An empath is a person with an exceptional ability to read, feel and interpret other people's emotions. Being empathetic has both positive and negative connotations. For instance, empaths might be able to help people heal from tragedies by honing in on the emotional connection. An empath can sense emotions across the spectrum, from happiness and excitement to sadness, anger and fear.
Gaining Control
One thing that might plague an empath is the feeling of being out of control in situations in which emotions are excessive, but the empath can find relief. An exercise that is helpful involves meditation and relaxation. To begin, close your eyes and imagine a peaceful place. Take a deep breath and think of your intention to gain control. You might even envision "shutting off" the emotional connections that you are having with others. Breathe deeply and slowly open your eyes. You might notice a feeling of serenity when you are finished with this technique.
Shielding Exercise
As an empath, you must also learn how to shield yourself from becoming overwhelmed by taking on too much "emotional baggage" or absorbing many people's emotions at once. Practicing a shielding exercise is one way to find relief from the situation and to calm your mind down from feeling overloaded. Sit or lie in a comfortable place. Close your eyes and imagine a giant colored curtain wrapped around you. Breathe deeply and mentally tell yourself your intentions to shield yourself from others' emotions so that you can relax. Soon afterward, you might find that any negative thoughts or feelings are released, and you are at peace.
Redirecting Focus
Another way to find relief from "emotional overload" or sensing others' emotions is to learn how to redirect your focus and divert your attention to something else. To do this, as Mysticfamiliars.com suggests, play the "I like" game. Simply sit comfortably and choose an object in the room to focus on. This practice draws your attention away from the emotions you are feeling and allows your mind to rest.
Additional Information and Warnings
The basic concepts to learn when trying to find relief from empathy are gaining control, and shielding and redirecting your attention. While it might be possible that people have the ability to feel others' emotions, it is not a medical diagnosis, and very little research exists to support claims of its existence. Do not attempt any exercises in meditation or relaxation without speaking to a health care professional.
