How to Heal Your Shadow Self

We all have a side of ourselves that hides in the background — the parts we’ve been told are “too much,” “not enough,” or just... not lovable. That side? That’s your shadow self. And healing it isn’t scary or woo — it’s one of the most empowering things you can do for your health, energy, and soul. ✨

Let’s talk about what the shadow really is — and how to begin the healing process with love, not shame.

💭 What Is the Shadow Self, Really?

The “shadow” is a term from Carl Jung, and it refers to the unconscious parts of yourself you’ve repressed — things like anger, jealousy, insecurity, fear, or even playfulness or confidence if you were taught those things weren’t okay.

These parts aren’t bad. They’re wounded. And they often come out sideways — in triggers, burnout, people-pleasing, or self-sabotage.

Healing your shadow doesn’t mean erasing it. It means bringing it into the light.

🌿 Why Shadow Work Is Also Health Work

Your emotional body and physical body are always talking to each other.
Chronic stress, autoimmune flares, hormonal imbalance, and anxiety can all be influenced by unhealed emotional patterns.

When you begin to integrate your shadow, you shift from reacting to choosing. From shame to softness. And your body feels that.

🕯️ 5 Gentle Ways to Begin Healing Your Shadow

1. Notice Your Triggers (without judgment)
What makes you feel instantly defensive, embarrassed, or enraged? That’s gold.
Ask yourself: What part of me is asking to be seen here?

2. Talk to Your Shadow Like a Friend
Write a letter to the part of you that feels unworthy, angry, jealous, or scared.
Say: “Hey. I see you. You’re not bad. You’re protecting me. Let’s talk.”

3. Practice Mirror Work
Look yourself in the eyes in the mirror. Say the things your younger self needed to hear.

4. Work with the Full Moon 🌕
Lunar energy is amazing for release and reflection.
Try a full moon ritual where you journal what you’re ready to let go of, then safely burn or bury the paper.

5. Get Support
Whether it’s a therapist, coach, somatic practitioner, or trusted friend — healing in relationship is so powerful.
You don’t have to do the deep work alone.

🌀 This Isn’t About Fixing Yourself

Healing your shadow isn’t about becoming someone new — it’s about becoming more of who you truly are.
The soft, strong, messy, magical version of you that’s been there all along.

You are allowed to bring your whole self into the light. 🌙✨