INSIDE: When you're doing the hardest work of all (going deep inside into your shadow self), make sure you have these crystals for shadow work by your side! They'll guide you, comfort you, and assist you through the process.

 

Darkness is a part of us all. We may not want to believe it or look at it, but wherever there is light, there is also darkness.

In psychology, this is thought of as our inner darkness, or the shadow self. And when we do the work necessary to address our shadow self, it is called shadow work.

By engaging in shadow work, we are able to transmute our darkness into light. The benefits of this work cannot be understated, although no one would ever say it is easy.

Let's dive into what the shadow self is and how to use crystals for shadow work...

What is a Shadow?

In psychology, shadows are referred to as a side of us that we are unaware of.

These are your suppressed traits. They are dark, primitive, negative human emotions like greed, a hunger for power, rage, pain, codependency, insecurities, vulnerabilities, etc.

These traits are hidden or suppressed because of societal pressure.

It is an open secret that societal norms expect human beings to be perfect. We're supposed to be kind, empathetic, generous, everything except gloomy or dark.

But in reality, a human has both negative and positive traits. When you only own the positive ones, your negative side becomes your shadow, and you become oblivious to it.

What is Shadow Work?

If you want to unravel and confront your shadow, you can do so through a practice called shadow work.

The concept of shadow and shadow work was introduced by 20^th century psychologist, Carl Jung, and is known to be a part of Jungian psychology. Jung believed that by confronting your shadow self, one could live a balanced life.

If one continues to live by only focusing on the good and positive side, you will never feel the true depth and real meaning of life.

It may be a bit hard to explore your shadow self because it can get you face to face with pains that you would otherwise be hiding from. But you have to trust the process.

It's important to accept and acknowledge yourself with the good, the bad, and everything in between.

Benefits of Shadow Work

Shadow work benefits us in a lot of ways:

• It helps us in sorting out things in our lives that are bothering us.
• It helps in strengthening our relationships and bonds with other people.
• It assists us in getting rid of past traumas and triggers and consequently healing emotional and spiritual wounds.
• It transforms us into emotionally stable and balanced versions of ourselves.

How to Start Doing Shadow Work?

You can start by writing all of your emotions in a journal. How was your day? How were you feeling about different things throughout the day? What were the goals, and how much did you procrastinate?

Don't shy away from yourself. If writing it down doesn't suit you, then talk to yourself. Try looking at yourself as your best friend.

And don't worry; no one will consider you crazy. Remember, this is a journey of embracing your real self.

Crystals for Shadow Work

Another thing that helps in shadow work is using crystal energy. Crystals can help us balance our inner energy and vibrations, and they can also help us in the endeavor of self-discovery. 

Let's look at the best crystals for shadow work now...

Black Obsidian

Black Obsidian is one of the best crystals for shadow work because it is like a mirror into the soul. This crystal works best if you want to see your shadow self raw. It aids in revealing your real form, the inner truth.

Its energy is also associated with ancestral healing because it's likely that part of your shadow self is rooted in your ancestral lines.

Labradorite

Labradorite is another one of the finest crystals for shadow work. It radiates a soft energy that helps us illuminate the inner truth that we've been suppressing. It also assists us in revealing hidden patterns, anxiety, and panic that may arise from past trauma.

Sometimes we tend to do or say things that, later on, don't feel like "us." Well, Labradorite also helps in shedding light on the causes of these actions and gives us a deeper understanding of our personalities, which we might be unaware of.

Rose Quartz

This beautiful rosy pink crystal, which is also known as "The Stone of Unconditional Love," is another crystal for shadow work known for its unique healing properties.

Rose Quartz helps us ignite feelings of self-love within us. It also assists us in clearing emotions like anger, resentment, and grudges, ultimately aiding in our transformation into a better, balanced being.

Snowflake Obsidian

This is a type of Obsidian stone that can be very helpful in shadow work. Snowflake Obsidian aids in bringing lost emotions and patterns to the surface.

The flecks of white on this stone are said to soften energies and vibes, balancing the vibrations. The black and white colors indicate an equal medium for mind, body, and spirit. Not only that, but it also helps in releasing negative mental patterns.

Black Onyx

Black Onyx is one of the most effective crystals for shadow work. It is a powerful strengthening stone that can help us alleviate traumas that may stem from our past.

It provides us with the much required strength needed in order to regenerate the happiness and goodness within us.

Selenite

Selenite helps in clearing all of the energies that we release through shadow work. It also aids in getting rid of the connections and memories that no longer serve us as we do the work.

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is a stone of spiritual mystery that help us in healing emotional and spiritual wounds. Whether you're digging deep into your shadow self or just looking to heal your wounded child, this stone can help you do it.

Smoky Quartz

Smoky Quartz is responsible for deep catharsis. It helps with feelings of anxiety and panic and in getting rid of nightmares. It protects us from negative energies and manifests a positive approach and perspective that assists us in moving forward no matter what.

Black Tourmaline

This stone helps in alleviating anger and fears that may come from energies and past memories imprinted on your shadow. Black Tourmaline is also one of the most abundant and easily available crystals for shadow work.

Amethyst

Another known crystal for shadow work is Amethyst. It has the ability to detoxify negative energies and helps us heal while bringing a sense of peace and calmness to our environment.

Hematite

Hematite is another crystal for shadow work. It is best known for boosting self-esteem, strengthening willpower, and imparting confidence. It also clears the negative air around us.

How to Use Crystals For Shadow Work

Now that you know what crystals to use, it's time to learn how to use them for shadow work. But the thing is, there's no right or wrong way to do it!

Here are some of our favorite ways to use them for this purpose though...

• You can use these crystals while meditating to help you go deeper into yourself.
• You can make a crystal grid to assist you with releasing negative emotions.
• You can keep the crystals near your bed, on your altar, or near the place where you meditate to serve as little companions in this heavy work.
• You can also keep a crystal journal, noting down which crystal you use, when you use it, and what your intent is so that you can keep track of your journey.
• Use a crystal pendulum to help you access the answers to your questions. Learn how to use a pendulum here.

Final Thoughts

Embracing your shadow self is incredibly important if you want to release past karma and embrace the person you are meant to be. Your life has a purpose, and in order to live it to the fullest you must acknowledge your true self, inside out.