It can be difficult to navigate the ups and downs of everyday life as an empath. Empathic people are highly sensitive to emotions, including the emotions of others. That can lead to burn out or a constant state of overwhelm. Though there are many advantages to being an empath (like being able to help others, establishing trust, being loyal, and so on)…. there are many hurdles to overcome as well. This empath survival guide is a must for anyone searching for a little balance.
Empath Survival Guide – Are You an Empathic Person?
Many common characteristics identify an empath. There are many people in this world who feel things deeply – but that does not necessarily mean they are empathic. Not sure if you fall under the empath category? Read through some of the following traits in this empath survival guide:
- Empaths are highly sensitive and feel things very deeply. They are fiercely loyal and are supportive of those in need.
- An empath may have been told (in the past or more recently) to “let it go” or that they have “thin skin.”
- They absorb other people’s emotions and can take on someone else’s feelings.
- Many empathic people are introverted. They tend to feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable in large crowds of people or in certain social settings.
- Empaths often give too much of themselves. They have difficulty saying no to others and have a deep need to relieve the pain they see in the world.
- They are highly intuitive and need time alone to re-charge.
- Empaths often deal with energetic vampires (people who take advantage of their empathy for personal gain).
- Nature is a great way for empaths to re-charge and find balance.
Be honest: how many of these traits sounded familiar? If you found yourself nodding your head to more than a few of those empathic characteristics, chances are, you are an empath. It’s okay! Many people are empathic. For instance, a number of empaths have careers as healers, counselors, caregivers, nurses, artists, or in creative fields. These positions allow empaths to channel their emotions in ways that are rewarding and beneficial to others. Regardless of your own career path, there are things you can do to protect yourself and achieve a sense of emotional balance.
Finding Balance as an Empath
It can be challenging sometimes. There are many wonderful things about being an empath, like understanding emotions and being a support to others. However, it can also be emotionally draining to constantly pick up (and sometimes take on) emotions from the people around you. In the same boat? Tired of feeling totally overwhelmed? To help you maintain a healthy balance, here are a few simple strategies to consider as part of this empath survival guide.
Learn How to Shield Yourself
One of the simplest ways to avoid picking up energy from people around you – whether that is positive energy or negative energy – is by creating a mental shield. Anytime there is someone or something you want to protect yourself from, take a moment. Visualize a white light all around you. Then visualize a fine net around that white light. This will filter out the bad and let in the good. It may sound silly or ineffective but mentally shielding yourself can be an extremely powerful tool. It also reminds you to focus on yourself rather than what is going on around you.
Use Crystals for Empaths
Certain crystals are effective for dealing with strong emotions. For empaths, crystal healing can be especially helpful. Having a specific stone in your office or living room – or even wearing a piece of jewellery – can make a huge difference. Let their power heal you, help you, and guide you throughout the day. Some of the most commonly used crystals for this personality type include:
- Rose quartz
- Black tourmaline
- Amethyst
- Lepidolite
- Malachite
Another piece that is helpful for empaths is Labradorite. It will clear your aura of any negativity and is extremely protective. Wear it around your neck or keep a piece in your pocket) any time you will be directly interacting with crowds. Perhaps if you are heading to a party or are meeting with a friend who is going through a crisis. This stone (and the others listed above) will help you achieve a sense of balance and overall well being.
Watch Healing Videos or Meditate
Thank goodness for the Internet. There are many wonderful resources online for empathic people. For instance, videos about how to heal, shield, and protect are useful. As are meditations specifically geared towards issues that empaths face. A few suggestions include: Empath Meditation of Healing and How Being an Empath Makes You a Healer. Another option on this empath survival guide is a distance Reiki session to assist in healing and letting go of unwanted energies or emotions.
Other Ways to Find Balance
There are many other ways to find balance as an empath. That includes: grounding (read more about that here), establishing firm boundaries with others (letting people know what you need to remain emotionally balanced is essential), scheduling alone time in your daily schedule (to read, write, or simply recharge), or even beginning a regular meditation practise (taking time to look inward and step away from the emotions of others can be extremely rewarding). Listen to your instincts and don’t be afraid to put your own needs first every now and then. Remember, you matter!
Though being empathic may bring strong emotions to the forefront…that doesn’t have to be a bad thing! With this empath survival guide, you can achieve balance. Have these defence mechanisms at the ready. It will be easier than ever to make the most of your empathic abilities and channel them in a positive way.
