Ecstasy: Understanding the Psychology of Joy

We like to think of ourselves as individuals. But it is important to remember that, on a deep level, we are really plural beings.

Don’t do anything that would hurt others, literally or on the unconscious level. When you perform rituals you unleash powerful psychological energy, and it is most rewarding to aim this energy

Have respect and courtesy for others and for yourself.

That is, we are one being made up of quite a number of distinct personalities, behaviors, archetypes, all looking for expression.

If you invest the gift with your love, then in giving this symbol you will have ritually expressed your love. You would be surprised at how much lighter you can feel after even such a small ceremony!

Because you can swing from branch to branch as easily as that monkey. You can jump from tree to tree and branch to branch. You can climb as quickly as you can to the top, and scamper down again without falling. You cannot get hurt. Just enjoy yourself. Be filled with joy; there is no room for fear. You can do anything, but you must first believe th

toward a good and constructive purpose.

Affirm your personal responsibility for the Dionysian quality. Dionysian ecstasy is yours to channel, to humanize. Use it to produce positive, enlivening energy.

We can touch Dionysus and learn to express that archetypal joy through three psychological disciplines: active imagination, dreamwork, and ritual.