[RomanticEditor]

I don't get to share this kind of stuff with other types, because I don't think many would understand what I go through. I not only have an artistic nature, but a highly sensitive nervous system that comes as a package deal. This has made life a challenge for three reasons: First, I suffer from sensory overload… quite similar to Aspergers, although I don’t experience any other AS symptoms. Second, I not only have to deal with sensitivity issues on the outside, but also hyper-intensity inside. Third, I must deal with the cultural discrimination against sensitive males. It's not society's ideal, so they are perceived as weak and easy targets. Men are praised for being outgoing, cool, tough, decisive and quick to act.

Although I've battled with this sensitive condition all my life, these sensitivity issues remained nameless and undetected. I just thought the battles were the aftermath of a emotionally complicated childhood (which in part they are). It distressed me to be on edge while the majority seemed to stride through the day almost effortlessly in comparison.

Some of my senses are affected more severely than others: Loud noises or voices, chaos, tobacco smoke and even certain clothing (that constrains or is abrasive) can trigger irritability or anxiety causing me to disengage and become fatigued quickly. Other people's negative emotional energy can especially get to me.


As a kind of sensory integration I would like to work on what therapists refer to as energy management, but honestly don't have much information about it. Have any of you heard of this at all?

 

[Tamagochi]

Have not heard about energy management as approved therapy. There's however some research done by dr. Elaine N. Aron on what she calls A Highly Sensitive Person. It offers insights and techniques on how to deal with sensitivity issues. I can qualify as HSP myself and I've found this material useful.
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[RomanticEditor]

Have not heard about energy management as approved therapy. There's however some research done by dr. Elaine N. Aron on what she calls A Highly Sensitive Person. It offers insights and techniques on how to deal with sensitivity issues. I can qualify as HSP myself and I've found this material useful.
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Yes, I've been reading Elaine Aron's books for some time and her insights are great. She states that we need to manage our energy differently than other types, but I don't remember anything specific mentioned about how we are to manage it differently.

 

[water]

I don't get to share this kind of stuff with other types, because I don't think many would understand what I go through. I not only have an artistic nature, but a highly sensitive nervous system that comes as a package deal. This has made life a challenge for three reasons: First, I suffer from sensory overload… quite similar to Aspergers, although I don’t experience any other AS symptoms. Second, I not only have to deal with sensitivity issues on the outside, but also hyper-intensity inside. Third, I must deal with the cultural discrimination against sensitive males. It's not society's ideal, so they are perceived as weak and easy targets. Men are praised for being outgoing, cool, tough, decisive and quick to act.

Although I've battled with this sensitive condition all my life, these sensitivity issues remained nameless and undetected. I just thought the battles were the aftermath of a emotionally complicated childhood (which in part they are). It distressed me to be on edge while the majority seemed to stride through the day almost effortlessly in comparison.

Some of my senses are affected more severely than others: Loud noises or voices, chaos, tobacco smoke and even certain clothing (that constrains or is abrasive) can trigger irritability or anxiety causing me to disengage and become fatigued quickly. Other people's negative emotional energy can especially get to me.


As a kind of sensory integration I would like to work on what therapists refer to as energy management, but honestly don't have much information about it. Have any of you heard of this at all?

Forgive me, as I am trying to understand this even more. After reading through this... it almost appears as if this was referring to an allergy: where our senses get overloaded with too much of one thing. Almost as if our bodies "remember it" and attack instantly. The medications have our body's "forget" that we don't like it...so, we can be around it longer.

We, as INFJ's, do the same thing at times. We prolong or try to "hold on" to certain feelings or emotions. When they are of a negative nature, we re-experience that all over again. (Perhaps, this is what is happening to you in some way.) Our minds remember... then, are systematic.

We can as human body's, attract and also repel different feelings, energies and emotions. The key is to remember that we can repel. We can control it. (Set the mood, despite the enviroment.) Perhaps, this is what the "energy management" is referring to.

It is boils down to mindset and using our subbornness to our own advantage for a change. Visualizing us repelling different moods, feelings and environmental stimulus.

Again, I am sorry that I am un-aware of "energy management"... and can be completely wrong. Just after reading what you may go through, I picture it in this light.

Hope this may aide you in some manner.

 

[RomanticEditor]

We can as human body's, attract and also repel different feelings, energies and emotions. The key is to remember that we can repel. We can control it. (Set the mood, despite the enviroment.) Perhaps, this is what the "energy management" is referring to.

It is boils down to mindset and using our subbornness to our own advantage for a change. Visualizing us repelling different moods, feelings and environmental stimulus.

Again, I am sorry that I am un-aware of "energy management"... and can be completely wrong. Just after reading what you may go through, I picture it in this light.

Hope this may aide you in some manner.

-- Thank you for your comment. I think I'm capable of repelling as you describe when I feel strong, however, it's when I feel pushed off balance that I struggle most. Teaching is a demanding profession where microdecisions need to be made, etc.,

Do you see what I mean?

 

[water]

-- Thank you for your comment. I think I'm capable of repelling as you describe when I feel strong, however, it's when I feel pushed off balance that I struggle most. Teaching is a demanding profession where microdecisions need to be made, etc.,

Do you see what I mean?

Oh...Yes! I work/worked in the ALP (Alternative Learning Program) at the local High School here. They are the kid's most "at-risk" for dropping out of school entirely. Most come from difficult home lives, crime and drug use. - I do know what you mean.

For me, it had to become a "learned behavior" with using my emotional strength to my own advantage. And fight that Fe part of me. (The be nice, others come first, the giver in me.) I was able to do this when I finally understood that it was not selfish at all to have me come first in my life. - A healthy, happy wife, mother, teacher...what have you... makes a better wife, mother, teacher, whomever.

I practiced at home first, Visualizing the energy flows to where I could almost see them going back and forth. Once, I was able to somewhat master them... I began to use them "out there" in the world. Also, under NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming); I leaned to use "framing and Reframing". Also, "Matters of State" with Anchoring. They are very useful tools. It puts the control back in your hands.

Glad to be of some help.

 

[Lucretius]

I've found Stoicism to be very useful in warding off sensory overloads and panic attacks due to being an "HSP."
I refer to the ancient Hellenistic philosophy that centers around the idea that you create the meaning behind an event or circumstance. Your interpretation of the event is what lends it any sort of value. With recognition of this mind-control over your environment, you are capable of deciding what will affect you, and whether it will affect you positively or negatively.

 

[Tamagochi]

btw according to MBTI theory introverted J types are most prone to being overly sensitive. That's because they have an introverted perceptive function (Ni or Si) as their primary. Elaine also speculates that intuitive types are more "at risk" of being HSP. There were some polls on INFJ and INFP forums - more than half people of the former community identified themselves as HSP (according to online test) while only a few reported positively on the latter.

One solution to deal with sensitivity problems can be medication though I would recommend it only as last resort. Much better would be physical activity - yoga, dancing, most sports, even sex. Moving the body expends energy and with it neural overload from sensory inputs. Meditation and spiritual practice are also very effective. Especially mindfulness meditation and autogenic training - I would highly recommend those. When I get some overload (my hands can start unconsciously shaking or voice trembling) I usually do breathing exercise together with quick meditation and mudra. A prayer or some personal mantra further helps to calm down.

 

[RomanticEditor]

We choose our joys and sorrows...

I've found Stoicism to be very useful in warding off sensory overloads and panic attacks due to being an "HSP."
I refer to the ancient Hellenistic philosophy that centers around the idea that you create the meaning behind an event or circumstance. Your interpretation of the event is what lends it any sort of value. With recognition of this mind-control over your environment, you are capable of deciding what will affect you, and whether it will affect you positively or negatively.

I think I know what you mean (at least in theory if not in practice) Kahlil Gibran expresses somewhat the same philosophy when he wrote, " We choose our joys and sorrows long before we experience them." Rainer Maria Rilke also stated: "Believe that with your feelings and your work you are taking part in the greatest; the more strongly you cultivate this belief, the more will reality and the world go forth from it."

I think I have some homework to do...

 

[RomanticEditor]

Oh...Yes! I work/worked in the ALP (Alternative Learning Program) at the local High School here. They are the kid's most "at-risk" for dropping out of school entirely. Most come from difficult home lives, crime and drug use. - I do know what you mean.

For me, it had to become a "learned behavior" with using my emotional strength to my own advantage. And fight that Fe part of me. (The be nice, others come first, the giver in me.) I was able to do this when I finally understood that it was not selfish at all to have me come first in my life. - A healthy, happy wife, mother, teacher...what have you... makes a better wife, mother, teacher, whomever.

I practiced at home first, Visualizing the energy flows to where I could almost see them going back and forth. Once, I was able to somewhat master them... I began to use them "out there" in the world. Also, under NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming); I leaned to use "framing and Reframing". Also, "Matters of State" with Anchoring. They are very useful tools. It puts the control back in your hands.

Glad to be of some help.

Okay, what you say sounds convincing, however, I need you to take a few steps back and explain the part about energy flowing back and forth. Also, you talk about Anchoring. Could you please elaborate?

 

[R22]

Hey Romantic Editor, same here with the childhood stuff and the high sensitivity. Are you familiar with complex ptsd or inner child work? Also, I second what others have said about mindfulness meditation. Kabat-Zinn has a good book called 'full-catastrophe living' that I found helpful, and yoga helps me too, but I was finding that lately I too have been just over the edge & am cutting down on caffeine & adding some supplements to see if that helps. Not sure about energy management, but I'm curious too to hear if others have more info.

 

[decided]

I haven't heard of energy management, sorry. I don’t think I am an HSP, but I do understand the notion of ‘sensory overload’.

I have very sensitive skin, which is prone to eczema. Pollen, dust mites, prickly fabrics or overheating can trigger a reaction. My skin is sensitive to touch also; I am easily tickled and feel pain quite strongly. A warm breeze can tickle me, and plucking my eyebrows makes me cry.

So I am a bit of a control freak about touch. I prefer a firm touch that I can focus my mind on, to force myself not to jump or flinch. Also, if there is too much other stimulus in the environment (such as jarring music) I will not enjoy it. I really need to be able to concentrate and remain calm.

It might sound really difficult, but it is easy to work around. As long as the situation is right I can get back rubs or foot massages while watching TV or having conversations. I just won’t be quite as ‘switched on’ at those times because part of my brain is focusing on not being ticklish and yelping.

I don’t like chaotic situations or situations where people aren’t getting along (friendly arguments are fine, but not fighting). Sometimes those things make me anxious and I withdraw. Other times it makes me want to calm everything down by force of will if necessary!

I’ve never looked for a name for these aspects of myself. I’ve always just thought they were part of who I am, and so I manage them best I can. People that know me well understand my quirks and know how to bring the best out of me.

 

[RomanticEditor]

Hey Romantic Editor, same here with the childhood stuff and the high sensitivity. Are you familiar with complex ptsd or inner child work? Also, I second what others have said about mindfulness meditation. Kabat-Zinn has a good book called 'full-catastrophe living' that I found helpful, and yoga helps me too, but I was finding that lately I too have been just over the edge & am cutting down on caffeine & adding some supplements to see if that helps. Not sure about energy management, but I'm curious too to hear if others have more info.

I'm coming to the same conclusion Renia. I only drink one cup of decaf in the morning, but I'm wondering if the fatigue is not an effect but a cause so I went to buy one of those heavy duty GNC vitamin supplements to put my physiological self together. Thanks for not only visiting, but commenting tooroud:.

 

[R22]

We must live in a parallel universe, I too swiched to decaf & the flip side for me is fatigue. I also just started taking l-theanine again which helps me just feel kinda 'normal' but doesn't sedate me, and I upped the vitamin D3 & fish oil. Hopefully this will do it and I won't feel the need to go back on the caffeine. I don't know what's worse sometimes, the anxiety/racing thoughts or the depression/fatigue.

 

[water]

Okay, what you say sounds convincing, however, I need you to take a few steps back and explain the part about energy flowing back and forth. Also, you talk about Anchoring. Could you please elaborate?

Sure... Let's get started.

Energy Flow: We set-up a room/environment to invoke certain feelings. Then, whenever we enter that room.. that feeling arises. (We can accept that feeling or repel it.) You can feel that feeling coming to you... with a quick visual "inhaling or exhaling" you can have it enter you or repel it away. -- Next, with people... as they are walking up to you, you can feel that response/mood/energy being invoked. With visual "inhaling or exhaling", you can invite or repel that feeling producing itself. (It comes with practice. First with things... then, with people.)

Anchoring: A three-step process - Step one: You decide the emotional state that you wish yourself, your students to recall; be in. Happy; relaxed; restful Step two: Project that state....get there. Think about the last time you were. Remember the sights, sounds of that time. Step three: Associate that state with an Anchor or a Stimulus. - Anchor: Click your pen three times; close your book; a noise, a sound. (This will allow you to bring the state again whenever you use that stimulus or anchor.)

... For me, it's the sound of a zipper. Everytime, I hear it - no matter what is going on - I'm happy, and in a good mood. (The zipper reminds me of camping as a child. And I loved that sound of the tent zipper.) And It still works.

 

[water]

Attributes and Characteristics of Being Highly Sensitive

Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are mainly seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited (or can be socially extroverted). They are often acutely aware of other's emotions. Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity.

Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos. They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.

Socially, introverted HSP may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone. Both introverted and socially extroverted HSP often find they need time alone to recover after social interactions.

Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.

Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees. They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work.

Relationships can be difficult. In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues. They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights.

Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.

Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial.

Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings.

Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability.

http://www.sensitiveperson.com/

 

[sartreality]

Sure... Let's get started.

Energy Flow: We set-up a room/environment to invoke certain feelings. Then, whenever we enter that room.. that feeling arises. (We can accept that feel or repel it.) You can feel that feeling coming to you... with a quick visual "inhaling or exhaling" you can have it enter you or repel it away. -- Next, with people... as they are walking up to you, you can feel that response/mood/energy being invoked. With visual "inhaling or exhaling", you can invite or repel that feeling producing itself. (It comes with practice. First with things... then, with people.)

Anchoring: A three-step process - Step one: You decide the emotional state that you wish yourself, your students to recall; be in. Happy; relaxed; restful Step two: Project that state....get there. Think about the last time you were. Remember the sights, sounds of that time. Step three: Associate that state with an Anchor or a Stimulus. - Anchor: Click your pen three times; close your book; a noise, a sound. (This will allow you to bring the state again whenever you use that stimulus or anchor.)

... For me, it's the sound of a zipper. Everytime, I hear it - no matter what is going on - I'm happy, and in a good mood. (The zipper reminds me of camping as a child. And I loved that sound of the tent zipper.) And It still works.

Thanks a lot for all of this info water and the link on your other post to the web site.

I have a question for you regarding the energy flow and anchoring tactics. Do these work with strong sensations like overwhelming smells that make you sick; noise overload; a really bad 'vibe' in a place (ie. chaotic, hostile)? Sometimes something as simple as a person's annoying voice can grate on my nerves so much I get physically irritated

 

[RomanticEditor]

Attributes and Characteristics of Being Highly Sensitive

Emotionally, Highly Sensitive People (HSP) are mainly seen as shy, introverted and socially inhibited (or can be socially extroverted). They are often acutely aware of other's emotions. Sensitive people learn early in life to mask their wonderful attributes of sensitivity, intuition and creativity.

Physically, HSPs may have low tolerance to noise, glaring lights, strong odors, clutter and/or chaos. They tend to have more body awareness of themselves and know instinctually when the environment they are in is not working for them.

Socially, introverted HSP may feel like misfits. They actually enjoy their own company and are totally comfortable being alone. Both introverted and socially extroverted HSP often find they need time alone to recover after social interactions.

Psychologically, HSPs compensate for their sensitivity by either protecting themselves by being alone too much, or, by trying to be 'normal' or sociable which then over-stimulates them into stress.

Work and career is particularly challenging for HSPs. They are often overlooked for promotions even though they are usually the most conscientious employees. They are excellent project oriented employees because they are responsible and thorough in their work.

Relationships can be difficult. In relationships they may be confronted with their unresolved personal issues. They can however, offer their partner the gifts of their intuitive insights.

Culturally, HSPs do not fit the tough, stoic and outgoing ideals of modern society and what is portrayed in the entertainment media.

Childhood wounds have a more devastating effect on HSPs. It is important for them to heal their past hurts because they cannot just forget them and go on in denial.

Spiritually, sensitive people have a greater capacity for inner searching. This is one of their greatest blessings.

Nutritionally, HSPs may need more simplicity in their diet. They may be vitally aware of the effects of food on the health of their body and their emotional stability.

Highly Sensitive Persons HSP People Spiritual Intuitives

Water...

This was the first description I had read when I first joined here and it's so true.

 

[RomanticEditor]

Sure... Let's get started.

Energy Flow: We set-up a room/environment to invoke certain feelings. Then, whenever we enter that room.. that feeling arises. (We can accept that feel or repel it.) You can feel that feeling coming to you... with a quick visual "inhaling or exhaling" you can have it enter you or repel it away. -- Next, with people... as they are walking up to you, you can feel that response/mood/energy being invoked. With visual "inhaling or exhaling", you can invite or repel that feeling producing itself. (It comes with practice. First with things... then, with people.)

Anchoring: A three-step process - Step one: You decide the emotional state that you wish yourself, your students to recall; be in. Happy; relaxed; restful Step two: Project that state....get there. Think about the last time you were. Remember the sights, sounds of that time. Step three: Associate that state with an Anchor or a Stimulus. - Anchor: Click your pen three times; close your book; a noise, a sound. (This will allow you to bring the state again whenever you use that stimulus or anchor.)

... For me, it's the sound of a zipper. Everytime, I hear it - no matter what is going on - I'm happy, and in a good mood. (The zipper reminds me of camping as a child. And I loved that sound of the tent zipper.) And It still works.

Hi Water,

Although I didn't have the labels to these techniques, I have used them when I'm feeling strong enough. For the first nine weeks of school I felt on top of things, however, after I got the flu I felt weakened and felt I was pulling a corpse with me. Last week I went to GNC to buy a vitamin/iron supplement and it made all the difference.

It goes back to what you were saying in the beginning of the thread about how important it is to take care of ourselves. We are so prone to taking care of others first that our garden withers. Everyone else sees it, but we don't quite get it until much later. Thanks for the info., especially about Anchoring. I love to use association to prompt my memory in other contexts, so this is great:bored:.

 

[RomanticEditor]

We must live in a parallel universe, I too swiched to decaf & the flip side for me is fatigue. I also just started taking l-theanine again which helps me just feel kinda 'normal' but doesn't sedate me, and I upped the vitamin D3 & fish oil. Hopefully this will do it and I won't feel the need to go back on the caffeine. I don't know what's worse sometimes, the anxiety/racing thoughts or the depression/fatigue.

Yes, I've been using L-Tyrosine as a supplement to get my serotine level up... St. John's Wort works great for mild depression too.:bored: