Healing with Tara – feminine energy of Yin – A Buddhist Perspective

Mental Health, Self-Inquiry and Journaling
The ‘Shadow’ is defined in Psychology as that part of ourselves that we cannot see.
The shadow reveals the opposite to our gifts in life through mismanaged behaviour. Everyone has a shadow side. Working with the shadow can reveal authenticity, creative energy and personal awakening. This dark side of our personality reveals emotions such as ‘anger, jealousy, greed, selfishness, desire and power’. We deny this part within us. They are a part of our repressed mind, our unconscious.
These disowned parts of our psych come back to haunt us. For example, when we examine our reaction to someone, what we say about them, how we respond to them – we realise this says more about us than them. We are expressing, actually, our shadow self. For example, if we are irritated because someone is abrupt with us, have we looked at our own abruptness. If abruptness didn’t bother us then it would not be in our shadow.
We unknowingly project our shadow selves onto others as a tactic to defend ourselves. We are relucntant to face our own shadow. But if we were to face our demons, there would be many benefits …
Our relationships will improve, accepting our own shadow helps us to accept others. Integrating our shadow creates a more authentic self, we become further self aware, and perceive others and situations more accurately. We will suddenly have more reserves of energy. We will feel a sense wholeness and balance through the integration of the conscious and the unconscious mind. The mind becomes more creative.
The shadow mind is a concept introduced by Carl Jung, referring to the unconscious parts of ourselves that we repress or deny—often because they are deemed unacceptable by society or our own moral standards. These aspects can include fears, desires, impulses, and unresolved emotions. Ignoring the shadow can lead to inner conflict, self-sabotage, and emotional distress. However, embracing and integrating the shadow allows for deeper self-awareness and personal transformation.
Acknowledging the Shadow
The first step in working with the shadow mind is recognising its existence. This involves noticing recurring emotional triggers, patterns of self-sabotage, or intense reactions to others—often a reflection of our own disowned traits (projection). Journaling about difficult emotions and identifying where they stem from can be a useful practice.
Engaging in Shadow Work
Shadow work is the process of bringing unconscious aspects of the self into conscious awareness. Some effective techniques include:
- Mindfulness and Self-Reflection: Observing thoughts and feelings without judgment helps uncover hidden fears and beliefs.
- Dream Analysis: Jung believed that dreams offer insights into the unconscious mind, including the shadow. Keeping a dream journal can reveal repressed emotions.
- Dialoguing with the Shadow: Techniques like writing letters to or from one’s shadow self can help externalise hidden feelings.
- Art and Expressive Therapy: Creative outlets like painting, music, or storytelling provide a safe way to explore shadow aspects.
Accepting and Integrating the Shadow
Rather than trying to eliminate the shadow, the goal is to integrate it into the conscious self. This means accepting our imperfections, understanding that all emotions (even negative ones) have value, and learning to channel repressed energy constructively. Practicing self-compassion and reframing limiting beliefs can lead to greater emotional balance and wholeness.
Seeking Guidance and Support
Working with the shadow can be intense, as it brings up deep-seated fears and past traumas. Therapy—especially Jungian analysis, depth psychology, or hypnotherapy—can provide structured support. A therapist can help explore unconscious patterns safely and guide the process of self-integration.
Conclusion
By confronting and working with the shadow mind, individuals can achieve greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and personal growth. Rather than being controlled by hidden fears or repressed emotions, integrating the shadow allows us to live more authentically and harmoniously.
Jung, C.G. (1945). On the Nature of Dreams. In Collected Works, Volume 8: The Structure and Dynamics of the Psyche. Princeton University Press.Jung, C.G. (1954).
The Practice of Psychotherapy. In Collected Works, Volume 16. Princeton University Press.