The Inner Life of Holidays – Symbols and Rituals of Renewal

Fiametta, Dante Gabriel Rossetti

a seminar with Jonathan Young

presented by

The Center for Story and Symbol

As nights grow longer, festivities stimulate the senses and stir poignant memories. Popular stories, customs, music and images are rich with nostalgia, awakening hopes for fulfillment. Archetypal aspects of such traditions can be guides to personal integration and psychological maturity.

This course investigates seasonal issues as opportunities for growth. Instruction includes coming to terms with emotional vulnerability, and self-care for practitioners. The main focus is on autumn and winter events, but other special days are considered as well, in this exploration of the psychological dimensions of gatherings and celebrations.

CE Credit information

The material is presented at an introductory level, requiring no background in mythic studies, narrative theory, or Jungian psychology.

The following CE credits are available:

  • Psychology, MFT, LCSW, NBCC : 6 CE hours

  • Nursing : 7 hours

Most teachers must get credits approved by their school administration. Center courses meet the requirements in most states. Contact us if you need more information about receiving credit in your state.

Boreas, John William Waterhouse


Learning Objectives

    Discuss psychological elements of festive gatherings.

    Explain how archetypal patterns appear in seasonal customs.

    Assess underlying issues in holiday stress.

Day Schedule

  • 10:00: Underlying emotions in family gatherings

    - Expectations and realizations
    - Psychological dimensions of gift giving
  • 11:15 - Break (approximate time)
  • 11:30: Seasonal activities as yearning for illumination

    - Popular films as representations of nostalgia and longing
    - Effects of music, television, and public events
  • 12:30 - Lunch Break
  • 1:30: Winter rituals, religious observances, and symbolism

    - Traditions and their psychological dimensions
    - Archetypal readings of ancient images
  • 2:40 - Break (approximate time)
  • 2:50: Ancient stories and modern enactments

    - Familiar tales and personal renewal
    - How holidays influence personal mythology
  • 3:50 - Break (approximate time)
  • 4:00: Unconscious elements of the season

    - Hpes, losses and excesses
    - Cautions and limitations to treatment
  • 5:00 - Course concludes - Total 6 hours (RNs 7 hours)
  • About the Presenters

    Jonathan Young, PhD is a psychologist (PSY10231) who assisted Joseph Campbell at seminars and served as founding curator of the Joseph Campbell Archives and Library. As a professor, Dr. Young created and chaired the doctoral level department of mythological studies at the Pacifica Graduate Institute. His books and articles focus on personal mythology. Dr. Young currently teaches symbolism at several universities and consults with organization leaders and creative artists.

    Anne Bach, M.S., (MFT 38891) is a specialist in uses of writing in psychotherapy and personal exploration. She leads groups in a variety of clinical settings -- and presents workshops on the psychological uses of writing at major conferences. She is also a literary consultant and trains professional writers in film, advertising, and creative non-fiction. Her relaxed facilitation of writing exercises provides a comfortable forum for reflection.

    For other presentations by Jonathan Young and Anne Bach see our Community Schedule.

    Charlotte's Web

    Reading List

    This seminar is taught at the introductory level and requires no advance preparation. However, participants are provided with a recommended reading list as part of their class materials.

    Preview selections from the recommended reading list.


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