If you are an empath, you are highly attuned to and sensitive to the emotions of others. You might often feel what others are feeling as if they were your own emotions. Some empaths are so sensitive and unhealed that they have completely shut themselves off from knowing that this is what they are doing, which may make them come across as hardened or cold.

People who feel the need to use a lot of external signals to create space, such as tattoos, dark clothing, tough looking facades, are often very sensitive empaths who have not discovered any other way to protect themselves.

This ability to deeply understand and connect with others' emotions can be a source of great strength and compassion. However, it can also be a challenge, as you can easily become overwhelmed by the emotions of others.

What makes an empath?

There are many different theories about what makes someone an empath. Some believe that it is a genetic trait, while others believe that it is something that can be developed over time. There is also some scientific evidence to suggest that empaths have a heightened sensitivity to the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which is associated with empathy.

Regardless of the cause, certain characteristics are common among empaths. These characteristics include:

• High sensitivity to emotions: Healed empaths are often able to feel the emotions of others even when they are not explicitly expressed. Unhealed empaths might feel the emotions of others as their own or make inaccurate assumptions about what the other person may be feeling.

• Strong intuition: Healed empaths often have a strong intuition about people and situations. Unhealed empaths are often second-guessing themselves or making decisions based on what someone else wants.

• Compassion and understanding: Healed empaths are often very compassionate people who can understand the pain and suffering of others. Unhealed empaths might become cold and judgmental because they can’t handle the way it feels to be around people’s suffering.

• Sensitivity to the environment: Healed empaths may be sensitive to their environment. Unhealed empaths are easily overwhelmed by crowds, loud noises, or strong smells.

Check your symptoms. Are you Healed or Unhealed?

Unhealed empaths might have the following symptoms:

• Emotional Overload and Overwhelm

• Difficulty Setting Boundaries

• Attracting Emotional Vampires or Takers

• Struggling with Your Identity

• Experience headaches, fatigue, anxiety, depression, or even physical ailments that can’t be explained by medical science

• Isolation and Misunderstanding

• Difficulty Making Decisions

• Difficulty Saying No

• Susceptibility to Manipulation

• Difficulty Balancing Empathy with Self-Care

Empaths need to recognize these challenges and develop strategies to manage their sensitivity and protect their well-being.

Becoming a Healed Empath

I am not going to lie to you, this part is work. But the first step is to begin by setting an intention to know yourself better. Learn the mechanics of grounding and protecting your energy field. Establish an energy practice that feels good to you such as yoga, meditation, breath work, using crystals, or essential oils.

I have many resources on my site, as well as classes that can help you get started. Below are some next steps you might explore.

Take a Class

Read a book such as:

Try a Crystal

Consult with an expert like me!