Depth Psychology and Astrology

Depth Psychology and Astrology

Astrology and Jungian depth psychology have much in common, and astrology can be seen as a "Rosetta Stone" for unlocking the psyche. Carl Jung, the founder of analytical psychology, believed that the unconscious mind was comprised of archetypes, universal symbols and images that are expressed in mythology, religion, and cultural traditions. Jung believed that these archetypes were expressed in astrology as planetary symbols and that astrology could be used as a tool for accessing the unconscious mind.

In astrology, each planet is associated with specific archetypal energies, and these energies can be used to explore the unconscious mind. For example, the planet Saturn is associated with authority, structure, and responsibility, and individuals with strong Saturn influences in their chart may have a tendency to be overly self-disciplined and rigid in their behavior. Understanding the planetary influences in one's chart can help individuals to better understand their unconscious motivations and tendencies.

Jung believed that the unconscious mind was the source of much of our psychological pain, and that the goal of therapy was to bring unconscious material to the conscious mind where it could be examined and integrated. Similarly, astrology can be used to bring unconscious material to the surface, allowing individuals to explore and integrate their unconscious patterns and tendencies.

Astrology can help individuals understand the cyclical nature of life and the universe. Jung believed that the unconscious mind was connected to a greater collective unconscious, and that all human experiences were part of a larger cycle of life. In astrology, the movement of the planets can be seen as a reflection of this larger cycle, and individuals can use astrology to understand their place in the larger cosmic tapestry.

Astrology can also be used to explore the shadow aspects of the psyche, or the unconscious parts of the self that are often neglected or repressed. By examining the planetary influences in one's chart, individuals can gain a better understanding of the parts of themselves that they have rejected or ignored, and can work towards integrating these parts into their conscious awareness.