I identify as an empath and if you sense either you or someone close to you is one, please read on.
For me, understanding that I am an empath has been liberating. Instead of feeling like an overly-sensitive, cry baby, I feel like I have the language to describe my tendencies.
Here are a few clues if you think you might be an empath or highly sensitive person…
Empaths are impacted by the energy of other people, busyness, loud noise, anger/yelling, strong smells, and have little tolerance for violence both in real time or through media. They can often take on the emotions and physical symptoms of others.Some children are born with a sensitive temperament while others (like myself) grew up in families where they developed a sensitive nervous system in response to their environment.
Another trademark quality is that empaths are compassionate and highly attuned to others. This is actually an important skill because when a parent demonstrates to their child that they see and mirror them, they are forming the basis of a secure-attachment.
Children with secure attachments go into the adult world trusting that life has their back and are able to form healthy relationships.
So what are things to consider if you are both a parent and a sensitive person? All the extra stressors that happen with having children can lead to sensory overload. And because you are so in touch and aware of your child, you are likely prone to exhaustion from all the emotional ups and downs.
In fact, you are more likely to develop fatigue, adrenal exhaustion, hormonal challenges, and burnout. Protecting your energy and personal space becomes even more necessary after becoming a parent.
Here are a few tips for empath parents:
- Take alone time when possible
- Centering practices such as meditation, guided visualization, or deep belly breathes
- Decompress through movement/exercise
- Set Boundaries
- Be mindful not to smother your kids and jump to quickly fix their problems
As always, I would love your feedback and thoughts!
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