Archetypes – Balancing the Complexity Within
Written by: Liz Sparkes, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
The inner critic is a common example of an internal archetype that plays out throughout our lives. Seemingly challenging and rather unhelpful at times, the inner critic is considered something to overcome. However, what if I told you that tapping into certain archetypal parts within could be the key to your inner peace.
Many scholars have worked with archetypes to encourage healing and harmony within. Jung is possibly the most influential. He mapped out the inner psyche and described the collective unconscious and how it plays out within our internal landscape. More recently, Caroline Myss lists eighty archetypes, including The Alchemist, Wounded Child, Goddess, Healer, Detective, Messiah, Prince, Samaritan, Teacher etc. By acknowledging those who are particularly active for us allows a greater awareness of where balance and integration are needed.
As we become more aware of the archetypes that take the stage within us, we can begin to work with the habitual destructive patterns and even hone the archetypes' expertise that support our path. The Alchemist can be pretty handy when going through personal transformation! Becoming a friend to your inner critic and cultivating a loving embrace with that fierce protective part often softens and soothes the hypervigilance. It’s a change that can be quite life-changing for some people. This ‘inner guard’ can be responsible for our internal cyclical struggles and lack of potentially successful risk-taking. Bring in the strong, grounded, loving archetype within, and a balancing of energy begins.
Often working with archetypes' concept supports individuals to discover where there is a sense of lack or an extreme trait playing out. There can then be a careful balancing act to allow healing and progression in areas where they previously felt stuck. However, the most valuable backdrop for cultivating our awareness during an exploration of the archetypes is compassion. Tuning the mind and body into a state of peacefulness encourages long-lasting transformation and the path of least resistance.
Liz Sparkes, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Liz Sparkes is a health psychologist, intuitive coach and meditation and reiki practitioner. After completing a PhD in Pain Psychology and training to facilitate meditation and mindfulness, Liz dedicated herself to helping others feel more empowered and fulfilled. Liz has developed academic and private transformational courses for heart-based living, meditation and compassion, awareness and moon living. Liz works with groups and individuals in workplaces, health settings, charitable organizations and holistic retreats. Liz utilizes a mixture of psychological and ancient spiritual methods for healing and to support living life from the perspective of the heart, gaining greater insight and intuitive trust.
