Self Discovery

Different Types Of Transference & Countertransference (With Examples)

“The transference phenomenon is an inevitable feature of every thorough analysis.” – Carl Jung (CW16, par 283.)

Transference and countertransference can not be avoided. It is the key to psychoanalysis in the way that it can bring to light that which causes stress for the client. The only way it can do good is by understanding how transference and countertransference works and how we can use it practically to benefit our mental health.

What is transference and countertransference?

Transference definition

< n. in psychoanalysis, a patient’s displacement or projection onto the analyst of those unconscious feelings and wishes originally directed toward important individuals, such as parents, in the patient’s childhood. It is posited that this process brings repressed material to the surface where it can be re-experienced, studied, and worked through to discover the sources of a patient’s current neurotic difficulties and to alleviate their harmful effects. Although the theoretical aspects of the term are specific to psychoanalysis, transference has a recognized role in various other types of therapeutic encounters, including counseling and short-term dynamic psychotherapy. The term’s broader meaning—an unconscious repetition of earlier behaviors and their projection onto new subjects—is acknowledged as applying to all human interaction.>

Transference first came from Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic practice in 1890. It is one method of psychoanalysis where one can recognize unconscious conflicts. Ultimately, transference is when a person projects their feelings onto another person according to their own feelings based on past experiences. This can either be helpful in psychotherapy or a downright hindrance if not brought to awareness.

What are the different types of transference?

There are several concepts of transference. some of which are listed below.

Non-Familial Transference.

This is where the client will treat other people, or their counselor, according to their own ideas of that person as opposed to who they really are to the client. This usually shows up when people play a role in the client’s life and they focus and depend on certain stereotypes that benefit or reassure them.

Sexualized transference.

This phenomenon is when the client develops a sexual attraction or fixation with the counselor. This is more than the detached acknowledgment of the therapist or counselor’s attractiveness and it often results in inappropriate behavior from the client which breaches the therapeutic relationship boundaries.

Paternal Transference.

This is when the client sees and relates to their therapist in a fatherly manner. They associate their own feelings with the therapist, according to the kind of relationship they had with their father. This could be positive in a way where the client portrays the therapist in a strong, protective role. Negative transference, in this case, would be feelings of rejection or inadequacy.

Maternal Transference.

Similarly to paternal transference, the client associates the therapist with their own mother. The positive transference might be depending on their therapist as a source of nurturing comfort or love. Negative feelings in this situation would be feelings of rejection, feeling unloved, and sometimes even possessiveness.

Warning signs of transference

The warning signs of the client’s transference are often done unconsciously by the client. If the therapist does not become aware of it soon enough it can seriously affect the therapeutic relationship. Identifying transference signs has been regarded as of the utmost importance in psychodynamic therapy. Below is a list of warning signs the clinician might notice.

Aversion to therapy.
Hostility towards therapist or situation in their life
Choice of words, whether it be negative or positive, relating to the therapist or someone in their life.
Client’s dependency on someone in their life or the therapist.
Sexual attraction from client to therapist can be identified through body language or the client’s choice of words.
Defensive behavior or emotional reactions from certain triggers, like mentioning the name of someone in their life who might be causing grief in the client’s perspective.

How to deal with transference

Transference is not always a bad thing, in fact, it happens often in everyday life situations but mostly in a therapeutic setting. Some psychotherapists even encourage it. The best way to deal with it starts with awareness. From there, there is a multitude of methods to understand transference. A few are listed below.

As a psychotherapist or counselor, be aware of your own counter-transference (or lack thereof) before making judgments on your client’s situation
Journaling your feelings.
Recognizing if your therapeutic alliance has been damaged due to the transference and if you need to refer your client to another therapist
Bringing the transference to the client’s awareness, bearing in mind any particular sensitivities.
Notice what gives you or your client anxiety and work out the cause from the roots.
Work out the true feelings or desires behind any negative emotion.
Be empathetic. Empathy helps to show your client they are not alone in their thoughts which might help the internal judgment which can cause blockages in the therapeutic process.

Countertransference definition

< n. the therapist’s unconscious (and often conscious) reactions to the patient and to the patient’s transference. These thoughts and feelings are based on the therapist’s own psychological needs and conflicts and may be unexpressed or revealed through conscious responses to patient behavior. The term was originally used to describe this process in psychoanalysis but has since become part of the common lexicon in other forms of psychodynamic psychotherapy and in other therapies. In classical psychoanalysis, countertransference was viewed as a hindrance to the analyst’s understanding of the patient, but to modern analysts and therapists, it may serve as a source of insight into the patient’s effect on other people. In either case, the analyst or therapist must be aware of, and analyze, countertransference so that it can be used productively within the therapeutic process. >

Instead of the client transferring their own feelings onto other people or situations, countertransference is when the redirection of the therapist’s own experiences onto their client. It is essential for the therapist to stay neutral during their sessions so as not to cloud their client with biased ideas.

What are the different types of countertransference?

Reactive countertransference

This is when a client projects their transference and the therapist reacts as if it’s real when it’s actually a distortion.

Defensive countertransference

This is when the therapist’s unresolved experiences are triggered by something their client did or said.

Identification countertransference

This is when the therapist over-identifies or resonates with the client’s experiences or reactions. This can be harmful as they might start to avoid addressing areas that the client needs to address because it reminds them of their own unresolved problem.

Displaced countertransference

This is where the therapist exerts their feelings towards one client onto another who is unrelated to the first client’s problem.

Warning signs of countertransference

The warning signs of countertransference are

When a therapist extends the sessions unnecessarily for a client
Notice avoidance to discuss certain topics with the client.
Expressing sympathy instead of empathy.
Too much self-disclosure from the therapist.
Giving advice to clients instead of allowing them to reach their own conclusion.
Unwarranted emotional reactions towards a client’s problem

How to deal with countertransference

The best way to deal with countertransference, much like transference, is through awareness. Sigmund Freud was the first to start speaking about countertransference and the effect it has on the therapeutic process.

Be aware and pay attention to your own feelings when dealing with clients.
Overly interested in unnecessary information or details about the client.
Be mindful of how you react to your client, try to remain neutral to their situations.
Avoid excessive self-disclosure.
As the therapist, you must be mindful of possible avoidance over certain topics because it relates to a personal experience.
Be aware of any feelings which favor the perpetrator over the victim.
Be mindful of true intentions between you and the client
Notice any defensive feelings or reactions towards the client’s situation.

Transference and countertransference examples

Examples of transference and countertransference in therapy

Transference examples

1. An example of transference in therapy is when the client relates the characteristics of their father or mother to their boss. This could lead them to feel they are inadequate with the job or possibly an over-inflated sense of importance.

2. An example of sexualized transference could be if the client expresses sexual or romantic attraction towards their caregiver who has similar qualities to a beloved lost partner.

Countertransference examples

A therapist’s client might disclose racist or homophobic opinions which might contrast the therapist’s own views on the topic. The therapist might find themselves reacting defensively towards the client. If the therapist remains neutral in reaction they could

Examples of transference and countertransference in social work

In a situation with a family where the husband is abusive towards his wife and possibly even their children.

Transference examples

The husband might be constantly inquiring about the wife, her actions, and whereabouts and she might transfer those feelings of fear or avoidance she feels for him onto the therapist by avoiding talking about her husband in a bad manner and leaving out necessary details which might help her case. The wife might find the therapist

Countertransference examples

The therapist might have had an abusive father herself and she felt deep sadness or frustration with her own mother for not standing up for herself. She could unknowingly perform countertransference by projecting her frustration onto the wife, who is her client, instead of remaining neutral to find the cause of the wife’s avoidance and anxiety.

Examples of transference and countertransference in counseling

In a general therapeutic session between a therapist and their client. The therapist suggests to the client to start journaling or diarizing his or her experiences every night at home to gain some perspective when read later on.

Transference examples

The client might feel a general frustration towards homework for school and he or she might project those feelings onto the therapist for suggesting the journal method because it’s more work.

Countertransference examples

The therapist might have her own child of a similar age who has a similar distaste towards homework. She might project her feelings of frustration over the attempts to convince her own child to do his homework, onto her child client.

Examples of transference and countertransference in nursing

In a situation where a traumatized child is acting in a panicked manner and the nurse who is assisting him needs to perform a number of tests which includes taking blood samples.

Transference examples

The child might transfer his or her feelings of fear onto the nurse making it difficult for her to do her job or even comfort him.

Countertransference examples

The nurse might be exhausted and frustrated after many hour shifts in a hospital and he or she might project those feelings onto the child which might only aggravate the child’s behavior.

Examples of transference and countertransference in cognitive behavioral therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is based on recognizing any negative thought or behavioral patterns that cause blockages.

Transference examples

Transference in this case could be helpful for the therapist as well as the client in a way that brings to light the root cause of certain aspects that cause negative thoughts or behaviors. The therapist could take note of any anxieties and follow that lead.

Countertransference examples

The therapist could use countertransference to help a client who struggles with conversation in general, let alone expressing deep emotions, by choosing to disclose something personal about himself or herself.

What is the difference between transference and countertransference? (Recap)

The difference between transference and countertransference is transference is the projection of a client onto another person in their life or the therapist whereas countertransference is the projection of feelings and personal experiences onto the client.

Transference vs countertransference: Final points/Our conclusion/Key takeaways

Ultimately transference and countertransference is an unavoidable fact of life. It happens in everyday situations between family members, co-workers, and friends. The key to understanding your loved ones and yourself is noticing transference by them or your own countertransference onto them.

FAQs

How do you identify transference and countertransference?

Noticing unwarranted negative emotional reactions made by the client or the therapist.

How do you deal with transference and countertransference?

Being mindful of your own feelings according to your personal experiences and how you are reacting to other people who are unrelated to those experiences.

How can transference and countertransference be ethical issues?

In the case where the therapist is attracted to or has fallen for his client, it is an ethical question for his career as a counselor or psychologist and how conducts his practice.

Resources

American Psychological Association:

Written by:
Jade Small

What Is A Starseed? {Different Starseed Types & Traits}

“There are numerous Starseeds on this planet and they are here to illumine all of the dark corners of this earth.”
― Michael Bassey Johnson, The Book of Maxims, Poems and Anecdotes

What is a starseed? In this article, we explain what and who they are, where they come from, and why they are here. We also shed light on the different types of starseeds and their extraordinary abilities. If you are reading this, it could be that you either know a starseed or are one yourself.

What is a starseed child

The term “starseed” first came about in the 1970’s, a time when the people of earth were waking up to a change in the vibration on planet earth. It was at this time that the New Age Movement was formed. This marked the beginning of a massive vibrational shift in earth’s consciousness. It was also at this time that earth began to see an influx of new souls incarnating in human form for the human experience, these souls have extraordinary spiritual and psychological traits. It is believed that starseed children are souls from extraterrestrial origins who have incarnated into human form on earth through birth for the great awakening and to assist mankind in their ascension. Strangely enough, many starseed children are born with a kind of amnesia in relation to their soul’s origin, most go through life not knowing that they are in fact starseeds. It is generally through a spiritual awakening or activation of the third eye that they are finally able to remember their origin, past life and souls destiny, or mission here on earth.

What are starseeds here on Earth for?

Starseeds are souls of extraterrestrial origin that have come to earth to assist in the planets’ ascension into the golden age. Their life purpose is to spread their light, love, knowledge, and kindness to all the inhabitants of Gaia (earth). The earth has been dominated by lower vibrational beings for selfish gain for centuries, that is why there is so much pain, greed, and hurt on earth at the moment. Most of the human beings on earth have no idea that they are being controlled by these lower vibrational forces. The mission of a starseed is to raise the vibrations of the earth and all its beings to that of a higher vibration so that we can ascend into the new, golden age of love, peace abundance, and prosperity.

Many of them will have come from different dimensions, and parts of the galaxy, making each of their missions on earth slightly different from the next while executing the same main goal. Some will come from the Pleiadian, and Sirian star systems, others will come from the Andromedan, Orion, Arcturian, and Lyran systems. Each of these systems is invested in helping Earth ascend. Some seeds will come as healers, creative innovation beings, and others as catalysts, (they are the guides who will help people make the jump from 3D to 5D in the near future.) Either way, the ultimate goal of each starseed is to raise the vibration of the planet so that earth may return to its position as a 7th-dimensional galactic planet.

Most of the starseeds come with a sort of ‘know-how’ but because they are entering into energetically dense earth they are subjected to a kind of amnesia and require an event to unlock the DNA coded memories and knowledge of their specific extraterrestrial race, origin, and mission. DNA activation benefits are fairly impressive and certainly worth a study.

What are the different types of starseeds & their origin?

Starseeds have been incarnating on earth for the past 50-60 years, this started when the great shift began in the 60’s and 70’s. Since then the number of starseed souls coming to earth has increased, and this is because the ascension process as sped up. Starseeds come from different star systems within our galaxy and within the multiverse. They have been divided into 3 groups based on their arrival time throughout earths ascension process. The first being; Indigos, the second, Crystals and the third, Rainbows. There are particular personality, behavioral and physical traits and features that manifest in starseeds depending on what star system they originated from. As of today, astrologists know of 6 – 12 star systems from where star seeds have come from, the most common one being the Pleiadian system. The pleiadian starseeds were the first to be identified and documented.

The 6 well-known systems and their traits are;

Pleiades constellation – A cluster is known as the seven sisters and is apart of the Taurus constellation. This cluster is viewable in the night sky. Pleiadian seeds are known to be highly intuitive and empathic. Most of them come to earth as lightworkers and are extremely spiritual beings.
Sirius star – Consists of a binary star system, Sirius A and Sirius B and is located in the Canis Major constellation. Sirians are known to be shy, yet creative and have difficulty trusting others.
Arcturus star – The brightest star in the Bootes constellation. Arcturians are clairvoyant, are great planners, builders, organizers and have a very good memory.
Lyran constellation – Lyrans call the Vegas star home, which is located inside the Lyra constellation. They are star people who are independently minded and value justice.
Orion constellation – The most well-known constellation and is home to the Orions who are said to be logical, and good at self- discipline.
Andromeda galaxy – Our milky way’s neighboring galaxy, located 2.5 million light-years away. Andromedans value freedom, individuality and are intune with their higher self.

There is no one specific origin for each group of seeds, they have come from all over and their starseed title is dependent on the time in which they incarnated in earth.

“I don’t belong on earth, my soul is from the stars.
I’m visiting this planet for a while so i can help people listen to their hearts.”
― Nikki rowe

Indigo Children

What are indigo children?

Indigo starseeds have an aura that is indigo in color. They incarnated on Earth between the 50’s and 80’s. The color of their aura directly corresponds with the 6th chakra or third eye chakra which is indigo in color. This chakra and color is related to truth, vision, clarity and spiritual perseverance. This is the gift these souls have brought to earth for humanity. They entered earth at a very crucial point in time and space, earth and humanity were experiencing a massive shift in consciousness. The indigo souls incarnated to initiate change and to disrupt a very corrupt and toxic political, racial and economical system. They shed light on the toxicity of the systems that governed humanity, bringing about a global awakening, and setting the wheels in motion for earths great ascension. Indigo seeds are the matrix breakers.

Crystal Children

What are crystal children?

It is said that crystal children are the ‘continuation’ of the indigo starseed line. They began incarnating from the 1980’s up until the early 2000’s. They are generally children of indigos and have an aura that is crystal clear. They are known to exude an ‘old soul’ persona, their soul, imbued with the knowledge of their past lives among the stars. They were born as idealists, wanting to create a perfect world for one and all. Crystal seeds live by the Law of One and believe in global and universal oneness. They are here to lay the foundations of love, compassion, empathy, and kindness for the new generation of starseeds to build upon. They are here to teach humanity the gift of unconditional love and kindness.

Rainbow Children

What are rainbow children?

Rainbow children are the latest wave of starseeds that have begun to incarnate on earth, starting after the 2000’s. They are primarily the offspring of the second wave of starseeds, the crystal children. Less is known about them due to the fact that they are so new. What we do know is that they come from the ninth dimension of consciousness. These little souls, no older than 20 years old are born free from negative karma, are highly evolved, and spiritually advanced in ways we are yet to completely understand and fathom. These souls are born with complete trust in their intuition which enables them to move through life effortlessly. They have strong psychic powers, are highly creative, and possess a strong connection to color, which is quite fitting as they have a rainbow aura. The most special thing about rainbow children is that they effortlessly move through life by giving and receiving joy, rather than acting on impulse and desire, even from a very young age.

Starseed children’s characteristics, symbols, markings, blood types & missions

Starseeds have specific characteristics that make them special, this sets them apart from earth seeds. Another interesting and extraordinary trait of starseeds is their blood. Many starseeds are said to have Rh Negative or positive blood – blood from the stars. Rh-negative blood is said to be ‘karma’ free. Meaning, the ancestral karma from previous human incarnations has not been recorded in the DNA structure of the blood unlike other blood types. This allows them to function and vibrate at a much higher frequency, unaffected by the density of earth’s current 3rd-dimensional state. This also allows them to tap into their sensory abilities of telepathy, empathy, clairaudience, and clairvoyance, allowing them to access the akashic records and make contact with ET’s.

Starseed traits & characteristics

Starseed traits and characteristics are unlike those of earth seed souls. Starseeds essentially come from different places and times throughout the multiverse. Their traits and characteristics may vary depending on where in the multiverse they originate from. However, all starseeds carry a similar higher vibrational.

Indigo starseed traits, characteristics & birthmarks

Indigo seeds are known as warriors and are guided and protected by Archangel Michael. They are the pioneers, the first wave of starseeds to incarnate on earth, their characteristics make it easy to distinguish them from those whose souls are earthbound. Indigos may have unusual birthmarks or freckles in peculiar and interesting shapes.

They are strong-willed – Once their mind is set on doing something almost nothing can stop them.
Freethinkers – Indigos have not been held captive by mainstream conditioning. Their opinions and thoughts are driven by reason and logic.
They are headstrong / Non-conformists – Indigos are a breed of their own, their souls are not from here so naturally, they will not conform to societies ‘norm’. They are determined and passionate about their individuality.
Highly creative – Indigos have a very creative mind, they are drawn to the arts and the innovative idea world. Constantly bringing their inner light into reality, whether it be with song, dance, art or practical inventions.
Indigos are naturally idealistic – Indigos perfectionists in some way or the other, for instance, they dream of a perfect world, a world where peace reigns and kindness is the universal language.
They are perceptive and intuitive and have access to psychic abilities – Indigos have a 6thh sense, if you will, and are able to perceive things that are not always visible to others.
They are naturally empathic and compassionate – Most Indigos who incarnated on earth are empaths and were born with empathy and compassion already in their hearts. They are able to tap into the emotions of those around them and feel it as if it were their own, making it easier for them to relate to people and animals. They have a deep level of compassion for all beings and being kind is like second nature, that is why children and animals are drawn to them.

What do Indigo starseeds look like?

There isn’t much information documented on the physical traits of Indigos, however, the common physical traits seen among indigos are; piercing bright eyes and a youthful appearance, despite their age.

Crystal starseed traits, characteristics & birthmarks

Crystal seeds are exceptional beings who were sent here to lay the foundation of love, empathy, compassion, and kindness for humanity in the great ascension. They exude an ‘old soul persona and are known to have a number of unique traits such as;

They are sensitive, both mentally and physically – they often suffer from intolerances and allergies caused by chemicals and pollutants.
Highly spontaneous and tend to act before thinking things through.
Crystal seeds are natural huggers and often do not know or comprehend personal boundaries, this is because they feel deeply connected to everything, and everyone (they live by the law of one)
Crystal seeds are badly affected by negative events, both personal and worldwide.
They tend to become healers, psychics, artists, helpers/volunteers, or teachers.
They possess massive amounts of love for their family, friends, and animals.
They willingly give their love unconditionally.
They tend to get bored easily and struggle to learn if they are being forced.
They have access to gifts of clairvoyance and healing abilities.

Crystal seeds may have an unusual birthmark or freckles in peculiar and interesting shapes on their body. This can be a clue as to their cosmic origin.

What do Crystal starseeds look like?

There is not much documented on the physical traits of crystal seeds except for having a deeply penetrating gaze and big, beautiful, lively round eyes.

Rainbow starseed traits, characteristics & birthmarks

We do not know much about the new 9th dimensional beings incarnating on earth at the moment because they are still so new to us. However, we have been able to document some of the exceptional traits and characteristics being shown by the rainbow seeds that have so far incarnated. Rainbow seeds may have an unusual birth mark/s or freckles in peculiar and interesting shapes which can sometimes be a clue to where in the stars they have come from.

They are fearless – They have no fear within their DNA coding and therefore are able to shine their light and fulfill their purpose with no hesitance.
They are focused on service – They are happiest when serving the divine with assisting humanity in their ascension process.
They are high energy beings and tend to be hyperactive.
Rainbow seeds are incredibly strong-willed
They are highly creative and possess the ability to manifest their needs into their reality in an instant.
They are attuned to color vibration and healing and seek to be surrounded by color as much as possible.
They are innovative – They have new, original and practical ideas on how to create a greener more sustainable future.
They possess incredible healing and psychic abilities, unlike anything the world has seen before.
They are naturally empathic and are able to tap into people and animals energies and help balance those energies – This is also why people and animals are so drawn to rainbow seeds.
They are often misdiagnosed with autism or ADD/ADHD because they learn and grow at a different pace to others.

What do Rainbow starseeds look like?

There are no recorded physical traits of rainbow seeds except that they have large, bright eyes, a beautiful and infectious smile, and exude a bright rainbow aura.

Starseed symbols

Starseed symbols are geometric shapes that hold symbolic meaning. It is very similar to the way we use symbols here on earth. These symbols are also sometimes called sigils, or light codes and light language. There are many, and each one is different. Each star race has its own set of codes or symbols, each unique to its origin. The most common or known set of symbols is the angelic codes. These symbols are said to hold energetic resonance and when meditated on can help you attune to its star origin. The symbols also assist in activating and remembering DNA coded memories.

Sirian starseed symbol

Pleiadian starseed symbol

Lyrian starseed symbol

Arcturian starseed symbol

Andromedan starseed symbol

Starseed markings

Starseed markings are not what you think it is, it is not a physical mark on your skin, it is the positioning of celestial bodies (planets and stars) at the time of your birth. By analyzing your planetary placements you are able to tell if you have extraterrestrial origins. This is done by determining the position of the sun, moon, and other visible planets and whether or not they correspond with a specific star system at the time of your birth. By determining the areas they were in, it’s possible to discover your soul’s cosmic origin.

Origin starseed markings

Origin marking indicates which star system you originate from.

Incarnation starseed markings

Incarnation marking, this mark tells you about your past lives. If you consider yourself an old soul that you have most likely had multiple past lives. Incarnation marks are like pins on a map, showing you all the places you’ve been and lived in the past. Incarnation markings can help you trace your movements through the stars and various star systems that you may have existed before coming to earth as a starseed.

Indigo starseed markings

Starseed markings can be determined by analyzing the placements of celestial bodies in your natal chart. It’s important to note the placement of the sun and moon at the exact time of your birth. Starseed origins are determined by noting the correspondence of the planets to different star systems. In doing this, you are able to trace your cosmic origin.

Crystal starseed markings

There are no exact recordings of crystal starseed markings because these markings may vary depending on the individual and their planetary placements at the time of their incarnation.

Rainbow starseed markings

Rainbow starseed markings can be determined by analyzing the positions of the planets within your birth chart. This method uses the unique placements of these planetary bodies to discover the origins of your soul and home star system.

Starseed missions

The missions of starseeds can vary depending on what star system they originated from, however, each starseed shares a common objective and that is to assist earth and all its beings in the great ascension process.

Indigo starseed mission

Indigo seeds came first, they came at a crucial point in history, a time where earth and its beings were experiencing a shift in consciousness. Indigos came to initiate change, to disrupt the old and corrupt system. Their main goal was and still is, to shed light on how unfair, outdated, and rotten earth’s political and economical systems are. To shed light on racism and classism and help those trapped in these old lower vibrational paradigms break free. They came to clear the earth of its corruption and societal illnesses while teaching humanity what true integrity means. They were the first wave of higher vibrational souls to come earth to assist. They are the barrier breakers.

Crystal starseed mission

Crystal seeds came to lay the foundation of love and compassion. They came with a clear mission to uplift the consciousness of humanity and the natural world as a whole. These seeds function and work as a collective rather than individuals, making their presence that much stronger. They live by the Law of One and believe in global and universal oneness. Their life’s purpose is dedicated to teaching humanity the importance of love, peace, and kindness. They are here to show mankind that a future imbued with values rooted in love, compassion, and peace, is possible. They are here to help human beings realize their inner, divine power.

Rainbow starseed mission

Rainbow seeds are the latest wave of extraterrestrial souls to incarnate on earth. They have come with their colorful auras and extraordinary spiritual abilities to heal and rebalance the distorted energies of humanity. Their mission is to anchor in 9th-dimensional energy and help usher in a more technologically advanced, compassionate, empathetic, green, and sustainable future for all. One where we are in harmony with Gaia and her animals. With their kind and loving hearts, they will lead the way to a future where we live in harmonic abundance with the earth. They will help humanity realize and anchor in the divine power that resides within each being on earth, thus bringing us all closer to divinity.

How to know if you’re a starseed child

You might find yourself asking if yourself whether or not you are a starseed. The answer to that is, if you felt a resonance with this article and the information within, chances are, you probably are one, or know one. Take the starseed quiz to see if you really are! You may even find you’re an extradimensional being.

Our conclusion about the different types of starseed children

Whether you’ve felt the planetary shift or not, it is happening. Earth’s consciousness is rising and we are evolving as a human race with the help of starseeds. Starseeds are also evidence of the existence of benevolent ET races who only want the best for earth and humanity. The future is looking bright with the increasing number of rainbow starseeds incarnating daily and that will continue to incarnate in the years to come.

Written by:
Jade Small

How To Use Alchemical Symbols: 22 Alchemy Symbols & Meanings

Alchemy has had a long history in our world has been starting off its infancy in Ancient Egypt, having been adopted by other civilizations over the centuries into more refined practices reaching new heights. Eventually, alchemical symbols were created in order to further refine the practice and help document the elements leading to new discoveries and mixtures. mostly in the pursuit of eternal life, in attempts to create elixirs to prolong life, and in pursuit of creating precious gold out of simple metals through long arduous processes of slow-burning and mixture of other elements to make a new amalgam. These symbols of this proto-science helped pave the way for new discoveries of new elements and alike, aiding humankind in its progress to the point of modern chemistry.

What are Alchemical symbols?

Alchemical symbols are glyphs used to indicate the different compounds and chemical elements of which everything is comprised of. The three primes or tria prima of these include salt (body – base matter)/ mercury (the spirit – mind)/sulfur (soul).

The historical significance of alchemical element symbols

Alchemy first originated in Ancient Egypt. Ancient Egyptians were enthralled by their beliefs in life after death, and the procedures of mummification most likely gave rise to their basic understanding of chemical knowledge in the pursuit of immortality. Alchemists had three main objectives with these chemicals, immortality being one of them; combining elements to create the mythical Philosopher’s Stone which allegedly could transmute metals like lead into gold and give the beholder eternal life and making elixirs for eternal youth, health, and beauty. The word Alchemy is derived from the Arabic phrase ‘Al-Kimia’ referring to the Egyptian preparations of elixirs and the fertile banks of the Nile river. Eventually, it spread as different nations conquered Egypt from the Greeks and the Arabs who adopted this proto-science eventually spreading to Asia and Europe. Symbols were created to represent different elements and even astronomical symbols of planets were used, or the signs of the zodiac were also used.

Alchemical table of symbols

22 Alchemy symbols with meanings and how to use them

Alchemy is the practice of studying the reaction each different element made when combined. goal being turning base metals into metals of value, primarily gold. In the 17th century alchemists devised different symbols to identify various materials. Often there were various different symbols for one element, because at the time one could be persecuted for this practice.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Mercury

Mercury (one of the seven planetary symbols) also known in ancient times as quicksilver, represents the mind, and was believed to be able to shift between life and death as it was able to shift between liquid and solid states. It was represented by the planet Mercury and is representative of female energy.

How to use Mercury alchemy symbols

It is often depicted as a snake or serpent.
The symbol could be used to represent the metal mercury as well as the planet.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Salt

Salt is representative of the body and all physical matter, crystallization and condensation. The reason why alchemists would compare salt to the body was because of the impure state it was seen to be in when raw but through a chemical process it’s dissolved and purified, which is similar to the process the human body undergoes when detoxing toxins.

How to use Salt alchemy symbols

A circle with a horizontal line through the middle

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Sulphur

Sulphur is associated with dryness, heat and masculinity. It can also represent evaporation, expansion and dissolution. It is depicted as the soul and is seen as the middling element connecting salt and Sulphur.

How to use Sulphur alchemy symbols

At the bottom there is a Greek cross with a triangle on top.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Air

Air represents the life giving force and is associated with the colors white and blue. It can also represent heat and wetness.

How to use Air alchemy symbols

It is an upward facing triangle with a horizontal line through the top half.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Earth

Earth represents physical movement and sensations, associated with brown and green and has been associated with dry and cold.

How to use Earth alchemy symbols

Downward-pointing triangle with a horizontal line through the bottom half.
it is basically the air symbol, upside down.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Water

Water is often linked to the symbol of mercury and is a representative of intuition.

How to use Water alchemy symbols

Downward facing triangle.
Used to represent something which holds water like a chalice or a glass.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Fire

Fire represents feelings like hate and anger or love and passion. It identifies with the colors Red and orange are associated with it as well as hot and dry.

How to use Fire alchemy symbols

Upward facing triangle.
Opposite of the water symbol.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Lead

Lead, one of the seven classical metals which will be discussed below. It is linked to the spleen in human bodies.

How to use Lead alchemy symbols

It is Associated with the planet Saturn.
Has a cross with a horizontal line through the top half which is longer on the right hand side of the vertical line.
Has a curved line going to the right of the cross.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Tin

Tin is associated with Jupiter and the day of the week, Thursday.

How to use Tin alchemy symbols

It can be used for liver related situations.
The symbol looks as if the numbers 2 and 4 were combined. The horizontal base line of the number two is shared with the base horizontal line of the number 4.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Iron

Iron is associated with masculine energy and the planet Mars. Its day of the week is a Tuesday.

How to use Iron alchemy symbols

The traditional male sign is the symbol for iron.
It can be used in relation to the gallbladder.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Gold

Gold is associated with the Sun. It represents perfection and one of the most prominent symbols as most alchemists strived to create this metal.

How to use Gold alchemy symbols

Either a circle with a dot in the middle or or a circle with curvy lines coming out from the circumference, like sun rays.
It is used in relation to the heart.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Copper

Copper is associated with Venus and Friday. This symbol embodies characteristics of love, beauty, balance and feminine energies.

How to use Copper alchemy symbols

Either a female symbol or an X intersected by 3 lines. The centre being shorter with a colored in diamond shapes at each end where the other two lines have hollow circles at each end.
It can be used for the kidneys.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Silver

Silver represents the Moon and purity.

How to use Silver alchemy symbols

A crescent moon which can face either to the right or the left.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Antimony

Antimony represents the untamed or feral parts of human nature and is often seen representing the wolf.

How to use Antimony alchemy symbols

Circle with cross above.
Looks like an upside down female symbol.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Arsenic

Arsenic is sometimes symbolized with a swan because it can transform it’s physical appearance, like ugly duckling becoming a beautiful swan.

How to use Arsenic alchemy symbols

Overlapping triangles, one downward facing triangle and one upward facing triangle with an open section on the bottom middle.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Bismuth

Bismuth has often been mistaken for tin and lead but not much is known about it.

How to use Bismuth alchemy symbols

It is still uncertain what Bismuth was used for.
It is symbolized as a circle with a semi-circle on top facing upwards like a cup.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Magnesium

Magnesium represents eternity.

How to use Magnesium alchemy symbols

Alchemists used magnesium carbonate for experiments as actual magnesium could not be found in its pure form.
Most common symbol is a stylized D with a cross coming out from the right of the D.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Phosphorus

Phosphorous represents the spirit and was important for alchemists as it was believed to capture light.

How to use Phosphorus alchemy symbols

One vertical lined crossed with two horizontal lines with a triangle on top of that.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Platinum

Platinum was believed to be a combination of gold and silver.

How to use Platinum alchemy symbols

left facing crescent moon left of a circle with a dot in center.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Potassium

Potassium could not be found naturally so potassium carbonate (potash) was used for experiments.

How to use Potassium alchemy symbols

A cross with a rectangle on top.

Meaning of the alchemy symbol for Zinc

Zinc was burnt to create zinc oxide often referred to as “white snow”

How to use Zinc alchemy symbols

Stylized Z with bottom looking like lowercase f.

Our conclusion about alchemical symbolism

Alchemical symbols depicting chemical elements have been used by many different alchemists across the globe for over a thousand years. There have been many variations r the same element in the later half of the millennia for fear of persecution in the 18th century having evolved into chemistry where there was no more need for them. They were the precursor to modern science and chemistry and have had a long impactful history in human civilization allowing many to learn many new ways to combine elements into something new and wonderful.

FAQs

How many alchemy symbols are there?

There are 22 symbols in total.

Where did alchemy symbols come from?

It is said that Alchemy was first used in the early centuries of AD, having its roots in Egypt, Rome and Greece. By the time the 12th century came about it was apparent by evidence that the use of the alchemical symbols had been adopted by India, China and England.

How to recognize alchemical symbols?

Alchemical symbols can be recognized by their simple in nature geometrical shapes. Some stylized with curves and many with straight intersecting lines, they are almost hieroglyphic in nature.

Written by:
Jade Small