New Consciousness Review Spring, 2017 | Page 19

INSPIRATION HEALTH

would never give up my sensitivities for the world . They let me know the secrets of the universe because I can feel the energy of all things .
● what is the difference between an empath and a Highly Sensitive Person ?
Highly Sensitive People ( HSPs ) have all the sensory components of extreme sensitivity such as sensitivity to light , sound , touch , crowds but empaths actually absorb emotions / energy / stress / physical symptoms from other people . As a result , empaths can become exhausted or ill and not know why . They are emotional sponges ! Empaths also have heightened intuitions . Both highly sensitive people and empaths have very action mirror neurons to increase our compassion .
● Can you share some of the gifts of being an empath ?
I cherish being an empath and I ’ m grateful for the blessings my sensitivities bestow on me each day . I love being intuitive , feeling the flow of energy in the world , reading people , and experiencing the richness of being so open to life and nature . We

Empaths have different requirements in a relationship for it to work . Empaths need a lot of alone time . They sometimes need separate beds or even bedrooms . Empaths get overstimulated with “ too much togetherness ” and need to authentically communicate this to their partners . empaths have many marvelous traits . We have huge hearts and the instinct to help others in need or who are less fortunate . We ’ re dreamers and idealists . We ’ re passionate , deep , and creative , in touch with our emotions , compassionate , and can see the big picture . We can appreciate other ’ s feelings and become loyal friends and mates . We ’ re intuitive , spiritual , and can sense energy . We have a special appreciation for the natural world and feel at home there . We resonate with nature , plants , forests , and gardens . We often love water . Whether we are soaking in the womb of warm water in a bath or living by the ocean or a river , it energizes us . We may feel special intuitive bonds with our animal companions and become involved with animal rescue or animal communication .

● what is the biggest challenge for empaths in intimate relationships ?
Empaths have different requirements in a relationship for it to work . Empaths need a lot of alone time . They sometimes need separate beds or even bedrooms . Empaths get overstimulated with “ too much togetherness ” and need to authentically communicate this to their partners . Empaths are often unconsciously attracted to “ unavailable people ” who don ’ t let them come close enough to have all their fears of intimacy arise . It ’ s possible to have loving , healthy relationships if empaths can define and express their special needs .
● what exactly is emotional contagion ? And how does it impact the empathic person ?
Research has shown that we actually “ catch ” other people ’ s emotions and empaths are more prone to doing this because of their high sensitivities and openness . Research has shown that many people pick up the emotions of those around them . For instance , one crying infant will set off a wave of crying in a hospital ward . Or one person loudly expressing anxiety in the workplace can spread it to other workers . People commonly catch other people ’ s feelings in groups . A recent New York Times article stated that this ability to synchronize moods with others is crucial for good relationships . What is the lesson for empaths ? To choose positive people in our lives so we ’ re not brought down by negativity . Or , if , say a
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