Archetypes tell stories of human expression. These universal symbols and patterns influence human behavior. We may emulate the “hero” and scorn the “villain.” Collective consciousness assigns value to these different characters and influences our individual aspirations and actions. We may pursue a mainstream role to play to find acceptance with the crowd. Or we may seek an outsider role, aligning our identity with a character who shuns perceived norms and expectations.
Archetypal characters exist within all of us. Each of us has within us a sage, magician, hero, child, lover, and numerous other human expressions that can arise as needed and then blend back into the wholeness of our being. Energetically, these characters look and feel embodied. There is a sense of wholeness when archetypes emerge to temporarily aid in actions or expressions. However, archetypes can also emerge out of a sense of fear or lack. In this scenario, we may identify with the character as if it IS our whole self rather than an aspect of self.
Frozen Archetypes
When archetypes arise out of fear or lack, they can become frozen. The frozen character can dominate the personality and keep other aspects of self from coming forward. This could occur for many reasons. At some point, though, this character likely served as a protector or provider. It may have been the only “acceptable” behavior in their family, culture, or environment. Or the character that was able to meet the needs of the person, so they became reliant on that aspect of themself. Energetically, instead of feeling whole, these characters tend to project energy towards others. There is a sense of an internal lack along with a visual and/or felt sense of the energy of the archetype moving out and away from the body.
Recognizing Archetypal Energy Patterns
As with all energetic patterns we describe, the purpose of bringing awareness to archetypes is for our own reflection and understanding. It is not to judge ourselves or others. There can be a deep pain in feeling we are not seen, heard, or understood. We may find, though, that the parts of ourselves we wish to be known are the ones that we don’t allow ourselves to connect with and express. Noticing these archetypes and exploring why they arise can deepen our understanding and compassion for ourselves and for others.
Below are “frozen” archetypal patterns I have noticed in working with and observing others and in myself.
The Ruler
Energetic movement: Often a felt sense of energy rising from the upper body and head. A sense of energy “lording” over others
Shadow aspects you may notice:
- Authority on a subject without considering others’ input
- Digging in when view is challenged
- Intensity without depth
- Fear of being exposed
The Projector
Energetic movement: strong energy projecting outward towards another person(s). Sense of projection often comes from the face and head
Shadow aspects you may notice:
- strong intensity–wanting to stay with the object of projection
- neediness
- sense that the other person somehow possesses what they need
The Illusionist
Energetic movement: tends to move laterally from the person. Can fill up the whole room or surround others rather than projecting energy towards them
Shadow aspects you may notice:
- can be persistent and convincing
- sense that there is only one option available
- their view is “correct”
The Diffuser
Energetic movement: sense of the energy within their body thinning and oozing out into the room like a fog
Shadow aspects you may notice:
- “I want to get on their level” (sense of patronizing or hierarchy)
- Avoidant or plays the victim if challenged
- Sense of having an agenda but avoiding responsibility
The Child
Energetic movement: tends to push out all around the body and glow, leaving the energy within the body darker
Shadow aspects you may notice:
- Sense of disarming others by being jovial/playful
- Can feel victimized if views are challenged
- Strong desire to be seen and have needs met by others
The Medusa
Energetic movement: sense of energy moving out from the body in lines or waves. Moves quickly and frequently and may probe around others
Shadow aspects you may notice:
- Sense of someone trying to feel you out to know how to act
- Can feel manipulative
- Can present as charming but with a fear of being seen for who they are
The Armor
Energetic movement: barrier that extends from the body but is held close
Shadow aspects you may notice:
- Intense energetic barrier fueled by anger
- Rigid and defensive
- Can feel righteous to the wearer
All images in this article were created using Canva AI
