How can we apply mythology to better our well-being? In episode 58, Dr. Catherine Svehla, a storytelling scholar and consultant in the field of mythology, and creativity coach explains the importance of old stories in understanding the human experience. She discusses how she helps artists and creative individuals through the exploration of old myths which she describes as the foundation of our world- the source of our ideas, beliefs, values and institutions. We discuss psychology, specifically tho works of Freud, and Jung and how mythic exploration has therapeutic potential. We talk about how engagement and personal reflection on the relevance of these timeless tales in addressing existential questions can influence one's personal creative journey.

Website: https://mythicmojo.com

Myth Matters Podcast: https://mythicmojo.com/myth-matters-podcast-blog/

Timeline:

• 🧠 Dr. Svehla's Background and Mythology Interest (09:33 - 17:11)
• Dr. Svehla's journey into mythology began during a personal crisis
• depth psychology, including Freud and Jung's work
• the intersection of art, psychology, and mythology
• use of mythology in psychology by Freud and Jung
• the origins of her podcast 'Myth Matters'
• 🐸 The Frog Prince Story Analysis (17:11 - 25:17)
• Dr. Svehla shared the Grimm's tale 'The Frog Prince'
• Discussed various interpretations and reactions to the story
• Explored feminist perspectives and prejudices against princesses
• Analyzed the story's themes of transformation and integration
• 🌟 Mythic Sensibility and Story Interpretation (25:17 - 33:24)
• Explained the concept of 'mythic sensibility'
• Discussed the need for understanding myths rather than creating new ones
• Emphasized the importance of examining stories on multiple levels
• Explored how stories reflect cultural and psychological aspects
• 🎭 Applying Mythic Analysis to Modern Stories (33:24 - 44:08)
• Discussed the possibility of applying mythic analysis to modern stories
• Explained the benefits of using older stories for group processes
• Highlighted the importance of personal interpretation in storytelling
• Discussed the use of dreams and overheard snippets for self-reflection
• 🔮 Dr. Svehla's Professional Work (44:10 - 54:27)
• Discussed the 'Story Oracle' reading process
• Highlighted the use of mythology in personal and creative development
• Mentioned work with artists and writers using mythological themes
• 🧘 Psychedelics and Altered States in Mythic Work (54:27 - 01:05:15)
• Explained Dr. Svehla's experience with altered states and mythic backgrounds
• Emphasized the connection between symbolic language and altered states
• Encouraged taking personal responses to stories seriously
• 🌈 Concluding Thoughts and Podcast Information (01:05:15 - 01:15:40)
• Reinforced the importance of old stories in understanding human experience
• Discussed the modern challenge of answering existential questions individually

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