3 Simple Shadow Work Techniques
Today we wanted to share 3 simple techniques you can try when delving into shadow work. It can be hard to know where to start – working with the shadow is personal so it’s not easy to find a one size fits all method. But these techniques can get you closer to knowing your shadows and bringing them into the light.
Psst! If you want to read more about getting started with shadow work, check out our introductory article here.
But before we get into it, here’s a quick recap on shadow work: it’s not about simply identifying your flaws. Its about figuring out what parts of you have been suppressed, getting to know these parts and attempting to bring them to the surface.
When we are born, we are born whole. There are no suppressions, no shadows, just purity and wholeness. As life goes on, parts of us sink into the subconscious whether we mean for them to or not. We become fractured, half of us living in the light and the other half in the dark. Shadow work is a way to integrate these halves, making us whole again.
So without further ado, here are 3 simple shadow work techniques you can try today!
Forgiveness Letter
Write a letter forgiving yourself.
How does it feel when you don’t get closure? Consider a book or movie you’ve watched with an ambiguous ending. Like Verity or Donnie Darko – where you’re left thinking but what does this mean!? Or a cliffhanger episode of your fave TV show. No closure has a way of making you obsess, living in the past and the what if’s.
This is why writing a forgiveness letter to yourself can provide a sense of relief – perhaps relief you didn’t know you needed. Forgive yourself for your mistakes and focus on the lessons instead. In fact, be grateful for your mistakes. They’ve built you, educated you, and led you to where you are now: investing in yourself by healing through shadow work.
With this technique, write about what you’re forgiving yourself for – but also tell yourself why. The why of everything is often the key that unlocks a world of wisdom.
Journaling
Of course its journaling! It’s always journaling.
Its one of the most effective methods of reflection, connecting to your inner wisdom, and making space in your mind. When we journal, we’re able to separate our thoughts from ourselves and look at them in a different light. We’re able to work through our emotions in a safe way, discover more about ourselves, and identify recurring themes in our lives.
Sometimes it’s like opening the vent on a pressure cooker; and by making more space within we’re able to look at our emotions and thoughts with more clarity. It’s one of the most valuable practices a witch can engage in, and if you don’t feel like writing you can use your phone, laptop or even a private voice memo to let it out. The idea is to take time for yourself, release what’s taking up space in your head, and reflect on it with the intention of growing and learning.
Here are some tips on how to do shadow work through journaling:
- Set aside some time each day to write about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Be honest and open with yourself.
- Focus on situations that trigger strong emotional reactions or patterns of behaviour that you find challenging.
- Ask yourself probing questions such as, “Why did I react this way?” or “What fears or insecurities might be underlying this emotion?”
- Pay attention to recurring themes or symbols in your writing, as they may offer insights into your subconscious.
Meet Your Shadow
Did you know you could open a dialogue with your shadow?
Once you’ve identified a shadow, you can meet with it the same way you would a goddess in meditation. Start a conversation with your shadow, ask it why it behaves the way it does. But here’s the important part: when your shadow replies, listen. Hold space for what it has to say and don’t judge. Open yourself to the breakthrough you deserve.
It’s important to make this meeting your own, but here are some simple steps to follow:
- Find a quiet space to sit comfortably and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths to relax.
- Imagine a safe and serene place where you can meet and communicate with your shadow self. It could be a forest, a beach, or any location that feels comforting to you.
- Invite your shadow self to appear and engage in a conversation. Ask questions and listen attentively to the responses that come up. Explore any emotions or insights that arise during this interaction.
We hope these simple techniques give you the confidence to get started. When you’re doing shadow work, remember to be gentle with yourself, cherish the lessons that come hand in hand with mistakes, and embrace the journey of becoming whole once more. Your willingness to undertake this process is a testament to your commitment to personal growth, and the breakthrough you deserve awaits on the other side.
