Embracing the Shadows of Our Being
Stepping into the shadow part of myself gives me the gift to explore the fears and anxieties that have kept me from reaching wholeness. This sacred work is a time of reflection that brings the pieces of my life back into alignment with my vision and hope for a transformed and healed world. But, I am fully aware that any change I want to see in the world begins with me.
Shadow work gives me the time of introspection to replenish and renew my spirit so I can continue on the path to becoming a good elder and, eventually, an ancestor. I am learning to make space in my life for those hard conversations so often avoided, which helps me learn how to listen better, understand more deeply, and come into a sense of true community with all of my relations. I am thankful for this gift of self-discovery and look forward to emerging from this shadowy season restored and reawakened.
The Process of Shadow Work- It’s Uncomfortable, but Necessary
Carl Jung, the famous psychologist, referred to this time of deep reflection as “shadow work.” He believed that by exploring these shadow parts of ourselves, we could gain valuable insights into our psyches and how we interact with the world around us.
Shadow work is not about burying things or pretending they don’t exist; it’s about bringing them out into the light so you can take ownership of them. It involves looking at dark places within yourself — those areas of shame, guilt, anger, hurt, and fear — and asking yourself questions like What do I need to learn from these emotions? How can I use them as a tool for growth? Why am I holding onto these beliefs or patterns that no longer serve me? This type of self-exploration can be deeply healing.
Shadow work is part of our journey toward self-acceptance and wholeness, and it requires us to look within ourselves with compassion and understanding. It’s important to remember that we are all connected by our shared humanity and that none of us is perfect. We all have darkness within us — strengths and weaknesses — but by engaging in shadow work, we can embrace our light and dark sides with grace, strength, and courage.
Engaging in shadow work is a powerful way to recognize our shared humanity in a world that continues to thrive on polarization and division. When we can look at ourselves honestly and work through our pain and suffering, we open up possibilities for healing and transformation. We become more connected to ourselves, others, and the greater universe. With this newfound connection comes an understanding that we are all interconnected and that by embracing our shadows, we can learn how to love ourselves better, heal each other, and honor the beauty of life.
At its core, shadow work helps us remember that no matter how dark or complex things get, you are not alone. There is strength in vulnerability and courage in looking within yourself with an open heart.
In the Shadows, We Connect with our Ancestors
For many Indigenous people, we have a unique connection to the power of shadow work. We know that nowhere is too dark for us to shine our light. We can courageously go into the depths of our darkness without fear and use this transformation to understand ourselves better.
Our ancestors tapped into their shadow selves to gain knowledge and access ancient wisdom passed down by the ancestors that came before them. Today, we can use these same techniques to explore feelings of anger, resentment, or shame holding us back from true liberation. Through self-reflection and introspection, we can discover how these deep-seated emotions are influencing our lives today so that we can start creating positive change in our communities.
Shadow work is essential for everyone to reconnect with their Indigeneity and break free from past traumas or the parts of ourselves that we repress or deny. This is a crucial part of self-growth and healing, and it allows us to reconnect with our cultural heritage, commune with spirit guides, and connect with the ancient wisdom we learn from our ancestors. In this way, we can learn valuable lessons and gain insight into the natural order of things.
By integrating these teachings into our lives, we can become more mindful and attentive to our own needs and honorably pass this wisdom down to the next generation. Shadow work is a powerful tool to reclaim our humanity and build resilience for living in the modern world.
No matter who you are, no matter where you come from — embracing the shadows within is essential to living a life of liberation and joy. It’s time to start looking at our shadows with acceptance and compassion to move forward into brighter futures together.
There is Responsibility to Shadow Work
Shadow work is vital to growing as individuals and understanding ourselves better. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. We all have a responsibility to ourselves and our community to take the time to do some shadow work. It can sometimes be overwhelming, but we must become better versions of ourselves and make the world better. The great philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti said, “The only hope for humankind is in the transformation of the individual.”
The process of shadow work may be uncomfortable, but it also has many rewarding benefits: you become more aware of your inner workings and develop a greater understanding of yourself; you can start to recognize harmful patterns in your life and begin to create healthier ones; you learn how to express your feelings productively; and lastly, you gain clarity on what truly matters to you.
Doing some shadow work is essential if we want to connect with our true essence, honor our culture, and reclaim control over our lives. Many resources are available to help you through the journey of shadow work. Here are some of ours:
Journaling is an excellent tool for self-reflection and clarity. With regular practice, you can notice negative thought patterns and unhealthy habits and behavior. It is also a great way to uncover your core values and beliefs and explore your life goals.
Mindfulness and Breathwork for self-awareness. It helps to ground us in the present moment and to become aware of our emotional state. Regular Breathwork can also promote relaxation, reconnect you with your body, and create greater self-awareness.
HeartMath Inner Balance for self-regulation. This tool helps to reduce stress and anxiety, cultivate self-love and compassion, and create emotional balance. It also allows you to regulate your emotions so you can make decisions from a place of clarity, peace, and resilience.
The Guiding Principles of A.L.O.H.A is our favorite. Aloha is more than just a greeting. It is the grace, empathy, and compassion we have for others and ourselves. ‘Alo’ in the Hawaiian language means forward facing or front. ‘Ha’ is the breath of life. As you look at yourself in the mirror, use this practical and spiritual tool as the foundation of your inner conversations. Remember, the words you choose to say to yourself create your reality.
A– Ask yourself life-changing questions.
L– Listen to yourself without judgment.
O– Observe the somatic responses in your body, open up and allow yourself to be vulnerable.
H– Honor the truth of your heart and connect with your inner wisdom
A– Accept yourself and take action.
Together, let us take courage from our shadowy parts, embrace our collective humanity, and reclaim our spiritual sovereignty. With the guidance of these practices, we can take a journey into our depths and share this wisdom with others.
This is how we change the world — from within ourselves. Some things can only be seen in the shadows.
A Hui Hou Kākou — until we meet again!
Mahalo and Salamat Po! (Thank you!)
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About the Author
Dr. Gerry Ebalaroza-Tunnell is the Principal Consultant and CEO of Co3 Consulting: Co-Creating Cohesive Communities. The work of Co3 Consulting is based on the foundation of ALOHA and utilizes a unique blend of Indigenous philosophies and Western methods to work through decolonial healing processes.
Dr. Gerry Ebalaroza-Tunnell (she/her/wahine) identifies as an Indigenous scholar born and raised on the island of O’ahu, Hawaii, and has over 20 years of experience working in public, private, and non-profit sectors with a focus on social justice, community organizing, and leadership development. Dr. G earned her doctorate in Transformative Studies and Consciousness from the California Institute of Integral Studies and her master’s in Whole Systems Design from Antioch University, Seattle. You can learn more about her work at www.Co3Consulting.net and www.EvolutionOfAloha.com
