Hey there, beautiful souls! Let's talk about something I know many of you deeply understand: being sensitive.
For me, it's always started with the senses. The world can feel like a symphony of sensations—some beautiful, some jarring, but all of them amplified. And in those busy, overwhelming spaces, the emotions follow. It's not always easy to separate what's ours from what we absorb, but the intensity can be undeniable. If you feel things deeply, if the world sometimes feels like a whirlwind of emotions, you will want to keep reading.
I remember walking through Pike Place Market in Seattle. The noise, the colors, the smells—it was all too much. But it wasn't just those things; it was the energy of the crowd, a noticeable weight pressing against me. It hit me with strong force like a tidal wave and triggered my anxiety. I suddenly felt overwhelmed and wanted to flee the market, and be somewhere quiet and safe.
Have you experienced this ? If you identify with being an empath, intuitive or a highly sensitive person, then chances are you can relate.
Even when the external world is calm, we can still be battling an internal storm. The fear of judgment, the worry about what others think—these internal struggles can feel just as intense as the sensory overload of a crowded market. We might be afraid of being judged for our intensity, for crying easily, for needing quiet time, for feeling things "too much." We're constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we should be tougher, less emotional, more "normal." It's no wonder we start to fear that we're "too sensitive.
So, what can we do about it?
The first step is recognizing our triggers. What situations leave you feeling overwhelmed or drained? Is it noisy places? Crowded places? The emotions of others? Once you know what your triggers are, you can begin finding ways to manage your internal storms, to navigate through life without being constantly swept by the tide.
Start by noticing your inner critic and challenging those negative thoughts. Ask yourself: Would I say this to a friend? If not, why am I saying it to myself? Just as I felt lost and overwhelmed in the crowd at Pike Place Market, it can be easy to feel lost and alone in the world. But finding your tribe is possible. Connecting with other sensitive souls who understand you can provide a sense of belonging and support, a refuge from the storm—a place where you can truly be yourself.
Think of boundaries as creating a quiet corner in the bustling marketplace of life, a space where you can retreat and recharge. Many sensitive people have a strong desire to help others, but this can sometimes lead to neglecting our own needs. Because we feel things so deeply, we can sometimes take on other people's emotions and needs as our own, making it difficult to separate our own needs from theirs. It's natural to feel a little guilty when setting boundaries, especially at first. But remind yourself that you're not responsible for other people's emotions. You're only responsible for your own well-being.
So, how do you actually set these boundaries?
It can feel awkward at first, but practice makes it easier. Imagine a friend asks you to help them move this weekend, but you've already planned some much-needed downtime. You could say, "Thank you for thinking of me, but I'm not able to commit to that right now."
Sometimes, it's about recognizing your limits and honoring your need for rest. "I need some quiet time for myself this afternoon" is a perfectly valid reason to decline a social invitation. And remember, it's okay to say no to things that drain you, even if it's something that seems "good" or "helpful."
If you're a sensitive soul like me, you know that conflict can feel like a whole other level of sensory overload. The raised voices, the tense body language, the unspoken emotions—it's all amplified, creating a sense of internal chaos.
If you've ever felt this way, please know that you're not alone. There are so many of us out there who understand what it's like to feel different, to feel like we don't quite belong. There are so many of us out there. And it's so important to find your community. Connect with other sensitive souls who understand you. Join a support group, find an online community, or simply talk to a trusted friend or family member.
Remember, your sensitivity is a gift. It's what makes you you. Your sensitivity is not a weakness; it's a superpower. It allows you to connect with others on a deeper level, to experience the world with greater depth and nuance, and to make a positive impact on those around you. Choose to embrace it!
Beyond navigating challenges, it's important to remember the incredible gifts that come with being sensitive. Your empathy, intuition, and deep emotional capacity are valuable assets. Maybe you're drawn to helping others, expressing yourself creatively, or simply connecting with people on a deeper level. Whatever your path, don't be afraid to let your sensitivity shine. The world needs your unique gifts.
And speaking of gifts, don't forget about self-care! It's not a luxury; it's a necessity. Think of it as recharging your batteries so you can keep shining bright.
This means taking care of yourself physically (enough sleep, good food, and moving your body), emotionally (journaling, therapy, creative expression, or time in nature), and spiritually (meditation, connecting with something bigger than yourself, or simply taking time to reflect). Prioritize these practices, and you'll be amazed at how much they can help you thrive.
This journey of embracing our sensitivity, of learning to navigate a world not always designed for us, is one we don't have to take alone. Let's connect and support each other. Share your challenges and strategies in the comments below.
The world needs your sensitivity. It needs your empathy, your compassion, and your ability to see beauty. Don't be afraid to shine your light. I used to hide my sensitivity, but I've learned to own it as a source of strength. And I believe you can too.
Thank you for reading,
Angela
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