Ying & Yang, positive & negative, light & dark. You can’t have one without the other. You can’t appreciate the highs if you’ve never been low.
No one can be happy all the time. But they can choose to reflect, have a different perspective, or simply be more mindful.
I don’t think the term shadow work is talked about enough. To me, shadow work means working on one’s shadow behavior. “Shadow behavior is a block to best self and is harmful. Shadow behavior is simply a negative – and often automatic, unintentional and unconscious – response to events, people and situations.”
Sometimes people can get into negative thinking cycles and that has to be met with gentle loving self-work in order to be broken. There are a number of different ways to confront and work through shadow behavior and that means doing the shadow work!
>>One major way to approach shadow behavior is to work in alignment with the moon phases. During the New Moon is a powerful time to look at our shadows. Which I find symbolic because, during the New Moon phase, we can’t see the moon, hence a great time to address our own shadows. Make sure to subscribe to our Newsletter list, here, as we send an email out every New Moon with more relevant information about what shadow work will look like at that specific moon phase.
>>Crystals are a great tool to utilize when dealing with shadow work. Some of the best crystals to use are;
Smoky Quartz which is good for offering protection by dissipating negativity, grounding, overcome depression and helping you to move forward in life.
Black Tourmaline which is good for enhancing one's understanding, increase self-confidence, neutralize negative energies, and relax the body and mind.
Obsidian is good for bringing wisdom and offering protection, helps with self-defeating patterns and subconscious blockages, and enables you to see your dark side. “Acts as a mirror of the soul - lets you take a long hard look at yourself, and then smile.”
Onyx is good for increasing regeneration, happiness, intuition, and one’s instincts, aids in changing bad habits. And is a strengthening stone that can help you approach a lesson or task with greater self-confidence.
>>As a woman, some of our shadow work may be centered around sexual healing or past traumas. And a lovely tool for that is yoni eggs. “Yoni eggs are made from pure crystals such as Jade, Rose Quartz or Amethyst and have been used by cultures all over the world for hundreds of years. These eggs are held inside of the body for optimal health and wellness.” You can read all about yoni eggs, here.
Shadow work is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s a part of life’s balance. It’s healthy to recognize where work needs to be done and take action on it. There’s no specific method for everyone to follow, it has to be personal. Trying different methods only helps you get closer to realizing what works and doesn’t work for you. Many blessing to you on your shadow work. It can be heavy, but you’re doing a beautiful job, stay strong.
Much love & light,
Sarah Del Rey