Carl Gustav Jung, known as the “psychoanalytic freethinker,” expanded the classical psychoanalysis of Sigmund Freud, creating a new approach known as “depth psychology” or “Jungian analytical psychology.” Jung incorporated the study of mythology, religions, rituals, parapsychology, and mysticism into psychoanalysis, significantly enriching the humanities. Jung’s concept of the collective unconscious and archetypes found reflection in Tarot cards, which speak to us in the symbolic language of archetypes, especially in the Major Arcana. But how does this relate to jazz improvisations?

Jungian Archetypes and Jazz

Jazz improvisations, like working with Tarot, are expressions of deep internal states and emotions. Jazz, with its free and spontaneous rhythms, reflects the dynamics of archetypes in the collective unconscious, where each melody and note are symbols and images communicating with us. Jazz meditation, similar to working with Tarot cards, helps us explore and understand our inner worlds, providing an opportunity to deeply feel and comprehend our archetypal structures.

The Hanged Man:

Anima: This card symbolizes sacrifice and self-denial, associated with the feminine principle of striving for intuitive and spiritual development. In jazz, this can manifest in deep, melancholic improvisations that immerse the listener in a state of meditative reflection.

Animus: On the other hand, The Hanged Man can also represent masculine acceptance of inevitability and readiness for change. In jazz, this is expressed through tense but controlled rhythms symbolizing struggle and acceptance.

 Jazz Compositions: “In a Sentimental Mood” by Duke Ellington and “Blue in Green” by Miles Davis.

Recommendations: Use incense and sandalwood aromas to enhance the effect of meditation and immersion in a state of internal reflection.

The Moon:

Dark Archetype: The Moon represents our fears, illusions, and uncertainties. In jazz, this can be compared to chaotic and unsettling melodies creating an atmosphere of ambiguity and mystery.

Light Archetype: The Moon also symbolizes intuition and subconscious knowledge. In jazz, this is expressed through mystical and hypnotic rhythms leading us deeper into our inner world.

Jazz Compositions: “So What” by Miles Davis and “Footprints” by Wayne Shorter.

Recommendations: Use jasmine and lavender aromas to enhance the intuitive and calming properties of meditation.

The Sun:

Light Archetype: The Sun represents clarity, joy, and vitality. In jazz, this can be heard in bright, energetic improvisations that lift the spirit and evoke a sense of celebration.

Dark Archetype: The Sun can also symbolize excessive ego and the need to be the center of attention. In jazz, this is manifested through assertive and dominant solos striving to overshadow others.

Jazz Compositions: “Here Comes the Sun” by Nina Simone and “Take Five” by Dave Brubeck.

Recommendations: Use citrus aromas, especially orange and lemon, to create a bright and invigorating atmosphere.

The Hierophant:

Light Archetype: The Hierophant symbolizes spiritual mentorship and tradition, associated with the feminine principle striving for wisdom and understanding. In jazz, this is expressed through deep and meaningful melodies conveying traditional values and spiritual truths.

Dark Archetype: The Hierophant can also represent dogmatism and rigid adherence to rules. In jazz, this is manifested through strict and structured compositions that limit improvisation and freedom of expression.

Jazz Compositions: “Round Midnight” by Thelonious Monk and “All Blues” by Miles Davis.

Recommendations: Use sage and cedar aromas to create an atmosphere of wisdom and spiritual understanding.

 Combining Jazz Compositions, Major Arcana, and Aromas

To effectively combine jazz compositions, Major Arcana, and aromas, try the following approaches:

1. The Hanged Man with “In a Sentimental Mood”/”Blue in Green”:

– Play the melancholic compositions by Duke Ellington and Miles Davis.

– Light candles with incense and sandalwood aromas.

– Meditate on the image of The Hanged Man, imagining yourself in a state of deep self-denial and inner peace.

2. The Moon with “So What”/”Footprints”:

– Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the music by Miles Davis and Wayne Shorter.

– Use jasmine and lavender incense sticks.

– Work with The Moon card, allowing intuition and subconscious knowledge to guide you.

3. The Sun with “Here Comes the Sun”/”Take Five”:

– Listen to the energetic and joyful compositions by Nina Simone and Dave Brubeck.

– Freshen the space with citrus aromas.

– Meditate on The Sun card, feeling a surge of clarity, joy, and vitality.

4. The Hierophant with “Round Midnight”/”All Blues”:

– Immerse yourself in the spiritual depth of the music by Thelonious Monk and Miles Davis.

– Inhale the aromas of sage and cedar.

– Work with The Hierophant card, striving for spiritual mentorship and wisdom.

Combining these elements will create a unique space for inner dialogue and self-discovery, where music, aromas, and Tarot symbols will unite, helping you better understand yourself and the world around you.