Why, Hello Shadow Self!

How do you feel about your shadow self? The term shadow self refers to the unconscious part of us or our “dark side”. Often we are either suppressing it or unaware of it on a conscious level. Once we become aware of our shadow, we can choose our relationship with it. It is in fact a part of us, therefore we cannot destroy it or ignore it. The more we shove it down or try to control it, the more it comes out sideways. I find it helpful to think of it as a misunderstood teenager. Anyone who has cared for a teenager, or heck, just remembers being one, can relate to what happens when you try to control them. It never ends up well.

I have found it best with both teenagers and my shadow self to enter into an inquisitive state. “What message is she trying to give me? What does she need and want?” I can dialogue with her or meditate in order to receive the answers. When meditating, we dip into our subconscious mind. I can get to this meditative state by writing a letter to my shadow self and imagining her writing a letter back. Or I can ponder a scripture passage or pray a rosary until something surfaces. And of course there is the most basic way of simply sitting in silence for 20 minutes and seeing what arises. But one of my favorite ways of dialoguing with my shadow self is through art work.

Here are some ideas of how to artistically engage with your shadow self:

• Try drawing/painting a picture of her or sculpting her out of clay. (Be as abstract as you want!)
• Write or play a song about how she feels. Or think about what is her favorite song and try dancing to it.
• Write a play script about her life. What are her dreams and how are they thwarted? Who is she drawn to and who is she afraid of? What happens when she expresses herself? How do others react? Where is her safe place? How should the story end?
• Imagine the 2 of you living together as roommates. What does your house look like? What does her energy bring to your home? How can she help you? How can you help her? Maybe you are the yin to her yang. You can balance each other.

For more ideas about how to engage with your shadow self or to be guided through a session with God and your shadow self, contact me by clicking the button below.

About the Author: Julie Glaser is a healer who creates sacred spaces for people to share, release, and grow. She’s in the habit of being in awe and wonder and writes to share her own experiences and curiosities with other inquisitive souls in the process of transforming.