If you are someone who has ever been called, “too sensitive,” then it is likely that you are an empath. These highly intuitive people are like emotional sponges, everything in their environment sinks down through their pores. Empaths make wonderful friends, therapists, and co-workers, because they always know exactly what is going on with those around them, and they are often willing to lend a hand in difficult situations. But, sometimes, with the weight of the world on their shoulders, they forget how to take care of themselves.
Taking in so much outside stimuli can be overwhelming, and even depressing. Because of this, empaths often need serious down-time to recover from time with draining people. While a less-sensitive person may be able to shake off a negative remark, or criticism, an empath is likely to feel the sting for hours, if not days, afterward.
This doesn’t mean that empaths need to stay home and lock themselves in solitude forever. It just means that we need to respect our personal boundaries, and be sure that we are getting enough recovery time in-between social interactions.
It’s also a good idea to have some coping skills at the ready, for times that you feel overwhelmed; So let’s talk about the 3 Bs of Being an Empath:
Set Boundaries
As empaths, we may need to set stricter boundaries than our thicker-skinned friends. While others may be able to socialize in large groups eight days a week, we probably need at least half of that time for ourselves. We aren’t anti-social, in fact, when we are with others we give 110%, which is why quiet nights with no-one but Netflix are so necessary.
Make Bubbles
Bubbles are not just for birthday parties and Bat-Mitzvahs! Imagining a protective bubble around yourself, where only clean energy can sneak through, is actually a wonderful coping tool. This is especially useful when you know that you will spend time with someone who can be toxic or degrading. An imaginary bubble is like headphones for the whole body; where you are the only DJ who can save your life.
Say Bye
There will be times when you find yourself in a situation that just doesn’t feel right. No matter how you got there, give yourself permission to leave. You don’t have to stay anywhere that makes your soul feel small. If you are at lunch with an acquaintance, and you suddenly realize that all she wants to talk about is how many stupid mistakes you’ve made, get out of there! You don’t need that kind of negativity in your life. If someone doesn’t respect you, you don’t owe them anything.
Drawing these lines in the sand can be difficult, especially when you are so used to putting other people’s needs before your own. But self-care for empaths is extremely important, to keep our intuition sharp, and our propensity for compassion clear.
If you would like to talk more about being, or loving, an empath, contact us. We are here to help.