What Is the Shadow Self? 8 Powerful Considerations
Both psychology and spirituality have furrowed new rows as they both pursue the understanding of the shadow self and/or shadow work. Because of its seemingly mysterious nature, the shadow self is a topic for most people’s personal development and healing. It is a part of every person, even the spiritually evolved. So, to say one has no shadow self left to explore is to be on the other side of the veil, dead. We are here to learn from our shadow self and develop deeper self-awareness.
What exactly is the Shadow Self?
Swiss psychologist Carl Jung introduced the phrase “shadow self,” and he explained it as the part of ourselves that we ignore, hide, and/or suppress. Often, it is the perceived “bad parts” of who we are that make up the shadow self, such as jealousy, insecurity, or pride. Yet, the qualities we develop from shadow work can also be strengths we have suppressed–traits such as creativity, intuition, and ambition.
Our shadow self is developed as we grow up. I have read some astrology texts which say we have a significant astrological event with our chart around 6 or 7 years old. At those ages, we all have astrological events that bring conflict and awakening to our lives.
This makes sense to me, because I remember being that age and beginning to understand that certain things I said or did were unacceptable. For example, I distinctly remember being spanked for asking a question aloud in church. Thus, once I understood that speaking out was “bad,” I learned to bury my thoughts. and kept my opinions to myself. Over time, that evolved to being quiet to be “good.” That became part of my shadow self. That affected my relationships for years to come. See how this develops?
We become aware of our shadow self when we are triggered. Being triggered can manifest as chagrin or anger, or some unexpected emotional reaction. But being triggered is a good thing. Knowing our “enemy” of the shadow self can help us find deep healing. It is more of an open door than a destination. By exploring it and seeking to understand it, we can become a more evolved, happier person because we are no longer held back by aspects of it.
One thing to note, the shadow self is considered negative, and it certainly can be. However, it can also be seen as a way to explore one’s potential. It is made up of anything we have learned to avoid.
For example, when we are children, we have lofty ideas about what it is to be grown up and what we want to be. Unfettered, we develop dreams, desires for talent, and passions. Over time, we suppress those dreams, hide our talents, and make our passions dormant. Exploring the shadow self simply helps us get back in touch with those suppressed aspects of ourselves.
If you feel drawn to deepen your journey, you’re invited to book a session with me at InsightPsychics.com/Leah for personalized guidance.
How can I identify my Shadow Self?
- Emotional manifestations – Sudden and strong reactions usually point to your shadow needs. We see in others what is our pain. We are often completely unaware of other people’s issues unless they are issues within us. We mirror, and others mirror the things that we may need to work on.
This makes me think of the character Hester Prynn in The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Once she was wearing the scarlet letter in her daily life, she became aware of all the unseen and hidden scarlet letters in the lives of others. We do this, too.
Are you irritated by the pridefulness of others? Maybe there is some pridefulness that you are ashamed of in your own self. Do loud children anger you? Maybe there is some kind of issue within you that makes you particularly sensitive.
- Projection
This occurs when we see our hidden traits in other people, whether they are really there or not. A person who does not see and accept their own loneliness may accuse another of being “too needy” and “solitary.”
- Sabotage of self
We often do things to protect ourselves from hurt or failure. Procrastination, for example, can cause self-sabotage that protects us from feeling like a failure.
- Disconnection from your passions
When parts of us are put away, we often fail to thrive. This failure to thrive can feel like we don’t know ourselves well enough to find the passions that bring us thriving. And, technically, if we don’t access that shadow side, we may not be able to identify or access our purpose.
If any of these signs resonate with you, a personalized intuitive reading can help illuminate the deeper meaning behind your patterns. Visit InsightPsychics.com/Leah to book a session and begin unlocking these insights.
The Healing Work of Shadow Work
When we do the work of shadow work, we explore, understand, and integrate our unseen selves. This should be approached with compassion, honesty, and self-forgiveness. Done correctly and as completely as possible, healing can create emotional balance, better relationships, less stress, more self-confidence, spiritual clarity, and a deeper love for yourself.
How can someone do Shadow Work?
Shadow work can be done with another person, like a counselor or therapist. It can also be done by yourself.
- Notice your reactions. When someone or something triggers you, notice it. Then ask yourself, “What part of me is asking to be seen?”
- Write in a journal. Being uncensored can help you uncover beliefs and emotions beneath the surface.
- Love thyself. You must not judge yourself. You are not “bad.” You are not “broken.” You are identifying the truth.
- Seek guidance from a professional. A therapist, coach, healer, or intuitive psychic can help you explore (without judgment) yourself.
Click here for a reading with Leah to explore your Shadow self. Let’s make your life better!
Exploring your shadow self is not to be feared. It is to be embraced. A better, happier life is ahead for those who do not fear to tread on this part of their lives.
Peace, Y’all–Leah
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