, who met him in midair. In a tremendous exultant cry, they rolled and laughed—Eros grew strong. His brother was then named Anteros, whose name means 'Love Returned.'  Even the God of Love cannot survive without love's return. Are we so different?  The arrows of Eros strike our hearts, and we are filled with wild love. Psychotherapists call this limerence, that initial stage of love when all we ache for is found in one person. This projection can carry us into a new relationship with intrepid confidence for a time. If that love is unreturned, a second archetype, Anteros, is called forth to punish those who reject love. Armed with his lead club, he strikes the unloving and drives them to ruin.  From time immemorial, the human heart, once filled with passionate fantasy, if rejected, turns to vengeance.  Prepare to discover the intricacies of unrequited love and its psychological underpinnings; how unrequited love is illuminated through Jungian psychology; what constitutes unrequited love, including its symptoms, psychological impacts, and its potential for personal transformation; where this discourse positions itself within the realm of psychological study and mythological exploration; whether unrequited love serves a destructive or constructive purpose in one's life; which myths and psychological theories illuminate the experience and consequences of unrequited love; why unrequited love is pivotal, acting as a catalyst for deeper self-knowledge…and so much more… CLICK HERE FOR A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZE: https://thisjungianlife.com/UNREQUITED_LOVE/ https://thisjungianlife.com/unrequited_love/ TRY NEW STUFF Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/    Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 11m

Feb 15

How do the varied human experiences, beliefs, and practices related to death and dying illuminate our understanding of life's meaning and help us face the end of life with peace and a spirit of adventure? The death instinct (Thanatos) and the life instinct (Eros) symbolize the internal conflict between self-destructive urges and desires for creation, reflecting the psychological struggle with mortality. Religious traditions across the globe, from Buddhism's focus on impermanence to Christianity's belief in eternal life, offer diverse approaches to mitigating the fear of death, demonstrating the universal quest for peace in the face of mortality. The root of death anxiety in early childhood and the later development of defense mechanisms highlight a deep psychological battle against the awareness of death from a young age. Efforts to delay death through medical and lifestyle advancements juxtapose with spiritual teachings on accepting life's transience, underscoring the human endeavor to navigate the reality of mortality. Psychoanalytic and existential treatments for thanatophobia emphasize the importance of acknowledging and integrating death into life for mental health. Prepare to discover who explores the complex nature of the fear of death, when the fear of death becomes a central concern in people's lives; how different life stages and experiences shape our understanding and reaction to the concept of mortality; how psychoanalytic theory, religious practices, near-death experiences, and modern research offer methods and perspectives for confronting and alleviating the fear of death; what strategies and beliefs offer for coping with and understanding the fear of death, where discussions, research, and practices related to the fear of death and its treatment take place; whether there are effective treatments or approaches for mitigating the fear of death…and so much more… HERE'S THE DREAM WE ANALYZE: https://thisjungianlife.com/FEAR_OF_DEATH/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/  WATCH US on VIDEO: https://thisjungianlife.com/FEAR_OF_DEATH/

1h 24m

Feb 08

How do we navigate the complex interplay between personal truths, societal norms, and psychological well-being to foster individual growth and societal progress? We examine the multifaceted nature of Truth and its impact on individuals and communities. We touch on the challenges of speaking Truth to power, the psychological dynamics of scapegoating and being disbelieved, the role of psychotherapy in uncovering and dealing with personal truths, and the significance of narrative and perception in shaping our understanding of reality. We underscore the importance of discerning and integrating these elements in a way that promotes healing, understanding, and constructive change within individuals and society. Prepare to discover who stands at the epicenter of mythic battles and societal upheavals, when the age-old quest for Truth collides with pivotal historical moments, how the delicate balance of Truth and secrecy forges our identity and reshapes societies, what hidden forces lie beneath the facade of our collective existence, where the crossroads of personal revelation and collective destiny demand bold choices, whether the pursuit of Truth is a path to liberation or a labyrinth of deception, which stories dictate the course of our lives amidst chaos, and why venturing into the treacherous terrain of Truth and illusion is the ultimate gamble in our search for meaning…and so much more… FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/speaking_truth https://thisjungianlife.com/speaking_truth// https://thisjungianlife.com/speaking_truth/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/    SEE THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: HTTPS://THISJUNGIANLIFE.COM/SPEAKING_TRUTH https://thisjungianlife.com/speaking_truth// https://thisjungianlife.com/speaking_truth/

1h 27m

Feb 01

Are we inadvertently summoning forces beyond our control in our relentless pursuit of innovation and progress? Can we harness the power of our creations without unleashing terrible consequences upon ourselves and our world?  Prometheus and his brother, Epimetheus, were tasked by Zeus with fashioning all living creatures. They granted animals remarkable abilities - feathers for flight, claws, fangs for hunting, tails for balance, and gills to breath underwater. When it came to humans, they had no gifts left. Still, Prometheus loved his human creations and daringly stole fire from Olympus to provide them with warmth and protection. This act of defiance has inspired and cautioned humans for millennia as they reflect on Prometheus’ punishment.  Prometheus embodies the eternal struggle between conscious and unconscious forces within psyche. His act of rebellion, like the ego's desire for independence, results in detachment from its unconscious origins. Wild archetypal forces become impossible to contain and chain him to a rock where an eagle eats his liver each day. Prometheus's liberation by Heracles represents the relativization of the estranged inflated ego with the unconscious, fostering growth and humility.  The relentless pursuit of Promethean treasures propelled figures like Oppenheimer and Madame Curie, Louis Pasteur, George Washington Carver, Henry Ford, and Elon Musk. As they extended their grasp into the boundless skies of human potential, these brilliant minds bestowed upon humanity invaluable gifts and some brought risks they could never have imagined.  FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/prometheus/ TRY NEW STUFF Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/    Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/     Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products   TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/  

1h 31m

Jan 25

How do dreams influence and reflect our spiritual beliefs and experiences across different cultures and historical periods, and what does scientific research reveal about this relationship? Kelly Bulkeley, PhD, is a global expert on dreaming and the psychology of religion.  We explore his latest book "The Spirituality of Dreaming: Unlocking the Wisdom of Our Sleeping Selves." Dreams universally function as essential gateways to spiritual understanding, a truth echoed across cultures and eras. Modern sleep and dream research confront and expand upon the traditional views revealing a more complex nature of dreams. These dreams, whether as visitations, flights, or nightmares, reflect our existential questions and actively shape religious beliefs and practices. Merging empirical research with mystical interpretations, dreams are clearly more than mere reflections of waking life; they are direct conduits to deep spiritual insights. Prepare to discover who historically engaged with dreams in spiritual contexts; when these interpretations have been significant, from ancient times to the present; how dreams connect with spiritual experiences, often seen as divine messages or reflections of the soul; what types of dreams, such as visitation or flying dreams, are spiritually significant; where across different cultures and traditions dreams are valued for their spiritual implications; whether modern scientific research supports historical beliefs about the spiritual nature of dreams; which aspects of dreaming, like vividness and metaphorical content, shape religious beliefs; and why dreams remain a source of intrigue in understanding human spirituality and its relation to the divine…..and so much more…..  FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: HTTPS://THISJUNGIANLIFE.COM/KELLY-BULKELEY/  TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/  Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/  Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ WATCH HERE: HTTPS://THISJUNGIANLIFE.COM/KELLY-BULKELEY/

1h 54m

Jan 18

How does the experience of divorce lead to personal transformation and self-discovery? The journey of divorce is emblematic of a profound personal transformation, often unveiling the paradoxical nature of human relationships where deep trust and love coexist with the potential for betrayal and disillusionment, reflecting the intrinsic human struggle between connection and individuality. This individuation process during and after divorce constellates a metamorphosis, where confronting the shadows of a broken relationship becomes a gateway to self-discovery, self-acceptance, and a deeper connection with one's authentic self, leading to a more grounded and conscious existence. Loss, grief, and rebirth emerge as universal experiences, underscoring the resilience of the human spirit in facing life's adversities. While uniquely personal, the experience of divorce echoes the archetypal journey through cycles of despair, enlightenment, and resurgence, revealing that in the heart of suffering lies the potential for profound insight, healing, and the reclamation of one's path. At its essence, divorce acts as a catalyst for introspection and existential reevaluation, challenging inherited and societal constructs of marriage and relationships and inviting individuals to redefine their understanding of love, commitment, and self-fulfillment to pursue a more authentic life. Prepare to discover who experiences divorce's deep impact, when it typically unfolds, how it leads to transformation, what emotional and psychological processes are involved, where it can lead individuals, whether it's a mere dissolution or a transformative experience, which aspects of the self are most affected, and why it can be a profound opportunity for personal growth and self-realization…..and so much more… Find the Dream We Analyze here: https://thisjungianlife.com/DIVORCE/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 34m

Jan 11

How can combining psychedelics and Jungian psychology enhance our understanding of psyche? Psychedelics may help us access deep layers of the unconscious, revealing aspects of psyche that are often inaccessible through traditional psychoanalytic methods alone. Jungian analysis, with its focus on archetypes and the collective unconscious, provides a framework for interpreting and integrating the complex, symbolic experiences often encountered in psychedelic states. The combination of psychedelics and analysis could facilitate a more profound and holistic healing process, addressing not only individual psychological issues but also connecting with broader, universal aspects of human experience. This integrated approach could accelerate the therapeutic process, allowing for quicker breakthroughs and more profound insights than can be achieved through either method independently. FIND THE BOOKS WE SUGGEST IN THIS EPISODE HERE: https://bookshop.org/lists/a-jungian-approach-to-psychedelics  Prepare to discover which of the TJL hosts tripped their balls off in their twenties, whether psychedelics can guarantee illumination, when we should be cautious about ayahuasca, why psychedelics may facilitate psychological change, what kind of attitude we should cultivate when approaching psilocybin, how to interpret hallucinations brought on by plant medicine, who should avoid cannabis, where miraculous claims are exaggerated and so much more… FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/psychedelics/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 36m

Jan 04

Jung's concept of the collective unconscious emphasized the universal psychological substrate common to all humans. While he acknowledged the effects of the cultural unconscious, his work, at times, fell into the trap of perpetuating oversimplified and racially prejudiced stereotypes. Jung's writings that refer to Africanist peoples, in particular, suffer from offensive assumptions. Dr. Fanny Brewster, Jungian analyst and author, searches for the healing cultural elements in the dreams of the African diaspora. Dreams have always been important in traditional African cultures. In Zimbabwe, the traditional healer, or sangoma, is called to the work by a dream that features a snake. For the Xhosa, dreams were how the ancestors communicated their wisdom. Today, most of us are cut off from our ancestors, but they remain a potential source of strength and healing. Dr. Brewster has undertaken the work of renewing and widening Jungian thought to include Africanist perspectives. She addresses the importance of community as we go about the necessary work of evolving consciousness. FANNY BREWSTER, PH.D., M.F.A. is a Jungian analyst, Professor of Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute, and member analyst with the Philadelphia Association of Jungian Analysts. She is a multi-genre writer who has written about issues at the intersection of Jungian psychology and American culture. Her most recent book is The Racial Complex: A Jungian Perspective on Culture and Race. (Routledge, 2019). LEARN MORE ABOUT FANNY BREWSTER, PH.D. HERE: https://fannybrewster.allyou.net/5026448  CHECK OUT HER BOOKS HERE: https://bookshop.org/lists/fanny-brewster-dreams-the-ancestors-and-community  TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Please support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 17m

Dec 28, 2023

Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, calls us to brood and turn within. Retreating to the unconscious is a psychic wintering, calling our life force down into our archaic patterns. It can trigger a sorrowing that helps us adjust to inevitable losses, just like the forest that silently drops its foliage without lament. At the nadir of darkness, light is reborn, and each successive day grows longer. Ancient and modern rituals celebrate the light’s triumph over darkness. No matter our background, attunement to light is woven into our bodies, for we are all part of the cosmic progression. Prepare to discover who interacts with the winter solstice, from ancient to modern cultures, how solstice triggers introspection and transformative mourning, what cultural and psychological themes it embodies, whether solstice is a profound inner experience or merely an astronomical event, which aspects of culture and psychology are connected to the solstice, why winter solstice has such historical reverence, and so much more… Find the Dream We Analyze Here: https://thisjungianlife.com/solstice/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 15m

Dec 21, 2023

Yascha Mounk is a political scientist and author focused on the challenges facing liberal democracies and the rise of populism. As a Johns Hopkins University professor and senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, he critically examines identity politics in modern society. His influential works include "The People vs. Democracy" and "The Identity Trap." In an era where identity politics reshapes global narratives, the urgent need to balance diversity with universal human values becomes clear. The melding of postmodernism, postcolonialism, and critical race theory raises a provocative question: Can embracing universal principles truly bridge our deepening societal divides? This challenge calls for a bold reimagining of our approach to social harmony and equality, urging a critical reassessment of how we navigate identity and inclusivity in a complex, interconnected world. Prepare to discover who is masterminding the seismic shifts in identity-driven discourse, when the wave of identity politics surged reshaping societal norms, how esoteric academic concepts ignited a wildfire in sectarian ideology, what the contentious core and fiery critiques of this identity-centric dogma are, where the shockwaves of these philosophical upheavals are most profound,  whether the rise of ethno-cultural politicking is a unifying force or a divisive storm, which intellectual giants and paradigms are the architects of these doctrines, why an intense focus on identity might unravel the fabric of collective values and societal harmony and so much more… Find the Dream We Analyze Here: https://thisjungianlife.com/yascha_mounk/  LEARN MORE ABOUT YASCHA HERE: https://www.yaschamounk.com/ https://www.yaschamounk.com/  TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 16m

Dec 14, 2023

The great catastrophe of Jung's generation was the rise of Nazi Germany and WWII. His insights into the collective psyche of nations remain relevant today as we grapple with war and violence worldwide. Prepare to discover how collective hysteria and moral downfall lead to loss of individual responsibility and susceptibility to authoritarian control, whether collective guilt and the psychological impact of evil affects not just perpetrators but entire societies leading to collective moral crisis, when national fixations on power and technological prowess compensate for deep-seated inferiority, why lack of introspection leads to catastrophic consequences, the value of internal reckoning and moral awakening, which societal reforms are futile without individual psychological transformation and so much more… FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/catastrophe/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 29m

Dec 07, 2023

"The monsters that chase you in dreams are not trying to hurt you. They just want to reunite with their creator………...… that's you, dummy."   (Quoted from an unnamed Jungian analyst overheard at a cocktail party.)   Today, we analyze four nightmares submitted by listeners: BBQ Cats, Blood Red Sky, Tsunami, and Malevolent Presence.   Our dreams are always trying to correct our waking personality. They are a kind of psychospiritual medicine tailored just for us. When we avoid healing advice from the dream maker, pressure builds in our unconscious. Gentle suggestions become urgent pleas, which over time become fierce demands that insist on recognition. Once we recognize we are running away from essential insights, we can turn around and embrace them.   Prepare to discover who is causing our nightmares, whether nightmares simply replay traumatic events or help us process unresolved emotions, what sets post-traumatic nightmares apart, when to seek help to address chronic nightmares, which techniques are effective in resolving them, why they occur more frequently in certain individuals, where the nightmare is set reveals essential information and so much more…   FIND THE FOUR NIGHTMARES WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/nightmares/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/    Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/    Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 15m

Nov 30, 2023

What wisdom do fairy tales hold about childrearing in our modern world?   Briar Rose is the foundation for the familiar fairytale Sleeping Beauty. It addresses the complicated consequences of unconscious parenting. While it is understandable we wish to protect our children from harsh realities, too much shielding can hobble them later in life. We may hide our shadow from ourselves and our children, but it will irrupt uninvited one day, casting the family into chaos. Instinctive reactions often hold us in suspended animation, but they may also offer a way toward healing.   Prepare to discover where fairytales intersect with modern parenting, what impact avoiding shadow has on the family, whether parental fears affect child development, why understanding psychological stagnation is essential, how symbolic stories help children face challenges, and so much more…    FIND THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/briar_rose/   TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife  Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/  Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/ 

1h 20m

Nov 23, 2023

What hidden messages make Disney cartoons so impactful and enduring? Disney cartoons were groundbreaking. They introduced synchronized soundtracks in 1928, and today, they create extravaganzas that sweep audiences into tears and laughter, offering role models of virtue. Archetypal themes, often drawn from fairytales, thrum through the storylines appealing to the archaic levels of our psyche. Prepare to discover where Hermes is hidden in one of the characters, how childhood trauma activates archetypal helpers, whether Dumbo is a symbol of hope or a defense against maturation, how separation of the mother is required to actualize one's potential, why symbols are necessary to bolster ego strength and so much more… FIND A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZE HERE: https://thisjungianlife.com/dumbo-2/ Hey everyone, our upcoming episode will focus on Nightmares, and we're looking for your input. IF YOU'VE HAD A NIGHTMARE THAT SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTED YOU, WE'RE INTERESTED IN HEARING ABOUT IT. We'll select a few of these to analyze and discuss in the episode. SHARE YOUR NIGHTMARE WITH US HERE: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfDE8UKFJfpVM-CIUKP4ObfyztH6GnzOxfPLOb4NjwZZArJcw/viewform TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to Interpret Dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/  Support Us On Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share Your Dream With Us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest A Podcast Topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/  Get Some TJL Merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s64kO4GHHD8 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 23m

Nov 16, 2023

AARON BALICK is a psychotherapist, speaker, consultant, educator, and author of Social media invites snap emotional reactions, muddling clear thinking and escalating global tensions. It feeds on our anger, oversimplifying complex problems which blocks our ability to empathize. Nuanced explanations are demonized as if seeking to understand was an affront. If we learn to pause and reflect, we can overcome social media's divisive influence and discover middle-ground solutions in both personal and world affairs. Prepare to discover where emotional reactivity has been weaponized in social media, what geopolitical consequences are still felt from impulsive reactions, how to distinguish between a reactive and responsive attitude, whether expressing an understanding of complex issues will get you cancelled, why platforms simplify and sensationalize issues and so much more… HERE'S A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZE: https://thisjungianlife.com/aaron_baylick/ CONNECT WITH AARON BAYLICK: Twitter and Instagram:  @DrAaronB Aaron's Website: https://www.aaronbalick.com/ Aaron's Books: https://www.aaronbalick.com/books Psychoanalytic reflections on Google, social networking, and ‘virtual impingement’: https://www.aaronbalick.com/_files/ugd/1259db_01c6c18517364bbfa1947db34847ff58.pdf Social Media, Identity, and Careful Culture: https://www.aaronbalick.com/_files/ugd/1259db_6341c94972f34694b39722901c5534cd.pdf On The Failure to Understand: The Psychology of Weaponised Reactivity: https://www.aaronbalick.com/post/on-the-failure-to-understand-the-psychology-of-weaponised-reactivity TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to Interpret Dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support Us On Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share Your Dream With Us (we might use it on a podcast): https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest A Podcast Topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics /  Get Some TJL Merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s64kO4GHHD8 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

2h 7m

Nov 09, 2023

Today's technology allows us to be seduced by the possibility of fame and celebrity tempting the ego to claim what does not belong to it.  In earlier times, fame was garnered slowly through work in the arts, scholarship, religion, and the military. Today, unprecedented, almost instantaneous communication has made fame a commodity in itself. Novelty performers, entertainers, influencers, and sports stars—especially if young and glamorous—can become the victim of "audience capture."  Fame tempts the ego to claim what does not belong to it, and the person may become identified with his or her role, especially as others have an urge to find a hero, wise man, leader, or transcendent figure. Jung wrote about the mana personality—a larger-than-life person with charismatic power and energy. Magicians and priests, infused with special knowledge and god-like capabilities, are emblematic of mana personalities. Followers are then imbued with the mana person's special qualities, as we see in audience reactions at concerts or rallies.                                                                                              Fame also has costs. As the British royal family knows, the celebrity press is relentless. Criticism abounds, and those in the spotlight receive threatening calls and letters, lack privacy, and may have to contend with stalkers or insistent fans. Celebrities are almost four times as prone to suicide as others; others have died early: Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Judy Garland, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, John Belushi, and River Phoenix. When a star is accused of wrongdoing, fans can be quick to turn, delighting as much in their idol's destruction as in success. Celebrities are the sacrificial victims of our projections, from veneration to evisceration.  Jung says, "We stand with our soul suspended between formidable influences from within and without, and somehow we must be fair to both. This we can only do after the measure of our individual capacities. Hence, we must bethink ourselves not so much of what we 'ought' to do as of what we can and must do." To live meaningfully in the world and achieve a sense of kinship with men, gods, and beasts is the work of a lifetime.  HERE'S A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZE: https://thisjungianlife.com/fame/  TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to Interpret Dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/  Support Us On Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share Your Dream With Us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest A Podcast Topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/  Get Some TJL Merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products  TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 13m

Nov 02, 2023

If we lean into strange experiences with gentle curiosity, we may discover a level of psyche that acts directly on objects. Many of us have uncanny coincidences like thinking of a friend at the exact moment they ring us on the phone, but what about physical things breaking apart for no reason or luminous apparitions at our bedside? We often explain them away to reduce our anxiety, but Jung found them fascinating. He maintained a scientific attitude while accepting strange phenomena he could not explain. Eventually, he created a psychology of radical acceptance that creates space for the unexpected, including each person's unique soul. Prepare to discover where Jung’s interest in the paranormal came from, what strange psychic events changed his relationship with Freud, how Jung used a séance to complete his university degree, which strange spiritual experiences changed Lisa and Joe’s beliefs, whether the collective unconscious plays a part in extra-sensory abilities and even more… HERE ARE THE FULL SHOW NOTES AND A COPY OF THE DREAM: https://thisjungianlife.com/paranormal/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/  Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/  Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 18m

Oct 26, 2023

Lisa, Deb, and Joe, Jungian analysts and co-creators of This Jungian Life podcast, have introduced thousands of clients to an inner world with unexpected resources.  Many people just can’t rally to do what’s necessary and improve their lives. Is it possible they just don’t carry much vitality, or is some inner conflict blocking their access? We share personal stories of ‘energy loss’ and offer insights into purposelessness. Jung tells us inner energy flows according to its own laws, but if we can’t harness it?  Prepare to discover why some people are naturally low-energy, which aspects of your psyche might be leaking energy, how over-aligning with cultural norms can cut off access to instinctive vitality, where we can look for solutions, and much more…  HERE’S A COPY OF THE DREAM WE ANALYZE: https://thisjungianlife.com/low-energy/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to Interpret Dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/  Support Us On Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share Your Dream With Us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest A Podcast Topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/  Get Some TJL Merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 40m

Oct 19, 2023

Deb and Joe are Jungian Analysts, authors, training analysts, and co-creators of This Jungian Life Podcast. [Lisa was away lecturing this week.] Most of us feel anxious at the thought of reliving the complicated and often painful experiences of our youth. When we receive a school reunion notice, we might be tempted to ignore it. Yet, on an archetypal level, we are drawn to re-unifying our current and past identities. If we accept the invitation, we may find unexpected joy and forgotten memories that restore something inside us. Prepare to discover why we plan and attend reunions, whether healing comes from reexperiencing our younger self, how Deb and Joe were affected by attending their reunions, whether it's worth the effort to reconnect with school friends, what's the best attitude to bring to a reunion, and even more… HERE ARE THE FULL SHOW NOTES AND A COPY OF THE DREAM: https://thisjungianlife.com/reunions/ TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/  Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/  Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products Meet Lisa: https://www.jungcentralohio.org/event/the-power-of-dreamwork-friday-night-lecture-and-saturday-workshop-presented-by-lisa-marchiano/ TALK TO US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 25m

Oct 12, 2023

Don Kalsched is a Jungian Analyst, an expert on treating trauma, author of two books, The Inner World of Trauma and Trauma and the Soul. Jung discovered our inner world is populated by various imaginal figures representing powerful psychological forces. If we treat our minds as democratic spaces, it can safeguard us from internal and external authoritarian influences. Prepare to discover the parallels between a balanced mind and a healthy society, whether viewing internal conflicts through a democratic lens is healing, which insights foster harmony, why democratic philosophy is transformative, how to build resilience against absolutism and extremism, how trauma and power-seeking are related, and even more… TRY NEW STUFF: Learn to interpret dreams: https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/   Support us on Patreon (keep us free of corporate influence): https://www.patreon.com/ThisJungianLife Share your dream with us: https://thisjungianlife.com/share-your-dream/ Suggest a podcast topic: https://thisjungianlife.com/podcast-form-topics/   Get some TJL merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/thisjungianlife/products Meet Lisa: https://www.jungcentralohio.org/event/the-power-of-dreamwork-friday-night-lecture-and-saturday-workshop-presented-by-lisa-marchiano/ Learn more about Don Kalsched: https://www.donaldkalsched.com/  TALK TO US: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisjungianlifepodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q8IG87DsnQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisJungianLife/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/

1h 29m

Oct 05, 2023

Defense mechanisms function as unconscious psychological strategies we deploy to navigate reality and sustain a consistent self-image. They act as a shield, guarding against feelings of anxiety, shame, and vulnerability. They are feeling states that prompt us to avoid contact and trick us into thinking they protect us against emotional harm. Ancient philosophers recognized the human tendency to evade uncomfortable truths. In Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, he vividly depicts individuals shackled in a cave, seeing only shadows and illusions. Upon being freed and confronted with the light (truth), some retreat to the familiar darkness, unable to bear the illumination of reality. Aristotle wrote about akrasia, which meant a weakness of will that drives one to act against their better judgment, in essence, rejecting reality as unbearable. The stoic philosopher Epictetus noted that people have fantasies of controlling external events and directing them inward to choose how they respond instead. Defenses are affective states that can interfere with our clear, reality-based functioning. They may be complex reactions that muddy our perception of reality, effectively shielding us from feelings or knowledge we find intolerable. They can take the form of denial, regression, rationalization, and even altruism. These are not merely intellectual barriers; they are emotional walls that can keep us from connecting with our own experiences and the people around us. The most common inner conflicts arise from thwarting our instincts. These foundational systems generate intense feelings to guide us. Jung identified multiple instincts: creativity, reflection, activity, sexuality, and hunger. He added the religious instinct to describe how humans naturally generate symbolic systems to link their waking state to the deep unconscious. Freud detailed the multiple symptoms that arise from repressed sexuality, from phobias to hysterical blindness. Jung agreed but understood that thwarting any one of our natural responses would rob us of vitality and distort our adaptation to reality. Cultural expectations, individual trauma, religious demands, and family patterns can convince our waking personality that any one of our instincts is dangerous. When we are overwhelmed by these inner conflicts, we will likely deploy primal defenses like dissociation or acting out. If we can find a more adaptive stance, we will likely intellectualize the conflict or even find it humorous. The goal is not to banish all defenses; we need to manage our exposure to the intensity of life but to discover self-management strategies that allow us to remain effective even under stress. A COPY OF THE DREAM IS HERE MEET LISA IN COLUMBUS OHIO ON OCTOBER 13 & 14, 2023: The Power of Dreamwork – Friday Night Lecture (October 13 from 7 to 8:30 PM) and Saturday Workshop (October 14 from 9:30 AM to Noon): CLICK HERE. UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF YOUR DREAMS: Dream School provides a gently paced program with live interactive webinars, an uplifting online community, thought-provoking audio modules, and guided journaling to deepen your experience. Lisa, Deb, and Joe crafted the program with you in mind and companion you through the process. “Step-by-step, we’ll teach you how to interpret your dreams.” Join the revolution of consciousness! Join Dream School and Transform Your Sleep into the Greatest Adventure of Your Life: CLICK HERE https://thisjungianlife.com/join-dream-school/ PLEASE GIVE US A HAND:  Hey folks -- We need your help. Please BECOME OUR PATRON and keep This Jungian Life podcast up and running!! YES, WE HAVE MERCH: Shop HERE SHARE YOUR DREAM WITH US:  SUBMIT YOUR DREAM HERE FOR A POSSIBLE PODCAST INTERPRETATION. SUGGEST A FUTURE PODCAST TOPIC:  HERE.

1h 38m

Sep 28, 2023

The Selkie swims ashore at night, sheds her seal skin, hides it, and delights in her human form. In Celtic lore, she is the wild feminine soul, a creature of land and sea, innocent and beautiful, who cannot thrive in domesticity. In folklore, the seal-folk are discovered by humans. Their natural, joyous spirit, grace, and affection invite contact. Humans are drawn to them, but if they touch, parting is unbearable. Many a young man, desperate to maintain the life-giving embrace of nature, steals a Selkie’s seal skin, locking her into a human form. Helpless, she is led into domesticity and motherhood. Isolated from the sea, in a role alien to her nature, the Selkie diminishes until her seal-skin is reclaimed. Called home to the sea, she leaves all behind and is restored to her authentic being. Theft of a Selkie’s skin is a kind of archetypal initiation we all may face. Our naive spirits are all too often robbed or captured through lack of foresight. We lose touch with our wild spirit as we accept our assigned social roles, accommodate marital expectations, and forget what we once loved. Drained and disaffected, midlife may cast us into our inner wilderness to renew and restore our original being. We lose our connection to life-giving instincts slowly. Attending the family alma mater, selecting a sensible career, and sacrificing our wildness to corporate culture can leave our souls withered. Deprived of the water of life, we may abandon everything once we find our true skin and smell the brine carried on the east wind.  In the ancient stories, seal-folk were male and female, and either might find themselves trapped through naïve curiosity. For young men and women, innocence is unrewarded in the adult world and often leads us into harsh agreements that force us to abandon our intuition and accept domestication. We turn from our inner world and stare only at the culture. Deep desire is replaced by snacking on what has been advertised. Our uncouth delight is curated into meticulous etiquette.  When we neglect our animal side, the unconscious howls at us. Injured animals surface in our dreams, along with roaring vague creatures that chase us and savage impulses prompting us to bite and claw. If we linger too long in alien domesticity, emptiness, exhaustion, and neglect may drive us to chew our way out of our current situation. But actions of last resort might be avoided by learning to listen to the wild one within. Carving out time in nature, setting unyielding boundaries, and questioning societal expectations are vital to protecting our true nature. If we are sons and daughters of the open water, we need time off, solitude, and uninterrupted periods of self-reflection. Art, music, and poetry can call forward our animal nature, granting us deep relief. Listen to your seal-song and answer it.                                         A COPY OF THE DREAM IS HERE! MEET LISA IN COLUMBUS OHIO ON OCTOBER 13 & 14, 2023: The Power of Dreamwork – Friday Night Lecture (October 13 from 7 to 8:30 PM) and Saturday Workshop (October 14 from 9:30 AM to Noon): CLICK HERE.  UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF YOUR DREAMS: Dream School provides a gently paced program with live interactive webinars, an uplifting online community, thought-provoking audio modules, and guided journaling to deepen your experience. Lisa, Deb, and Joe crafted the program with you in mind and companion you through the process. “Step-by-step, we’ll teach you how to interpret your dreams.” Join the revolution of consciousness! Join Dream School and Transform Your Sleep into the Greatest Adventure of Your Life: CLICK HERE PLEASE GIVE US A HAND:  Hey folks -- We need your help. Please BECOME OUR PATRON and keep This Jungian Life podcast up and running!! YES, WE HAVE MERCH: Shop HERE SHARE YOUR DREAM WITH US:  SUBMIT YOUR DREAM HERE FOR A POSSIBLE PODCAST INTERPRETATION. SUGGEST A FUTURE PODCAST TOPIC:  HERE.

1h 21m

Sep 21, 2023

The archetype of Initiation is primordial, and its force guides our transformative transitions. For Jung, this change reshapes spiritual, emotional, intellectual, behavioral, and social dynamics. Rooted in his anthropological studies, Jung emphasized the vital role of formal ceremonies in fostering separation from parental influences and facilitating integration into adult communities. These ceremonies marked a clear transition from childhood and established an essential connection with the adult community, promoting the collaborative culture by containing unconscious forces. Derived from the Latin "initium," Initiation carries the power of new beginnings, urging us towards greater consciousness and understanding. This journey transcends personal experience, reverberating universally through significant life milestones that act as gateways to realms of human experience, driven by archetypal activations inherent to all. Initiation contains three universal elements: separation, liminal space, and reintegration. This process is approached through a structured and ritualistic path in modern Mystery Schools. It begins with transitioning from our outer lives, then identifying what is alien to our true nature, followed by a dedication to a greater vision. Once ushered into a sacred space, we are helped to recognize the price of being unconscious. When our character flaws are personified and confronted, a Hierophantic figure reveals sacred objects, symbols, and teaching. These, along with various practices, seek to activate the archetype of transformation. Embraced into a community dedicated to mutual growth, Initiates re-enter their daily lives, tasked to integrate a more expansive attitude of themselves and life. The loss of most formal initiations in modern culture leaves these archetypal forces with no aesthetic process to affect the individual. Expressed unconsciously, they emerge as fraternity hazing or surviving a violent gauntlet to gain gang membership. Various mythopoetic movements have attempted to restore initiations for sons and daughters, bar mitzvahs carry ancient themes into contemporary life, and Freemasons strive to maintain ceremonies that make good men better. The archetype of Initiation is still alive and potent, perhaps struggling to find modern idioms and values to carry its transformative power forward. HERE’S THE DREAM WE ANALYZE:    RESOURCES:  Philadelphia Association of Jungian Analysts, ADVANCED CLINICAL PRACTICE PROGRAM: A case seminar for experienced clinicians to read, explore, and apply Jung’s concepts to clinical practice: CLICK HERE  ARE YOU INTERESTED IN A SERIOUS STUDY OF JUNG? Enroll in the Philadelphia Jungian Seminar 2023 Fall Semester and start your journey: CLICK HERE.  BECOME A DREAM INTERPRETER: We’ve created DREAM SCHOOL https://thisjungianlife.com/enroll/ to teach others how to work with their dreams. A vibrant community has constellated around this mission, and we think you’ll love it. Check it out.  PLEASE GIVE US A HAND: Hey folks -- We need your help. So please BECOME OUR PATRON and keep This Jungian Life podcast up and running.  SHARE YOUR DREAM WITH US: SUBMIT YOUR DREAM HERE FOR A POSSIBLE PODCAST INTERPRETATION. SUGGEST A FUTURE PODCAST TOPIC:  Share your suggestions: HERE.  FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisjungianlife/, TWITTER https://twitter.com/ThisJungianLife, YOUTUBE  YES, WE HAVE MERCH! Shop HERE

1h 15m

Sep 14, 2023