Empaths: Are You Absorbing or Observing? How to Protect Your Energy and Stand in Your Power

Before understanding my empathy, I felt confused and even exhausted because I was so deeply affected by others’ emotions. Absorbing their sadness, their struggles, feeling them as my own, without knowing why.

If you can relate, stay tuned for the next few weeks because we’re diving in deep.

Are you a sponge for other people’s emotions, or are you a lighthouse standing strong in your own energy?

As an empath, believe it or not, sensitivity is your superpower—but only if you know how to manage it. Without boundaries, you may find yourself absorbing other people’s pain, anxiety, or negativity, leaving you drained, overwhelmed, or even physically unwell.

The key is shifting from absorption to observation. Instead of taking on other people’s emotions as your own, you can learn to witness, hold space, and support without losing yourself in the process.

Signs You’re Absorbing Energy (Instead of Observing It)

You feel anxious, sad, or drained after interacting with certain people.

You have trouble distinguishing your emotions from someone else’s.

You say yes when you mean no, feeling responsible for others’ well-being.

You avoid crowds or feel overwhelmed in social situations.

You experience chronic fatigue, emotional exhaustion, or unexplained anxiety.

Why We Absorb Energy

Empaths are naturally attuned to others’ emotions, but many of us were never taught how to manage this gift. Instead, we were told that we were too sensitive and conditioned to believe we had to “fix” or “carry” others’ burdens. This leads to commiseration instead of empowerment. Instead of being the lighthouse, we jump into the ditch with them, thinking that’s the way to help.

But here’s the truth: Taking on someone else’s energy doesn’t help them. It subtly tells them they aren’t capable. True support comes from standing in your own energy, allowing them to find their own strength.

How to Shift from Absorbing to Observing

Set the Intention: Before entering a conversation or situation, remind yourself: I am here to witness, not absorb.

Use a Mantra: “I can love and support without carrying.” “Their journey is their own.” “I return to my energy.”

Ground Yourself: Visualize roots extending from your feet into the earth, anchoring you in your own energy.

Release What’s Not Yours: Imagine unplugging energetic cords, recalling your energy and sending back emotions that aren’t yours with love.

Protect Your Energy: Use visualization (a blue bubble around you), energy-clearing tools (selenite, black tourmaline), or daily rituals (Reiki, essential oils, deep breathing).

Communicate Openly: Tell loved ones, “I love you, and I know you’re strong enough to handle this.”

The Power of Letting Go

One of the biggest transformations for an empath is letting go of expectations of how others will respond. When you stop trying to manage their emotions and focus only on how you show up, you reclaim your power.

Your only responsibility is how you handle yourself and how you maintain your energy. Their reaction is theirs. Their journey is theirs. And that’s okay.

Are You Ready to Step into Your Power?

If this resonates with you, join us for an upcoming workshop where we’ll explore practical tools to protect your energy, set boundaries, and fully embody your empathic gifts—without absorbing others’ emotions.

When we change the world changes.