In the rhythm of retreat – shadow work in November

When the fog rolls over the streets and the days grow quieter, a different kind of time begins — not one of loud celebrations, but of honest reflection.November is a threshold month.Between the golden glow of autumn and the deep stillness of winter, it invites us to turn inward.It’s the time when nature dies in order to renew itself.And perhaps, we too are allowed to release what no longer belongs to us.

Shadow work isn’t a dark or gloomy concept. It’s an act of self-care — a loving reunion with the parts of ourselves we’ve locked away out of fear, shame, or pain. It’s not about fighting the darkness, but about understanding it.Because only what we acknowledge can transform.

Shadow work isn’t drama. It’s rebellion.

In a world that constantly tells you to be happy, looking at what’s uncomfortable is a radical act of courage.Shadow work means no longer performing who you think you should be. It means feeling yourself — real, raw, and unapologetically human.

Why November is the perfect time for it

November was made for this.It’s honest. It shows you what fades — and what remains when you stop hiding. As the light fades outside, it grows brighter within.The inward retreat happens almost naturally — through the silence, through the fog, through the long nights. It’s a quiet invitation that we can feel when we pause: a longing for depth, for truth, for wholeness.This time of year reminds us that growth doesn’t only happen in bloom, but also in decay.That transformation always begins with letting go.

Journaling for the Season of Shadows

If you want to surrender to this inner journey, writing can be a powerful tool.Make yourself comfortable — with tea, a candle, your favorite playlist, or simply the silence between raindrops.(I personally love to meditate for a few minutes in complete darkness before beginning by candlelight.) Then write. Not beautifully. Not cleverly. But honestly — straight from your heart.

🕯️ What am I trying to avoid?

Often, our greatest fear guards the doorway to our greatest growth.

🌑 What am I still afraid to look at?

Maybe it’s a feeling, a memory, or a part of your story that longs to be healed.

🍂 What am I holding onto, even though it drains my energy?

Sometimes we cling to patterns that once protected us but now keep us small.

🌙 Which parts of me are asking for attention right now?

Perhaps the ones that have been silent for too long.Perhaps the ones that learned to adapt instead of shine.

A Ritual of Release

If you wish, you can accompany this process with a small ritual.Write down what you’re ready to release — old beliefs, self-images, fears — and carefully burn the paper (safely, of course).

Watch the smoke rise.

Visualize the energy transforming, creating space — for something new, for you.

Maybe place your hand over your heart and whisper:

“I’m ready to see myself fully.”

A Reminder

Shadow work isn’t about fixing yourself.It’s a return to yourself — beyond façade, duty, and perfection.When you learn to dance with your shadows, darkness turns into depth. Shadow work means seeing yourself completely — light and dark, strength and vulnerability, courage and fear.In November, the earth reminds us that everything is cyclical. So are we. And even in the deepest darkness, the seed of new light rests quietly — waiting.