Why Shadow Work Feels Hard (and How Tarot Makes It Easier)

by Jeffrey Goldstein August 13, 2025

Why Is Shadow Work So Emotionally Difficult?

Because it asks you to look at the parts of yourself you’ve spent years hiding, suppressing, or avoiding. Shadow work brings up fear, shame, grief, and memories you may not want to face — not because you're broken, but because you're ready to grow.

It’s not easy. But it’s powerful. And necessary for real transformation.

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What Makes Tarot Helpful in Shadow Work?

Tarot gives you something to hold onto in the process.

Instead of being lost in emotion, you have an image — a structure — a symbol that reflects what’s happening. A card like The Five of Cups might help you name your grief. The Eight of Swords might help you notice self-imposed limitations. The cards hold space when you're overwhelmed.

Tarot makes the invisible visible — and that’s where healing starts.

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What Emotions Might Come Up?

Shadow work can stir:

• Guilt or regret

• Old anger or bitterness

• Fear of judgment or rejection

• A sense of “not being good enough”

• Memories you haven’t visited in years

This is normal. The key is to meet these emotions with curiosity, not resistance.

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How Can I Stay Grounded While Doing Shadow Work?

Here are 3 simple tips:

1. Set a time limit — 10 to 15 minutes of reflection is enough

2. Light a candle or hold a grounding object before you begin

3. End with self-kindness — a stretch, a walk, or writing down something gentle

You don’t need to do everything at once. Shadow work is a lifelong process, not a sprint.

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Where Do I Start If I Feel Overwhelmed?

Start with one card and one question:

What part of me is asking to be seen right now?

Let the card speak. Let the feelings rise. Write what comes.
No fixing. No forcing. Just witnessing.

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Want Guidance Through the Process?

🖤 The Shadow Work Tarot Workbook includes simple, safe prompts to explore your shadow step by step — without rushing or getting lost.

🃏 Or book a personal tarot session to receive live, intuitive support.

📺 Watch my approach on YouTube for guidance and real examples:
👉 Ripecolor Channel

📌 Share or revisit this blog anytime:
👉 Pinterest – Ripecolor

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