“Only by learning to live in harmony with your contradictions can you keep it all afloat”
Audre Lorde
Shadow work is the work one does to confront “the shadow self” a term created by the Swiss psychiatrist Carl C. Jung. Jung, defined the shadow self as the parts of the personality that we keep hidden or private from others. He believed that there are two sides to our personalities, the “persona” what we show to the world and the “shadow self” what we keep hidden from the world. He also believed that when the shadow self is left unchecked and ignored parts of this hidden self begin to seep into the carefully cultivated world designed by the persona.
At its core, shadow work is an introspective and healing practice that involves delving into the deepest parts of ourselves—the aspects we might have suppressed, denied, or deemed unworthy. The shadow self is not always the malefic or shameful parts of ourselves but simply the parts that we wish to keep hidden. These are the parts that often hold our fears, traumas, insecurities, and unresolved emotions.
For example, as a child you were told by your parents or someone significant in your life, that you are too sensitive and that you need get “tougher skin”. As you grow up, you learn to suppress the urge release your true emotions and instead respond in a way that you believe you are supposed to in order to gain approval. The mask of the Persona takes over to “protect” you from a perceived negative response from others. However, over time, you begin to notice that the more you trade your authenticity for approval you are becoming more short tempered, easily triggered and lashing out at others in big ways for small incidents and that others are walking on egg shells around you, not knowing what may set you off. This is because you have been stuck in a cycle of muting your emotions instead of expressing how you truly feel, which in time, festers and breeds resentment. By bravely facing and embracing these elements, we create space for healing and growth.
So, how do we begin this profound journey? First, embarking on the journey of shadow work requires patience, compassion, and a willingness to confront discomfort. Begin by creating a safe and sacred space where you can connect with your inner self without judgment. Meditation and mindfulness practices help you connect with your inner self, enabling you to gently peel back the layers. Journaling can be a powerful tool to record your thoughts, feelings, and revelations along the way. Reflect on past experiences and emotions that may have been buried within you.
Shadow work empowers us to break free from the chains of generational traumas and societal expectations and embrace our true essence.
Remember, shadow work is not a quick fix – it’s a lifelong practice. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you navigate through layers of your subconscious. Seek support from a therapist, coach, or a supportive community. As you continue this journey, you’ll find that integrating your shadows leads to a profound sense of liberation and empowerment. Embracing your full spectrum of experiences and emotions allows you to radiate your authentic light, inspiring others on their paths of transformation.
The Bible says in Romans 12:2 “let us be transformed by the renewing of our minds”. At its essence, that is shadow work; taking the energy that has been repressed, acknowledging it, and examining it to discover its roots and transforming your perceptions and the energy surrounding the shadow behavior. By seeing it as neither good or bad, but rather as a part of you that makes up the entirety of your authentic self, you begin to see that the shadow behavior that you’re suppressing actually has a purpose and adds value to your life.
As you begin to do the work, remember that you’re embarking on a courageous and liberating journey. Embrace your shadows and wounded inner child with patience, love and understanding, for they hold the key to your personal evolution and empowerment. By embracing your true self, shadows and all, you illuminate a path towards authenticity, healing, and radiant transformation. Stay strong, you are worth every step of this incredible journey.
Balanced Empress 