Inner Cosmos as a Resource for Psychological Stabilisation: The Therapeutic Potential of Cosmological Imagination -

Article

Open Access

by Anastasiia Lazarieva¹
¹ Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv; Psychiatry and Physical Rehabilitation Department of PHEE “Kyiv Medical University” (Kyiv, Ukraine)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.29202/phil-cosm/35/6
Received: 18 June 2025 / Accepted: 22 August 2025 / Published: 10 October 2025

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Abstract

The study explores the therapeutic value of “inner cosmos” and “cosmological imagination” by applying philosophical and psychological methods to analyze these concepts. Modern psychiatric treatments in today’s society focus on managing symptoms while attempting to restore personal integrity, especially in light of global events like armed conflicts and ecological disasters. The research combines phenomenological, archetypal, historical-medical, and neuropsychological approaches to demonstrate the healing benefits of cosmological imagination. The theoretical framework merges historical microcosm-macrocosm ideas with current phenomenological theories, starting with Husserl’s concept of intentionality and progressing through Merleau-Ponty’s embodied perception to reach modern cosmopsychism. The spontaneous appearance of archetypal cosmological symbols, such as mandalas, is viewed through Jungian theory as a response to psychological fragmentation, which helps create order and wholeness. Historical evidence shows that cosmic imagery has remained a core element in medical thought from Paracelsus through Renaissance traditions.Neuropsychological studies indicate that cosmological imagination activates three key brain networks, including the medial prefrontal cortex and the default mode network, as well as regions involved in self-awareness and emotional regulation. Functional MRI scans demonstrate that mental imagery stimulates brain pathways similar to those used in direct perception, supporting the biological effectiveness of therapy.

The clinical applications reveal that guided imagery, mindfulness meditation, and therapeutic work for depression, anxiety, and trauma are effective. This approach holds promise for developing new therapies that integrate philosophical insights with scientific research. Using cosmological images helps individuals establish order and predictability, while connecting to higher realities, which assists in coping with the large-scale traumatic effects of current conflicts.

Keywords: inner cosmos, cosmological imagination, phenomenology, collective traumatic experience

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Lazarieva, Anastasiia (2025) Inner Cosmos as a Resource for Psychological Stabilisation: The Therapeutic Potential of Cosmological Imagination. Philosophy and Cosmology, Volume 35, 164-183. https://doi.org/10.29202/phil-cosm/35/6

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