Shadow Work

This isn’t a fun topic, but it is absolutely important.

A lot of witches come to their faith and craft because of inconsistencies in the religion they grew up with.

We strive for accountability and honesty because we often grow up without it.

So what exactly is shadow work?

Succinctly, it’s about finding those inconsistencies within the self and listening to them in order to heal.

It’s about being a better person.

It’s about finding that inner Hyde and letting him speak in a controlled environment.

It’s tough.

Why do this?

There’s one thing we all do when there’s unresolved issues lurking underneath:

Project onto others.

We may not do it intentionally.

And not surprisingly it hurts others to neglect yourself.

There’s also a great deal of healing that can be done through shadow work.

I should also note that a lot of people hold their emotions on their literal shoulders.

Muscle tension can do a lot of damage over time.

And it can make any bad situation worse.

Shadow work can also help you feel compassion for yourself.

The moment you give yourself space to heal is when you begin to cut yourself some slack.

Everyone is terrible.

Shadow work helps us become less terrible.

Why is this a witch thing?

It’s not tied solely to witchcraft and reiki.

If you’ve spent time on a therapist’s couch, you’ll notice some familiar things.

Being honest and self-aware is helpful to everyone.

How do I do this?

Step 1: Be honest

Sometimes you can’t exactly pinpoint any major issues.

Sometimes you don’t even get angry all that often.

But part of shadow work is taking note of those times when you do exhibit those strong negative emotions.

Record them. Dissect them when the situation is over.

What irritates you about other people?

What drives you crazy?

How do you react?

Be honest about these things and really begin to examine your feelings.

Step 2: Let yourself be crazy

Talk to this side of yourself and let those feelings have a voice.

Really get psycho and talk to this other version of you.

You’ll look rather nutty, which is why a controlled environment is key.

Step 3: Rinse and repeat

Recover and unlearning from past trauma is not linear.

It’s an authentic process that repeats itself over and over until the cycle is broken.

Don’t be afraid to revisit something you’ve already visited within yourself.

Be proud of your progress and show some compassion to the little child within you.

We undo our upbringing

We all have gut reactions to things.

I oftentimes still catch myself thinking a racist thought because it’s what I heard as a kid.

But shadow work is about un-parenting yourself.

That little kid in my childhood experienced racism as normal.

My gut reaction is not who I am.

It’s rewiring those thoughts and bettering yourself that defines you.

Caution: road work ahead

Yeah, I sure hope it does!

I’ve talked to my inner child before.

Sometimes she’s just enjoying picking flowers.

Sometimes she hides when someone yells.

Sometimes she lashes out.

Part of taking accountability for my actions means I have to look at the ugly underbed of my personality.

Understanding the why helps to understand how to change in the future.

Your inner child is a past version of yourself

You may or may not subscribe to reincarnation.

But the you from 10 years ago is certainly different from the you that exists today.

I imagine that multiplies the further you go back!

I like to imagine that little monster as an inner voice that needs some TLC.

We can’t change the trauma that we’ve been through.

But listening to that monstrous voice can give it space to heal.

The next time you try shadow work

Give yourself some space.

Really take care to nurture that inner child.

Even if they’re lashing out.

Even if they’re crying.

Let them speak and communicate to you.

It’s going to be weird.

It’s not going to be fun.

But this is a good way to heal and move on.

We have to take care of ourselves.

What do you think?

Have you every tried shadow work?

Are there any tips or tricks that you use?

Post them in the comments!

You can also contact me and we can chat.

I’m here for you!

As always you can subscribe so you’re updated on all new content!

Blessed be,

Cat