Shadow work and why it matters.

Helen Lilley from The Sacred Tree in Derry discusses shadow work and why it matters.

Shadow work is the practice of exploring the parts of yourself that are hidden, repressed, or uncomfortable—the “shadow” side of your personality. These can be emotions, habits, or beliefs you’ve buried due to shame, fear, or past experiences. But ignoring your shadow doesn’t make it disappear—it just controls you unconsciously.

To begin shadow work, you must get radically honest with yourself. Journaling is one of the most powerful tools. Start with prompts like: “What triggers me and why?” or “What part of myself do I avoid facing?” Meditation, mirror work, and inner child healing are also key. The goal isn’t to “fix” yourself – but to understand and integrate the parts you’ve abandoned.

You might uncover jealousy, fear of failure, or patterns of self-sabotage. It’s not always pretty – but it’s always powerful. You begin to notice where your reactions come from, and how your past still influences your present.

The benefits? Huge. Shadow work helps you break negative cycles, build better boundaries, and feel more emotionally grounded. It deepens your self-awareness and brings more authenticity into your daily life. You stop performing and start being – free from the fear of judgment.

When you heal your shadow, you reclaim your full self. You become more whole, more empowered, and way more in tune with your truth.

In short: shadow work is soul level self-care.

“One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the dark conscious”

Blessings as always,
Helen

www.THESACREDTREEDERRY.com | @THESACREDTREEDERRY | 18 THE CRAFT VILLAGE, SHIPQUAY STREET, DERRY, BT48 6AR