Transformative Shadow Work Journaling Prompts to Reflect on Death

During the time of Samhain, or Halloween, death is all around us if we are willing to see it. The plants are dying off, the day turns to night earlier and earlier. The veil between the worlds is thinning. Some believe that it is easier for spirits to communicate with us because of it. Read more for journaling prompts to aid your shadow work around death.

Death and Shadow Work Journaling

Death is a subject that is considered morbid. It’s not something that is talked about. Yet, it will happen to all of us. Why then do we find it so taboo?

Death is just a part of life. It is my wish that we can talk about it without fear and accept it as a beautiful part of the cycle of life.

I think Samhain is a good time to reflect on this topic. Go deep within yourself and reflect on your thoughts and beliefs about death and any afterlife you believe in. How have you experienced death and how has that shaped your perception of it?

Prepare for your Shadow Work Journaling

1. Allow yourself a decent amount of time for your journaling. You may even need to schedule it ahead of time. You’ll want a quiet space free from distractions. I recommend that you set aside at least an hour and select three or four prompts from the list below to focus on first. If you work through them and have more time you can select more.

2. Gather all the necessary items and bring them to your space. Bring a cup of tea or any beverage you wish. Wear clothes that you feel comfortable in. Have your journal and pens and any craft supplies you want to use in your space.

3. Prepare your space for this sacred work. Leave your phone in another room. You don’t want to waste your precious time on Instagram or other social media instead of going inward. Adjust the lights, light any candles or incense, play some lo-fi music, and pull a tarot or oracle card for guidance. Close your eyes and take a few cleansing breaths before you begin writing.

If Death or the darker aspects of magic interest you, here are a few books I recommend.

Morbid Magic: Death Spirituality and Culture from Around the World by Tomas Prower

Of Blood and Bones: Working with Shadow Magik and the Dark Moon by Kate Freuler

Samhain Shadow Work Journal Prompts

Pick and choose between 15 Journal Prompts about Death and your spiritual beliefs around it.

Reflect on your personal beliefs about the nature of life and death. How have these beliefs shaped your understanding of the afterlife?

Explore the concept of death as a transition rather than an end. How does this perspective influence your thoughts and emotions surrounding the topic?

Write about any experiences or encounters that have deepened your spiritual understanding of death. How did they impact your beliefs?

Contemplate the role of faith and spirituality in coping with the loss of a loved one. How has your belief system provided comfort during times of grief?

Discuss the various cultural or religious rituals associated with death. How do these practices contribute to the spiritual journey of the deceased and the living?

Consider the idea of reincarnation and its connection to your spiritual beliefs. How does the notion of living multiple lives shape your understanding of death?

Reflect on your personal encounters with death, such as attending a funeral or witnessing the passing of a loved one. How did these experiences affect your spiritual perspective?

Explore the concept of a “life review” or a spiritual reflection on one’s actions after death. How does this belief impact the way you live your life and perceive death?

Write about the role of forgiveness and letting go of your spiritual beliefs about death. How does the practice of forgiveness contribute to the afterlife?

Contemplate the concept of soul contracts or predestined life paths. How does this idea influence your understanding of death and the purpose of life?

Discuss the significance of near-death experiences (NDEs) in shaping your spiritual beliefs about the afterlife. How have these accounts impacted your understanding of death?

Write about your thoughts on the existence of heaven, hell, or other realms in the afterlife. How do these beliefs affect your perspective on death and moral choices in life?

Reflect on the role of symbolism and rituals in honoring and remembering the deceased. How do these practices contribute to the spiritual connection with those who have passed on?

Contemplate the concept of spiritual guides or guardian angels who accompany souls after death. How does this belief influence your thoughts on the journey of the soul?

Write about your personal fears or uncertainties regarding death and how your spiritual beliefs provide solace and reassurance in facing these concerns.

I hope my prompts have helped you clear up your beliefs about death and allowed the fear you may have had around it to dissipate.