Jung first identified "the shadow" side of us as 'Personality 2': the private, intuitive, secretive, instinctive,"knowing" side of our personality. In contrast 'Personality 1'is the public, rational, "intellectual", decision-making side of us. It is quite easy to explain and understand 'Personality 1' because of its dominance and public role. However "the shadow" side by its very label seems to indicate a side to us which is darker, mysterious and almost undesirable.

The shadow contains our deeper urgings, drives and instincts. Over our life time it also becomes the depository for our fears, anger and hurts. As well it contains our creative powers and energies, intuitve insights and deep emotions. As you can see, it is a place where pure gold and dross are found. Surprising as it may seem, the shadow self is most distructive when not recognised or honoured.

Dark moods, melancholy and depression are often signals that the shadow self is disturbed and needs recognition and attention. If we don't resolve our inner conflicts or disregard our unfilled needs then the moods of our shadow self will dominate our lives.

Getting in touch with the shadow is not always easy. For many of us the great creative powers and energies we have are stifled by the accumulation of unresolved issues. But the shadow also contains a lot of energy and is the cornerstone of our vitality. It is the place where we experience bliss and deep awareness.

But it is a place of paradox. Of ecstasy and agony. Of deep insights and dark moods. A source of energy as well as repressed vitality. Rather than living in our shadow we need to live WITH our shadow; understanding its nature, acknowledging its power, healing its wounds, discerning its influences and discovering its creativeness.