Emotional sensitivity in truth is a blessing. If you have been told by others that you are too thin-skinned, that you wear your heart on your sleeve or that you feel too deeply, you are likely a misunderstood, emotionally sensitive person. The good news is that your emotional sensitivity is a core aspect of your authentic self and a strength that can be beneficial to yourself and to others. But to get the most out of your innate sensitivity, you must first understand it.

You are highly attuned to emotional energy when you are emotionally sensitive. You perceive a wider range and intensity of emotions than others. It may sometimes feel as if your emotions are magnified and may absorb the worry, stress, fear and sadness of others and feel it as your own.

Emotional sensitivity may not be a choice. But you can make a choice as to what and whose emotions and feelings you absorb. You likely are unconsciously absorbing the emotional energy of those who you love and care about and those who are in close physical proximity to. It is possible to shift your emotional receptors to feel the higher vibrations of love.

From the beginning of time, philosophers, poets, seers and teachers have spoken of the universal power of love. Emotionally sensitive people have direct access to tuning into and absorbing this higher aspect of love. Wherever you are, you can receive and absorb the positive energy.

To shift your emotional sensitivity from absorbing stressful and unhealthy emotional energy to effectively receiving the higher vibrations of love, try these steps.

Begin by making a commitment to yourself and informing the universe that you are no longer willing to be an emotional sponge for negative and detrimental emotional energy. As much as you may want to help others to heal or resolve their difficulties, know that feeling their pain does not dissolve it. In fact, it just makes it stronger. Even though it may not seem as if you have a choice, know that you do not have to be an emotional sponge for the free floating, emotional pain, negativity, stress, fear and anxiety that you may encounter in crowds, while in social environments.

Become aware of the people in your life whose feelings you are the most susceptible to absorbing. Realize that you do not have to be emotionally enmeshed with another to maintain a positive connection. This is not the same as shutting down or not being available to those who you love and care for. Instead, you are taking charge of your sensitivity and using it in a more beneficial way.

You likely absorb certain feelings and emotions, more than others. When unresolved fear, sadness or grief reside within you, you are more likely to feel it in others. Discover your emotional wounds and heal and release them. This will prevent you from unconsciously attracting and absorbing these emotions and feelings in others. 

Listen within to the inner voice of your authentic self. When emotions and feelings surface, ask yourself if this emotion is your own or someone else’s. If this is not your emotion ask yourself what the source of it is and let go of it.

Be compassionate and patient. You have likely been emotionally sensitive since childhood and it may take some time to sort through your emotions and get to the core of your genuine personal feelings. 

Have a source of positive energy in your life. Many find love, peace, and solace in a spiritual practice. Meditation, yoga, rituals, and quiet time in nature can provide you with the opportunity to  connect with the pure energy of unconditional love. Create a safe place in your home where you can relax, unwind and come into balance.

Be honest about your needs. Do not feel shame or embarrassment if you need more alone time than others. If you do not want to socialize in large groups or in an environment that feels overwhelming, graciously decline and take care of yourself. Others may not understand you, so it is especially crucial for your well being that you understand and have compassion for yourself. As you do this you will be able to be more present and available to the people and activities that are most important to you. 

To Self Care,

Kelly Krishna Dunn