Shireen Vismaya, a Jungian psychoanalyst, author, and astrologer, discusses her innovative 21-day intensive, "Secrets," with insights drawn from her experiences in Sri Lanka. She explores the fusion of Jungian psychology and astrology, emphasizing authentic self-discovery. Topics include the power of online support communities, the importance of embodied movement in healing, and how astrology aids in understanding personal narratives. Shireen also reflects on the creative journey, examining the cyclical nature of healing and the significance of introspection.
Shirene Vismaya integrates Jungian psychology and astrology in her work, emphasizing the role of spiritual practices for personal growth.
The P21 Secrets intensive encourages deep reflection on individual and collective themes, highlighting the significance of group dynamics in self-discovery.
Current astrological influences provide a framework for understanding personal struggles, inviting participants to navigate emotional states during transitions.
Deep dives
Shireen Vismaya's Background and Expertise
Shireen Vismaya is a seasoned Jungian psychoanalyst with extensive academic credentials, including master's degrees in clinical and developmental psychology from New York University and Pace University, respectively. With over 27 years of experience in psychoanalysis, astrology, and somatic healing, she emphasizes the integration of psychological and spiritual practices for personal growth. Her work focuses on various mental health challenges, such as trauma, anxiety, and creative blocks, utilizing both Jungian principles and astrological insights. Influenced by her spiritual teacher and her long-standing yearly retreats to India, Shireen combines Eastern spirituality with Western psychological thought to foster a deeper connection to one’s authentic self.
The Influence of Place on Inner Work
During her recent discussion, Shireen shares her experiences of living in Sri Lanka, a location she describes as relaxing and conducive to inner work. The geographical and cultural aspects of this UNESCO heritage site have enveloped her in an ambiance that is favorable for reflection and spiritual growth. Her ongoing connection to India and her time spent at ashrams illustrate her belief in the importance of physical environments in fostering psychological transformation. This integration of place and practice emphasizes that certain locations can help cultivate the psychological depth necessary for personal healing.
The P21 Secrets Intensive
Shireen introduces the P21 Secrets intensive, a 21-day program designed to facilitate deep reflection on personal and collective themes through the lens of Jungian psychology. This intensive includes daily explorations of various topics, and participants are encouraged to engage deeply with their individual experiences and connections to each theme. The program demonstrates the power of group dynamics as participants share insights and support one another in their journeys of self-discovery. By drawing from both psychological frameworks and astrological interpretations, Shireen provides a multifaceted approach to the inner work involved in this intensive.
Astrological Themes and Their Impact
Current astrological configurations, such as the retrogradation of Mars and the upcoming Venus retrograde, are discussed as pivotal influences on personal and collective experiences. Shireen highlights how these planetary movements can serve as guides for introspection, particularly in relation to conflict management and interpersonal dynamics. As participants navigate these celestial transitions, they are invited to reflect on their personal histories and emotional states in connection to the archetypal energies represented by these planets. This astrological framework enriches the understanding of individual struggles and insights within the P21 intensive.
The Importance of Witnessing in Healing
A recurrent theme in Shireen's work is the significance of witnessing in the healing process, which she relates to both personal and communal experiences. She emphasizes that being seen and heard is essential for psychological well-being, allowing individuals to process their emotions and experiences deeply. This concept underscores the practice of authentic movement, where participants express their unconscious through physical forms, creating an opportunity for both self-witnessing and mutual recognition among group members. As participants recognize their shared experiences in this container, the potential for profound healing and connection increases, reinforcing the importance of community in personal growth.
Jungian psychoanalyst and astrologer Sherene Vismaya returns to us from an undisclosed location in Sri Lanka to discuss her 21-day intensive, "Secrets" – a collaboration with Billy Corgan. Laura is participating in the process and shares her experience while on Day 8.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode