Highly sensitive people and empaths are both sensitive to their external environment and interactions with other people. Some experts believe that empaths have stronger intuition and may be more sensitive to the behavior and emotions of others compared to HSPs. They also believe that heightened sensitivity is something people are born with and cannot be developed. Highly sensitive people and empaths are often described as “carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders” because they feel things so deeply. HSPs and empaths are also similar in that they usually don’t like seeing others in pain, and they genuinely want to help people when they can. Empaths and highly sensitive people experience the same ups and downs in life as those who are not highly sensitive or intuitive. However, because HSPs and empaths are extra sensitive, they may experience psychological symptoms on a deeper level than others. Some studies have also shown that HSPs and empaths are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
People who identify as empaths may be sensitive to the energy or vibes that other people radiate. A person’s energy can also refer to their overall mood, feelings, and behavior, which can also influence an empath’s energy.
Empathetic and sensitive people can protect their energy. By setting boundaries with friends, coworkers, and family members who tend to come on strong or struggle with their own problems. Practicing mindfulness, energy healing, and staying in the present moment can also help people protect their energy. By staying present, empaths can simply focus on the tasks at hand and not worry about how other people are feeling or behaving.
How to Protect your energy as HSP & Empath
Try not to absorb other people’s emotions:
While happiness and smiling can be contagious in a positive way, absorbing emotions like anger, depression, or anxiety can be difficult for an empath. Some steps that sensitive individuals can take to avoid overly absorbing the emotions of others include using visualization techniques and creating strong boundaries. I recommend visualizing a glass wall or dome between you and the other person to avoid absorbing the negative emotions. By learning to distance yourself from negative situations and practicing saying “no,” empaths can also strengthen their defenses against the negative emotions of others.
Learn to set healthy boundaries with friends and family members:
Setting healthy boundaries with friends and family members is extremely important for empaths and highly sensitive individuals. In close relationships, boundary lines can sometimes become “blurred,” and the empath ends up taking over the emotions and feelings of their entire circle. Since you tend to be a people pleaser and often work hard to make sure everyone is “okay,” absorbing everyone’s emotions can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. Be it a friend asking for multiple favors or parents constantly arguing. Setting boundaries can help you create a healthy distance between you and your loved ones.
Practice healthy habits when overwhelming emotions or negative feelings arise:
Healthy habits are useful tools for individuals who identify as empaths or HSPs. When negative emotions or strong, overwhelming feelings become too much to bear, taking some deep, calming breaths can help you become centered and focused in the present moment. Counting backwards from 50 to 0 is a simple, effective exercise that gives you the time you need to relax and calm the mind. Spending time in nature and making sure you take as much time alone as you need are also great ways to recharge when you’re overwhelmed by your own emotions or the energy of others.
Take care of your own feelings and mental health with self-care:
It can help manage your feelings and emotions through healthy self-care practices. Make sure you get enough rest. Because you are influenced by the moods, emotions and behaviors of others, it is also important for you to be aware of possible triggers. Distancing yourself from situations that can cause uncomfortable feelings and stress is also important. Taking time for activities. Writing, painting, walking, swimming is good for the soul and provides a positive outlet for you to express yourself.