An Original Shadow Work™ Event: The Origins of Shadow

Join us for a remarkable event as we commemorate three decades of groundbreaking Shadow Work! This special occasion will unveil our latest insights into the origins of our four fundamental shadows, tracing their development from infancy and even in the womb.

Shadows can arise from a multitude of sources.

First, they are influenced by our inherited genetic traits, which we receive at conception. We all begin by believing that we can quickly and easily wash away our inherited shadows, using our will power and freedom of choice. This belief strengthens us. It helps us survive. So, evolution encourages us in believing that we can be anybody we wish to be. But if we shove such powerful parts of ourselves into shadow, without the adequate processing and respect due to our genetic makeup, we will pay the price later.

Additionally, our experiences in the womb—shaped by factors such as a lack of nutrition, oxygenation or protection from toxins—can play a crucial role in the formation of our moods and our shadows. If we ride and emotional rollercoaster in the womb, based on maternal hormones or toxins, we are more likely to do the same in life.

As we enter infancy and early childhood, our shadows continue to evolve, influenced by the parenting styles of our caregivers. Through countless Shadow Work processes, we have learned how often our most difficult shadows stem from seeking love or approval from our parents.

Social dynamics during childhood and adolescence further contribute to the shadows we carry, as we navigate the complexities of relationships and societal expectations. Think about how you chose to fit into the social hierarchy by which you were surrounded. Were you driven to be on top: the most powerful, the most beautiful, the smartest? Or did you belong in the middle of the pack? Maybe you found your connection in the “last but not least” group? And have you been feeling ashamed of the choices you made?

Among these various shadows, the most fundamental stem from disturbances in our experiences with connection, love, and intimacy. Is friendly touch and closeness easy for you, or do you have to work at it? Is compassionate touch with your parents, siblings or children hard or easy? How long are you comfortable being really close? Have you taken stock of all the shadows that contribute, or are you likely to feel embarrassed if you aren’t comfortable with all forms of closeness? The shadows involved could be inherited, or they may have evolved at any stage of your physical or emotional growth. If you can be more accepting of your shadows, we believe you can more easily work on increasing your capacity for connection.

As humans, we instinctively strive to fill the void left by unmet emotional needs. This process is what strengthens us to survive. But it can also lead us to emotional instability, acting out, withdrawing, living in a bubble, or believing that only success and money can buy us happiness. It’s important to recognize that everyone experiences some level of emotional scarcity because no family or society can fully meet a child’s needs.

We believe emotional nourishment to be as important as physical nourishment. Love and connection are fundamental nutrients, and when these are lacking, we are likely to seek fulfilment in unbalanced ways.

Join us as we delve into the roots of our shadows. Together, we will explore how to nurture our emotional selves and respectfully transform the patterns that hold us back. Whatever you may be craving, we can help expand your understanding of the origins of those shadows and introduce new approaches for nourishing yourself emotionally, ensuring that shadowy coping mechanisms no longer rule your behavior.

All participants will also receive a free copy of The Original Shadow Work™ Handbook – Part 1 Origins of Shadow.  Which includes some useful Shadow Work exercises, as well as further information and useful links.

The tuition for this three-hour online event is £75.

However, if you register by December 28th it is only £35!

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity.

For a taste of this event, you can read the article in the November edition of the Shadow Work Newsletter, or you can listen to a recording of a conversation with Clifford Barry.