From Frustration to Fuel: Working with Anger as Sacred Energy
Let’s be honest, anger doesn’t always feel welcome.
Most of us learned to fear or avoid it. Maybe you were told to calm down when you spoke up. Maybe you learned early that being "good" meant staying quiet and agreeable, even when something felt deeply unfair.
But here's the truth: anger is not a flaw. It’s not something to hide or fix.
It’s a signal.
It’s sacred energy.
And it’s worth listening to.
The Wisdom Within Anger
In Jungian psychology, we see anger as part of the shadow, the parts of ourselves we push away because they feel “unacceptable.” But when we repress anger, it doesn't disappear. It gets buried in the unconscious and shows up later through frustration, passive-aggression, or emotional withdrawal.
Eastern wisdom reminds us that emotions are energy. Anger isn’t wrong, it’s just powerful. And power, when used with awareness, can bring truth to the surface.
Anger rises when something sacred to us is at stake.
It may be our time, our dignity, our voice, our boundaries.
When approached with mindfulness, anger reveals what matters most.
A Personal Reflection
For me, anger often shows up as tension or irritability, usually when I’ve said yes out of guilt, stayed silent to keep the peace, or poured from an empty cup for too long.
It used to scare me. I’d judge myself for feeling that way.
But now I see it for what it is: a loving wake-up call.
My anger says, “You’re neglecting yourself.”
It asks me to pause. To realign. To remember what I value.
When I listen, I often find that my frustration isn’t about other people, it’s about where I’ve gone missing in my own life.
Mindfulness Meets Shadow Work
Eastern practices like meditation teach us to observe without judgment. When we bring that same awareness to our anger, it softens. Not because the feeling goes away, but because we finally hear it.
Instead of reacting, we get curious:
What is this anger trying to protect?
What is it trying to reveal?
This is the heart of shadow work, meeting the parts of ourselves we've pushed aside and learning to welcome them back with respect and curiosity.
You’re not trying to be “less angry.” You’re learning to be more honest. More whole.
What Anger Might Be Saying
Anger often speaks in the language of unmet needs and crossed boundaries.
It may be saying:
“You’ve given too much and received too little.”
“You’ve stayed quiet too long.”
“This matters to you. Don’t dismiss it.”
When you honour anger as sacred energy, it becomes fuel, not for destruction, but for transformation.
It helps you say no with clarity.
It helps you say yes with integrity.
It helps you remember who you are and what you stand for.
An Invitation to Listen Differently
If you’ve been feeling the heat of frustration, resentment, or even quiet rage, pause.
Breathe.
Listen.
Ask the deeper question: What is my anger trying to protect or reveal?
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
You just need to be willing to feel, to listen, and to let that energy guide you, not away from yourself, but back home to what matters.
July Book Club: A Life of Meaning by James Hollis
If this conversation around sacred anger, shadow work, and living more truthfully resonates with you, you’ll love this next book club.
We’re gathering (online and in person) to explore A Life of Meaning by Jungian analyst James Hollis, a powerful guide for anyone seeking purpose beyond the roles and expectations they’ve outgrown.
Together, we’ll reflect on:
The shift from outer success to inner fulfillment
Shadow work, dreams, and the unconscious
Creating meaning, not chasing it
What it means to live a soul-led life
Eastern wisdom and Jungian insights that guide transformation
No need to finish the book, just bring your curiosity and presence.
Online Gathering
Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Time: 5:00–6:30 PM MST
Location: Via Zoom (link sent after registration)
Reserve your spot here: https://wildnewway.myflodesk.com/alifeofmeaningonline
In-Person Gathering – Durango, CO
Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Time: 5:30–7:00 PM MST
Location: 813 Main Ave, Durango, CO
Reserve your spot here: https://wildnewway.myflodesk.com/alifeofmeaninginperson
Let’s go deeper together, in conversation, in reflection, and in the ongoing journey of becoming more fully ourselves.
With love and light,
Cindy Schmidt
Owner, Wild New Way Jungian Life & Relationship Coaching
wildnewway.com | 970-985-2416 | 813 Main Ave, Suite 201, Durango, CO
If you're feeling stuck in your relationships, unsure of your purpose, or simply looking for deeper meaning and fulfillment in your life, as a Certified Master Jungian Life and Relationship coach, Cindy Schmidt can help guide you toward greater self-awareness, clarity, and connection.
Through the lens of Jungian Psychology and Eastern Philosophy, you'll gain a deeper understanding of your inner world and develop tools to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and grace. If you're ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth, take action now and book a Complimentary Clarity Session with Cindy. The benefits of this work are immeasurable, and the possibilities for your life are endless. Don't wait another day to start living your most fulfilling, authentic life.