How Are You Feeling, Empath? 3 Simple Questions to Lift Your Spirits

"Hey, how are you?"

This is a common greeting between friends and strangers alike. It's a way to connect with your fellow human being. We ask this question seeking to understand how someone is doing within their uniquely lived experience. Yet nine times out of ten, regardless of how we're actually feeling, what do we say?

"Good."

Nothing more, nothing less, and we may not even mean it truly. So I genuinely ask you now...

How are you feeling, empath friend?

Take a moment to place your hand on your heart and really feel how you're feeling.

Intense energy has been swirling all around us. There's the upcoming election stirring up strong emotion and senseless violence going on within our country and beyond. Families are transitioning back to school, and whatever is being worked through in your own inner experience... it can all feel overwhelming at times. Especially for those highly sensitive to the perception of energy and sensory input.

If you're one who feels like you're in the thick of it, you're certainly not alone. And if you've been feeling peaceful and balanced odds are good you've been taking care of your energetic body.

Remember that your body and mind are only two components of the self, and your spirit must be nurtured and connected with as well. When the energy around us is intense, we must be extra aware of our own energetic/ spiritual self care.

Many empaths get lost in the emotions of others. We take on the stresses of our family members, absorb the negativity shared in the news or on social media. We have the tendency to over-extend ourselves and then wonder why we feel so anxious or depressed. Your caring heart has been busy making sure everyone else is feeling seen, safe, and loved... so as well as asking how you're really doing I have an additional questions for you.

How have you been helping yourself to feel seen, safe, and loved?

Another little trap that we can get caught in as empaths is to believe someone else is responsible for us feeling this way. It is not your partner's, your friend's, your parent's, your kid's, nor your boss's responsibility to make you feel seen, safe, and loved. Yes, healthy relationship connections involve a free-flowing give and take of this... but it is solely your responsibility to ensure your own.

As a recovering people-pleasing, co-dependent type, I understand how easily we can fall into this habit. We are so used to validating the feelings and experiences of others that we expect others to fulfill this need for us. While our loved ones have the honor of reciprocating this love, the only person responsible for maintaining our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being is yourself.

A loving partner may be able to encourage you along your path, but only you have the intuitive vision for where this path is headed.

A compassionate friend may be able to lend a listening ear, but you must navigate your problems by addressing them yourself.

A medical professional may share their recommendations for your physical wellness, but you are the one choosing how to best care for your own body.

A spiritual mentor may share guidance that applies to your situation, but only you can put this wisdom into practice in your own life.

If you've been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or down, you are certainly not alone. You also are capable of soothing your nervous system, learning how to embrace your intuitive guidance, and experience more peacefulness and joy in your life. With this reminder, I offer you one final question to help you to rise beyond your state of stress.

What can you do today that would bring your heart and soul great joy?

Could you turn on some music and dance? Call a friend you haven't chatted with in awhile? Give away some unused items to someone who would appreciate them? See if you can still stand on your head? Refresh yourself with a big glass of water? Dust off those old art supplies or musical instruments? Go for a walk and enjoy the feeling of the sun on your face? Prepare a deliciously fulfilling meal?

The simpler the better, and don't wait! You're in charge of how this week goes for you, and I cannot wait to hear of how beautifully YOU guide it.

If you'd appreciate some additional support and guidance, don't miss the chance to be first in the know when Empaths at the Edge is available September 22nd. Sign up here to receive a reminder and enjoy a free guided meditation to clear your mind, relax your body, and cleanse your energy!

Love & Healing,

Ashley Kay