Alchemical Psychology: Old Recipes for Living in a New World

by Thom F. Cavalli

Alchemical practices have been reborn in our contemporary world under the rubric of Jungianism, transpersonal psychology, or depth psychology. But in Alchemical Psychology , Thom F. Cavalli, Ph.D., takes us directly to the source — and on a wonderful adventure into the true nature of our hearts and minds. In a book that sparkles with verve, life, and practicality, Dr. Cavalli explains how alchemy was one of humankind’s earliest efforts to transform the nature of consciousness. What little-known or underground arts did alchemists practice in pursuit of self-transformation — and how can they enrich us today? Using the same practices that he employs with patients, Dr. Cavalli offers readers a plethora of personal exercises that, among other things, enables them to “type” themselves according to ancient alchemical identifiers of nature and personality. He then provides practices that can help free them from the grip of familiar problems and foster true personal growth. Beautifully illustrated with medieval prints from the alchemical tradition, Alchemical Psychology gives readers both a richer understanding of their own natures and of the traditions on which many of our modern therapies are based.

Genres: Psychology, Alchemy, Spirituality, Philosophy, Nonfiction

384 pages, Paperback

First published March 4, 2002

Reviews

[Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always been fascinated with the process and spiritual implications of Alchemy but wearied of plowing through Jung and even Edinger trying to make sense of it... This book is a great introduction to the history and process, written thoughtfully and clearly for the layperson. Accessible, clear and contemporary.

[Alison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty solid introduction to the concepts of Alchemy as they pertain to Jungian Psychology. Reading it sometimes I get the impression the author knows a good deal about what he's talking about but hasn't gotten all that far in the work itself. Other times I get the impression he's advanced quite a bit. Definitely not a perfect book, but it is an extremely understandable introduction. My main problem with it is that it's written for people who don't practice magick or mysticism, but I doubt it's easily understandable or readily acceptable by those very people it's clearly meant for.

[Kenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I liked most about this book was the meditations on 10 different alchemical drawings, described in this book as recipes. Whenever I open this book, I always find something interesting to ponder.

[DeeDee · Rating 4 out of 5]

In progress on this one. Off and on. Really enjoying it. Slow going, reading and rereading passages, allowing info to percolate a bit before moving on. Good tub book ; ) ha!
Marked it as read today, but really finished long ago, and never will. ; )

[Rjyan · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are a couple nice moments in here but the organization makes little sense. Concepts seem tossed around and picked up again capriciously so it's hard to say how much I've actually learned about them. The tone is mostly very Self-Helpy in a kind of grating way, as well.

[Brady · Rating 4 out of 5]

So good!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me almost a year to complete this book/process. Not a fast or easy read; it must be digested in sections. Large concepts, but well worth the commitment. Extensive review to follow.

[Miquella Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been reading this book for almost 3 years now... I can never finish it. but I'm determined to by the end of this month. I love this book!