“One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious.”
-C.G. Jung, “Alchemical Studies”
Let’s get this out of the way first: Everyone is struggling with something. Nobody is perfect. And the darkest shadow of all is believing that you don’t have one.
These days, the word “shadow” is thrown around a lot without much explanation for what it actually is. Against all odds, “shadow work” has actually become something of a buzzword these last few years. I’m amazed that the local yoga studio has a monthly Shadow Work Circle. Aaaand I’m a little concerned.
Because here’s the thing: nothing about shadow work is glamorous. If we knew what it required, we probably wouldn’t sign up. And it definitely isn't something that happens on the organic essential oil-scented floor of the brightly lit yoga hall.
So I thought I’d do a little Shadow 101 for you all, just to set the record straight. Please don’t take any of this as dogma, which is a human tendency filled with shadowy potential. Rather, these are some reflections and key points that I hope serve you on the inner quest into that cave we all fear to enter. Take what’s useful, throw away the rest. You know the drill.
Last thing: if you ever meet someone who claims to have “mastered” their shadow, to be above or beyond it, run away as fast as you can.
The Shadow is a Place, Not a Thing
"The person we choose to be ... automatically creates a dark double–the person we choose not to be."
-Thomas Moore, “Care of the Soul”