Shadows

Shadow work is designed to help you integrate and accept every single part of yourself so that you can live and thrive with more clarity and authenticity. Elizabeth Perry 

 I was reading today on  the shadow self and what resonated with me was the notion that there are all parts of us that we either are not too fond of or that we hide because we are not ready to deal with for whatever reason. When we reject parts of ourselves, we cannot be whole, authentic or at peace. When we embrace all part of us we can grow and be at peace.

According to Jung, all of us have a shadow self and It is generally made up of the parts of ourselves we deem unacceptable. For many people this means things like our sadness, rage, laziness, and cruelty. But you might also see as uncivilized and unacceptable things like your personal power, your independence, or your emotional sensitivity.

According to Andrea M Darcy of the Harley Clinic Although we might want to see our shadow as ‘negative’, this is not true. The Shadow is rather what you yourself perceive as dark and weak about yourself, and therefore needing to be hidden and denied. But this depends on your own perspective , and your levels of self-esteem. Our shadow self only pose a problem if we handle or perceive them incorrectly and without self acceptance. The idea is to integrate it in how we live rather than to eliminate it all together - like the  ego.

It prompted me to ask myself "What is my shadow side and why do I perceive it as such?" I could not answer it right away and have started journaling to unearth and view it - no pun intended.

The revelation of your shadow self can also come on what you constantly blame others for, what pisses you off about other people (projection) and speaking with a therapist.

Come along on the Journey with me, these are the journaling prompts that I will be using:

What things do you most fear others discovering about you?

Do you ever feel shame? Why?

What are your biggest triggers, and where do you feel they come from?

What are your negative self-images or thoughts about yourself?

When you are very angry at others, what things do you think about them?

What do your recent dreams tell you about your fears?

Getting stuck in with curiosity!

Peace and Blessings