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What is an emotion you take a stab at avoid feeling?
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As a child, what were you told not to do?
How do you define failure?
When do you feel cared for?
“Essentially, loving all parts of ourselves because what we resist persists,” she explains.
As Dr. Mullen notes, you could explore shadow work in several different ways, such asmeditationandbodywork.
Plus, it allows you to express yourself and explore your subconscious through writing.
Where did shadow work come from?
If you go with the former, they may help you with your shadow work through meditation and visualization.
Therapists, on the other hand, incorporate shadow work into the questions they ask during sessions.
Is shadow work a valuable mental health practice?
In short: Absolutely.
Dr. Yusim believes any exercise that allows folks to do an exploration of themselves is wonderful.
What are the benefits of keeping a shadow work journal?
you’re able to’t fully experience joy and pleasure when you harbor shame and guilt within yourself.
That includes embracing even the most embarrassing and awkward parts of ourselves.
When you understand this through your shadow work, you could better understand yourself with empathy and compassion.
Notty is a fan of shadow work journaling because it helps her track her personal growth.
How do I start shadow work journaling?
If you go grab it right now, you might start shadow journaling.
you could also start off by lightinga candleor pouring yourself acup of tea.
It helps compartmentalize this difficult work, so you don’t have to carry around its weight all day.
you’ve got the option to also explore these ones from the experts I interviewed.
Or maybe people-pleasing is your theme.
Then, describe what it looks like.
“What does itsmell like?
What does it taste like?
What does it do?”
“Close your eyes for a second, and think about what this shadow feels like.”
People-pleasing and imposter syndromeare examples of common shadows, Dr. Mullan says.
You may start writing down something like, “It’s an orange, fuzzy monster.
For example, “I’m not people-pleasing.
I’m learning how to deal with people,” she adds.
Confronting parts of yourself that you hate is definitely scary at times.
Notty suggests using these two questions as prompts:“Where is my joy?
“and"Who am I?”
“Shadow work is not only for the sadness, loss, and pain.
It’s also for happiness,gratitude, peace, and expressingfeelings of romance.
You don’t always have to focus on healing from something.
you’re able to also focus on finding yourself.”
