CARL JUNG'S GUIDED MEDITATION: INTEGRATING THE SELF

The Culmination of the Journey

In Jungian psychology, the Self (with a capital S) represents the archetype of wholeness and the regulating center of the psyche. It transcends and includes all other aspects of the personality that you've encountered throughout this series. Today's meditation guides you to experience a sense of integration and wholeness as you bring together the various aspects of your being.

This final meditation draws upon all your previous inner work—your sacred space, encounters with the shadow, anima/animus, and wise figures, as well as your revised personal myth. As Jung noted, individuation is not about perfection but wholeness—embracing all aspects of yourself in a dynamic, evolving process of integration and expression.

Meditation Instructions

1. 1. Returning to Your Sacred SpaceBegin by finding a comfortable position and closing your eyes. Take several deep breaths to center yourself. Use your established method to return to your sacred inner space. Notice how this space has evolved over the course of your seven-day journey. What qualities does it now contain?
2. 2. The Center PointWithin your sacred space, become aware of a central point—perhaps a circle, altar, flame, crystal, or any other symbol that represents the center of your being. Move toward this center point with reverence, recognizing it as a symbol of your Self, the organizing principle of your psyche.
3. 3. Gathering the PartsFrom this center point, send out an invitation to all the aspects of yourself that you've encountered during this journey—your shadow, anima/animus, wise figure, and any other significant inner presences. Invite them to gather around the center in a circle, each taking their rightful place.
4. 4. The Council of the SelfAs these aspects gather, acknowledge each one and its unique contribution to your wholeness. Notice how they relate to each other and to the central point. If there is tension or discord between any aspects, allow them to communicate and find their natural balance in relation to the whole.
5. 5. The Mandala FormsAs this council assembles, notice that they naturally form a mandala—a circular, symmetrical pattern with the center point as its hub. In Jungian psychology, the mandala is a symbol of wholeness and integration. Allow this mandala to take shape in whatever way feels natural, with each aspect finding its proper place in the whole.
6. 6. The Light of IntegrationFrom the center point, notice a light beginning to emanate—a light that connects with each aspect of your being. This light represents the integrating energy of the Self. As it touches each aspect, there is a sense of acknowledgment, acceptance, and harmony. Allow this light to flow freely, creating bridges of understanding between previously separated aspects.
7. 7. The Dance of WholenessAs this integration deepens, the entire mandala may begin to move or dance—each part maintaining its unique identity while participating in the greater whole. This dance represents the dynamic nature of psychological integration, which is not static but alive and evolving. Allow yourself to experience the beauty and harmony of this dance.
8. 8. Embodying IntegrationNow allow the light from the center to expand, gradually encompassing the entire mandala and then flowing into your physical body. Feel this integrating energy moving through your body—from the crown of your head to the soles of your feet—bringing a sense of wholeness to every cell. Notice how this integration feels in your body, emotions, and consciousness.
9. 9. The Symbol of SelfAs this experience of integration deepens, ask for a personal symbol that represents your Self—the wholeness that includes and transcends all aspects of your being. This might be an image, object, pattern, word, or any other form that emerges spontaneously. Receive this symbol with gratitude, knowing it can serve as a touchstone for reconnecting with your wholeness in daily life.
10. 10. Completing the JourneyWhen you feel complete with this experience, take a moment to express gratitude for this journey of self-discovery and integration. Know that you can return to this experience of wholeness whenever you choose. Then, gradually bring your awareness back to your physical surroundings, carrying the sense of integration with you as you return to ordinary consciousness.

Reflection Questions