"Shadow work" is a method for enhancing one's mental well-being

This concept originates from psychology, particularly in Jungian tradition

"shadow work" involves a process of self-discovery and self-acceptance

‘Shadow work’ is described as an accessible and convenient method for enhancing one’s mental well-being.

Dr Rahul Kakkar, a consultant psychiatrist and psychotherapist at Narayana Superspeciality Hospital in Gurugram, says, “It refers to the unconscious, repressed aspects of an individual’s personality that they may not be fully aware of. These aspects can include negative emotions, desires, fears, and traits that are often hidden or suppressed,” as quoted by Indian Express.

This concept originates from psychology, particularly in the Jungian tradition, and pertains to the unacknowledged, suppressed facets of an individual’s personality, encompassing negative emotions, desires, fears, and traits that are often concealed or restrained.

Consequently, “shadow work” involves a process of self-discovery and self-acceptance with the objective of confronting and integrating one’s shadow self.

Dr. Kakkar elaborates that this process entails recognizing and embracing the concealed and sometimes discomforting aspects of oneself to facilitate personal growth and psychological healing. The ultimate aim of shadow work is to achieve personal growth, healing, and a reduction in projecting one’s issues onto others.

Various techniques, including journaling, therapy, and naturopathic interventions, are employed in shadow work, which is regarded as crucial for self-awareness and emotional well-being. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals can address their shadow selves from multiple perspectives, thereby promoting overall health and equilibrium.

Experts highlight that ‘shadow work’ can provide several mental health benefits, as listed by Dr. Kakkar:

Enhanced self-awareness: It enables individuals to become more conscious of their concealed emotions and behavioural patterns, facilitating a better grasp of and improved management of their mental health.

Emotional healing: By confronting and processing repressed emotions and past traumas, shadow work can facilitate emotional healing and diminish inner conflicts.