Index
Symbols are our psycheās way of informing countless internal myths with content
Snake,Ā š
In eastern philosophy the snake appears coiled at the base of the spine. This concept of Kundalini references an untapped energy source held within you. Once awakened this force uncoils and rises within you like intertwined snakes. This stands in stark contrast to the classic Judeo-Christian image of a snake tempting humans with forbidden knowledge.Ā I explored the tensions between these two traditions but ultimately the concept of life-force/awareness (grown within) won out. Plus snakes are just fun to draw.Ā Other snake ideas includeĀ CaduceusĀ (snake coiled up around a staff with wings)Ā representingĀ all things medical and adapted from ancient Greek myth. There isĀ also the Hermetic symbol of Oroborous (a snake eating itās own tail) which has a multitude of mind-blowing meanings that are worth cruising on Wikipedia.Ā For me, my obsession with snakes likely started when I took up a Kundalini yoga practice a coworker recommended. It was a 30-minute meditation session, sitting in easy pose, holding a lotus hand mudra, and cycling aĀ 15 second suspended box breathing exercise along with short mantra. It was pretty out there and an interesting trip for a few months. My interest in the snake was further solidified when I learned about theĀ Gnostic Ring which Carl Jung designed and wore from the 1920ās until his death. On it were several symbols including a coiled snake, a womans face, and the figure 8 (representing eternity).