The Best Stones for Shadow Work

Darkness is a part of us all. We may not want to believe it or look at it, but wherever there is light, there is also darkness. In psychology, this is thought of as our inner darkness, or the shadow self. And when we do the work necessary to address our shadow self, it is called shadow work. By engaging in shadow work, we are able to transmute our darkness into light. The benefits of this work cannot be understated, although no one would ever say it is easy.

Shadow work benefits us in a lot of ways:

• It helps us in sorting out things in our lives that are bothering us.
• It helps in strengthening our relationships and bonds with other people.
• It assists us in getting rid of past traumas and triggers and consequently healing emotional and spiritual wounds.
• It transforms us into emotionally stable and balanced versions of ourselves.

Moonstone

Moonstone is connected to the energy of the dark goddesses (especially Hecate/Hekate, Baba Yaga, and Kali) that rule the Shadow Realm.  These goddesses are often feared because of their perceived negative connotations, but in fact, they represent transformation.

Moonstone assists you during times of uncomfortable change as both an emotional and energetic support. It’s also a stone of feminine empowerment and is linked to the archetypes of the maiden, the mother, and the crone. It is an excellent companion stone for times of rebirth or transformation, especially spiritual rebirths. 

Moonstone reveals to you your identity as it’s seen by the divine.  It can facilitate a connection between your light side and your shadow side.  It is especially powerful during rituals or ceremonies related to shadow work during the dark and new moon phases. 

Moonstone is related to all forms of growth (physical, mental, and emotional). It can keep you energetically protected during major life transitions so that you can emerge safe, supported, and whole on the other side of your journey.

Black Obsidian

Black Obsidian assists you in finding the deeper meaning in your Shadow aspects. This stone helps you unlock the symbols and insights presented by your Shadow side. You will be better able to integrate these aspects of yourself back into the light.

This is best done through the art of crystallomancy (a form of crystal scrying divination). It will engage the subconscious mind in the act of journeying into the realm of shadow. The crystal Black Obsidian is connected to the Dark Goddess Kali.

Black Onyx

Black Onyx helps to keep you feeling safe, grounded, and centered during your Shadow Work process. It’s a stone of stability and calm, so it works well to hold onto this stone when you’re feeling overwhelmed or while you’re processing something meaningful.

This stone is connected with the Dark Goddess Persephone (also known as Core, Kore, Proserpina, or Proserpine).

Lapis Lazuli

The Sumerian Goddess, Inanna, was said to wear a Lapis Lazuli necklace.  Inanna also carried long wands of Lapis that she used to measure the length of a person’s lifetime. Throughout time, people have associated Lapis with connections to other worlds. 

In one ancient Babylonian myth, the goddess Ishtar adorns herself from head to toe in Lapis Lazuli to prepare for passage into the Underworld. These prove useful as they must be given up in exchange for passage through the seven gates of the underworld. This is a journey that eventually leads to her ascension and rebirth.

Work with Lapis Lazuli when you’re ready to heal your wounds. It will allow you to rise from the realm of shadow to reclaim your power. Lapis Lazuli is a stone of spiritual mystery and helps you to better understand your shadow side.  Although the shadow self is often ignored, consciously working with it brings about personal growth. Lapis Lazuli helps you tap into your shadow side and take a journey of self-discovery.

Selenite

Selenite helps to clear out old wounds and energies that have been healed or released during your Shadow Work practice. It also assists with clearing cords to people, places, energies, or experiences that no longer serve you.

Selenite also acts as an amplifier for the other crystals you are working with.  It will enhance and strengthen your meditations to allow you to fully see your shadow self so you are able to acknowledge and understand this side of yourself.

The growth and transformations you unlock with these Shadow Work Crystals is invaluable. The world needs your gifts, but you can only shine your light once you’ve acknowledge and integrate your inner darkness.  Only through this can you be your authentic self.