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MSc course module

Spirituality and the Imaginal

Overview

This course explores the imaginal as an evolving phenomenon that has shaped the human spiritual experience: from Paleolithic cave art, altered states, and mythic rituals to the intersection of modern esoteric and spiritual movements, the creative arts and healing arts.

  • What is the imaginal and how does the imaginal capacity of the psyche evolve human culture and consciousness through creative and spiritual expression?
  • What is the function of the imaginal in shaping the nature of myths and rituals, esoteric and spiritual movements as well as spiritual works of art?
  • How can we utilise the imaginal and archetypal contents of our dreams, meditations, artworks, and altered states in psycho-spiritual processes of individuation and Self-integration?
  • How can I access my unique imaginal inner-space and discover how to work with the archetypes that propel my personal hero's/heroine's journey, Self-realisation or vocation?
  • What are the emerging features of the imaginal in 21st century approaches to spirituality, feminism and gender, ecology, space exploration and advanced technologies?

Synopsis

In this course, we explore the Imaginal through Jung’s Red Book and the practice of Active Imagination in the procedures of individuation and Self-integration. James Hillman’s Imaginal Method is complemented by Marion Woodman’s feminist psychology and other methodologies inspired by women’s spirituality and shamanism. 

Jungians distinguish transpersonal experiences from imaginary fantasies or psychopathology by addressing this domain as imaginal. We study imaginal contents such as cave art, symbols, mythic rituals and archetypal patterns of transformation and wholeness. We also examine the imaginal as a spiritual creative expression in the arts, and discuss technoetic applications of advanced technologies as they intersect with esoteric and spiritual movements.

We will practically explore the imaginal realm in our online Imaginal Laboratory, offering methodologies and experiential tools through which to access and analyse imaginal experiences, and look at how embodied imaginal practice may prompt synchronicities and assist in the integration of the inner (spiritual) and external (physical) reality.  

Accordion Content
  1. Imaginal meditations: accessing the inner Imaginal realm. 
  2. Imaginal journaling and dialogues.
  3. Embodying the imaginal and exploring the metaphoric body through light movement, ritual, myth, image-making, sound, and text. 
  4. Active Imagination exercises based on Jung’s Red Book.
  5. Exploring film as an imaginal space: Imaginal and active imagination practice with films utilising a Jungian methodology.

Option tutor

Lila Moore

Lila Moore, PhD

Lila Moore, PhD is a lecturer, theorist, film-maker, and mixed reality artist with expertise in the fields of Screen-Dance and Technoetic Arts.

Enquire now for February 2024

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