The Dark Things That Make Us Real:
Word, Image and Experiencein Egyptian Alchemy
Presented by
Thom F. Cavalli, Ph.D.
Friday, May 5th, 2006, 8:00 pm ~ 10:00 pm
Saturday, May 6th, 2006, 10:00 am ~ 4:00 pm
Sunday, May 7th, 2006, 2:00 pm ~ 4:00 pm
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Friday, May 5th, 2006, 8:00pm~10:00pm
Jungians recognize that there are many treasures hidden deep within the unconscious. Access to this underworld requires initiation that is often unavailable or painful. In this lecture and workshop we will use the rites of alchemy from ancient Egypt to enter this dark realm. We will become reacquainted with the fantastic images, means and magic of the alchemical myth to deepen and facilitate our personal individuation work. Our purpose is to gather the raw materials that are the prima materia of a Real Self, and prepare for the experiential workshop on Saturday.
SATURDAY WORKSHOP
Saturday, May 6th, 2006, 10:00am~4:00pm
In this workshop, we will be safely guided on a descent into the unconscious. In the morning, through active imagination, we will explore an alchemical laboratory accompanied by music specially chosen to take us “into the deep”, with the intention of retrieving—out of the darkness—the prima materia for healing and new growth.
In the afternoon, we will begin with a deep breathing exercise and an initiation recitation, followed by a carefully guided “wrapping” modeled after the mummification rites of ancient Egypt. This will not exceed thirty minutes and one can stop at any time. After this “dying before death” we will close with a healing ritual.
Those who wish to participate in this powerful process are asked to bring a bed sheet and optionally, eyeshades or bandana. The room is carpeted, but you may wish to bring a mat or towel.
SUNDAY MUSEUM TOUR
Word, Image and Experience in Egyptian Alchemy
Presented by
Thom F. Cavalli, Ph.D.
Sunday, May 7th, 2006, 2:00pm~4:00pm
We have a natural resistance to things that are dark and mysterious, and yet, they too contribute to our individuation process. On Friday, we began our journey by identifying some of these dark places and showed how they are the prima materia of the Real Self.
Our journey continued on Saturday with exercises in active and passive imagination and an experience of “death and rebirth.”
Today we will tour the current exhibition at the Bowers Museum,Mummies, Death and the Afterlife in Ancient Egypt. You will be given a two-hour tour of the mummies and artifacts of ancient Egypt. Lunch together at the museum’s restaurant preceding the tour is optional. Space is limited to eight participants. Pre-registration is essential.
Thom F. Cavalli, Ph.D.is an international writer, artist, teacher and psychologist in private practice. He is author ofAlchemical Psychology: Old Recipes for Living in a New World. He is currently working on a new book,The Dark Things That Make Us Real.