Lack of emotional Intimacy

Individuals with non-integrated shadows can appear guarded, especially in friendships and romantic relationships. For the partner, it may seem that it is nearly impossible to get past a certain level in knowing them. It begins to appear that the relationship is lacking depth, and may begin to dissolve the bond.

There are four basic steps in Jungian Shadow Work

1. Accept the truth that our shadow traits cannot be repressed out of existence.


2. Introspect and accept the root of each shadow trait.


3. Work to bring aspects of shadow traits into the light.


4. Allow shadow traits to express themselves in healthy ways.

Shadow work is the practice of facing one’s own unconscious through the practice of introspection

Shadow traits may come out as rudeness or ill-intent. Have you ever been around someone who rubs you wrong, even though you haven’t done anything to them? They may be Shadow possessed, and giving off bad energy because of their own discomfort.

The Unconscious mind can be accessed in a variety of ways, from traditional meditation, to more experimental forms such as psychedelics. Any confrontation with the unconscious is beneficial, even the scarier experiences. Dreams are also another great way of accessing the unconscious, you can read this article to learn more about dream work.

Another ... See more

Insecurity

If one is unable to accept their Shadow, it can lead to low self-esteem. If an individual brands and labels certain parts of themselves as “dirty,” or “embarrassing,” it can lead to a generally negative self-perception. If left untreated, this negative self-perception is capable of enveloping one’s entire psyche. This could produce sympto... See more

In Carl Jung’s concept of Individuation, one must fully confront and accept their shadow self. Jung compares this journey to the fable of a hero who must confront a dragon to get to the “treasure that is hardest to obtain.” The one who is able to recognize and explore all aspects of their shadow self, while still remaining civilized, is the one who... See more

Neurosis of the Shadow

“If we understand anything of the unconscious, we know that it cannot be swallowed. We also know that it is dangerous to suppress it, because the unconscious is life and this life turns against us if suppressed, as happens in neurosis.”

Carl Jung

How to Make Peace with the Shadow

“The shadow is a living part of the personality and therefore wants to live with it in some form. It cannot be argued out of existence or rationalized into harmlessness.”

Carl Jung