We all know what it’s like to experience empathy — that innate human ability to understand what someone else is feeling. When our friends and family members go through a tough time, we share those difficult feelings with them. For some people, there’s an ability beyond empathy, something more than simply being sensitive. They can sense what others feel, from emotions to physical sensations.
WHAT IS AN EMPATH?
An empath is a psychic who reads the energy of others. Empaths are sometimes referred to as clairsentient. Where a clairvoyant has the ability to “see”, clairsentience refers to the ability to “feel”.
An empath is intensely aware of what other people are feelings — from anger and joy to hope and fear. An empath can feel anxiety, fatigue, even pain. For some empaths, their ability to feel can be overwhelming and debilitating. For others, it can be a tool to help other people get in touch with themselves and heal.
ARE YOU AN EMPATH?
Have you ever wondered if you’re empathic? Some people naturally have a tendency to absorb the moods of those around them. Others have learned how to tune into people’s emotion — think, a therapist who can tell how their client is really feeling — but there’s a difference between being sensitive or empathetic and being an empath.
If you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you may be an empath:
Can you feel what others are feeling? Sensitive people can’t help but let someone else’s mood rub off on them, but an empath intensely senses the emotions of others, even if it’s hidden below the surface.
Do crowds leave you emotionally drained? Many empaths find themselves exhausted after spending time in large groups of people. With so many energies and emotions swirling around, it can be difficult to block out the noise. It’s not uncommon for an empath to be an introvert, or at least need some serious alone time.
Are you a good judge of people? The instant an empath meets someone, they get a vibe off them. They aren’t making snap judgements — they know this person’s true intentions. They also tend to have an uncanny ability to spot a liar.
HOW CAN AN EMPATH HELP YOU?
If you have an empathic friend, consider yourself lucky. Empaths are often compassionate, kind and generous people. They’re excellent listeners with a calming influence.
It’s no surprise the skills of empaths are sought after for spiritual advice. An empath can tap into your energy and use this to gain amazing insights into your current situation and future path. An empath knows what you’re feeling even when you don’t. In the face of conflict, an empath can help shine a light on the answers within you and may even be able to get in touch with the feelings of those closest to you.
Before your empathic reading, focus on clearing and calming your energy. Meditate on the questions you want to ask or the area of your life you need help with. Allow yourself to accept their help and keep your mind open.