The Unconscious

The Unconscious - What is it? How do I discern it? How do I get into contact with it? How does it affect me? 

The unconscious describes mental contents which are inaccessible to the ego and to detemine the boundaries of a space in the human psyche with its own character, laws and functions. Reflection upon the unconscious can tell us why some parts of it become conscious and some parts do not. 

Jung's tentative conclusion was that (a) a quantum of energy alters and (b) the strength of the ego determines what may pass over into consciousness. The crucial factor is the ego's ability to maintain dialogue and interact with possibilities revealed in the passage of unconscious contents into consciousnessness. Over time, such contents may be seen as enhancing personality development in a unique and individual way (Samuels et al. A Critical Dictionary of Jungian Analysis).  

We'll look at the unconscious, its dynamics and impact on the individual, and their personal and work life. I'll describe my encounter with the unconscious in India where I realised that I wanted to train as a Jungian Analyst. We will also look at the experience of the late Marion Woodman, Jungian Analyst, who also encountered the unconscious in India documented in Dancing in the Flames.