Everywhere in the world, empaths are awakening to the full sense of what they are: powerful energetic sensitive beings. This is during a time when our entire globe seems to be in a colossal crisis as never before. The suffering is very visible. We are inundated with information about natural and manmade disasters and overwhelmed with images that are disturbing and heartbreaking. This is precisely why Empathic people are waking up to their true selves: they are very much needed.
Waking up for an empath can feel like harsh light tearing through your eyes when a blindfold is torn off or a first breath of air after drowning. The waking process can be very life changing, inspiring and also very stressful and overwhelming. The problematic truth for many Empathic people is that their bodies and energy involuntarily take in energy readings from everything and everyone around them; not because they want to; it is just what happens.
Empaths are like big walking hearts in the world; they are able to offer so much love because they can feel everything. They naturally absorb the energy of the environment and this radiates like honey glowing in the sunlight: it tends to attract people that feed off of their compassion and insight. It is an innate need in every human to feel seen and heard and Empathic people offer this. Depending on the individual an empath interacts with, it can feel like flying on the coattails of someone's rainbow if that person is feeling great, but if the person is depressed, angry or anxious it can feel like being throttled in mud. Swinging various directions is challenging, especially if you do not realize the influence is coming from someone else.
It is not uncommon for empaths to personally experience anxiety, or even anger, especially when in a group of people, because it can be too much. When an Empath does not yet have the tools to manage their sensitivities, every interaction can be a lot to process. Each exchange with a person can feel like three or four different people at once. While some people can shut down their sensibilities, Empathic people can actually suffer more when they try to do so. With their tendrils of energy floating out in the world, cutting off their awareness is like cutting out parts of their hearts. It hurts and it does not help.
What is an empath to do?
First and foremost: accept yourself. As the culture of our self-awareness shifts from external to internal, embracing who you are and what makes you Empathic can be liberating and life changing.
Second, practice radical acceptance. Be honest with yourself about what self-acceptance means. You may need to adopt new tools and coping methods to keep yourself feeling safe, balanced and sane. Radical self-acceptance will begin to translate in all levels of your life: thoughts, beliefs, conversations, values and who does and does not support you will become severely apparent. One of the unfortunate truths of an empath waking up and owning who they truly are is that the landscape of the people in your life will change. It has to.
Breathe. Dedicate a few minutes each day to sit and be aware of the process of your breath. The breath can be a nurturing reminder of the physical being you are and help you ground into the full sense of yourself. As you become more attuned to the process of your breath, you can begin to incorporate various techniques to help you deepen your breath and self-awareness.
Move. As much as an empath may feel called to incubate in their safe haven of home, it is essential that we move our bodies daily. Because we naturally absorb other people's energy and emotions it is important to exercise daily to prevent the "excess" from becoming stagnant energy in ourselves which can lead to stress, illness or even depression. The body is a vessel that supports the inner essence.
Ground. Both the conscious breath and mindful movement can help you ground into your sense of self. Thich Nhat Hanh calls this solidity and freedom in the present moment. For it is in each conscious moment that we have the power to liberate and co-create our lives. Energetically, feeling grounded to the Earth can help provide a sense of energetic balance and nourishment. So, get outside as often as you can. Even if for a few moments, to plant your feet, bend your legs and feel the Earth.
Care for Yourself. As an Empath, you have to mindfully care for yourself in ways the average person does not. Self-care and self-love go hand in hand for all people, but it is essential for Empathic individuals. Devote time to yourself daily in which you practice breath awareness, move, ground and also allow moments for fun! Empaths are not very good serious workers: we need to play and create! Some days it is a dance party in my kitchen, other days I love coloring. Laughter is essential for us.
I know this is a lot to take in if you're a newly self realized Empath. I assure you that every step you take, every practice you make for yourself is worth it; you are meant to be here at this particular time in life. Your self-awareness and evolution is going to help global consciousness rise. Your gifts, your uniqueness is meant to be here in the world. Be here, Be You.
Tania Isaac is an experienced Spiritual Guidance Channeler, Pet Communicator, Integrative Energy Healer and certified yoga instructor who specializes in blending holistic modalities to create unique healing sessions. She is located in Santa Barbara, CA where she lives with her husband and their rescued dog Oreo. Her mission is to empower empaths and help individuals connect with their innate metaphysical and healing abilities. To learn more about her offerings, visit: www.taniaisaac.com