The Empaths Survival Guide: A Must Read!

While watching a favorite morning show, I listened to an interview with Judith Orloff who wrote a book you may enjoy, especially if you are an empath or if you’ve been told you are sensitive, called “The Empaths Survival Guide“.

What’s An Empath?

An empath is a person with the paranormal ability to apprehend the mental or emotional state of another individual.

There are many different kinds of empaths.

Judith Orloff says that “Empaths have an extremely reactive neurological system. We don’t have the same filters that other people do to block out stimulation. As a consequence, we absorb into our own bodies both the positive and stressful energies around us. We are so sensitive that it’s like holding something in a hand that has fifty fingers instead of five. We are truly super responders.”

The book contains self assessments to complete, to determine if you are an empath and which category or categories of empath you fall under.

In the book there are strategies and ways to cope, if you are indeed an empath.

Here are just two of the strategies she talks about:

Step Away!

Move at least twenty feet from the suspected source of discomfort. See if you feel relief. Don’t worry about offending strangers. Whether you’re in a doctor’s office, movie theater, or other public places, don’t hesitate to change seats. If you’re sitting next to a noisy group in a restaurant, you don’t have to stay there and feel uncomfortable. Feel free to move to a more peaceful table. These are strategies I use to take care of myself. It’s fine to lovingly say “no” to certain energies. Giving yourself permission to move is an act of self-care.

Set Boundaries!

Judith says “There’s no way around it: to survive and thrive, we need to set limits with people. If someone is draining, don’t be a doormat. Control how much time you spend listening to the person. “No” is a complete sentence. It’s okay to tell someone what your needs and preferences are: for example, “I’m sorry, but I’m not up for going to a party tonight,” or “Let’s discuss this when you’re calmer because I can’t tolerate yelling,” or “I need to meditate and be quiet right now,” or “I can’t talk for more than a few minutes unless you want to discuss solutions.” Sometimes changing communication patterns with those who know us is a retraining process, but being consistent with kind but firm limits will protect you from energy vampires.”