Growing up, I’ve experienced different types of trauma’s and have been in different types of situations that have allowed me to become more aware, as well as more sensitive to my environments.

Being “sensitive” is not necessarily about being a cry baby (although I claim to be), it also addresses the other senses. We touch, feel, smell, hear, see, sense, and taste differently. The energy of the subject presents itself to us before we acknowledge the actual subject itself…

I had to learn ways to cope, and most of my learning experiences involved what not to do, and to find what to do more productively. I observe and notice how other people react to certain situations, and yet I would rather sit with my feelings. I’ve noticed how others react when upset, and yet I would rather express and reflect. I don’t want my feelings to take over, so I allow them to guide me. I know they are present for a reason.

There are many ways we can cater to our sensitivities, but a lot of people refuse to do it. Most people, in todays word, want the easy and fast way of feeling better, but is it substantial? We have our vices from social media, drinking, smoking, and other distractions, but are these vices helpful in the long run?

What else could you be doing to help cater to the overload of your sensitivities?

1. Writing

Writing/ journaling was my first love of art. As a kid, I would always write in my journal and it allowed me to connect with myself. I moved around a lot and didn’t have a lot of childhood friends, but in middle school and high school I felt pretty sure of myself because of my self awareness and having battled different stressful events at the time. Writing has always been a healthy escape for me, and has allowed me to cater to my intense feelings (especially when I didn’t have anybody to express to).

2. Dancing

Moving the body in general has always been important to me, but it was dance that has introduced that concept. I was a shy and timid kid, and only felt comfortable with writing. Physically, I would ride my bike, scooter, skates, and played at the parks, but then began dancing. I felt comfortable and free on a whole different level. It was never about being a perfect dancer, but instead share the feeling I am experiencing. Dancing became another way for me to express myself, and I felt even more like myself while doing it. It allows me to be present with my sensitivities while also releasing the overload (especially feelings/ energy that wasn’t mine).

3. Nature

As a child, my mother took us outdoors as much as she could and it was a great getaway for everyone! I noticed back then how important nature was to me, and brought that with me into adulthood. Nature is the best medicine. Go outside whenever you can, visit other places around the world to experience and explore different types of nature. For example, I enjoy hikes, but I also enjoy the beach. The visuals of nature, the sound, and the feeling of calmness helps to soothe the nervous system. I believe we can all benefit from being out in nature.

4. Resting/ TAKE A BREAK!

A lot of people are on the go all the time, and don’t make time for themselves. We all deserve to have breaks throughout the day, not just when we’re sleeping. We are not meant to BE ON all the time. We are not robots, we are human BEings not human DOings! It is okay to rest. Allow yourself to rest so that your senses can become regulated again.

5. Meditating

In the beginning of my meditation journey, I struggled. I was focusing too much on controlling my mind, that I allowed it to control me. I had to practice being patient with myself and my overthinking brain. I learned to sit still with my mind, and not allow it to make my next move. I soon became in control of my actions/reactions, and it allowed me to slowly let go. Meditating has helped me in so many ways that I cannot explain (I will write another blog about this as I gather my thoughts), and doing this has allowed me to integrate it with the other activities mentioned, such as meditating in nature or at the beach.

You are not limited in the activities, but maybe so creatively, allow yourself to free yourself.

When you allow yourself to sit, connect, and reflect, you then have the power to redirect.

How do you cater to your senses?