Shadow work is a process of delving deep into ourselves to examine aspects of our being, at which we often refuse
to look. For some this can be a scary process; it does not have to be. Approaching the shadow-self is best done with an open heart so that one can accept and love everything that is experienced during such a meditation. The shadow-self is often referred to as our “inner demons” or our “sins” which is judgment from our egos. We learn to suppress exploring our shadow-selves because of fear of what we might learn about ourselves. This fear has been instilled into us as a way to control our hearts and to slow our realization that we are perfect beings that are capable of unconditional love and acceptance. We judge others because we judge ourselves. If we can fully accept and love ourselves for everything that we have ever done past, present, and future, then we are capable of doing the same for others. This is natural because the idea that we are separate from others is pure illusion.

While the shadow work process requires full honesty and openness without judgment, we may still hear our egos tell us how horrible we are for doing such terrible things, but the pain and judgment coming from our egos is just that: from our egos. What I like to do is turn up the light using Trinity Energy Progression™ and provide comfort and support for the ego and not get caught up in the ego’s rant as my own. The ego will fight hard, but it is not our enemy. It is a part of us whether or not we agree with it. It has its needs, and we can give it what it needs by consciously recognizing it for what it is.

There is no one correct way to meditate on the shadow-self. One may wish to purify the meditation space with any familiar method. There are a number of guided meditations available online if one does not know where to begin. I personally set an intention as a Trinity Practitioner to be shown an aspect of my shadow-self that needs healing. During some sessions I use a Mindfold® mask, which is a blindfold that blocks out all light while allowing the eyes to freely open. I find that sight deprivation helps me in meditating deeply within and experiencing void space; but it is not necessary. The key is love and to accept oneself no matter what one sees, hears, feels, or comes to know.

After shadow work meditation, some of us may process the experience and feelings in various ways. We may allow ourselves to feel the pain of everyone involved to help transmute the egoic guilt of past transgressions, while processing our own attachments to the situation. We may also come out of our meditation in full bliss and acceptance without any attachment. Although the latter is ideal; however we do it, it does not matter. We get the job done, and there is no judgment.

The shadow work isn’t limited to meditations that are directed to reveal the shadow aspects. After one is done with the meditation, being conscious of one’s thoughts throughout the day is important. One’s subconscious will present opportunities for discovering shadow aspects. They are often reactions or thought patterns that are unwanted or sometimes seem out of character. If one does not remain conscious and stay in the present moment, one may feel guilt, repress them, and eventually act out on them. Staying conscious in the Now, one can recognize them for what they are, and identify from where they come. This can allow further self-reflection at that moment or during a meditation if they are deeper issues.

During the shadow work, one can discover the entanglement of the ego and shadow-self; they are essential one in the same. Because they are a part of us, we must love and accept these facets of our whole selves. This healing is vital to our becoming whole.

Kevin Brown
Facilitator, Trinity Energy Progression