What Is Shadow Work and why is it important?

Shadow work is a process based in delving into the unconscious parts of oneself. Its aim is to uncover these unseen and mostly denied parts so that one can live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Its integration involves bringing the hidden aspects of our personality “the shadows” into the light so that we can further understand ourselves and fully develop our personalities.

It was Carl Jung, a pioneer in analytical psychology of the 20th century who made this significant contribution to our society. He defined “the shadows” as part of the psyche that contain suppressed weaknesses and desires such as envy, anger, selfishness and jealousy.

These shadows are formed naturally through the process of socialization and just growing up, and as we conform to certain social norms we are lead to repress traits and desires deemed unacceptable thus leading to said shadows.

It is highly important to address these shadows because they can lead us to a healed inner space that can transform the way we live our lives. The benefits include and are not limited to greater self awareness, better relationships, personal growth and empowerment, emotional harmony and deeper insight.

Integrating and healing our shadows can help us make better decisions and lead healthier lives. Sometimes growing up we did not have control over our own lives but as adults we owe to our inner child to establish a safe space by working on our most repressed areas os self.