Shadow work is not a new mental health trend, but rather a psychological concept and therapeutic approach that has been around for several decades. It is rooted in the ideas of swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung and has been embraced by various therapeutic traditions and self-help movements. Shadow work involves exploring and integrating the unconscious or “SHADOW” aspects of one’s personality.
Shadow work : what is it
The term shadow in this context refers to the parts of your personality that you are not fully aware of or have repressed. These could be traits, emotions, memories, or beliefs that you find uncomfortable, unacceptable, or socially unacceptable. These aspects are often hidden from conscious awareness.
Shadow work involves delving into your subconscious to uncover these hidden aspects. This can be done through various therapeutic techniques such as journaling, meditation, dream analysis, or discussing with a therapist.
Once you have identified these hidden aspects, the goal is to accept them without judgement. This is a crucial step in shadow work, as it allows you to acknowledge that these aspects are a part of you. Whether you like them or not.
Integrate these shadow aspects into your conscious awareness and your sense of self. This process can lead to personal growth, greater self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of your motivations and behaviours.
By working with your shadow, you can address unresolved issues, emotional wounds, and patterns of behaviour that may be holding you back or causing distress in your life. This can lead to personal healing and growth.
While shadow work has been around for a while, it may appear to be a “trend” in mental health discussions because it periodically gains popularity in self-help and personal development circles.
Shadow work : how does it help one’s mental health
Shadow work encourages individuals to explore and understand their hidden or repressed thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. This increased self-awareness can help you recognize patterns of behaviour and thought that may be contributing to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
By acknowledging and accepting the shadow aspects of your personality, you can address unresolved emotional wounds and traumas. This process of emotional healing can lead to reduced emotional distress and an improved overall sense of well-being.
Many mental health struggles are exacerbated by self-criticism and self-judgement. Shadow work promotes self-acceptance by helping individuals recognise that all aspects of their personality, even the less desirable ones, are part of being human. This reduction in self-judgement can lead to increased self-esteem and self-compassion.
Shadow work : In social media
Shadow work is something portrayed in various ways on social media, especially on platforms focused on personal development, spirituality, and self-help. It’s important to note that the portrayal of shadow work on social media can vary widely, and not all content may accurately represent the depth and complexity of the practice.
Social media platforms often feature inspirational quotes and memes related to shadow work.
Some individuals share their personal experiences with shadow work on platforms like blogs, Instagram and Youtube. They may discuss their own struggles, breakthroughs, and lessons learned from engaging in shadow work. These accounts can offer a more personal perspective on the practice.
