Origin & Philosophy
MYTH & MIRROR exists because we all carry shadows—those parts of ourselves we've learned to hide, deny, or project onto others. This oracle draws from the profound insights of Carl Jung's analytical psychology, the compassionate framework of Internal Family Systems, and the practical wisdom found in contemporary works on self-sabotage and transformation.
Every archetype in this oracle represents a universal pattern of human experience. These aren't just abstract concepts—they're living energies that shape our relationships, decisions, and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and what we're capable of becoming.
The Method
Shadow work isn't about eliminating parts of ourselves. It's about integration—bringing unconscious patterns into awareness so we can relate to them consciously rather than being unconsciously driven by them. Each card offers three elements:
Understanding helps you recognize the pattern. Reflection invites you to explore how it manifests in your life. Integration provides a practical exercise to begin transforming your relationship with this shadow aspect.
Why Archetypes?
Archetypes are the language of the unconscious. They appear in myths, dreams, and the patterns we unconsciously live out. By naming and understanding these patterns, we gain the power to work with them rather than being worked by them.
This oracle synthesizes insights from Jungian shadow work, IFS parts work, and modern psychological understanding of self-sabotage patterns. It's designed for those ready to look honestly at themselves— not to judge or fix, but to understand and integrate.
A Living System
MYTH & MIRROR continues to evolve. New archetypes are added as patterns emerge from the collective shadow work of our community. This isn't a static system but a living exploration of what it means to be human in all our complexity.
Remember: the goal isn't perfection. It's wholeness. Every shadow contains a gift. Every pattern, once conscious, becomes a choice. This is the work of becoming who you truly are.