Scorpio season invites us to look beneath the surface, and there’s no better place to start than with ourselves. Shadow work may sound intimidating, but at its heart, it’s simply a compassionate way of getting to know yourself more fully.
What Is Shadow Work?
Shadow work is a reflective practice of exploring the parts of yourself you tend to hide, ignore, or feel uncomfortable with, in order to understand and accept them.
The idea draws on the work of psychologist Carl Jung, who described the “shadow” as the parts of our personality we keep out of sight.
Why Shadow Work Can Be Healing
The traits we hide often carry important messages. Jealousy might point to something you want. Irritation might point to a boundary that needs attention. Understanding these feelings can bring a sense of peace and wholeness.
Five Beginner Shadow Work Prompts
- What quality in others bothers me most? It may reflect something in yourself.
- When do I feel most defensive? Defensiveness often guards a tender spot.
- What do I wish people knew about me?
- What emotion do I try hardest to avoid?
- What would I say to my younger self?
Going Gently
Shadow work is best done slowly and kindly. If a prompt brings up something heavy, it’s okay to pause. And for deeper emotional work, a licensed therapist can be a wonderful source of support.