Shadow work is a core yet often misunderstood part of the spiritual journey. It asks us to turn toward the parts of ourselves we’ve been taught to hide: the fears, desires, wounds, and contradictions that live beneath our curated identities. Rather than something to be conquered or purified away, the shadow is a repository of truth. When approached with curiosity and compassion, it becomes a source of power, creativity, and self-knowledge. To engage in shadow work is to move beyond spiritual bypassing and into an honest relationship with the full spectrum of who you are.

Apothecary for the Afflicted: Shadow Work for Invisible Wounds by Dr. Melissia Kim Corter is an engaging read to explore the shadow within. Rooted in Jungian psychology, Dr. Corter has created a guide for readers to learn about shadow work and then confront and heal their own psychological wounds that are unconscious, repressed, or difficult to articulate. She blends depth psychology, archetypal energies of fairy tales, and thoughtful writing prompts to lead readers through eight motifs while delving into the underworld of psyche. Read the full review here.