Unlock the mystery of visitation dreams and connect with loved ones beyond the veil. Explore powerful rituals, dream incubation techniques, and ancient traditions tied to Samhain to prepare your mind for profound messages from the departed.
3 things you should know about a Visitation Dream Read More »
“Myths are about the human struggle to deal with the great passages of time and life – birth, death, marriage, the transitions from childhood to adulthood to old age” Michael Shermer, Publisher of Skeptic magazine. Do you want to understand more about yourself, your dreams and the struggles of your life? Join our online course now.
From Genesis to Big Bang: a Mythological View on Creation Myths Read More »
Master the art of remembering dreams with expert tips from Christian Gerike, M.A., Psychology of Dreams instructor at Sonoma State University. Learn how gentle awakenings, dream journaling, and dream incubation can deepen your connection to the unconscious mind and enhance dream recall.
How to Remember your Dreams Read More »
Discover how to sleep better and enhance your dream recall in Part I of this insightful guest blog by Christian Gerike, M.A., a Psychology of Dreams instructor at Sonoma State University. Learn the secrets of optimizing your sleep cycle and practical tips for a restful night.
Sleeping Well, Remembering Dreams Read More »
Discover the hidden strengths of introverts and how to thrive in an extroverted world. Explore the psychology of introversion, Jungian insights, Susan Cain’s “Quiet,” and the symbolic power of dreams to embrace your true self.
Extrovert Ideal versus Introvert World Read More »
Explore Mythology of the Soul by H.G. Baynes, a masterwork of Jungian psychology. This 900-page study delves into the unconscious through schizophrenic dreams, art, and mythology, offering profound insights into balance, self-understanding, and the archetype of the hero.
Schizophrenic Dreams and Art: Mythology of the Soul Read More »
Discover practical tips for finding inspiration in daily life, from exercise and movies to exploring mythology, dreams, and creative questioning. Dive into Mindfunda’s insights on unlocking your creative potential.
Inspiration: 4 Ways to Find Intuitive Solutions Read More »
The Power of Ritual by Robbie Davis Floyd and Charles Laughlin delves into the profound impact of rituals on human life, blending personal stories with academic rigor. From birth rituals to the transformative power of mythology, this book explores how rituals shape, sustain, and challenge cultural paradigms.
The Power of Ritual: Informative and Intriguing Read More »
In Translating Myth, a collection edited by Ben Pestell, Pietra Palazzolo, and Leon Burnett, the authors tackle the intricate task of defining and exploring the concept of myth from various angles. The book dives deep into how myths are translated across languages, media, and cultures. It examines how myth has been created, interpreted, and re-established in modern contexts, including its connections to politics and poetry. With insights into the works of visionary artists like William Blake and a thoughtful exploration of myth in American literature, this book is an invaluable resource for those fascinated by the intersection of mythology, psychology, and culture. Although the language is scholarly, the book’s content provides a unique perspective on how myths shape and reflect our collective unconscious. Highly recommended for those interested in deepening their understanding of mythology’s role in shaping identity and society.
Translating Myth: Re-wording the unseen knowledge Read More »
n this blog, I share my top 5 magical holiday destinations that have deeply influenced my understanding of sacred places and mythology. From the sacred lake at Karnak in Egypt, where I felt honored to witness a site once reserved for high priests, to the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, where Gaudí’s vision intertwines nature and spirituality, these experiences have shaped my connection to the world. I also recount my time in Prague, enjoying the stunning view of seven bridges over the Vitava River, and the hidden, mystical Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, where I encountered ancient rituals. Finally, Land’s End in Cornwall offers breathtaking views and timeless beauty. These trips have enriched my understanding of mythology and sacred spaces, which I explore in more depth in Mindfunda’s online course, Mythology, designed to help you explore the mythological themes in your life and dreams.
Holiday Heaven: 5 destinations Read More »
n this blog, I explore how mythology can illuminate our lives and help us understand the struggles we face, using the Arthurian myth as a central theme. I reflect on how mythology isn’t just a collection of ancient stories but a tool for personal growth, transformation, and healing. One of the most profound moments came when I had a dream where I was told, “You belong to the court of King Arthur,” which changed my perception of myth forever. Through exploring the lessons of King Arthur and the Grail, we learn that mythology is not only about understanding stories, but about solving life’s problems and re-interpreting our own narratives.
In the Mindfunda Mythology course, the lesson “Mythology of the Grail: Pulling Out the Sword” dives into this deeper spiritual meaning. The Grail symbolizes a soul-deep love that helps you navigate life’s trials, such as depression and despair, guiding you back to your true self. By asking the right questions at the right time, as the Arthurian myth suggests, you can find the healing and transformation you need. The course is designed to help you reconnect with mythological themes, such as the Trickster, and integrate them into your personal growth journey. Discover the power of archetypes and mythology, and how these ancient symbols can help you better understand your dreams and life’s challenges.
Dreams have long been seen as windows into our unconscious minds, offering insight and inspiration for solving life’s problems. Deirdre Barrett, Ph.D., explores this fascinating connection in her book The Committee of Sleep: How Artists, Scientists, and Athletes Use Dreams for Creative Problem Solving—and How You Can Too. Barrett delves into how creative minds in various fields have harnessed the power of dreams to solve complex problems, make groundbreaking discoveries, and fuel their art.
Through real-life stories, such as Paul McCartney’s famous Yesterday melody, which he dreamed before turning it into one of the most iconic songs of all time, Barrett shows how dreams can provide the keys to creativity. Whether it’s an artist receiving visual inspiration or a scientist stumbling upon the solution to a problem, dreams have the ability to unlock new perspectives and solutions. However, Barrett also acknowledges the lack of a practical guide in the book, leaving readers without concrete steps on how to tap into dreams for problem-solving directly.
If you’re fascinated by the role dreams play in human creativity, The Committee of Sleep offers a compelling collection of dream-inspired stories. But if you’re looking for actionable advice on using dreams to solve your own problems, this may not be the book for you.
Problem Solving using the Committee of Sleep Read More »
Dreaming is more than just a nightly escape; it’s a way for our brains to process and solve problems, often in creative and unexpected ways. In this blog, I explore the fascinating world of dream research, including the three major models: the Activation Input Modulation (AIM) model, the Psychodynamic model, and the Neurocognitive model. Through stories, science, and personal experiences, I delve into topics such as perception, hallucinations in dreams, the role of imagery, and the function of dreaming. Plus, I highlight Carl Jung’s archetypes and their universal presence in dreams, including themes like marriage, ancestors, and losing teeth. Join me on a journey into the dream world and discover how understanding these models can unlock deeper insights into your dreams and waking life.
Imagery in Dreaming Read More »
Ariadne’s Clue by Anthony Stevens is a fascinating guide to the rich world of symbols, mythology, and their psychological significance. In this blog, we explore how symbols, such as Ariadne’s thread, appear in dreams and mythological tales, providing insights into how these images shape human consciousness. Stevens delves into the connection between symbols and the unconscious, drawing from both mythology and evolutionary psychology to make sense of these ancient symbols. Whether you’re interested in dream analysis, mythological symbols, or the collective unconscious, this book is a valuable resource that structures and explains complex ideas in an accessible way.
Ariadne’s Clue, a guide to the symbols of humankind Read More »
In The Goddess and The Shaman, J.A. Kent offers a deeply personal account of her journey into the spiritual realm of the Elphame, exploring her transformation through Out of Body Experiences and shamanic rituals. This book blends ancient shamanic practices with modern ecopsychology, shedding light on the goddess revival and the sacred feminine energy in a predominantly male-oriented society. While it doesn’t serve as a practical workbook on connecting with your inner goddess, it offers invaluable insights into shamanism, rituals, and how dreams act as a doorway to spiritual realms. A compelling read for those interested in shamanism, paganism, and feminine spirituality.
Shaman – Magic: The Goddess and the Shaman book review Read More »
In Big Dreams: The Science of Dreaming & The Origins of Religion, Kelly Bulkeley explores the profound impact of “Big Dreams”—those rare, unforgettable dreams that reshape our perspective on life. As a psychologist of religion and former president of the International Association for the Study of Dreams, Bulkeley offers a new approach to dream research by focusing on the most meaningful dreams, which have long been overlooked. Divided into four parts, the book investigates the science of sleep, the content of dreams, the significance of Big Dreams, and their connection to religious experiences. A highly readable and insightful exploration of dreams, neuroscience, and spirituality, this book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the deeper meaning of our nightly visions.
The Treasure Hunt for the Black Swan Read More »
Mother’s Day is a special occasion to honor all mothers worldwide, including those without biological children, who embody the nurturing spirit of the mother archetype. In this heartfelt blog post, I reflect on my own journey into motherhood, from overcoming fears surrounding childbirth to understanding the deeper connection I share with my children. Motherhood is not just about giving birth—it’s about the love, sacrifices, and life lessons passed down through generations. Whether you have children or not, if you provide love, support, and warmth to others, you are a mother in your own right.
Mother’s Day: A Tribute to all the Mothers Read More »
In What is Relativity? An Intuitive Introduction to Einstein’s Ideas, and Why They Matter by Jeffrey Bennet, readers are introduced to the fundamental concepts behind Albert Einstein’s groundbreaking theories. Bennett’s engaging approach makes complex ideas like the theory of relativity accessible without requiring advanced math. Through thought experiments and simple explanations, Bennett explains the two major theories of relativity, and their implications on space, time, and gravity. This has led me to reflect on the potential for a unified theory of the human psyche—could psychological laws mirror those of the physical universe? In this blog, I explore the intersection of Einstein’s ideas and human nature, particularly in the context of mutual dreaming and collective consciousness.
Albert Einstein and the Theory that Explains Everyting Read More »
Today, I pay tribute to Prince Rogers Nelson—His Royal Badness—a genius who profoundly influenced my life. On Earth Day, I reflect on how his music, style, and boldness shaped not just my teenage years, but also my views on self-expression and identity. In the 80s, you were either a Michael Jackson fan or a Prince fan. For me, Prince was more than just a musician; he was an icon who defied norms, explored sexuality, and offered a deep connection to the Earth through his music. Songs like Sign of the Times captured the struggles of life, while his fearless exploration of love and identity broke boundaries. Prince’s legacy lives on, reminding us all that it’s okay to be different and embrace our uniqueness.
Prince Rogers Nelson, his Royal Badness Read More »
Nightmares, though often seen as unsettling, can be blessings in disguise. Research suggests that 6% of the population regularly experiences nightmares, but these dreams carry profound messages. They urge us to make changes, both symbolically and literally. During my presentation for the Dutch Rivas Organisation, I shared insights on the power of dreams and nightmares, and how they connect with waking life.
Nightmares, as unsettling as they can be, often carry a transformative power. They prompt us to confront inner fears or unresolved emotions. My own experiences, as well as those of others, show how dreams—especially nightmares—can serve as catalysts for self-reflection and change. From Kenneth Parks’ tragic case of sleepwalking to the symbolic imagery found in films like Nightmare on Elm Street, nightmares explore the boundary between the waking and dreaming worlds.
Through mindfulness and creative visualization, we can gain control over our nightmares, giving them a better ending and harnessing their power for personal growth. If you’re curious about the deeper connections between dreams, psychology, and the brain, I invite you to explore my online courses on Mindfunda. Together, we can delve into the mysteries of the dream world and transform our nightmares into powerful allies.
Nightmare and Dreams: a presentation for Rivas Read More »
Strange Gods: A Secular History of Conversion by Susan Jacoby explores how conversion has been shaped by culture, history, and society. Jacoby reflects on her personal journey of questioning religious beliefs, much like many do when faced with tough concepts, like the sacrifice of a child in religious texts. The book argues that conversion is often more about cultural forces than personal choice, and highlights how modern “conversions” also happen in science, with figures like Richard Dawkins serving as new high priests. Jacoby’s work reminds us of the power of belief systems and the importance of freedom in choosing—or rejecting—faith.
Conversion as a way of thinking Read More »
Discover the symbolic meaning of elephants in dreams and their connection to Carl Jung’s concept of the Self. This blog explores archetypal symbols like the philosopher’s stone and their transformative messages, providing insights into personal growth, mythology, and psychology.
Elephant in dreams: 3 archetypical implications Read More »
James Joyce’s work, particularly Ulysses, has deep connections with mythology, as explored in Mythic Worlds, Modern Words: On the Art of James Joyce, edited by Edmund Epstein. The book reflects on how Joseph Campbell’s interpretations of Joyce’s work shaped his understanding of myth and the human psyche. Joyce’s writing often portrays an artist grappling with feelings of being lost in the world, using internal images to create meaning. This duality of inner conflict versus external reality is a recurring theme in his work, especially in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, which illustrates how pain and self-doubt fuel creativity.
Joyce’s writing also draws on Dante’s Inferno, with Ulysses being likened to Dante’s hell, creating a framework for self-discovery through mythic archetypes. For Joyce, as for Campbell and Dante, the “holy spirit” is often represented by a woman, symbolizing the transformative force of creativity and inspiration. However, while the book focuses on male archetypes, it offers powerful insights into human psychology, mythology, and the artistic journey, helping readers better understand their place in society and their personal quest for meaning.
James Joyce: Juicy, Jaunty and Jaded Read More »
St. Patrick’s Day: History, Snakes, and Shamrocks
St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 celebrates St. Patrick, who brought Christianity to Ireland. Born in Britain, St. Patrick was captured by pirates and spent six years as a slave in Ireland, which led to his spiritual awakening. He used the shamrock to teach the Holy Trinity, and the symbol has become central to the holiday.
Legend says he drove all the snakes out of Ireland, representing the triumph of good over evil. While the snake story is symbolic, it highlights his role in transforming Ireland. On St. Patrick’s Day, we celebrate with shamrocks, wearing green, and reflecting on this fascinating history.
st. Patrick’s day, three reasons to join the fun Read More »
On International Women’s Day, I celebrate the women who have uplifted me through creativity, dreams, and friendship. From dream experts like Laura Atkinson and Jean Campbell to inspiring artists like Brenda Ferrimani, and writers like Jean Raffa and Elaine Mansfield, these women have contributed wisdom, support, and love to my life and Mindfunda. Together, we create a circle of connection, healing, and inspiration through our hearts and dreams.
Read on to meet the incredible women who’ve shaped my journey.
International Women’s Day Read More »
The Mentalist: The New Hero? Tragic Past, Unavailability, and a Sherlock Archetype
Patrick Jane in The Mentalist reflects a new archetype of hero—a brilliant yet anti-social man with a tragic past. This pattern echoes other beloved characters like Gregory House and Sherlock Holmes (Elementary), where genius comes with personal struggles and emotional unavailability. Supported by strong women, these heroes remain extraordinary, battling their inner demons while solving external mysteries.
Why do we love this archetype, and what makes The Mentalist stand out? Dive into the parallels between these iconic series and uncover the secrets of the modern hero.
The Mentalist: the New Hero Read More »
Discover how the full moon influences your dreams and body in surprising ways. From ancient myths to modern science, this blog reveals 3 fascinating facts about full moon dreaming, including its role as an initiation deity, its effect on your body clock, and why dreams get so weird during this lunar phase.
3 Facts about Full Moon Dreaming that Will Improve Your Sleep Read More »
Explore the power of dreams and balance in life with Mindfunda’s latest blog about a recent presentation at the Kenniscafe in Haarlem. Discover how balancing emotions, rational thinking, and intuition can unlock creativity and personal growth. Learn practical tips for using dream incubation, lucid dreaming, and emotional integration to restore your inner harmony and achieve a more balanced life. Find out how dream journaling and paying attention to your emotions can bring clarity and insight.
Life is a Balance Act Read More »
In NeuroLogic: The Brain’s Hidden Rationale Behind Our Irrational Behavior, Eliezer Sternberg delves into the fascinating ways the brain shapes our actions, from irrational behavior to the complexities of dreams. This book offers insights into the neurological underpinnings of perception, memory, learning, and identity. Sternberg explores how dreams emerge from neurological processes, examining sleepwalking, syndromes, and the intricate ways our brain creates stories during sleep. While Sternberg doesn’t attribute dreams to a deeper spiritual or mystical realm, his exploration of brain activity offers a compelling look at the science behind our nightly narratives.
Neurologic: understanding more of you and your world Read More »
Valentine’s Day may feel commercialized, but it remains a special time to celebrate love. While many see it as cliché, we secretly crave that extra effort from our partners. Love, rooted in poetry and vulnerability, has evolved over time but still holds deep meaning.
Dreams play a powerful role in love. Sharing intimate dreams can strengthen bonds, as seen in stories from Dreams and Premonitions by Amy Newmark and Kelly Sullivan Walden. One story tells of a woman who dreamt of dancing with an old friend, and they later rekindled their romance. Another dream featured a voice-over predicting a future husband, leading to an unexpected yet perfect match.
Personally, my own love story was mirrored in a dream before my first date, symbolizing how my husband brings warmth and calm into my life.
Valentine Dream – Love Connections Read More »
Learn how Brene Brown’s teachings on vulnerability can help you dare greatly and transform your life. In her book Daring Greatly, Brown explores the power of entering the arena, overcoming perfectionism, and adjusting our approach to education and work. Vulnerability can lead to incredible results, and embracing imperfections is key to personal growth. Discover how to unlock your full potential by embracing these life-changing concepts.
Brene Brown: 3 Keys to Dare Greatly Read More »
The Chinese New Year begins today, February 8th, 2016, marking the Year of the Monkey according to the lunar calendar. This celebration is based on the second new moon after the Winter Solstice. The tradition stems from a myth where Buddha invited 12 animals to visit him, and those animals were assigned a year. The number 12 is significant, symbolizing unity and harmony, as seen in various cultures. In addition, Chinese dream traditions, like the T’ung Shu almanac, provide insight into how dreams are interpreted in Chinese culture. Learn more about the fascinating myths and traditions surrounding Chinese New Year and its influence on dreams.
Discover how Creative Dreaming by Patricia Garfield, a timeless classic, can help you unlock the power of your dreams. Learn three transformative tips to get creative with your dreams, solve problems, and develop deeper connections. This book has inspired dreamers for decades—find out how it can inspire you too.
Creative Dreaming #Dream Classic: 3 Ways to get Creative in Your Dreaming Read More »
Unlock the power of Prophetic Causal Dreaming with Dream ESP—a unique blend of the I Ching and Golden Dawn techniques. This insightful guide bridges dream journaling, symbols, and higher practical magic to bring about desired life changes. Discover how to partner your subconscious and conscious self for transformative insights. Learn structured techniques to decode your dreams and take actionable steps toward clarity and growth.
Dream ESP, the secret of prophetic causal dreaming Read More »
David Bowie, who passed away on January 10, 2016, was more than a musician—he was a mythological hero, a shaman, and a creative pioneer. From Ziggy Stardust’s escape from Plato’s Cave to his Berlin rebirth and his final masterpiece Blackstar, Bowie lived through transformations that mirrored Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey. This blog explores three powerful mythological aspects of David Bowie’s life: his role as a visionary hero, a shaman of love, and a shaman of death. Discover how Bowie embraced creativity, change, and even mortality to inspire us all to express our true selves.
David Bowie, living the myth Read More »
Family shapes who we are in profound ways. Born into a large Catholic family, I reflect on my father’s heroic journey, my mother’s “barbed wire love,” and the patterns that run through generations. Discover how analyzing family roles, dreams, and challenges can help you uncover your own life story and hidden strengths.
Family: 3 ways to come at ease with your heritage Read More »
Tonight the moon is in the sign of Scorpio. A sign associated with transformation, death and rebirth. This night we focus on the month of November 2016. Preparation for winter. Dreaming with the Moon in Scorpio is associated with the deceased, so tonight we will incubate an a beloved deceased ancestor to guide us in 2016. Use the day to meditate on the incubation and make it your own. (accessible exclusively for logged-in MoreMindfunda members!)
Eleventh Holy Night: Jan 04 – 05 Read More »
Frau Holda, the Winter Queen of the 12 Holy Nights, symbolizes judgment, renewal, and transformation. As told in the Grimm fairy tale, two sisters visit her magical realm through a well—one rewarded for diligence, the other punished for laziness. Holda’s tale teaches us about winter’s hidden gifts, the importance of hard work, and diving deep within to discover spiritual treasures. Journey into Holda’s myth and learn how this ancient goddess bridges the mundane and the mystical, offering us the wisdom to harvest both earthly and spiritual abundance.
Holda and the winter Read More »
Tonight the moon is in the sign of Virgo. A sign associated with rules and regulations, but also with intestines and food. The incubation tonight is focused on how to nurture our soul this new year. This night we focus on the month of May 2016. The beginning of spring, new opportunities, new changes. We will use our dreaming mind to incubate a dream about how you can nurture your soul next year. Use the day to meditate on the incubation and make it your own. (accessible exclusively for logged-in MoreMindfunda members!)
Fifth Holy Night: Dec 29 – 30 Read More »
Tonight the moon is in the sign of Leo. A sign associated with the animus. The incubation tonight is focused on meeting our animus. This night we focus on the month of March 2016. The beginning of spring, new opportunities, new changes. We are going to need animus energy in this month to achieve new goals. The question to concentrate on is: “How can I connect with my animus energy in the best way possible?” The incubation I share below (accessible exclusively for logged-in MoreMindfunda members!)
Third Holy Night: Dec 27 – 28 Read More »
