Exploring Fears This October
By Kaitlyn Lewis, LPC
What a perfect time to notice our inner shadows like the fears, anxieties, and hidden parts of ourselves that we often try to avoid. Just like Halloween invites us to explore spooky corners safely, this season gives us a chance to look at our fears with curiosity and care.
Naming the Ghosts
Before we can explore our shadows, it helps to notice and name them. What are the worries you keep to yourself? Which feelings do you try to push aside? Simply recognizing these fears is like turning on a light in a dark room. They feel a little less mysterious and a little more manageable.
Playing With the Fear
Halloween is all about controlled scares with haunted houses and spooky stories. We can approach our own fears the same way. Instead of trying to erase them, we can observe them with curiosity and experiment gently. What happens if you sit with a difficult feeling for a few minutes? What do you notice when you ask yourself what this fear might be trying to show you? Exploring fear in this way allows insight to emerge while keeping you safe.
Gentle Encounters
Facing shadows is not about forcing yourself to be brave. It is about approaching emotions with gentleness. Journaling, drawing, talking with a trusted friend, or quietly noticing your reactions can help you meet your fears without judgment. These small, mindful encounters build self-awareness and remind us that vulnerability is a form of strength.
Finding the Hidden Gifts
Every shadow has a story. Fear can reveal values, unmet needs, or areas where we want to grow. Just like a Halloween story that mixes scares with surprises, exploring our shadows can uncover unexpected gifts such as resilience, creativity, and self-compassion.
This October, consider leaning into the spooky side of your inner world. Give yourself permission to notice the parts of yourself that usually stay in the shadows. Approach your fears with curiosity and kindness, and see what insights, strength, or new perspectives they might offer.
