The Self-Activating Nature of Jungian Sandplay Therapy
Sep 19, 2024"An emotional disturbance can be dealt with by giving it visible shape" - Carl Jung
In our journey toward healing and self-discovery, Jungian Sandplay Therapy offers a profound and Self-activating experience that resonates deeply with the natural world. At the heart of this therapeutic approach lies sand, an ancient and timeless element that serves as a bridge between earth and water. As we engage with sand, we enter a realm that is not only fluid and malleable but also calming and grounding.
Sand has the remarkable ability to absorb and hold our processes, reflecting the nurturing qualities of Mother Earth. When we walk on or move through sand, we feel a sense of peace and connection that helps regulate our nervous system. This interaction invites us to release tension and reconnect with our bodies, fostering a safe space for exploration and expression.
In Sandplay, we transcend ordinary time and space, stepping into a sacred environment where our inner landscapes can unfold. Here, the symbols we create within the sand and place into the tray serve as a bridge between the conscious and unconscious elements of our psyche. Each figure and shape reflects aspects of our experiences, emotions and desires, illuminating hidden parts of ourselves that yearn for recognition.
This process of engaging with symbols is integral to individuation, which can be simply defined as the journey toward becoming our true, authentic selves. As we explore these symbols, we activate the Self—our innermost essence—which guides us toward greater self-awareness and integration. This activation fosters a deeper understanding of who we are and propels us along the path of individuation.
By immersing ourselves in the tactile experience of sand, we honour our connection to nature and the wisdom it imparts. In this sacred space, we not only discover our stories but also reclaim our authenticity, nurturing our growth and transformation. As we work with sand and symbols within the free and protected space of the sandtray in Jungian Sandplay Therapy, we embark on a journey that is both intimate and expansive, guided by the timeless elements of nature. I invite you to embrace this self-activating process and find solace, healing and empowerment within the sands of our stories, through Jungian Sandplay Therapy.
In sovereignty & sisterhood,