Can linking Jung’s psychological insights of the shadow and of the archetypes heal wounds caused by the culture’s refusal to grow emotionally and spiritually?

After a broad overview of Western culture’s rejection of, and dawning reclamation of both animism and the archetypes, Maya suggests ways that psychology and the Neo-Platonic tradition might work together to help reclaim the lost art of eldership.

Maya says, "Back in 1998, as a twenty-seven year old, I had been invited to a select gathering of intellectuals and academics I admired. I loved it, but there was something missing.

At the end of the four day conference, I stood up in the middle of our circle and cried out ‘Where are the elders? I need elders!’ I didn’t quite know what I meant, but somehow, all the gathering knew an important truth had been spoken.

There was a sense that even these esteemed people did not feel free or entitled to step into such a role. - What had caused such a crisis?

Dr Maya Ward is a writer, artist, designer and gardener dwelling in the forest village of Warburton by the banks of Birrarung.

Maya’s intimate communion with the intelligence of life is profoundly influenced by her longstanding dance and embodiment practices, and practices of earth celebration, communion, and repair.

She is active in co-creating community rituals, teaching, food growing and tree planting.

Maya is the author of The Comfort of Water: A River Pilgrimage, an account of her 21-day journey along the Wurundjeri Songline of the Yarra River. This book was shortlisted by the Victoria State Library for the 2012 'Year of Reading’.