Do you easily pick up on the emotions of others? Do you find crowds exhausting and draining? Do others come to you for support and advice? If you answered ‘yes’ to these questions, there is a high chance that you are an empath.
An empath is described in the dictionary as ‘a person with the ability to perceive the mental or emotional state of another individual’. Such people have an intuitive ability to know how people feel, and often take on other people’s symptoms, meaning it’s very important for them to practice self care regularly to make sure they put themselves first for a change.
In this post, I’ll be sharing 5 self care practices for empaths to use when they feel particularly overwhelmed, so that they are able to feel recharged and refreshed.
Take Regular Alone Time
Because empaths easily absorb the emotions of others (particularly in crowds and groups), it’s essential that they take as much alone time as they need. Taking time to be on your own and listen solely to your own needs can be a very relaxing and rewarding experience. Even taking just 5 minute breaks a few times a day will help to clear your mind. You can also disconnect from others by turning your phone to ‘do not disturb’ so that you’re not distracted by notifications or people wanting to pull you in different directions.
Practice Grounding Tools
Having the ability to ground yourself is very important for empaths. When you are wrapped up in the emotions and feelings of others, it can sometimes make you disassociate from your own life. Grounding can be done via a few different ways. Mindfulness meditation is an easy way of returning back to your present life – try a guided meditation on YouTube or an app, or simply count your breaths, focusing only on your breath going in and out of your body. You could also try earthing, which involves walking barefoot on the ground to connect you back to the earth.
Learn To Say ‘No’
We all find it very hard to say ‘no’ to things, whether that’s taking on more work, going out with friends or family commitments due to FOMO or simply not wanting to appear rude. Actually, turning down things isn’t rude at all and is essential at times for everyone, particularly empaths. Setting boundaries with friends who always lean on you for support, or limiting your time with a toxic family member re must-dos in order to protect your energy and look after yourself. Overbooking and overworking yourself will just lead to emotional and physical burnout.
Get Creative To Clear Your Mind
When we have a lot going on in our minds, it can be difficult to express these thoughts and feelings in words. However, it’s so important for our mental wellbeing that we’re able to get them out and that they don’t just ruminate in our brains for too long. Instead of talking them through, try expressing them through journaling, art therapy such as colouring or drawing, or any other way that you feel could be helpful. This will help recharge your mind when you’ve had a particularly draining day or experience.
Find Your Own Ways To Relax
Everyone has their own versions of relaxation and self care, and finding out what we can do to help de-stress ourselves is super important for our mental health. We have lots of articles on different types of self care and relaxation. Click the links below for lots of inspiration!
How To Have An At Home Spa Night
Thank you for reading! I hope you found lots of self care inspiration.
Lots of love,
Natalie
xxx
