What is an empath and how do you know you are one? This week, Counsellor Sarah Barr explores the good and bad sides of this trait:
If you are an empath, you probably can identify with the feelings of others. You may also find yourself absorbing the emotions and moods of people around you. This can sometimes have a negative impact on your own mental health and well-being. So prioritising yourself and your own care is a must for empaths.
After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
For a little more information on empaths, keep reading…
1. Empaths are highly sensitive and intuitive.
Empaths are naturally giving, warm and good listeners. Having an empath in your life, you are guaranteed to have someone by your side through thick and thin. Empaths experience the world through their intuition, therefore it is important for them to develop their intuition by listen to their gut feelings. Empaths are often told that they are “too sensitive” and need to “toughen up”. However being sensitive, is not a negative.
2. Empaths absorb other people’s emotions.
Empaths are highly intuitive and attuned to other people’s moods and feelings. They feel everything. They can take on other peoples anxiety or anger. It is important for empaths to ensure they have daily downtime, so they can rest and recharge. One technique to help you recharge is to make a list of everything you enjoy, such as a cup of tea, walk, music etc. Each day choose a different positive exercise to help you recharge.
3. Many empaths are introverted.
Empaths tend to become overwhelmed in crowds, loud noises, bright lights and strong smells may cause annoyance and leave an empath feeling overwhelmed. Empaths usually prefer one-to-one contact or spending in smaller groups.
4. Empaths are targets for energy vampires.
An empath’s sensitivity and genuine kindness can make them attractive energy vampires, whose fear, anger or selfishness can sap their energy. Narcissists (who lack empathy and are only concerned with themselves) can make empaths believe they’re unworthy and unlovable.
5. Empaths feel grounded in nature.
Nature nourishes and restores calm for an empath. Spending time daily, if possible, in nature can help to ease stress and anxiety. Make time daily to focus on yourself and your needs.
If you are a little unsure if you are an empath or an introvert click the below link, I would recommend taking this personality test www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test
For more information on support please contact my website, a local counsellor or your doctor.
Take care, Sarah.
