As an extremely self-aware highly sensitive person (HSP), I have realized that over the years, I have spent an exorbitant amount of time listening to my internal negative self-talk and even more time analyzing why my inner-critic speaks so loudly, where it came from, when did that voice start, and how the blazes do I shut it up. Silencing HSP negative self-talk is no easy task, to say the least.... Read More
New Study Reveals the Impact of Psychological Stress on HSPs
Recent studies in health psychology suggest a potential link between sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) and and the impact of psychological stress. SPS is the clinical name for the highly sensitive person (HSP) trait, as researched by Dr. Elaine Aron. This interesting study conducted by Jordan Buren and Dr. Grant Benham was reported by Sensitivity Research, one of the only research institutions devoted to the HSP trait. ... Read More
4 Strategies to Equip Yourself When Oversensitive to Criticism
If you’re a highly sensitive person, the word “criticism” might make you cringe. You may even consider it a dirty word. What others think to be constructive and helpful criticism can feel like destructive criticism to an HSP. In this article, we’ll explore why HSPs often struggle with criticism and offer some strategies for how to equip yourself when oversensitive to criticism.... Read More
7 Ways to Build Inner Strength for HSPs With Self-Talk
Amidst the cacophony of modern life, the practice of using self-talk to build inner strength emerges as a precious commodity, particularly for the highly sensitive person who navigates the world with heightened sensitivity. This article delves into the nuances of self-talk dispelling myths, and illuminates its profound influence on emotional equilibrium, especially for those attuned to life's subtleties.... Read More
Exploring Self-Acceptance for Sensitive People
Understanding your high sensitivity can be a transformative journey toward self-acceptance. Those of us who grew up highly sensitive and didn't know this was a part of our personality, wind up needing to do a fair amount of work on themselves as adults learning to embrace self-acceptance as a highly sensitive person (HSP). When the messages you received during your formative years were negative, as an adult, you want to do the hard work to recognize what was and embrace what is. Exploring the areas in your past and present where you can recognize "what is" and accept yourself as you are is an invaluable skill to learn.... Read More
3 Energy Techniques for Greater HSP Resilience
Even highly sensitive people who have a regular wellness routine (be it yoga, meditation, connection with nature, grounding) can get knocked off center, and become drained or overwhelmed. When this happens, it’s normal to try and understand why. While perhaps not innate for all HSPs, many possess something I like to call, HSP resilience.... Read More
How to Create Your Personal Wellness Team: 12 Must-Haves
I've had a chronic health condition for over 20 years, and have always needed more support for my sensitivity than my peers. Along my path of mental and physical health management, I coined this idea of my own personal "HSP wellness team." It's not easy being sensitive and needing more emotional, physical, and spiritual support on a daily basis. While having the sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) trait (commonly known as the highly sensitive person trait) is a blessing not a curse, building your very own personal HSP wellness team to rally around you can provide the highest level of support for all your HSP needs.... Read More
Blooming Brilliantly as a Sensitive Person
Are you frequently grappling with high levels of stress and anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life? Imagine if your innate sensitivity could be harnessed as a source of strength rather than a burden. Julie Bjelland's helpful online course, Blooming Brilliantly, could be your key to better understanding yourself as a sensitive person.... Read More
Challenging Masculine Stereotypes for Sensitive Men
Men who are highly sensitive have a tendency to struggle with masculine stereotypes. In this article, you will explore the concept of masculinity beyond traditional roles and challenge the preconceived notions that have restrained men for far too long. Challenging masculine stereotypes for sensitive men is an important and frequently overlooked topic.... Read More
4 Genuine Benefits of Gifted HSPs
In my psychology practice, I find working with gifted highly sensitive people (HSPs) incredibly rewarding. HSPs are ideal therapy clients: introspective, focused, eager to grow, and hard workers. It is particularly exciting to see my gifted hsps come to better understand who they are as whole people, not just as HSPs.... Read More