How to Protect Your Energy as a Highly Sensitive Person
Hey twentysomething! Let’s detox and unlearn the idea that being a HSP is a sign of weakness. It is actually a superpower.
In a world that often praises resilience and toughness, the term "highly sensitive" might sound like a weakness. As a highly sensitive person (HSP) myself, let's shift our perspective and explore the superpowers that lie within those who proudly wear this label.
Photo by Sasha Maslova
I've always been labeled as a “sensitive child”— too sensitive, actually. Although in recent years I've worked on accepting this softer side of myself; it was a part of me that I resisted for a very long time.
Even to this day, the sensitivity of being able to feel for others, for myself, and beyond, can be negatively perceived. All too often have I heard the phrase, "It's not that deep," underlining the societal tendency to downplay the significance of emotional depth.
Before we get into the superpower of being a HSP and how to protect our energy, let’s dive into why people in society resist this quality.
Why People Resist Sensitivity
01. Projection
Photo by Nina Hill
To not take it personally, I've learned that, in most cases, this resistance from others is a form of projection. They cannot take the point of view of a HSP because internally, it struck a nerve that they are not yet ready to process. Uncomfortable and upset with this sensation of going deep within themselves, they blame their discomfort on others.
The funny thing about triggers is this: people wouldn’t get triggered, if there wasn't a trigger within them in the first place.
Really think about that for a second.
02. Lack of Awareness
Photo Source Unknown
Resisting sensitivity can also stem from a lack of awareness. Sensitivity means the capability to feel, and we gain this capability (in part) through awareness — a higher consciousness.
According to science, they have also found some genetic roots to people with high sensitivity, but early childhood environments can also have epigenetic effects on sensitivity levels. It is also no secret that younger generations are being born into a higher consciousness. There is even upward drift in IQ test scores across generations, called the Flynn Effect.
With a rise in intelligence comes more awareness and, consequently, further sensitivity. Their level of empathy and awareness is truly a gift, yet older generations have usually overlooked this quality they have for the two reasons I've mentioned above. Although they are younger, we can all learn something from children. You just have to listen.
Your Sensitivity is a Superpower.
If you think you're a highly sensitive person, I hope I've hyped you up enough to know this is not something to be ashamed of.
HSPs are ruled to have these 5 superpowers of being able to experience higher:
Empathy
Creativity
Sensory intelligence
Depth of processing and,
Depth of emotion.
But trust me when I say, I understand the reality of being a highly sensitive person. The thing about being more sensitive, is you can feel more of the good…but also the bad.
My tip for you—take care of this quality. Your sensitivity can help you succeed in many ways in life, but it can also be your downfall if you don't protect your energy
How to Protect Your Energy as a HSP
Learning how to protect your energy from possible energy drainers, and boost your positive ratio will be a life saver as a HSP. Even if you’re not a HSP though, these tips will help you feel more grounded and happy for the days ahead.
01. The Affects of Alcohol on HSPs
Photo by Bianca Venchiarutti
I’ve decided to try “Dry January” this month. Not going to lie, it’s been tough. I’ve always used alcohol as a way to tame my nerves, and numb other people’s energies for concerts and events (Yeah, yeah, I know it’s not healthy. That’s why I’m trying to do something about it).
Funny how in reality, alcohol affects the production of GABA neurotransmitter (the brain chemical that makes us feel calm) so when you’re not drinking, feelings of anxiety can be increased temporarily. Totally NOT what I need. Hopefully by the end of this month I will embrace more mocktails, which is one of my habits I’m implementing in 2024 for more peace.
Highly sensitive people already have hyperactive nervous systems, so it’s important to be mindful of the substances that we ingest. If you are drinking however, I would try to ground your drinks, just as you would ground yourself before any events.
02. Increasing Your Positive Ratio
Photo by Monstera Production
Increasing your positive ratio basically means, make sure there is more good than bad in your life. When you consciously focus on the good in your life, the good gets better.
You can increase your positive ratio by listening to high vibrational music, feel-good movies, making gratitude lists, spending time in nature, being around animals or with people who lift you up! I also follow the 25/75 rule, mentioned byJay Shetty in one of his podcasts.
“Spend 75% of your time with energy givers, and no more than 25% of your time with energy drainers.”
I like this approach because it’s more realistic. Let’s face it – we sometimes can’t avoid the people or things that drain us. Whether that’s your work environment, your in-laws, your parents, your home environment, or your boss… you may have to suck it up and deal with it.
03. Negative People, Events & Crowds
Photo by Harrison Haines
We might not being about to control our external environment, especially when dealing with energy-draining situations, but we do have the power to manage our internal environment more effectively.
Prior to engaging with an energy drainer or entering situations with a high level of stimuli, take a moment to ground your energy. Personally, I find a grounding meditation, where I visualize connecting to the centre of the earth, highly effective.
Additionally, I create an invisible shield for extra protection. Alongside the shield, I set an intention, allowing only love and light to permeate my bubble. If I'm not in the mood for conversation, a spikey shield proves to be an effective alternative.
This approach has consistently worked for me. Whether it's the psychology of embodying this intention or an actual invisible shield safeguarding me, it's worth trying for those who feel utterly drained after extroverted events.
Remember that your energy is your currency. Don’t spend it carelessly, and don’t forget to save it when needed.
Want more ?
Photo Bianca Venchiarutti, the writer of The Twenties Detox
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