Embodying Transformation: The Model that Guides Us
The COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, leaving so many of us grappling with a sense of chaos and uncertainty.
Now, in late 2024, questions still linger: What meaning can we draw out of this tumultuous time? How do we move forward with strength, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose? And how do we understand the pandemic as a period of chaos propelling us toward positive change?
Using the Tarot Deck as a Guide
In the Tarot deck, which is deeply rooted in archetypal concepts and informed by Jungian psychology, there is a card that mirrors the chaos we’ve experienced as a society in the past four years: the Tower card.
The Tower card is depicted as a tall tower, struck by lightning, with flames consuming its upper floors. The lightning has shattered the tower’s foundation—signaling its imminent collapse. This card is a deep, painful symbol of chaos and destruction.
When the tower crumbles in its entirety, it leaves behind rubble that must be cleared away. Then, and only then, can the ground be prepared for something new to be built in its place.
In the Tarot, the next card that follows the Tower is the Star—a beacon of hope and renewal. The Star represents the transformative power of light and creativity. It encourages us to rebuild. To learn from our challenges. To create something new, something stronger, more resilient, and more sustainable.
Understanding the Cycle of Change
The Tarot’s transition—from Tower card, to Star card—represents a cyclical pattern of destruction and renewal. This theme is not only evident in the Tarot, but it also forms the foundation of our Core Transformation Model.
In therapy, when clients strive to shift old patterns that no longer serve them, they often experience an intense phase of confusion and chaos. During this time, they may feel disconnected from their sense of self. Many feel unsafe, or as if life has become deeply unpredictable. Some feel lost, as though they are only surviving and not yet thriving.
This graphic illustrates the natural cycle of transformation for both internal and external systems—sparking change, breaking down current operating systems, and rebuilding anew.
When core structures and self-concepts shift—whether gradually or suddenly—it can feel like the death of an old self. This stage is usually accompanied by a pervasive fear.
The breakdown of one’s internal structures can often coincide with the collapse of external ones. Relationships may falter. Careers may change. Life may feel like it’s in full upheaval, with no clarity on what’s next.
This graphic illustrates the natural cycle of transformation for both internal and external systems—sparking change, breaking down current operating systems, and rebuilding anew.
Embracing the Chaos as a Path to Strength and Resilience
In such a period of chaos and upheaval, how do we continue to move forward with confidence or belief? If clients can remain in this challenging space for the time it takes—and learn to recognize it as a temporary yet necessary part of deep change—they begin to see a glimmer of hope.
This process of destruction and upheaval is not easy. But in time, new strengths, resilience, and creative solutions emerge. A new path unfolds.
Seeing the Pandemic as a Global Tower Moment
Many of these principles apply seamlessly to the global upheaval we’ve witnessed in the past four years. Rapid advancements in technology, climate change, social justice movements, and economic shifts have made one fact clear: The old operational systems of our world are breaking down.
Natural disasters are increasing in intensity. Many of us faced death and illness in our families or communities. Fear and uncertainty became the standard mode of operation for many.
By applying the lessons learned from the Tarot, we can envision a world where the Star card comes next. Destruction is always a precursor to renewal. And yes—the aftermath includes the daunting task of cleaning up and addressing a global mental health crisis. It includes reenvisioning our current infrastructures to create a more equitable, sustainable system.
Now is the time to rebuild new patterns and structures that serve and sustain us. At our practice, we’re consistently reimagining all the possibilities for the collective good of our therapists, our clients, and our greater community.
Curious to learn more?
We’re currently developing new resources for therapists, healing professionals, and practices to adopt these methods and transform the status quo. If you’re curious to learn more about our work—and how we can partner together—reach out to Anviksha Kalscheur at anviksha@introspectivefamilytherapy.com.