MIDTERM

STATEMENT

Researching and discussing the topic, we talked about how self-care has become more
complex in its portrayal, feeling similar to a pressure of performance, an act of luxury to perform by yourself. We want to visualise the practise of self-care in a different light, how one must critically assess how to care best for their individual, a way to nourish the self.

We researched Carl Jung's theory of the psyche. The self which is the core of our psyche's map shows what we are now, everything we once were, as well as what we can potentially become. We will use nature as a metaphor to explain the concept of the self and how one can make use of and optimise external and internal elements to take care. In nature, nothing is done without a reason. Humans have found ways to work around most obstacles, with positive and negative results. We are working against our bodies and minds by constantly exposing ourselves to stress, sitting indoors and overconsumption. Looking at evolution, and how a species continues to develop, we used this as an example in our map to visualise how we can thrive as well.

A plant needs enough nutrition in order to exist, such as fertile soil, enough sunlight, not too rain, cooperation with insects etc. With humans it is the same. We need a balance of multiple factors. Using this example of the plant, we analyse the self and show how, if a plant were to lack any of the factors, it will never reach its full potential

We work together by having regular meetings scheduled in which we discuss our individual research and findings, read texts together to clarify themes and subjects, then slowly progressing on deciding the concept/direction we want to head in. Summarizing meetings and sharing notes with each other to work on it later individually, directed by the discussions.

NARRATIVE

The seed is the core, which is the unseen self. This part only you are aware of. The stem is the identity, how people know you, your face to the outside world. Your roots are grown by learning, experience and education. They hold you strong in the soil. This earth consists of your history, your family and your youth. How nutritious and balanced this soil is, will greatly influence your future development into adulthood. Your leaves will grow with all these elements, and they will do the best if you practise self-care. The elements like the sun, wind and rain will influence how quickly you are able to mature. If you know how to practise self-care, you are able to resist and grow. The goal is to make a flower, the end of evolution and the optimal self.

FEEDBACK

What is missing, map now is mostly based on the outside world, selfcare is also an interaction with yourself, a lot of things happened internal, not just external, think of coping mechanisms. Take a look at the inside world as well. Nature is a nice approach, its easy to relate to nature.

Project reminded of layers, trees, growing inside. How did we adapt to challenges of inside and outside? Book mentioned: The hidden life of trees, Peter Wohlleben

Other feedback:
Try to look at the history of self-care, what’s the difference between the past-now?
Theory part: Why do you choose Carl Jung as the based- research? Look at other theories?