061: Mastering The Shadow Later In Life! CONNIE ZWEIG

CONNIE ZWEIG - Author of The Inner Work Of Age: From Role To Soul

CONNIE'S BOOK: (amazon)https://geni.us/Innerworkofage

From the very beginning, Connie captivated me with her profound knowledge and insights. We delved into the origins of the shadow, a personal unconscious hidden from our awareness, as first explored by Carl Jung. Connie's expertise in this subject became evident as she discussed how the shadow is formed during childhood through societal messages about what is deemed acceptable and what is not.

But here's where it gets truly intriguing: the shadow doesn't just include negative associations. It also encompasses repressed talents, passions, and even positive aspects of ourselves.

One particular aspect that struck a chord with me was the role of projection in detecting and understanding our shadow. Connie shed light on how our unacknowledged inner issues often manifest in our interactions with others, leading to blame, targeting, and emotional responses. She emphasized the importance of identifying these projections and taking responsibility for our own emotional triggers.

As our conversation unfolded, Connie also opened my eyes to the ageist shadow issues prevalent in society. She highlighted how negative images and internalized ageism can affect our perception of growing old, ultimately leading to discomfort and a lack of guidance during the transition into retirement and elderhood.

But fear not, my dear listeners! Connie's book offers a much-needed rite of passage, exploring themes like aging, illness, spirituality, and death. It provides psycho-spiritual practices and guidance from different traditions to help us embark on a soulful journey of self-discovery and tap into our spiritual nature. This profound exploration can lead to a shift in our identity, from roles to our true selves, creating purpose and meaning in our later years.

Together, Connie and I discuss the importance of emotional repair, forgiveness, and understanding as we undertake the life review process. We also dive into the intricate relationship between spirituality and aging, exploring concepts like spiritual awakening and the unconscious.

Ultimately, this episode is a profound reminder that wisdom should be celebrated, especially in our elders, who often go unnoticed and unheard in society. It's time for us to acknowledge our own shadows, confront our biases, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

So why wait? Join me on this transformative adventure and listen to the latest episode of our podcast now. Trust me, you won't regret it.