It’s creeping up again… that time of year that some people adore and others quietly dread… Christmas!
For many, the festive season is pure magic. But in the past, December was one of my trickiest months.
As a child, and well into my twenties, I was Christmas‑obsessed. I loved every sparkle and song. But as the years rolled on, something shifted. December started to feel heavier, harder to navigate, and strangely draining.
Like clockwork, every year around late November, my mood dipped and my energy plummeted. I’d feel foggy, tense, almost like I was coming down with something. Then, as if by magic, around December 28th… I’d bounce back.
I blamed everything: work stress, too many nights out, winter darkness, lack of exercise, too much sugar, too much wine, you name it, I pinned it on that.
I tried everything to make December easier: changing my diet, cutting out alcohol, exercising more, taking sunshine breaks… but nothing shifted that December slump.
And then it hit me, the problem wasn’t my energy at all.
If you’re an Empath, you already understand first-hand that you don’t just absorb emotions, you can also absorb physical imbalances from the people around you. Many Empaths live with the frustrating reality that simply being near someone with the beginnings of a cold often means waking up the next day with the full-blown version. And not just the mild version the other person had, oh no. Empaths tend to get the deluxe, intensified version.
Empaths frequently suffer from more colds, aches, digestive issues, and mysterious symptoms than people who don’t absorb energy. But the real question is: why is this so common? What makes an Empath’s body more vulnerable than the average people?
Why Empaths Get Sick More Easily
One of the main reasons is that when Empaths become imbalanced, whether from emotional overload, physical stress, poor sleep, or taking on someone else’s worries, their energetic field weakens. And when the energetic body is stressed or porous, the physical body becomes more susceptible, especially the immune system.
Imagine carrying your own stress, fatigue, and worries… then add the weight of someone else’s anxiety, sadness, anger, or emotional chaos on top. That’s the daily reality for an Empath.
And here’s the part most Empaths don’t realize:
When you’re out of balance, your immune system is already working overtime, before a virus even shows up.
So even a brief encounter with someone who has the tiniest sniffle can tip you over the edge. And because Empaths tend to amplify the energies they pick up, the symptoms they experience can feel worse than anything the original person had.
The question circling through so many minds right now is: what exactly is happening in the world?
I honestly don’t think anyone holds the full answer.
But one thing is certain: something significant is unfolding.
Our reality is no longer what it once was, and there’s no returning to the old patterns of life.
The Shifts
With each passing month, we witness more dramatic changes around us. Many people are living in worry or caught in uncertainty about where we’re headed. So much feels unfamiliar.
We are bombarded with conflicting messages. The mainstream offers one story; alternative voices offer another. And no matter what we believe, it seems no one fully understands the direction of the collective journey.
The finish line keeps drifting, and the noise around us can feel overwhelming.
We are living through an age of extraordinary change. Everywhere we turn, the world feels charged, a mix of transformation, tension, and uncertainty. It’s taking a great deal of effort for many of us simply to stay calm, healthy, and hopeful. And perhaps most importantly, to stay grounded and protected.
This is where Black Tourmaline becomes more than just a stone; it becomes an anchor.
I first wrote about this subject some years ago, when the world already seemed uncertain. Yet now, as collective energies shift and confusion deepens, the need to revisit it feels stronger than ever. The message of having the courage to question, to stand apart with benevolence, has never been more important.
The Courage to Question: How We Can Think Beyond the Herd
Have you ever sat in a group where everyone was passionately agreeing on something you didn’t believe in, and yet, you nodded along just to keep the peace?
If so, you’re in good company. Most of us have done it. It’s human nature to want harmony, to stay connected with our friends, family, or social circle, even when it means staying quiet about what we truly feel.
But what if that instinct to go along to get along isn’t always in our best interest? What if, instead of keeping the peace, it quietly erodes our integrity and dulls our critical thinking?
That’s where the 10th Man Rule comes in, a simple but powerful concept that challenges our deep-rooted desire for comfort and conformity, encouraging us instead to look at things from another perspective.
If I, as an Empath, experience something you don’t, does that mean your gift is less real or mine is more?
If your intuition is razor sharp but mine sometimes falters, does that make me less connected?
If I can see the shimmering hues of your aura but you can’t see mine, does that mean I’m the “stronger” Empath?
And if you can instantly decipher the meaning behind the emotions you sense, while another Empath can’t, does that make them unskilled or inauthentic?
What about those times I feel utterly drained in someone’s presence while another Empath doesn’t? Does that mean I’m simply tired of them or that their energy is pulling too much of mine?
Here’s the truth I’ve come to know: as Empaths, we are not all made from the same mould. We are gloriously diverse. Just like every other human being, we carry different personalities, backgrounds, DNA, beliefs, sensitivities, and strengths.
What works for one Empath might not work for another and that’s perfectly okay.
Some of us thrive in solitude, while others recharge through connection. Some speak loudly about what they feel; others quietly observe, knowing that not everyone is ready to hear what they sense. Yet, we live in a world that constantly nudges us toward sameness toward herd thinking where even in the spiritual community, there’s pressure to fit into one version of “the Empath experience.”
I’ve even seen it said that grounding or shielding yourself from emotional energy is unnecessary that instead, we should simply learn to “navigate” frequencies. And while that’s a beautiful idea, it’s not quite that simple.
For some Empaths, energy flows easily they walk through a crowd untouched. For others, it’s like walking through a storm without an umbrella. One person may need to ground, cleanse, or shield daily just to feel balanced. That doesn’t make one better or worse it just makes us different.
We see this kind of variation everywhere in life. Some people need extra vitamin C and zinc in winter to stay healthy, while others never catch a cold. Some burn after ten minutes in the sun, while others tan effortlessly. One person can handle loud music all day; other needs earplugs to function. Why, then, should Empaths be any different?
The longer I live, the more I realize how little I truly know. But one thing I do know for certain is this: the human experience and the Empath experience is meant to be unique to each of us.
Unfortunately, society doesn’t always make room for that uniqueness. We’re taught to colour inside the lines, to fit neatly into labels, and to mistrust what doesn’t match our own understanding.
The Missing Ingredient: Acceptance
Now, I know this might sound like a bit of a rant, but what I really want to highlight is acceptance the quiet power that can shift our entire outlook on life.
Everywhere we look, people demand acceptance for who they are their beliefs, their feelings, their way of living yet, in the same breath, many refuse to offer that acceptance to others.
It’s human nature to want to be understood, but how can that happen if we’re unwilling to understand that someone else’s truth might look nothing like our own?
And here’s something to think about: acceptance doesn’t sell.
We are subtly encouraged to fight, divide, and discredit because as long as we’re busy opposing one another, we’re distracted. Acceptance of self and others doesn’t fuel conflict, consumerism, or control. In a strange way, acceptance is bad for business but it’s very good for the soul.
We can’t end hate with more hate. We can’t heal division by deepening it. And we certainly can’t build understanding while condemning what we don’t understand.
Imagine a world where we could simply allow people and Empaths to be who they are, without judgment or competition. What a peaceful place that would be.
Change What You Can, Accept What You Can’t
Now, acceptance doesn’t mean tolerating toxicity or settling for less than you deserve. It means recognizing what is yours to change and what isn’t. It’s about knowing when to adjust your path and when to simply let things be.
When we accept that each of us is meant to be different in how we feel, think, look, and love it’s incredibly freeing. It’s like taking a deep breath after holding it for years.
Even accepting that some people will always clash with our energy can be liberating. You don’t have to fix them, understand them, or like them. Just accept that they are who they are and move on in peace.
The Question
So, If it’s not true for me, does that mean it’s not true for you?
As Empaths, as humans, as souls having this shared yet separate experience our truths don’t have to match.
Your path and mine may look entirely different, yet both are valid, both are real, both are sacred.
And if we can truly embrace that if we can learn to accept not only our differences but also the diversity of truth itself then maybe, just maybe, the world will start to shine a little brighter.
There’s a growing conversation online about the similarities between people on the autism spectrum and those who identify as Empaths.
Both groups are often described as highly sensitive to their environments, deeply perceptive of others’ emotions, and prone to overwhelm in social situations.
Articles describing autistic perception, such as noticing tiny inconsistencies, emotional “vibes,” or unspoken social cues, can sound remarkably similar to descriptions of what it feels like to be an Empath.
Yet, while the overlap is striking, the underlying mechanisms are quite different.
Understanding these similarities and differences not only helps avoid misconceptions but also highlights how both neurodivergence and Empath sensitivity can be extraordinary ways of experiencing the world.
So, let’s take a look at where the traits of an Empath may overlap with autism:
1. The Core of Perception: Neurology vs. Emotional Resonance
It is known, the autistic brain processes sensory and social information differently, often with heightened attention to detail, patterns, and incongruities. What others filter out as background noise, an autistic person’s brain takes in as equally important data. A flicker of facial tension, a hum from a light fixture, a slightly rearranged desk, all register because their filtering systems function differently.
An Empath’s perception, on the other hand, could be deemed as affective rather than neurological. Empaths feel others’ emotions as though they were their own, often to the point of emotional contagion. Rather than noticing a pattern of inconsistencies in tone or behaviour through logical detail, Empaths tend to absorb the emotional energy of a space instinctively. They feel when someone is sad, angry, or anxious, sometimes before words are spoken.
Where the autistic person might see that someone’s “I’m fine” doesn’t align with their body language, the Empath might feel the sadness or tension radiating from that same person. Both notice the mismatch, but one does so through cognitive pattern recognition, the other through emotional resonance.
2. Hyper-Awareness and Overstimulation
Both autistic individuals and Empaths experience the world with heightened awareness, and both can become overwhelmed by it.
For the autistic brain, overstimulation often arises from sensory overload. The hum of electronics, fluorescent lights, multiple conversations, and unpredictable social expectations can all bombard the senses simultaneously. It’s not necessarily the emotional tone that’s overwhelming, but the sheer quantity of sensory input with no effective “filter” to manage it.
Empaths, conversely, are overwhelmed by emotional overload. Crowded spaces or tense environments can feel suffocating because they absorb not just sensory information but emotional energy. An Empath in a hospital, for instance, might feel anxious or drained not from sound or light but from the collective emotional pain around them.
Both experiences can lead to exhaustion, withdrawal, and the need for solitude. The difference lies in what causes the overwhelm, sensory versus emotional, though they often coexist.
3. Reading People: Analytical Observation vs. Emotional Intuition
Autistic individuals notice when people’s tone doesn’t match their words, when actions contradict stated values, or when social power dynamics shift. These abilities stem from pattern recognition and a strong drive for logical consistency. Many autistic people are acutely aware of irregularities, when someone says one thing but behaves another way, because their minds naturally look for predictability and order.
Empaths also detect such inconsistencies, but through a different process. Rather than analysing data points, they “feel” the emotional truth beneath the words. If someone says they’re happy but radiates sadness, an Empath doesn’t consciously track tone or eye contact; they simply feel a heaviness that isn’t their own.
Both can be incredibly attuned to authenticity, but one perceives it cognitively and sensorily, while the other perceives it emotionally and energetically.
4. Authenticity and Masking
Another fascinating overlap is the shared emphasis on authenticity, and the mutual struggle with masking.
In autism, masking refers to the conscious or unconscious effort to imitate social behaviours to fit in, maintaining eye contact, modulating voice tone, mirroring expressions, or suppressing stimming (self-stimulating behaviour). This often results in deep exhaustion because it requires constant self-monitoring and suppression of natural instincts.
Empaths also “mask,” though for different reasons. They may hide their sensitivity to protect themselves from emotional overwhelm or from being labelled as “too sensitive.” They might downplay their intuition or avoid expressing when they’ve absorbed another’s pain, fearing judgment or disbelief.
Both understand what it means to hide one’s authentic self to survive in social spaces that don’t always make room for their natural modes of being. And both often recognize when someone else is doing the same, that subtle, unspoken moment of mutual recognition.
5. Social Awareness and Power Dynamics
Autistic individuals often notice the rhythm of interactions, such as who interrupts, who’s being ignored, or who dominates. This comes from a natural attunement to social systems rather than emotional undercurrents. It’s a form of social pattern analysis.
Empaths, on the other hand, may sense the emotional power imbalance. They feel the discomfort or insecurity of the quieter person and the dominating energy of the louder one. Where the autistic person might see inequality in communication, the Empath might rather feel an injustice or tension.
Again, the difference lies in cognitive patterns versus emotional resonance, but the resulting insight can look strikingly similar.
6. Language, Silence, and What’s Unsaid
Autistic individuals are known to pick up on linguistic patterns, micro-expressions, and the weight of what isn’t said. They might notice contradictions in word choice, subtle pauses, or body language shifts that others miss. For them, these cues are information to decode for clarity and predictability.
Empaths, too, sense what’s unsaid, but more as a feeling than an observation. For example, a pained silence feels heavy and lingers in the air. They may not be able to articulate exactly what they’ve noticed, but they’ll know when something is off.
Both are exquisitely sensitive to suggestion; the difference lies in how the subtext is processed: intellectually or emotionally.
7. Emotional Exhaustion and Recovery
Another similarity, and perhaps the most poignant, is the need for recovery after social interaction. Both autistic individuals and Empaths may appear calm and composed externally while internally processing an immense amount of input.
For autistic people, this comes from managing sensory overload, decoding social cues, and maintaining composure in unpredictable interactions. Afterward, they may need hours or days of solitude to reset their nervous systems.
For Empaths, recovery means clearing emotional energy, disentangling their own feelings from those they’ve absorbed from others. They may also retreat into solitude, nature, or creative activity to restore equilibrium and reset their nervous systems.
Both experiences reflect a profound sensitivity to the social environment, though filtered in different ways.
8. Shared Misunderstandings
Because both groups notice things that others miss, they’re often misunderstood. Autistic individuals may be labelled as “dramatic” or “awkward,” while Empaths are often called “too sensitive” or “overly emotional.” In both cases, society tends to dismiss heightened perception rather than value it.
Yet these ways of being can be extraordinary strengths. Autistic individuals bring deep honesty, attention to detail, and a capacity to perceive structural truths others overlook. Empaths bring compassion, emotional understanding, and the ability to connect deeply. Both see, or feel, what’s hidden beneath the surface.
9. When the Two Overlap
It’s worth noting that being autistic and being an Empath are not mutually exclusive. Some autistic people describe themselves as deeply Empathic, though their Empathy may manifest differently, through cognitive Empathy (understanding how someone feels) rather than emotional Empathy (feeling it themselves).
Others experience both sensory and emotional hyper-awareness, blending traits that resemble both profiles.
This overlap can make social experiences even more intense, the combination of logical and emotional attunement can feel like living without filters in every direction.
10. Different Paths, Shared Humanity
While the Empath and the autistic person might describe similar experiences, noticing unspoken energy, needing recovery time, valuing authenticity, the roots of those experiences are distinct. Autism arises from a neurotype that processes information in a detailed and literal way. An Empath’s sensitivity arises from a deep affective resonance with others’ emotions.
Both, however, show us that human perception exists on an immense range. Some people navigate the world through analytical detail, others through emotional intuition, and some through both.
The Autistic Empath
Now after taking all the above into consideration, we should not overlook the fact that a person can be both an Empath and autistic.
An autistic Empath might experience sensitivity to both sensory input and emotional energy. For example, where a neurotypical person might only notice the brightness of a supermarket’s lights, an autistic Empath might feel overwhelmed by the fluorescent glare and by the anxious, rushed energy of the crowd around them. It isn’t simply “too loud” or “too emotional,” it’s an avalanche of sensory and emotional data coming in all at once, without the filters that most people take for granted.
Because autism often involves difficulty filtering sensory information (sounds, lights, textures, smells), and because an Empath absorbs emotional information (tension, sadness, excitement, stress), the combination can create a world that feels constantly “turned up to maximum volume.” Everyday settings, such as offices, classrooms, social events, or even family gatherings, can very quickly become overstimulating. The autistic Empath may pick up on every flickering light, every shift in tone, and every undercurrent of unspoken emotion all at once. (I should also point out that you can be a highly reactive Empath, where you are more attuned to noticing strong smells, bright lights, etc, without necessarily being autistic.)
And this is when self-care isn’t optional; it’s essential. Downtime after social interactions isn’t a luxury, but a necessary way to let the nervous system and emotional field reset. Many will find refuge in quiet environments, nature, creative pursuits, or time alone where sensory and emotional input is minimal.
Sadly, society often misunderstands this kind of sensitivity as weakness or overreaction, when in reality it’s the result of experiencing the world with a level of intensity most can’t imagine.
In short, being both autistic and an Empath means perceiving the world in vibrant detail, every sound, every emotion, every subtle change in energy. It can be overwhelming, yes, but it can also be extraordinary. With the right boundaries, tools, and understanding, that deep sensitivity can transform from a source of distress into a profound form of awareness and empathy that enriches both the individual and those around them.
So, there you go. If you have been pondering what makes someone autistic and someone an Empath, hopefully, this will give you some food for thought.
Although this is a subject that I’ve discussed many times, I think it is an important one to talk about now, for the simple reason there is some seriously dark emotional energy out there, and it is potent.
I know that many fellow Empaths will be picking up on this emotional energy and wearing it like a weighted winter coat, often without knowing it’s not theirs to wear.
We all know how easy it is to carry other people’s emotions around without realizing it. However, just knowing you pick up on other people’s energy doesn’t mean you can easily tell it apart from your own, or stop it from affecting you.
When you soak up emotional energy (especially the heavy stuff), it can show up in a bunch of ways. You might even interpret it as emotions you personally struggle with, or ones tied to old wounds. Sometimes, someone else’s low mood can even trigger anger or irritation in you, even if they’re not feeling that way themselves!
It is also so easy to take on someone else’s fear or rage without realizing. And the impact of this can be really quite destructive.
Toxic Energy
We’re currently facing some very toxic emotional energy. Dark emotions are being deliberately stoked up to keep people’s mind’s trapped and in a low vibration. One of the biggest problems with this kind type of energy is that it seeps in from all directions, not necessarily from one person or place.
And as bonkers as it may sound, dark energy can even be emitted by online media.
People are in pain. Most don’t even know why. Many are lashing out, and trying to make sense of what they are feeling. Often laying the blame for their pain on others.
Because everyone is being intentionally triggered by things such as political events, the cost of living, or toxic headlines created with the intention to cause anger and frustration, you will find more people emitting dark emotional energy. This includes people who you would never normally find it difficult to be around.
It doesn’t matter how evolved you are or how good you are at protecting yourself, if you are an Empath, you will be feeling this dark energy and it may be impacting you in some weird ways.
Dark energy has a powerful ripple effect. It stirs up the type of emotions that can leave deep imprints within and often leads to troubled thoughts. If this energy is divisive in nature, it will create the types of feelings within that can cause a “them versus us” type feeling.
The fact that so many people are walking around carrying extra stress and hidden pain, it’s no wonder Empaths become overwhelmed so easily. And, if you’ve got your own unhealed pain within, picking up on someone else’s just amplifies it, often turning it into anger that seems to linger around the solar plexus (mid-stomach).
Also, if you pick up energy that reminds you of something from your past, your mind might trigger that old memory. Suddenly you’re reliving old emotions, feeling angry and or overly emotional.
When the Fear Isn’t Yours
Fear or rage are super strong emotions. They can take over even when they don’t belong to you.
That’s why it’s so important to pause and check in: Whose energy am I feeling right now?
When you start feeling an intense or heavy emotion, quietly say to yourself:
“If this emotion or energy isn’t mine, please leave me now.”
If the feeling isn’t actually yours, it’ll start to fade. You’ll notice a shift, it might be subtle, but you’ll feel lighter. When that happens, distract yourself right away.
Why? Because negative emotions are powerful. If you keep focusing on them, they’ll pull you back in. The more you think about them, the more they stick.
However, that said, sometimes you are simply experiencing your own inner-rage, often ignited by the state of global affairs (That’s a post for another day).
Here’s a quick checklist to help you figure out if you’ve picked up someone else’s emotions or energy emitted from online:
Were you feeling fine, then suddenly sad, anxious, or angry after being around someone or after going online?
Do you suddenly feel foggy or mentally scrambled?
Are you unexpectedly tired, uninspired, or drained?
Do you feel waves of irritation or anger that aren’t typical for you?
Is your solar plexus (the area just below your ribs) tight, fluttery, or uncomfortable?
Are you feeling afraid for no clear reason?
If you said “yes” to any of those, there’s a good chance you’re feeling external emotional energy.
Once you realize you’ve picked up any low-level energy being emitted, the next step is to let it go, whilst working to protect your own space.
The good news?
It doesn’t have to be complicated.
Here’s some simple ways to do this:
Protecting Your Space
1.Set the intention to clear your energy.
Intention is powerful. You don’t need fancy rituals, just take a deep breath and think or say something like:
“Any energy that isn’t mine, I release you now.”
Visualize that energy gently lifting away from you, like mist evaporating in sunlight.
2. Ground yourself.
Get back into your body. Go outside, feel your feet on the ground, take a few slow breaths, stretch, or even shake your hands out.
Also, keep your grounding crystals on hand (Black Obsidian, Hematite, Black Tourmaline, etc). The more grounded you are, the less likely you’ll absorb external energy.
3. Protect your space.
This is an old one but a good one. Before heading into crowded or emotionally charged places, imagine a bubble or light surrounding you, whatever colour feels right. This is your personal energy boundary. You can even say to yourself,
“Only love and calm energy can enter my space.”
You’ll be surprised how well this simple visualization works.
4. Check in with yourself often.
Ask yourself a few times a day, “How am I feeling right now?” If your emotions feel random, heavy, or unfamiliar, that’s a good cue to clear them.
5. Practice release through movement.
Exercise, dancing, walking, even tidying up, all of these help move energy through your body. Emotions are energy in motion, after all. The more you move, the easier it is to let go.
6. Protect your downtime.
Empaths need alone time to reset. Spend quiet moments doing something that soothes you, journalling, music, a warm bath, nature time, whatever helps you feel like you again.
7. Stay away from anything triggering.
This could be people, places or online media.
If you turn on the internet and are immediately met with a triggering headline, it will automatically lower your vibration. When this happens, you are then more vulnerable to picking up toxic emotional energy.
Also, if you find that being around certain people has become triggering, especially those whose views are polar opposite to yours, it may be best to avoid them.
The more you practice the above, the easier it gets to recognize what’s yours and what’s not. You’ll start noticing shifts faster and feeling lighter, calmer, and more in tune with your true self.
And always remember: Your energy is sacred. Protect it, nurture it, and let it guide you, but keep on top of whose energy you are really wearing.
One of the biggest turning points for us as Empaths is when we realize that our sensitivity is not something to “fix” or fight against, it’s a gift to both own and embrace. But also it is something we have to work with.
I know that many of us, go through times when we see our ability to feel so deeply as a curse, especially when the emotions of others leave us anxious, exhausted, or confused about what is truly ours.
At its heart, being an Empath means experiencing the emotions and energies of others as if they were our own. It’s more than just sensing a mood shift or reading someone’s body language, it’s a deep, instinctual knowing.
An Empath can feel when someone is anxious, angry, or weighed down by sadness without a word being spoken.
When a Gift Feels Like a Burden
While some Empaths do come to view this heightened emotional awareness as a powerful gift, others continue to struggle with it, especially when they’re carrying their own emotional or physical imbalances.
And this is when many Empaths label their sensitivity as a curse rather than a blessing. However, with time, self-awareness, and healing, this gift can become a source of strength and wisdom.
A Birthright That Feels Natural
Many Empaths spend years unaware of their gift. Because this ability to feel others so deeply is innate, they assume it’s something everyone experiences. They don’t question why they “just know” when someone is upset or why certain places leave them feeling drained or anxious.
This sensitivity isn’t something Empaths force or practice, it’s simply a birthright, an inherent part of their nature. Once we awaken to this truth, everything changes. We often begin to understand that what sets us apart is not a weakness but a unique strength that allows us to connect, heal, and guide others in profound ways.
Stop Fighting What Makes You Powerful
However, there are too many Empaths, who spend years trying to toughen up or dull their sensitivity, believing life would be easier if they didn’t feel so much, and yes, I was probably one of them. But the more we fight our nature, the more drained and disconnected we feel.
Our sensitivity allows us to connect deeply, sense truth beyond words, and see the world through a lens that others can’t. The goal isn’t to shut this off, it’s to learn how to work with it.
Stepping into your Empath power begins with emotional ownership. So, if you have been struggling, here’s how to start:
Know What’s Yours and What’s Not:
Pause throughout the day and ask yourself, “Is this feeling mine or someone else’s?” Simply naming this distinction shifts your energy and stops you from internalizing emotions that don’t belong to you.
Create Healthy Boundaries:
Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re filters. By saying “no” when something feels wrong, limiting time in draining environments, and surrounding yourself with supportive energy, you respect your sensitivity instead of resenting it.
Emotions are meant to move. Don’t bottle them up or judge yourself for feeling “too much.” Letting emotions flow through breathwork, movement, journaling, or meditation prevents energetic build-up and restores your balance.
Empath empowerment is about transformation, not turning sensitivity down, but turning yourself up.
When you embrace your nature fully, you stop living as a sponge for everyone else’s pain and start becoming a lighthouse, shining brightly, and helping guide others home to themselves.
Before we go any further, I should point out that if you are physically out of balance, if you are suffering with any type of autoimmune condition, diagnosed or undiagnosed, if you suffer with food intolerances or you are living a lifestyle that is not conducive to your health and happiness, any of those can impact how you show up in the world and thus how you experience life as an Empath. In other words, you will find it a lot harder to find emotional stability, and you will probably not enjoy Empath life.
Bearing that all in mind let’s take a look at ways to start owning your sensitivity.
5 Steps to Start Owning Your Sensitivity Today
One: Acknowledge That Your Feelings Are Valid
Stop apologizing for feeling “too much.” Your emotions are not weaknesses; they’re messages and signals. Instead of trying to suppress them, try saying:
“My feelings are here to guide me.”
Simply acknowledging your emotions helps you take ownership of them rather than feeling victimized by them.
Two:Ground Your Energy Daily
Sensitivity feels overwhelming when you’re ungrounded. Incorporate grounding rituals into your routine, walk barefoot on the earth, spend time in nature, meditate with deep breathing, or visualize roots growing from your feet into the ground. Even 5 minutes a day can help you feel anchored and calm. See this post for more.
Three:Set Energetic Boundaries
Learn to protect your energy without shutting down your heart. Visualization tools (like imagining a protective bubble of light around you) can be powerful, as can saying “no” when something feels wrong. Boundaries allow you to accept your sensitivity while keeping yourself safe from emotional overload.
Four: Practice Emotional Release
Empaths absorb a lot, and emotions can get stuck if not released. Use tools like movement, breathwork, or power poses to clear your energy (See this post for more ways). Letting emotions flow prevents you from carrying energy that isn’t yours and helps you return to centre.
Five: Keep Your Mind Calm
Your empathy is a gift that allows you to connect deeply, intuitively guide others, and see truths for what they are. However, overactive thoughts can be destructive to a creative Empath mind. And your thoughts can be heavily influenced by the energy of your external world. Each time you find your thoughts going into overdrive or becoming somewhat toxic, pause and reframe them by repeating a mantra such as: “I am safe. I am strong. This moment will pass.”
These five steps are simple but powerful. Practiced daily, they’ll help you move from feeling overwhelmed and burdened to feeling empowered and aligned.
If you’re an Empath, chances are you carry strong introverted tendencies, even if you consider yourself more of an extrovert.
For many Sensitives, introversion seems to come naturally. Even if you began life as a social butterfly, the way the world makes you feel can nudge you toward introverted behaviours: craving solitude, avoiding large gatherings, feeling drained by crowds, or even developing social anxiety.
Empaths feel everything. And when we’re constantly absorbing the emotions, energies, and vibes of the world around us, it’s no wonder we crave solitude like a warm blanket on a rainy day.
Even the most outgoing Empath can find themselves retreating from crowds, dodging small talk, and yearning for quiet moments to recharge.
But being an introvert in a world that celebrates extroversion can feel like trying to fit into clothes that just don’t suit you. It can leave you feeling like an outsider, constantly performing just to “pass” in a society that doesn’t value stillness or sensitivity.
Let’s be honest, society loves a loud voice. We’re constantly told to “put ourselves out there,” “network,” and “be seen.” But for introverted Empaths, doing that can feel like wearing someone else’s shoes. Uncomfortable. Misaligned. Exhausting.
It’s easy to feel out of place, like you’re faking your way through a world that doesn’t quite get you. But once you embrace your introverted Empath nature, life starts to make sense. You stop apologizing for needing space. You stop pretending to enjoy things that drain you. And you start showing up as your authentic self.
Why Introverts Often Walk a Spiritual Path
Society has long pushed us to fit neatly into boxes defined by media and cultural expectations, but introverted Empaths naturally rebel against those moulds. Rather than seeking approval from the outside world, we look inward for truth and guidance.
This inward focus can be misunderstood.
Extroverts may see introverts as aloof or antisocial, but the introvert simply doesn’t depend on external validation. They’re content in their own company, deeply reflective, and comfortable existing outside the spotlight.
At a party, an introvert Empath might easily chat with others but chooses instead to observe, taking in the energy of the room rather than chasing attention. They prefer meaningful connections over small talk and are content with moments of silence, understanding that a smile or a hug can speak louder than words.
Some introvert Empaths learn to play the role of a “temporary extrovert” for work or social obligations, but at heart, they always return to solitude to recharge.
Empaths are not afraid of silence. In fact, they cherish it. They observe more than they speak, and when they do share, it’s with passion and purpose.
As Empaths, we don’t need a crowd, we need authenticity. A few close friends who get us are worth more than a thousand surface-level connections.
The Strengths of Introversion
Introverts make up only about 25% of the population, yet they rarely conform to fit societal norms. They prefer the role of the observer, often gravitating toward music, art, writing, and philosophy. Many possess strong intuitive or empathic abilities, easily sensing the emotions of others while navigating their own inner world with depth and clarity (Makes sense why so many Empaths are also introvert).
This ability to see beyond appearances often draws introverts and Empaths to spirituality and metaphysics. Unlike scientists who require physical proof, introvert Empaths trust their inner knowing and discernment. They question the narratives they’re fed, seek deeper truths, and use their inner compass as their guide.
Introversion as a Superpower
In a society that prizes constant engagement, introvert Empaths may feel like outcasts, but this detachment is actually a strength.
Introverts aren’t swayed by peer pressure or the need for approval. They know their truth lies within and refuse to compromise their authenticity to fit in.
Empaths don’t just live on the surface, they dive deep.
Society may push glossy ideals and loud personalities, but introverted Empaths quietly rebel. We don’t chase approval. We seek truth. We question what’s real, what resonates, and what aligns with our soul.
With Empaths especially, honouring these introverted tendencies is essential. It’s in solitude that we recharge, connect with our intuition, and truly thrive.
For you, life isn’t about fitting in, it’s about finally understanding why you were never meant to.
While the world celebrates those who are loud and outgoing, introverts quietly shape it through insight, creativity, and deep connection.
To finish: know that being an Introverted Empath isn’t a flaw. It’s Your Edge!
If you’re an Empath, you know how easy it is to feel overwhelmed by the world around you. But what if the secret to feeling more grounded, energized, and emotionally clear was already within you?
Enter Ayurveda, the ancient science of life and sister practice to yoga. During my yoga teacher training, I discovered how our unique body constitutions, known as doshas, shape everything from our digestion to our emotional tendencies. And trust me, this knowledge can be a game-changer.
I first wrote about this back in 2012, and I feel like now is a good time to revisit the subject.
Unlocking Balance for Empaths Through Ayurveda
Empaths are natural seekers, always learning, always evolving, always tuning into the subtle rhythms of life. If you’ve been searching for that missing piece to help you feel more grounded and aligned, discovering your unique dosha type might just be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
As I’ve discussed many times, I’m someone who’s long believed in the transformative power of yoga, for both body and mind, and I took my passion a step further when I trained as a yoga teacher. One of the eye-opening parts of that journey was diving into the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, yoga’s sister science and a profound system of healing that’s been guiding people for thousands of years.
What Is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda literally means “the science of life.” Its goal? To bring harmony to your body, mind, and spirit. One of its core teachings is that we each have a unique constitution, or dosha, that influences everything from our physical traits to our emotional tendencies.
There are three primary doshas: Kapha, Pitta, and Vata. Most people have one dominant dosha, while others may be dual- or even tri-doshic. Understanding your type can help you tailor your diet, exercise, and lifestyle to support your natural balance, especially important for Empaths, who often feel energetically overwhelmed.
Meet the Doshas
Here’s a quick snapshot of each dosha and how it shows up in your body and personality:
Vata (Air + Ether)
Slim build, dry skin
Restless mind, fluctuating energy
Quick to anger, easily overwhelmed
Best foods: Warm, moist, oily, and grounding, think sweet potatoes, ghee, and stews (skip the processed stuff!).
Pitta (Fire + Water)
Medium build, high energy
Sharp mind, strong digestion
Can be fiery, outspoken, and intense
Best foods: Cooling and calming, like cucumber, coconut oil, barley, and sweet fruits.
Kapha (Earth + Water)
Heavier build, slow metabolism
Calm, laid-back nature
Prone to sluggishness and excess mucus
Best foods: Light, spicy, and energizing, low-fat, low-sugar, and wheat-free options work wonders.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Here’s where Ayurveda flips the Western wellness script: what’s healthy for one person might be totally wrong for another. That kale smoothie your friend swears by? It could throw your dosha completely out of whack.
That’s why discovering your dosha type is so empowering, it gives you a personalized roadmap to wellness. And for Empaths, that kind of clarity is gold.
Why This Matters for Empaths
Let’s be real, Empaths carry a lot. We absorb energy, emotions, and stress from the world around us, often without realizing it. That’s why it’s crucial to keep our inner world as balanced as possible.
Knowing your dosha helps you:
Understand your emotional patterns
Choose foods and activities that restore your energy
Build resilience against external overwhelm
It won’t magically erase your Empath struggles, but it will help you feel more in control, more aligned, and more at peace.
Ready to Discover Your Dosha?
If you’re curious to find out your type, I recommend starting with the online quiz. When answering, think back to your late childhood or early adulthood, before life’s stressors may have thrown you off balance.
You’ll find a treasure trove of info on how to eat, move, and live in harmony with your dosha. And if you can, book a session with an Ayurvedic practitioner for a deeper, more personalized diagnosis.
As Empaths, we need every tool we can get to stay grounded in this wild world. Ayurveda is a powerful ally, and I hope it brings you the same sense of clarity and calm it brings to so many.
If you’re an Empath, you’ve probably come across the term “residual energy.” It’s a phrase you quickly become familiar with because it explains something you’ve likely felt countless times, the emotional imprint left behind in objects, rooms, or even entire buildings by the people who once occupied them.
Think of it this way: when a powerful event happens in a space, whether it’s a joyful celebration or a traumatic outburst, it leaves an energetic “footprint.” Empaths are especially tuned in to these imprints, often feeling them long after the original event has passed.
How Residual Energy Shows Up
Traumatic events leave behind a heavy, dense vibe that can feel suffocating.
Anger, hate, or chaotic emotions create erratic, storm-like energy.
Love and laughter imprint a light, sunny energy that lingers for years.
Even different rooms within the same house can carry distinct energetic signatures. A teenager’s bedroom where years of angst played out may feel dense and moody, while a family living room filled with togetherness might radiate warmth and relaxation.
My Early Experiences
Like many Empaths, I’ve always sensed these energetic imprints in buildings and locations. But when I was younger, I didn’t have the language for it. If I walked into a space that carried a particularly heavy energy, I assumed it was haunted. The darker the energy felt, the more convinced I was that a ghost was lurking nearby (I had a big fear of spirits as a child).
Over time, I learned that what I was sensing wasn’t always a spirit, it was the residue of strong emotions. And let me tell you, dark residual energy can feel every bit as unsettling as a haunting.
How Residual Energy Affects Empaths
Most used spaces hold layers of residual energy, both positive and negative. For Empaths, these impressions are like first impressions of a place—you feel them immediately. Sometimes the sensation fades if you visit often, but sometimes it lingers and affects your mood, energy, or even your physical body.
Some common ways Empaths are impacted:
Feeling sudden sadness, anger, or depression.
Physical symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or fatigue.
A darkening of thoughts or even subtle shifts in personality.
When the residual energy is positive, it can uplift, empower, and inspire you. But negative energy can quietly erode your balance, making you feel “off” without knowing why. It can influence decisions, lower your mood, and leave you struggling to shake it off.
Residual vs. Spiritual Energy
For highly sensitive Empaths, it’s important to learn the difference between residual energy and spiritual energy. Residual energy is the imprint of emotions left behind, while spiritual energy (often associated with hauntings) comes with the sensation of a presence, sometimes accompanied by a sudden temperature drop.
As your awareness sharpens, distinguishing between the two becomes easier, and so does protecting yourself from being influenced by them.
Why It Matters for Everyone
Residual energy doesn’t just affect Empaths, it influences everyone. We’ve all seen places where history seems to repeat itself, arguments flaring in the same households, accidents happening in the same spots, or conflict brewing in war-torn regions. These are often places where negative imprints are strong, and people unconsciously “pick up the script” and replay it.
The truth is, negative residual energy is contagious. It spreads easily to those who are unaware or already emotionally vulnerable. On the flip side, positive energy is also contagious, uplifting and invigorating, but unfortunately, because many people are already weighed down emotionally, the darker energy tends to spread more quickly. Like attracts like.
The Empowered Empath
As humans, we all know what it feels like to get stuck in a low mood. Yet, strangely, many of us linger there longer than we need to. For Empaths, learning to recognize and release negative residual energy is crucial—not just for survival, but for thriving.
The key is to stay grounded and conscious of the energies you encounter. When you learn to spot what’s residual energy and prevent it from seeping into your own emotional space, you reclaim your balance and protect your light.
(If you’re looking for grounding techniques, check out my post [here].)
If you’ve ever felt like you live in a world turned up to full volume, where emotions, atmospheres, and even unspoken thoughts hit you like tidal waves, there’s a good chance you might be an Empath.
Not just someone who’s intuitive, not just someone who “feels deeply,” but someone who lives in a constant conversation with energies most people never even notice.
Empaths don’t need to be told things to know them. This knowing isn’t just a hunch, it’s a soul‑level recognition that bypasses logic entirely. You might not know how you know, but you do. The more attuned an Empath becomes, the sharper this gift grows, as though the invisible threads between people and events begin to glow in high‑definition.
But with such sensitivity comes a weight. Walking through a shopping mall, a supermarket, or any crowded space can feel like wading into a storm of conflicting emotions, joy, grief, anxiety, frustration, all pressing in at once. Sometimes it’s hard to separate what belongs to you from what belongs to strangers passing by.
Empaths often absorb emotions as though they were their own. Sometimes it’s from the person sitting beside you; other times, it’s from someone miles away whose energy has somehow found its way into your awareness. Some even sense when they’re the subject of someone’s unkind thoughts, no matter the distance.
This is why violence, cruelty, and tragedy on TV can be unbearable. What others might watch for “awareness” or “information,” an Empath feels like an actual wound. It’s not just witnessing suffering, it’s taking it inside your own heart. Over time, many Empaths simply stop watching the news or certain shows altogether.
It’s also why dishonesty is so glaring. You don’t need proof when someone isn’t being truthful; their words may say one thing, but their energy tells a different story. And while knowing when a loved one is lying can be painful, pretending you don’t feel it is sometimes even harder.
Empaths also carry an unusual burden: the physical pain of others. It’s not uncommon for them to develop headaches, aches, or even infections that mirror those of a friend or family member. This mirroring often happens through deep emotional connection, like a kind of unintentional “sympathy pain” on a soul level.
This emotional and energetic sensitivity can take a toll on the body. Many Empaths experience digestive troubles or lower back pain. The solar plexus, the energy centre tied to emotions, sits in the abdomen, and when it’s constantly processing the feelings of others, it can become strained. Lower back issues often appear when Empaths are ungrounded, which is frequent if they’ve never learned to manage their gift.
It’s no surprise that Empaths are naturally drawn to those who are hurting, bullied, or marginalized. They instinctively want to protect, help, and heal. Unfortunately, this means they often become the “safe space” for people to unload their troubles, sometimes even complete strangers. Without strong boundaries, this emotional caretaking can be exhausting.
And exhaustion is a constant theme. Empaths often experience a kind of fatigue that no amount of sleep can fix. It’s not just tiredness, it’s energy depletion from constant emotional processing. Sometimes, in an attempt to cope, they may turn to addictive behaviours like alcohol, food, or even overwork as a way to dull the onslaught of feelings.
Many Empaths are also drawn to healing, holistic therapies, and metaphysical topics. It’s in their nature to explore the unseen, the mysterious, and the transformative. Yet, ironically, some find that working directly in healing can drain them too deeply, especially if they don’t yet know how to protect themselves energetically.
Creativity flows through many Empaths like a second language. Whether it’s painting, dancing, writing, or music, they often have vivid imaginations and artistic gifts. They’re equally nourished by nature and animals, finding peace and renewal in the quiet companionship of the natural world.
Solitude isn’t a luxury for an Empath, it’s a necessity. Without enough alone time, they can feel overwhelmed and even unwell. This need for retreat often starts in childhood and remains for life.
Empaths also have little tolerance for boredom, routine, or doing things that feel meaningless. They long for authenticity, freedom, and experiences that nourish the soul. This makes them truth‑seekers, constantly chasing answers, diving into research, and trying to understand the deeper “why” behind everything.
Clutter, both physical and emotional, feels heavy to an Empath. They thrive in spaces that feel light, open, and energetically clear. The same sensitivity extends to food, they can sometimes sense the energy of what they eat, and many avoid meat because they feel the suffering of the animal.
Because their moods can shift with the energies they’re picking up, Empaths may sometimes seem quiet, shy, or withdrawn. It’s not disinterest, it’s self‑preservation. And while they can be some of the best listeners you’ll ever meet, they’re also highly intolerant of narcissism and selfishness.
Empaths even feel the rhythm of time differently. Fridays might feel bright and buoyant, while Mondays can feel heavy, regardless of their own schedule, because they’re tuning in to the collective emotional weather. They’re cautious about antiques or second‑hand items because they can feel the residual energy of previous owners.
In short, the life of an Empath is a life lived deeply, sometimes too deeply. It’s a journey of learning how to protect the self while honouring the gift.
Being an Empath means I deeply feel the emotions and energy of others, often without them saying a word.
If you too are an Empath, you’ll know exactly where I’m coming from there.
As I’m sure it is for you, I can walk into a room and pick up on tension, sadness, or even joy that isn’t mine, which can affect me in weird and wonderful ways.
That’s where yoga comes in.
When I first started practicing yoga, it was all about the physical side: getting the poses right, building strength, and maybe even hoping for a more sculpted body. But over time, yoga became something much deeper. Now, it’s so much less about how I look and more about how I feel. It’s a space where I return to myself.
The movement, the stillness, the breath, it all gives me a safe place to let go of what isn’t mine and reconnect with who I am. It also is a place to recharge my energy. And that’s without the benefits of the physical postures.
Breathwork, or pranayama, has become my go-to tool for clearing emotional clutter and calming my nervous system.
When my thoughts are spinning or my emotions feel tangled, my breath brings me back to centre. It grounds me. It reminds me what peace feels like. With every inhale and exhale, I create space between feeling everything and being consumed by it.
The physical side of yoga, the poses or asanas, also plays a big role. They help me release energy I’ve unintentionally absorbed and bring me back to me.
Some days I notice I’m carrying tension in my shoulders or a weight in my solar plexus. Moving through poses helps me shake that off, physically and emotionally.
But that’s not all. It can offer up so many benefits to my body and mind, not just in the perspective of being Sensitive.
Meditation, too, has always been essential, even though I sometimes dip in and out of practice. It’s like pressing a reset button and it teaches me so much.
Meditation gives me the space to hear my own voice again, to notice what’s mine and gently release what isn’t.
When I practice in the morning, whether it’s stretching, meditating, or simply breathing deeply, I feel the slow unfurling of my own energy.
Physically, it’s like my body is waking up in harmony with the light. Muscles that hold the weight of yesterday begin to soften, and with each movement, I release more than just tension, I release the emotions I’ve absorbed. Mentally, it’s even more powerful. My thoughts feel clearer, my intuition stronger, and there’s an undeniable spaciousness in my mind. The morning gives me room to prepare not just for the day, but for the emotions I’ll inevitably encounter.
This time becomes a sacred ritual. It’s where I set the tone for how I want to show up: grounded, open-hearted, and resilient. Practising in the morning doesn’t just loosen my muscles or free my mind, it anchors me.
Yoga doesn’t take away my Sensitivity, instead, it helps me stay whole. It strengthens my inner awareness, helps me create healthy boundaries, and lets me show up in the world without getting lost in it.
To other Empaths reading this: If you feel like you’re constantly carrying too much, yoga may not fix everything, but it can help you feel yourself.
As Empaths, we are wired differently than most. We feel more deeply, love more fully, and often hurt more intensely. So, emotional harmony isn’t just a luxury for us; it’s a necessity.
So, it goes without saying that our mental, physical, and energetic well-being is often determined by the relationships we allow into our lives.
But let’s be honest: not everyone is meant to walk beside us on this path. And while we may pride ourselves on our compassion and loyalty, there comes a time when we must ask ourselves a difficult question:
Is it time to let them go?
Letting go isn’t an act of arrogance. It’s not about thinking we’re better than anyone. It’s about self-preservation; about choosing peace over pain, growth over stagnation, and light over shadows.
If someone constantly makes you feel depleted, anxious, or emotionally bruised; if their words or actions inject your life with chaos, confusion, or sadness; they’re not just a mismatch for your energy. They are a threat to your well-being. And no amount of good memories, shared history, or “what ifs” justifies keeping that door open.
Sadly, the people who most often drain us are the ones we once held closest: friends we’ve known for years, family members we’ve grown up with. We cling to the idea of who they were or who we hoped they’d become, even as they repeatedly show us who they are now.
And because we care, deeply; we hesitate to walk away. We convince ourselves they’re just in pain, that we can help them, heal them, lift them. But in trying to carry them, we end up sacrificing ourselves.
Here’s the truth:
Empaths are not here to be emotional punching bags for those who refuse to grow.
Most of us, if we’re being real, would have no one left if we cut ties with everyone who triggered us emotionally. Feeling someone’s sadness or discomfort is part of the empathic experience. But there’s a difference between occasionally being triggered and being emotionally poisoned.
There are some people; call them “super-charged negatives,” who seem to feed off your light, who pull you into their storm and leave you wearing their emotional chaos for days. No matter how much grounding, clearing, or shielding you do, their energy still cling.
Why? Because as you work on yourself, as you raise your vibration and align with higher frequencies, anything not in resonance becomes painful. Toxic relationships aren’t just emotionally draining; they become completely uncomfortable. They hurt your bones, your stomach, and your spirit.
When you rise up, people notice. Some feel inspired by your transformation; others feel threatened. And those who are not yet ready to grow may subconsciously (or very intentionally) try to pull you back down. They may mock your growth, dismiss your light, or attempt to destabilize your peace. It’s not personal; it’s projection.
But even if you understand their behaviour, even if you have compassion for their suffering, it doesn’t mean you have to stick around for it.
We are not responsible for saving those who choose to stay stuck. We are responsible for keeping ourselves whole.
Letting someone go doesn’t mean you don’t love them. It means you love yourself enough to stop bleeding for people who wouldn’t offer you a bandage.
Growth often comes through contrast. Yes, we learn from pain. We learn from betrayal, heartbreak, manipulation; we learn what we don’t want, so we can begin to align with what we do want. But that lesson doesn’t need to be repeated endlessly.
If someone’s behaviour is a recurring source of pain; if you find yourself reliving the same emotional wound over and over; it’s time to investigate. Once a lesson is learned, you don’t need to re-enrol in the same class.
You don’t have to carry bitterness. You can still hold love for someone in your heart and release them from your life. You can bless their journey without walking it beside them.
So, ask yourself with honesty:
Do I feel safe, seen, and uplifted by this person? Or do I feel small, anxious, or energetically burdened?
If the answer points to pain, perhaps it’s time to loosen your grip. To open your hands, your heart, and your life to people and experiences that feel aligned, life-giving, and safe.
Letting go isn’t cruelty.
Letting go is clarity.
Letting go is grace.
Letting go is… healing.
Being in harmony with others isn’t just ideal for Empaths; it’s essential for our survival.
Empaths Empowered 