Psychedelic Cinema and the Unlikely Guide
Integration through archetypal cinema is an excellent practice.
Psychedelic Cinema and the Unlikely Guide
Integration through excellent movies is one of my favorite practices.
We know that many films are written around the framework of the hero's journey, and that's why they speak to us. The filmmaker dresses up the archetypes in cool ways and gives them awesome dialogue, and it makes it not only fun to watch, but also deeply resonant.
Even more so if you're in the critical window after a journey. In this time period, it's very possible that you'll be able to see the layers under the layers and recognize the truth that the movie is truly conveying.
What brings this up?
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
I was recently turned onto the idea that Ferris Bueller isn't the main character in his movie. He's not the hero. He's a fantastic, impossible character. He's Jung's Puer Aeternus, the eternal boy. Like Peter Pan, he flies through the world without consequence, although the people around him might pay the price. There is no growth, he remains static.
There are theories that Cameron is the main character, which is closer to the truth, but I'm currently more interested in Ferris's sister Jeanie and her journey. Jeanie is the one who ends up in the underworld (police station). She's the one who receives wisdom - and a make-out session - from Charlie Sheen's unlikely drug-dealing, punk rock Yoda. He sagely counsels her to look within, just before putting the moves on her. John Hughes' movies drip with the perviness of the 80s, but there is no denying that this scene is an initiation for Grey's character. She's placed on a totally new path. From this point on, Jeanie moves with more maturity, wisdom, and compassion. Instead of trying to drag her brother down, she protects him from his nemesis. Rooney. A profound journey, tucked into the background, hidden behind parades, baseball games, and fancy cars.
Home Alone and Reciprocal Guidance
While we're in the Chicago suburbs, let's not forget the exchange between Kevin and Old Man Marley in the liminal space of the Church service before the big church service where Marley's son will be. Here we see a unique sort of exchange, because there is no clear hero and no clear mentor. They each play both parts. Since we're inherently ageist, we expect Marley to dispense the teaching and Kevin to receive it. But they both learn and grow from each other's influence. Marley can move past his extended estrangement as a result of a silly metaphor about a scary basement. Kevin is given perspective and also a bit of forgiveness.
The Blues Brothers
Let's stay in Chicago, shall we? Jake and Elwood are on a Mission From God. They are guided there by Cab Calloway's Curtis, the janitor who is the only person who has ever been good to them. They meet in the boiler room below the orphanage. As far as archetypal subterranean locations go, it's pretty on the nose, but it works. Curtis tells them to go to church, which is anathema to them, and what's worse, it's a Baptist Chuch, when they were raised Catholic. Just like Home Alone, even though it's sacred ground, the all black Triple Rock Baptist Church still manages to be somehow transgressive and the perfect setting for Jake's ordeal and initiatory call. Curtis sets them up, and Reverend Cleophus knocks them down.
I could go on, but that's good for now.
This raises the question: Where have you found uncommon wisdom and unlikely guidance? How did it change you?
Have you ever been the source of someone else's transformation or initiation? How does it feel to know that?
In these scenes, none of the characters hold the title of teacher, guide, or integration coach. We've got a drug addict, an angry old man, a rude young child, and a janitor. They didn't light any candles or sage. There was no ritual, save Curtis's Whiskey in mismatched cups—no attention to Set and Setting. Yet magic happened.
We can spend a lot of time and energy trying to create the conditions for transformation. But remember, transformation wants to happen. Love wants to expand. It wants to touch your heart. It can happen anywere, and through anyone, including you.
Upcoming Events
Coaching Training Info Session
Thursday June 17th, 8:00pm Eastern Time
Join here
We would like to invite you to attend a friendly and casual conversation to share about the world of psychedelic integration coaching. This event is designed for individuals who are passionate about supporting others in their healing and growth and are interested in becoming highly skilled and competent coaches.
As you may know, the use of psychedelics has increased in recent years and many people are seeking support in their integration process. As a result, there is a growing demand for trained professionals who can provide guidance and support. This event will provide you with the opportunity to learn about the latest developments in the field and to gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful coach.
During the event, you will have the opportunity to hear from the director of the program, Daniel Shankin, who will share their knowledge and experience in the field. You will also have the chance to learn about the latest techniques and approaches used in psychedelic integration coaching.
We hope that you will take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn about psychedelic integration coaching and to connect with others who are passionate about supporting others in their healing and growth.
We look forward to seeing you there!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mt-tam-psychedelic-integration-coaching-training-info-call-tickets-1450732051619?aff=oddtdtcreator
Tripsitting Training for Friends and Family - Online on zoom
Friday, July 25th, noon to 3pm Eastern Time
Join Here
Are you interested In supporting your loved ones through a psychedelic experience in a conscious, compassionate, and safe manner?
Join us for this practical, beginner-friendly workshop that covers the core skills needed to support someone through a psychedelic experience. This 3-hour session is ideal for those just getting started, as well as anyone wanting to build confidence and deepen their understanding.
This meets on zoom
What you’ll learn:
An overview of common molecules
Supporting conscious preparation for the journey, helping them get ready.
Varieties of psychedelic experience: what to expect – the good, the bad, the transcendent.
Best practices for attending to your loved one.
How to maintain a supportive presence.
Methods of aftercare and integration.
You’ll Also Receive:
13 Points of Essential Tripsitting Ebook
Essential Preparation Ebook
Journaling questions for preparation and integration.
A collection of educational links and resources.
Collection of Psychedelic Playlists.
Meditation for the Journey: Autumn Retreat in the Berkshires
September 26-27-28, Plainfield, MA
Link to Register
Join a group of like minded explorers
for a weekend of transcendent practice and ceremony
~ Explore the guided somatic practices and visualizations that you can share with your clients.
~ Experience how mantra and sacred sound can deepen somatic awareness and release.
~ Enjoy ceremony in the gorgousness of New England Autumn
~ 15 people max.
What’s included:
Lodging
Delicious organic and locally-sourced meals
Meditation, yoga, dharma talks
Introduction to guiding Yoga Nidra to support come up anxiety
Chanting the chakras for somatic awareness and release
Cannabis ceremony with guided Yoga Nidra
Drum Journey Ceremony
Playing in nature/ nature walk
Hot Tub
Art making
Autumn Leaves!
This intensive is designed to create a powerful container for people with emerging spiritual visions. The sessions will offer group members an opportunity to deepen their practice and care for themselves, knowing that they will take what they learn and experience back to their clients and communities.
You will be offered a weekend designed to explore the depths of your body, mind, and consciousness with simple clarity. The curriculum is designed to make you a more centered being as well as a better guide.
We’ll open Friday with some sound healing, exploring how our voice can be used to express and release in ways that support catharsis while maintaining a regulated nervous system. This will lead into our drum led ceremony.
On Saturday, we’ll explore the intersection of visualization and somatics as a wonderful adjunct to a journey. Continuing the theme from Friday, we’ll look at how we support a calm inner environment in through our presence and guidance. This will culminate in our Saturday evening ceremony.
Sunday, as we integrate our experience, we’ll explore how our stories can convey deep universal truths, and how taking our seat as a teacher can provide deep value to our students.
Group Coaching and Mentorship- The Golden Road Collective
I have a group offering called The Golden Road Collective.
The Golden Road is a collective of psychonauts, healers, guides, and transformational change agents. We work together to create and embody the visions that have been gifted us in our ceremonies. We’re stepping into a shared future that is mindful, resilient, and committed to the versions of ourselves that we know we can be.
It's a chance to receive teaching, mentoring on your personal or professional practice, and group coaching with Daniel. There are also group meditations and monthly special guests. You can join at any time. Learn More Here