Shadow Work Explained: Heal the Parts You’ve Hidden
Have you ever felt like you overreact to small things or that you’re stuck in the same emotional cycles no matter how hard you try to grow?
You’re not broken. You’re human.
And you might be ready for something called shadow work.
Shadow Work is a gentle, transformative way to understand the hidden parts of yourself that are quietly shaping your life.
What Is Shadow Work?
The term shadow was first introduced by psychologist Carl Jung. It refers to the parts of ourselves we’ve unconsciously buried, traits, feelings, and experiences that didn’t feel safe to express or acknowledge.
But these “shadow” traits aren’t necessarily bad. Many are simply misunderstood, painful, or culturally rejected.
They can include:
- Anger
- Sensitivity
- Emotional needs
- Ambition
- Guilt or shame
- Even your boldness or confidence
Shadow work is the practice of gently bringing these hidden parts into the light, not to judge them, but to understand and integrate them. In doing so, we can begin to heal.
Why We Hide Parts of Ourselves
From childhood, we learn which parts of ourselves are “acceptable.”
If you were told things like:
- “Don’t be so dramatic.”
- “Stop crying—you’re too sensitive.”
- “You’re too much.”
You likely internalized that being emotional, expressive, or needy wasn’t okay. So you pushed those parts down.
The shadow does not form out of weakness, but out of a desire to be loved and safe.
What Happens When We Ignore Our Shadow?
Just because we bury these parts doesn’t mean they go away. Instead, they show up in ways we don’t expect, such as:
- Emotional triggers that seem out of proportion
- Self-sabotage in relationships or goals
- Harsh self-talk or inner shame
- Judging others for traits we’ve disowned in ourselves
- Feeling disconnected or uncertain about who we really are.
Shadow work helps you break these unconscious patterns by bringing awareness to what’s beneath the surface.
How to Start Shadow Work (Gently)
Shadow work isn’t about diving into your deepest wounds all at once. It’s about starting with curiosity and compassion.
Here are a few gentle ways to begin:
1. Explore Your Triggers
Ask yourself: When was the last time I overreacted? What deeper emotion might have been hiding underneath?
2. Try Journaling for Shadow Work
Use guided prompts to uncover suppressed feelings, old wounds, or patterns that no longer serve you.
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Try this prompt: “What do I often judge in others… and could that reflect something I haven’t accepted in myself?”
3. Practice Self-Compassion
You are not your reactions. You’re a whole human being with layers and stories. Shadow work invites you to meet yourself with only kindness and no judgment.
Signs You Might Benefit from Shadow Work
If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone and shadow work may help:
- You feel stuck in the same relationship or emotional patterns
- You’re hard on yourself and struggle with shame or guilt
- You react strongly to minor conflicts or feedback
- You’ve lost touch with who you are and what you want/like
You want to feel more whole, balanced, and self-aware
Want to Explore the Parts of You That Feel Hidden?
If you’re feeling curious (or even just a little ready) to explore this work, I created two beginner-friendly resources to help you get started:
🖤 The Parts of Me I Hide: A Shadow Work Starter Guide
This FREE eBook introduces shadow work in a gentle, approachable way. You’ll learn what the shadow is, how to recognize its patterns in your life, and how to start working with it.
📓 The Parts of Me I Hide: A Guided Shadow Work Journal
Ready to go deeper? This printable journal offers 60 guided prompts across six themed sections to help you explore your shadow at your own pace. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to heal emotional triggers, build self-awareness, and reconnect with their whole self.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to dive deeper, both tools were made with care to support your healing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shadow Work
What is shadow work in simple terms?
Shadow work is the practice of gently exploring the parts of yourself you’ve hidden or rejected so you can understand, heal, and integrate them.
How do I start shadow work?
A great way to begin is with journaling prompts that help you reflect on your emotions, triggers, and patterns. You can start with our free eBook or guided journal.
Is shadow work safe to do on your own?
Yes, especially when you go at your own pace and avoid diving too deep too quickly. Use tools that feel gentle, supportive, and grounding.
What are signs I need shadow work?
You may benefit from shadow work if you often feel stuck, triggered, emotionally overwhelmed, or disconnected from your true self.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be perfect to be worthy.
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
You just need a safe space to begin.
Shadow work is not about becoming someone else, it’s about returning to who you’ve always been.
Ready to explore the parts of you that feel hidden?
✨ Download the free starter guide here or get the guided journal here to begin.
Most of my clients come from personal referrals or from reading my blogs. Would you mind sharing?
