| This study articulates a rationale for a cosmologically oriented, movement-based expressive arts educational and therapeutic model. It is inspired by the investigation of a primal symbol, the vortex, and of movements which incarnate its axially aligned, spiraling rotational form, with a special focus on circle dancing and spinning.;The first section examines theoretical issues. I establish the ontological framework for my exploration, clarifying that my worldview is founded on a "contemporary Tantrism" in which life is seen as inherently creative. An approach to epistemology grounded in imaginal and kinesthetic experience is proposed. The history of such an imaginal epistemology is summarised, followed by a discussion of significant ideas on the nature and function of symbols. Two approaches to psychophysical transformation which form the foundation for my work are described: the tradition of harmonisation with the cosmos, and its expression in cosmic dance; and the principles and practices of embodied spiritual disciplines that aim at identification with a numinous image.;The second section is an integrative symbol study of the vortex as a symbol of generativity. It is framed by a developmental as well as a cosmological model, and features a chronologically organized crossdisciplinary review on the topic, with sources ranging from art history, anthropology, mythology, symbol studies, and spiritual philosophy to contemporary science.;The third section explains how these ideas can be applied to emotional healing, personal growth, and artistic development. I introduce relevant concepts, theories, and case studies from the fields of expressive arts, somatic, and dance therapy. This is followed by a conversation on the cosmological basis of formal dance training. Some modern and contemporary practices of cosmological movement, and its relationship to the emerging fields of ecopsychology and transpersonal psychology are offered. Ideas for the implementation of a practical model are then suggested. |
