Empath

To be an empath is an amazing gift to have, but to some, it can feel like a curse. When you can learn how to use this ability accurately, you'll see just how powerful it truly is. Let's begin with the basics. What is an empath? According to google, it's a 'science fiction' term. I assure you, it is far from fiction, even though the term became popular from a characters abilities in the TV series, Star Trek.  The root of the word comes from empathy. What is empathy?

"​The ability to understand and share the feelings of another."

An empath to me, means the ability to not only share the feelings of another being, but to have the capability to absorb the 'heaviness', the pain, the sorrow, and the other emotions from others in order to help them achieve relief.  The ability to relate to others physical, emotional, and mental state and the strong desire to help them receive relief in someway. Empath's do this unintentionally most of the time, unless they have gotten into a profession that is surrounded by helping people such as, Therapists, Care Takers, Massage Therapists, Healers, and even some Teachers. When an empath has chosen this as their career and most do choose a field as such, it's important to learn how to take care of themselves (recharge, cleanse, and make sure that what is absorbed does not stay and make a home in their being). Easier said than done, but with the right tools and setting an intention everyday, you can control what you take on or learn how to let it go. You can still help others and be happy. It's just takes self care and effort, which is not something we  empaths do for ourselves very often. 

How do you know if you are an Empath? If you can relate to the following then it's very likely you are. If only a few sound like you, then you may just be a highly sensitive soul and the tips below can also help you. 

• Large crowds make you more than uncomfortable. When your'e in them you experience multiple feelings and emotions (happy, sadness, fear, nausea, dizziness, anxiety)
• Inability to watch the news and/or read the newspaper.
• Visiting places like zoos or aquariums. (I'm always trying to plan the great escape).
• Weight gain fluctuates frequently. 
• Prone to addictions of all kinds. (Food, alcohol, substance abuse, shopping, etc)
• Sensitivity to sounds, light, and smells.
• People come to you for comfort, advice, and/or just to share (most times overshare) their life story. Once they are finished they say, " I feel so much better!". You feel like you need a nap or that you've been hit over the head with a truck and a headache has formed that wasn't there before and your nauseous. 
• Having bouts of loneliness, depression, and sadness and not really knowing why. Unexplained crying jags. These are annoying. 

Any of these sound like you? I thought so. I am still trying hard to figure out how to harness this gift, but I can share with you a couple of things that have worked for me. First and foremost, you have to set an intention upon waking and create a protective shield for yourself before embarking on this crazy but beautiful world. Just like your ability to absorb the bad things, you can also absorb good. I always say my morning mantra 3 x's...3 is my lucky number, so if you prefer 1x, no prob! Super simple. Make your own mantra and see the difference it can make!

​​ " Today, I am safe and protected from any negative energy, toxic people, and negative spirits. I give and receive only Love."

Tips & Tricks:

• Epsom Salt baths- This is a great way to relax at the end of the day. The salt is the key. I make my own mixtures for different days....stay tuned for those recipes! This is a must of you have taken on toxic energy.
• Recharge- Nature seems to be the best place for this. Unable to go on a vacation? No problem. Just taking a 30 minute walk in nature will bring you relief. Not into exercise presently,  then try a picnic and a good book! 
• Get a Massage/Acupuncture- You've  got to get things flowing and circulating. Toxic and negative energy finds a place and stays put. Energy becomes stagnant and that is where pain, injuries, and weight gain occur. Massages and other forms of bodywork get it broken up and out!
• Drink water- Flush out those toxins already!
• Burn Sage- I sage myself and every corner of my house weekly. It clears the space from negative energy. 
• Swim- Salt water is def ideal, but taking a dip in a body of water is good not only for you physically, but emotionally. 
• Exercise- This is my hardest tip to give because I have a hard time to follow it, BUT when I do, my body sings! The energy has to get out. Go on a walk, a run, go dancing, swimming, or whatever your heart desires, but get moving. 

Have questions or want to share your story about what it is like to be an empath? Comment below! Feel free to email me if you have direct questions. Remember, you can't help others, if you can't help yourself.