Shadow Work & Self-Awareness | Heal, Grow & Set Boundaries in Midlife

Discover how shadow work, self-awareness, and emotional integration can transform your life. In this inspiring Midlife Catalyst episode, clinical therapist & integrative healer Tess Wilton shares powerful tools to heal past wounds, build resilience, and set healthy boundaries.In this episode of Midlife Catalyst, host Amanda Younts speaks with Tess Wilton, a trauma-informed therapist and integrative healer, about how high-achieving, spiritually attuned women can reclaim their inner power. Tess blends clinical therapy with spiritual practices like shadow work, emotional integration, and sacred witnessing to help clients navigate midlife transitions with clarity and confidence.You’ll learn:How to recognize and work with your “shadow self”Practical self-awareness tools for daily lifeBreathwork and self-soothing techniques to stay groundedHow to set and maintain healthy boundariesWhy emotional storms aren’t your enemySteps to stop people-pleasing and prioritize yourselfWhether you’re seeking personal growth, healing from past traumas, or striving for soul-level leadership, Tess’s approach offers a path to deeper connection, resilience, and authenticity.📌Key Moments 00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Tess Wilton 02:10 – Tess’s journey into therapy and healing 06:45 – Blending spiritual and clinical approaches 09:30 – Understanding shadow work 13:20 – Recognizing triggers and emotional patterns 17:05 – How self-awareness creates choice 20:15 – The role of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors 24:30 – Avoiding autopilot reactions in conflict 27:40 – Importance of willingness and hope in healing 31:00 – People-pleasing and self-abandonment patterns 34:25 – Why emotional storms aren’t the enemy 37:10 – Self-reflection without judgment 39:00 – Practical self-soothing tools (5 senses method) 42:20 – The power of boundaries and how to set them 45:50 – Examples of real-life boundary conversations 48:15 – Breathwork techniques for grounding (box & Ferris wheel breathing) 50:00 – Final thoughts If this episode inspired you, give it a like, share it with someone who needs to hear it, drop your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe so you never miss an empowering conversation.Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected]. And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.Follow me on Social Media : Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/midlifecatalyst/Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/midlifecatalystLinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-yountsTiktok : https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifecatalyst