Humans, by nature, are storytellers. From cave paintings to campfire epics, we’ve always used narratives to understand ourselves and the world around us. And at the heart of these stories lie archetypes, powerful symbols that transcend time and culture.
Archetypes are fascinating, a whole subject of study and one of my favorites to explore. They’re used for personality tests, writing characters in books and media, in tarot and to describe characteristics. They can also be hugely helpful in healing, growth and finding your confidence and courage.
These universal patterns, like the wise mentor, the cunning trickster, or the fearless hero, resonate deep within us, shaping our personalities, influencing our choices, and whispering guidance through life’s complexities.
So what is an archetype?
ar·che·type/ˈärkəˌtīp/noun
- a very typical example of a certain person or thing.
Essentially, an archetype is a set of characteristics that we all agree describe a certain type of person or thing. Think of archetypes as the building blocks of stories. They’re the recurring characters, the predictable plot twists, and the timeless themes that appear in myths, fairy tales, and even modern movies.
The Hero’s Journey, for example, with its call to adventure, trials and tribulations, and ultimate triumph, can be found in everything from Homer’s Odyssey to Star Wars. These shared patterns speak to our fundamental human experiences, connecting us across generations and cultures.
We may all paint similar pictures in our minds when we hear the words:
- Queen
- King
- Mage
- Warrior
- Mother
- Father
- Lover
- Martyr
- Elder
- Teacher
These are all examples of archetypes. When we think of any of these, or others because there are A LOT, we more or less imagine the same traits.
Queens and kings may be thought of as strong, decisive, demanding respect. A mother archetype could be seen as caring, maternal, loving and all of the things we associate with a mother character. A teacher is knowledgeable and philosophical.
Colors can also have archetypes. Look at what we’ve done to blue and pink in terms of gender.
Understanding archetypes can help you to design exactly who you want to be and get there.
Embodying the Energy of the Archetypes
Archetypes can help us through situations that require their characteristics. For example, I like to embody the archetype of the queen when I need confidence and the archetype of the warrior when I’m exercising, about to do something that demands courage, like a podcast or a video, or when my anxiety is acting up.
You may call upon the archetype of the mother when you’re with your children or caring for a sick loved one. The mage when you need a remedy for an ailment or the queen if you need to stand up for yourself.
Whatever quest you’re about to step into, taking a few minutes to call in the energy that can help you through it.
Calling in an Archetype
To utilize the energy of the archetypes, take a few minutes to center and ground yourself. Inhale deeply and slowly and then release it evenly through your nose.
- What powers do you need in this moment?
- What characteristic would be helpful to have right now?
- Is it the teacher or the student? The priestess or the elder? The soldier or the millionaire?
- What mindset would help you right now in your current situation?
Now it’s just a matter of playing pretend. Allow yourself to become them, if only in your head.
- How would they act?
- How would they speak?
- Move?
- Stand?
- What decisions would they make?
Really take on the role. No one knows you’re playing pretend in your head. All they see is you looking like you but maybe standing a little taller today, happier and more confident. It looks good on you.
Choosing Your Archetypes
Take a minute to design a character of your own. It’s you, but better. What characteristics can you pull from your favorite archetypes to give to your “you” character?
- Are they stronger physically or mentally?
- Are they courageous or loving?
- What are their goals?
- Their dreams?
- Their passions and hobbies?
- How do they feel on a regular basis?
- How do they act, speak, move and carry themselves?
- Are they confident, sassy or sexy?
You’re essentially building the best you possible in your eyes using pieces of the archetypes.
This may seem like a ‘fake’ you but it’s actually who you are inside. This version of yourself is your ‘highest self’ and these characteristics you’ve chosen are your truth. If they weren’t, you wouldn’t be attracted to them.
The more you focus on allowing your chosen characteristics to manifest within you, the more they will become an undeniable part of who you are. Like attracts like and if you can get the ball rolling in the direction you want, momentum will take you away into this new reality.
Tell us in the comments what archetype you’re calling to aid you and what characteristics you’re manifesting within!
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Other Articles You May Enjoy:
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- How to Tune Your Energy, Frequency & Vibrations to Manifest Abundance
- How to Conquer Addictions & Heal Beliefs in Order to Manifest Fulfillment & Purpose
- Nurturing the Self: A Guide to Personal Growth and Inner Peace
- How to Overcome Fear & Step into Your Unfiltered Power to Gain Confidence & Manifest Your Dreams
Author
S.S.Blake; Spiritual Life Coach, Yoga + Meditation Teacher and Founder of Earth and Water
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This is amazing. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it like that. I mean I guess I like a Queen as I love the empowerment qualities! Thanks for this.
Thanks for reading! I’m glad I could provide insight!