Shadow Work: What Every Beginner Needs To Know For Better Mental Health

If you've spent some time in the psychology or self-help sections of a bookstore then maybe you've come across this idea of shadow work. I'm here to provide some clarity on what shadow work is and how it can benefit your mental health.

Carl Jung helped make shadow work mainstream

Analyst Carl Jung is the theorist behind the idea of the shadow and shadow work. In essence, whereas Sigmund Freud came up with the idea of making the "unconscious conscious" Jung reimagined the shadow as an unconscious part of the self that needs acceptance and integration to be "resolved". He felt we could live with the unconscious shadow self through a process of examination and integration leading to better mental health. These are very similar concepts, with slightly different language and perspective. Often cited in spiritual circles, Jung's work often highlights a more holistic perspective on mental health than his contemporaries, which is why a lot of the shadow work material you'll find is provided by healers of different disciplines.

I think this quote on consciousness summarizes Jung's perspective very well...

Carl Jung image source: Vision.org

Making the unconscious conscious

Jung believed that if we were to make the unconscious conscious (and become aware of ourselves in ways we don't normally devote time to) then we could 1) feel more whole, enlightened, and integrated and 2) be empowered to take daily actions that help bring more fulfillment and peace in our lives. And, who wouldn't want that? But, what could that look like exactly?

For example, let's say that as a young child you were very interested in art and painting. As you grew up, you received less and less affirmation for your interest, or skill, and art fell by the wayside. Now, you're in your mid 30s and struggling to find fulfillment in life. You don't like your job but it otherwise provides structure and financial security that you need. You feel uneasy with it but aren't sure why because you don't see a "problem."

Enter shadow work.

Here shadow work would help you explore, and make connection to your inner child, and find a way to connect with art and creativity again. That may not necessarily lead to becoming a full time artist, but it could mean making sure to incorporate a more creative process in your life regularly so that you feel more at peace and in connection with, a deeper part of yourself.

This is one example of what shadow work could help you with. I will continue to share more about shadow work here AND you can also order my book The Shadow Work Workbook scheduled for release September 2022.