stress managment

Empath: Blessing & Curse

Being an Empath sounds like a superpower right? Like those who have that ability are some sort of emotional ninja?! Damn, I wish dude. Because it might feel wayyyy better!

But, there's a reason I spend most weekends at home & alone with my dogs...

It's not just because I've outgrown going out. It's because I require the solace that only home can provide. A place where I can retreat and indulge in self-care and reach out if and when I need and want. I don't have to be anywhere I don't want to be or do anything I don't want to do. Especially after an emotional work week as a social worker on an inpatient psychiatric unit.

Being an Empath sounds far more interesting and exciting that it actually feels. You can ask any Empath.

If you know me or have followed me for awhile, you may have noticed there are some days when I have a strong social media presence and post a shit ton. Then there are other days when I may only post once or not even at all. It's on those days that I need to chill TF out. And not because I'm upset, just because my friggin sponge is saturated. I barely speak to anyone on those days...not even my mom...you can ask her.

Being an empath has nothing to do with being depressed or anxious, while those may be emotions we experience, we may also take those on from others at times, and not even realize it. It's generally because the noise has gotten so loud. The emotions and energies from others have begun to cloud my own. It's extremely overwhelming and in the past I would've self-medicated by deflecting, drinking eating, sex, or whatever provided comfort at the moment; even if that included lashing out at others.

The thing is, now I'm woke AF. I'm no longer able to escape this ability. When I open up and share, I expose myself to other people's emotions and energies - both good and bad - which usually results in a migraine for me. These migraines can last between 24-72 hours long, causing me to miss 1-3 days worth of work. It can be so overwhelming and even debilitating if you don't know how to manage it. If you let it, it can deter you from realizing and reaching your goals, because you can't even distinguish what you want from what others around you want.

Being an Empath is both a blessing and a curse and there are so many pieces to it and where it's lead me, both good and bad. I choose to see it as a blessing and am learning every day how to manage & protect my energy so that I can help others do the same. Empaths possess unique qualities that most others don't have, which makes them uniquely positioned for certain professions and various job opportunities. 

I share all of this to say that I'm here to help those who genuinely feel the same way. I only wish I had the support and skills earlier in life to figure out how to thrive as an empath. So, if this resonates with you - I'm here to help. You're not alone. You don't have to suffer or feel like no one truly gets you. It's time you harness your inner badass empathic self. 

Much love,

Sarah

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii