How to Understand your Sensitivity.
I don’t remember ever feeling empowered to embrace my sensitive nature. For decades, I’d suppress what I felt and pretending I was always ok.
It wasn’t until about two years ago, I finally decided to start living authentically and honoring my truth as a Highly Sensitive Person.
Growing up as a young black girl in America, strength is demanded. Excellence is required. There was little to no room to slack. I never could find a true outlet to replenish from energetic fatigue besides staying in my room.
I talk about my childhood experience in the ultimate guide for Highly Sensitive people, check it out here. To share more about my adult experience, I started to share my journey and insights by launching a podcast.
In the inaugural episode, we delve into what it means to be a highly sensitive person (HSP). We explore Dr. Elaine Aron’s groundbreaking research and the characteristics that define HSPs, such as heightened empathy, deep processing, and sensitivity to stimuli.
Join me in a conversation discussing the black experience as a highly sensitive person and how to thrive as an HSP in a world that often feels overwhelming.
Understanding what it means to be a highly sensitive person (HSP) can be transformative for both you and those around you.
Here are the top five ways to gain a deeper understanding of being an HSP:
Educate Yourself on the Trait: Knowledge is power, and the first step in understanding high sensitivity is to educate yourself about the trait. Research by Dr. Elaine Aron, who coined the term "Highly Sensitive Person," is a great starting point. Her books, articles, and the documentary "Sensitive: The Untold Story" offer comprehensive insights. Learning about the scientific basis of high sensitivity, such as the heightened activity in the brain areas associated with empathy and awareness, can help demystify the experience. Her work provides us the vocabulary to better advocate for self.
Recognize the Signs and Symptoms: High sensitivity manifests in various ways, often through heightened emotional responses, strong reactions to sensory stimuli (like loud noises or bright lights), and a deep capacity for empathy. HSPs may also require more downtime to recover from social interactions or busy environments. Recognizing these signs in yourself or others is crucial for understanding and managing the trait effectively.
Embrace and Validate Your Feelings: Emotions play a significant role in the lives of HSPs. It's important to acknowledge and validate these feelings, rather than dismiss them as overreactions. Practicing mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques can help you navigate your intense emotions. For those around you, offering support and understanding can create a more inclusive and compassionate environment.
Create a Supportive Environment: We thrive in environments that are calm, organized, and low in stress. Creating a personal space that allows for sensory regulation—such as having a quiet room, using soft lighting, or incorporating nature—can significantly enhance well-being. Additionally, building a network of understanding friends, family, or therapists who appreciate and support your high sensitivity is invaluable.
Develop Coping Strategies: Learning effective coping mechanisms is essential for you to manage your sensitivity in a world that can often feel overwhelming. Techniques such as setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and engaging in creative outlets can provide relief and balance. Regularly scheduled downtime and mindful practices like meditation or yoga can also help you recharge and maintain your emotional equilibrium.
By taking these steps, both you and those around you can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of high sensitivity, turning what might initially seem like a challenge into a unique and valuable strength.