“Periods of solitude are vitally important for every human being out there – whether they identify as an introvert or extrovert. Here’s why: Our identities are conglomerates of external projections that we have internalized and confused with ‘self’. When we are around people, we naturally fall prey to our habits of accepting and becoming these projections of others… So much so, that it is quite easy to completely lose sight of the being that lies naked beneath. In solitude, this being has the conditions to emerge – intentionally or not. With solitude often comes immense discomfort – a natural reaction similar to baby skin being exposed to the cold.

Our often intense reaction to solitude is most significantly based in the fact that the ‘self’ that emerges in these conditions is full of shadow elements. It is a blend of traits, thoughts, and tendencies that are rejected by society, and thus rejected by ourselves. They are the darkest of the dark. Naturally, these are not pretty to look at, let alone with engage with. However, as much as we may seek to be free of them, we cannot do so without escorting them out the door.

As Ram Dass said,

“If we are to be free, there is nothing we can push away.”

The only way to emancipate this pent up darkness is through direct contact, interest, reflection, and intentionality. We must embrace ‘what is’ truly and deeply, without judgment and prioritization. It is ALL valid – the good, the bad, and the ugly.”