Jung (2009) developed a technique to “get to the bottom of [his] inner processes…to translate the emotions into images…and grasp the fantasies which were stirring…” Today we will go on a similar journey using the same mandala shape used in yesterday’s creative exercise and translate those words into the language of the unconscious — an imaginal reflection.
There are numerous ways to interpret words into images. The first is using a literal sketch, as if you were illustrating the scene or feeling of the words. The second is via symbols, which make it easier if you are not comfortable illustrating: sometimes symbols hold a deeper sense of the word for us. The third would be to collage. You can also use a combination of sketching, symbol, and collage to find depth in your translation. Honestly it’s best to use what you’re most comfortable with, so that you are not involved too much in the making, but more in the translating.
In my own illustration I am using literal sketch coupled with symbols, I have also used the colors as a symbolic representation of my own sankalpa. It doesn’t have to be obvious to anyone but your inner self. This process is a discovery of what may be hidden or disguised within. If you do have an insight during the process, it’s helpful to take notes to remember later or add to your sankalpa.
I highly recommend that you do not use words in this mandala, so that there is a completely different feel to this process.
This exercise may be a stretch for you: remember it’s about the process not the end product!
Mandala Image
- Print out or draw a mandala with 5 rings.
- Then, illustrate in sketch, symbol, collage or combination of these the following:
- Circle 1 — Your sankalpa
- Circle 2 — The resistance you are currently feeling around this sankalpa
- Circle 3 — The miracle angle in response to the resistance
- Circle 4 — The actions you can take towards this sankalpa
- Circle 5 — The reward. Thisimage may go beyond the actual sankalpa if you are using the sankalpa to get you to a specific point, which together adds to a bigger goal.
Stretch your creative force,
Chanti
* References:
The Red Book by Carl G. Jung