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There's something magical about autumn nights when darkness falls early and leaves whisper secrets in the wind. It's during these contemplative moments that we often feel called to look inward and face what Carl Jung termed our 'shadow self' – those parts of us we've tucked away in life's dusty corners.
What Is Our Shadow Side?
Imagine your personality as a lovely cottage. The shadow self is the cellar beneath – a place where we've stored away the traits, emotions, and experiences that didn't seem to fit with who we thought we should be. These might be anger, jealousy, grief, or even positive qualities like creativity or sensuality that we learned to suppress.
Like the roots of a mighty oak, our shadow holds power. It's not the villain of our story, but rather a misunderstood ally waiting to teach us about wholeness.
Why We Shouldn't Banish Our Shadow
Think of your shadow as a wounded inner child rather than a monster to be slain. When we try to 'cut out' or suppress our shadow, we're essentially telling a part of ourselves: "You don't belong here." This creates an exhausting internal war that depletes our energy and dims our light.
Instead, imagine sitting down with your shadow for a cuppa, listening to its stories with compassion. Every aspect of ourselves – even the challenging bits – has something valuable to teach us.
The Art of Shadow Integration
Daily Practices
Keep a shadow journal by moonlight
Practice mirror work, speaking kindly to all aspects of yourself
Create art that expresses shadow emotions
Spend time in nature, observing how darkness and light dance together
Meditate with black crystals like obsidian or black tourmaline
Working with the Moon's Wisdom
New Moon in Scorpio (Perfect for Shadow Work)
Scorpio season (October-November) naturally draws us into our depths. The new moon offers a powerful time for:
Setting intentions for shadow integration
Beginning new shadow work practices
Planting seeds of self-acceptance
Creating rituals of release and renewal
Writing letters to your shadow self
Full Moon Practices
Illuminate shadow aspects ready for transformation
Perform gratitude rituals for your whole self
Create moon water for shadow healing
Hold ceremony to honour your journey
Practice forgiveness meditation
Nourishing Your Shadow with Love
Think of shadow work as tending a night garden. Some of the most beautiful flowers bloom in darkness – night-scented stock, evening primrose, moonflowers. Similarly, our shadow qualities can become our greatest gifts when nurtured with care.
Gentle Ways to Begin:
Start with self-compassion meditation
Create a cosy space for inner work
Light candles and burn healing herbs
Use oracle cards for shadow guidance
Take mindful walks at twilight
Practice gentle movements like yin yoga
Work with protective crystals
When Shadow Work Gets Heavy
Remember, loves, this isn't about perfect practice. Some days you'll feel ready to dive deep, others you'll need to float gently. Both are perfectly valid. Always keep these supports handy:
A trusted friend or counsellor
Grounding practices (barefoot in grass, holding a cup of hot tea)
Comfort objects (soft blankets, beloved books)
Connection to nature
Permission to pause and rest
The Magic of Integration
As you journey with your shadow, you might notice something beautiful happening. Those parts you once feared become sources of wisdom. Anger teaches healthy boundaries. Grief deepens compassion. Jealousy points to unfulfilled dreams wanting attention.
Your shadow isn't your enemy – it's the other half of your magic waiting to be embraced.
Seasonal Shadow Work
Autumn, particularly Scorpio season, provides a natural container for this work. As trees release their leaves, we too can practice letting go of what no longer serves while honouring the nutrients it provided for growth.
Consider creating a seasonal altar with:
Black and white candles representing integration
Fallen leaves symbolising gentle release
Dark crystals for protection and grounding
Moon water for emotional healing
Pictures of your younger self for inner child work
A Gentle Closing
Remember, lovely ones, shadow work isn't about reaching a destination of 'perfect healing.' It's a spiral dance of continuous growth and integration. Some days you'll waltz gracefully with your shadow; others you'll step on its toes. Both are part of the journey.
As the autumn winds whisper and the moon weaves her magic, know that you're not alone in this sacred dance with your whole self. Your shadow holds gifts, your wounds hold wisdom, and your heart holds the capacity to embrace it all.
Blessed be your journey into wholeness. 🌑✨
Remember to approach shadow work at your own pace and seek professional support if needed. This blog is meant as gentle guidance rather than therapeutic advice.
x Naomi
Deepen Your Shadow Work Journey: The Witch's Shadow Work Grimoire
If you're feeling called to explore your shadow self more deeply, I've created something special to guide you on this sacred journey. My Shadow Work Grimoire is a gentle companion for those ready to dance with their depths and reclaim their wholeness.
This downloadable grimoire offers:
15 fully downloadable pages (A4 size)
Sacred space creation guidance
Gentle journal prompts for self-discovery
Shadow aspect exploration exercises
Integration practices
Self-care rituals
Monthly moon reflections
Plenty of space for your personal insights
Think of it as having a wise friend holding space for your journey, offering prompts and practices while honouring your unique path. Whether you're new to shadow work or seeking to deepen your practice, this grimoire provides a loving container for your exploration.
Ready to begin? The Shadow Work Grimoire is available now for £6.99 at
May this tool support your journey into wholeness. 🌒✨
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