My Method for Overcoming Fear: Shadow Work + Archetypes + Release and Recharge

Hi everyone,

I’ve noticed a common theme in this subreddit where fears are discussed, and the advice often boils down to “just drop the fear.” While well-meaning, this advice isn’t practical—especially when fear feels deeply rooted in the body and psyche. I want to share a method I have been experimenting with and it's been transformative for me, combining shadow work, archetypes, and the Gateway Release and Recharge practice. I hope it will help those that need it.

But first, why “Dropping the Fear” doesn’t work:

Fear isn’t just mental—it’s somatic, i.e. it's in our bodies. Our threat detection systems, wired in the body, are millions of years older than our logical brain. When we sense danger (even if it’s just perceived), we go into autopilot: fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. Logic shuts down (backed by neuroscience). So, telling yourself to “drop the fear” when your body feels like it’s fighting a tiger is futile.

What is Shadow Work and Archetypes?

Shadow work is the process of uncovering and integrating hidden parts of ourselves—often referred to as the “shadow.” These are aspects of our personality that we’ve repressed or denied, often out of fear, shame, or societal conditioning. By bringing these shadows into conscious awareness, we can heal old wounds, release limiting patterns, and reclaim lost energy. Archetypes, as defined by Carl Jung, are universal patterns or symbols that reside within the collective unconscious. They provide a framework for shadow work by helping us identify and understand the deeper forces shaping our thoughts, fears, and behaviours. Together, shadow work and archetypes create a roadmap for personal transformation, guiding us to uncover and embrace the fullest expression of who we are.

How I Combined Shadow Work, Archetypes, and Release and Recharge

For context, I’ve been diving into shadow work for years and since the last two years began integrating it with body based practices that have seen a huge reduction in allergy symptions, IBS, etc.. A key breakthrough came when I started identifying fears and reclaiming energy using archetypes defined by Carl Jung.

Here’s why archetypes work so well:

  1. Clarity: They help you quickly identify clusters of fear patterns shadow dynamics.
  2. Depth: Archetypes provide a framework to explore deeply embedded fears tied to specific shadow aspects.
  3. Efficiency: By understanding the archetype, you can optimise Release and Recharge sessions for faster breakthroughs.

3dThis method has been especially powerful for me as someone who grew up experiencing a range of abuse. Fear was a dominant theme in my life, but this process has helped me shift it dramatically.

Step-by-Step Protocol

Here’s the exact process I use:

  1. Daily Journaling with ChatGPT:

Dedicate a specific chat thread to your fears, frustrations, and blocks. Journal every time a fear arises—no matter how small or big.

  1. Analyse Shadows with Archetypes:

After a few days, ask ChatGPT to analyse your journal and identify your most prominent shadow(s) using Carl Jung’s archetypes.

  1. Explore Shadow-Specific Fears:

Ask ChatGPT to break down typical fears associated with those shadow archetypes and help you identify which ones resonate most with your experiences.

  1. Create a Protocol for Release and Recharge:

Ask ChatGPT to craft a list of Release and Recharge protocols tailored to the specific archetype and fears you’re working with. This becomes your roadmap for future sessions.

  1. Track Shifts and Repeat:

As you feel the “grip” of those fears loosening (trust me, you’ll feel it ripple through your life), ask ChatGPT to identify other archetypes or shadows in alliance with the one you’ve just worked on. Then repeat steps 3-4.

Example Protocol

Here’s an example of how this method works in practice:

Protocol: Wild Woman/Rebellious Shadow

  • Identify the Fear: Fear of entrapment and losing freedom
  • Identify Emotions Behind the Fear: Resentment and frustration
  • Identify the Scene: Resistance to routines and structured life (e.g., defiance after cleaner visits)
  • Reclaim Clean Energy: Liberation and creative expression

Let me know if you try it or if you have questions—I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!

Here is an infographic I created to understand the key Shadow Archetypes and what their "Light" versions are:

Illustration of Shadow and Light Archetpes. Once reclaimed, a shadow comes into consciousness and becomes \"light\".

P.S. ChatGPT helped me write this for a concise breakdown but ideas and content are mine :)