Binge Eating the Shadow

A few months ago I found myself toeing the line. One weekend I binged. Not on Netflix, Prime or Hulu. Instead it was 2 boneless chicken thighs, a roll and some delicious garlic potatoes from R&R BBQ. That doesn’t sound bad but here’s the truth, I kept eating it all despite feeling so stuffed I was sick to my stomach. What’s going on? 

Here’s something no one talks about, the healing process is messy. Sometimes it's like picking up after your dog only to find that you need another bag. Similarly, issues you previously thought were resolved often pop up again when you least expect it. When that happens, chances are you are dealing with the shadow and the shadow effect.

The shadow refers to the dark side of ourselves that we either deny exists or try to keep hidden from others. It starts as a secret that is fueled by guilt and shame and eventually grows into a constant state of inner-versus-outward struggle. That’s when it gets real and bursts in front of everyone.

The shadow effect occurs when the shadow bursts into view, often at the worst moments. The strikes are so sudden we feel we are being sabotaged after coming so close to something we want. For example, it can be an anxiety attack during a job interview or a blow up with a family member. Debbie Ford describes the shadow effect as if you are in a swimming pool and you are constantly trying to keep multiple beach balls underwater.  When one of them pops up and smacks you in the face, that is the shadow effect.

How does energy work support healing the shadow? First, energy work supports the actual physical release of energy stuck in the body. This energy is like TNT waiting to be ignited. Reduce the TNT, reduce the explosion. Second, energy is simply information. An experienced energy healer like myself can assist clients in identifying the root cause. This awareness is critical for embracing and healing the shadow.