Empaths are highly-sensitive people who feel the emotions of others deeply and are impacted by the mood of people around them. They have the unique ability to feel the emotions of others as if they were their own.

Although empaths can be an incredible source of comfort and support to others, their mental health and physical well-being can oftentimes suffer as a result.

Let’s explore ten simple, self-care tips every empath can adopt to avoid overwhelm while helping others.

1. Release Your Emotions      

Empaths spend so much time taking on other people’s emotions and problems that they sometimes forget to experience and release their feelings. Activities that allow for a release of pent-up emotions such as meditation or journaling are really important to an empath.

2. Take a Social Media Detox

Excessive exposure to social media can be harmful to an empath. Social media apps have been designed to promote content that will keep you scrolling for as long as possible. This constant stream of information may become overwhelming and draining. Empaths need to recognize when they need to step away from the screen.

3. Spend Quality Time Alone

Empaths need time alone to recharge their social battery. It may seem selfish or unreasonable at first but carving out alone time during the day is vital for an empath. Prioritize your time for activities that replenish your energy, whether reading a book, taking a walk, playing with your pet, praying, or meditating.

4. Establish Healthy Boundaries

It isn’t selfish to say no to things that you don’t want to do. Everyone has a limited amount of time and resources available to them; know your limits. Empaths struggle with balancing the desire to be available and supportive of everyone and taking care of themselves, establishing boundaries makes it easier to manage the emotions.

5. Create a Safe Space at Home

Empaths need to be able to replenish their emotional stores after interacting with people all day. Whatever makes you feel comfortable, and helps you to recharge should be incorporated into your home. For example, if being in nature energizes you, try incorporating natural light and plants into your home.

6. Be Gentle with Yourself  

Self-love is an important component of self-care. Don’t be ashamed of feeling things as deeply as you do. Being an empath has made you a compassionate and caring person. Be proud of and accept yourself for who you are and all of the qualities that come with being an empath.

7. Find a Creative Hobby

Many empaths are naturally creative people. A creative hobby such as writing, painting, dancing, or any other creative activities you feel drawn to, allows empaths to express and release their emotions in a fun and relaxing way.

8. Listen to Your Body

Every individual reacts to overstimulation differently, pay attention to your body and learn your cues. When you feel overwhelmed, take a step back from the situation before reaching your limit.

9. Ask for Help When You Need It

Many empaths find it difficult to ask for help or accept support. It may feel like you’re being a burden to reach out to someone for help. However, as much as you are always willing to help others, there will also be people who are willing to help you.

10. Make Your Health a Priority

Don’t neglect your health while taking care of others. Emotionally draining situations can leave lasting negative impacts on your mental health. Understand that walking away from negative energies or situations isn’t selfish. Your mental health and overall wellness should always be your main priority.