Embracing Our Shadow – A Journey of Self-Discovery
- Stefania Sarnecki
- Feb 27, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: May 6, 2025
Our shadow is our ego—both our protector and our greatest challenge. It creates fear to keep us safe, yet it also fuels our courage and drive. Shadow work isn’t easy. It requires looking deeply at ourselves—our flaws, our traumas, and the shame they may carry. But when we allow ourselves to explore and understand these parts of us, they stop working against us. Instead of self-sabotaging relationships, careers, and personal growth, we begin to use them as a source of strength.
Healing is a lifelong journey; we never stop learning. But as our self-awareness deepens, the way we see ourselves and others will shift in ways that are truly priceless.
I’m still on my healing journey and self-discovery, and it’s been a ride since it started. But here are some simple tips that have helped me so far:
Tips for Shadow Work
Self-Reflection – Journal about your triggers and recurring emotions. What patterns do you notice?
Embrace Discomfort – When something makes you uneasy, ask yourself why instead of avoiding it.
Inner Child Connection – Think back to your younger self—what wounds or unmet needs still affect you today?
Accountability Without Shame – Accept your flaws, but don’t judge yourself for them. Growth comes from awareness, not guilt.
Meditation & Breathwork – Sit with your emotions rather than running from them. Let them pass through you. Connect with your guides.
Honesty in Relationships – Notice how your shadow shows up in your interactions. Do you push people away? Seek validation? Over give? Observe without judgement.
Boundaries & Ego Awareness (this is a big one for me and biggest lesson) – Boundaries are important, but not all come from a place of truth. Sometimes they stem from fear, ego, or past wounds. Differentiating between the two can be tricky, and I often have to ask myself twice (or more). What helps is knowing my truth and where it’s coming from—pausing, looking within, and adjusting as needed. You might get it wrong the first time, but once you’re aware, you can change that. We’re still human, and these are just lessons as we continue to heal and learn more about ourselves.
The process isn’t perfect, and neither are we. But every step brings us closer to a deeper understanding of who we truly are.
Have you started your shadow work journey? What lessons have you learned so far?
If you’re ready to go deeper in your Honohono healing, book a session with me at https://www.devined.co.nz/book-online