The Honest Truth About Being Sensitive

[@SimpleHappyZen]

They say 15-20% of all people can be considered highly sensitive. Are you one of them? Or are you here to understand someone else better? Let me know. 🤗👇

[@DrJustininJapan]

yes, one of my childhood friends falls under this category. really helpful seeing it from a different perspective in this video 🙏

[@itsme-kw7tv]

I'm sensitive :3

[@feanorian21maglor38]

Definitely me. On the negative side, friends keep recommending Netflix series I just can't watch because of the level of violence. I can't do crowds, and shopping centres and airports are my idea of hell. Can also hear annoying noises that others don't, and can smell any nasty smell or burning smell about 10 minutes before anyone else! More- picking up on repressed undercurrents of tension between people immediately. Overreacting (internally) to both praise and criticism. It can be exhausting. Am so glad that I learned from your vlogs that being hyper-sensitive is not uncommon, and that there are lots of people who have to deal with the same issues.

[@Andromeda-md6ch]

Thank you! You made me feel like i am not alone which in itself is a huge relief! 🙂

[@bumblebee803]

Thanks for this video, I always found it frustrating when I understood everyone around me, and no-one dared to care about how I felt. Now I see that other people aren't capable. But it doesn't mean that I have to put up with anything less than.

[@oneimaginarygirl5]

What I love about being an HSP is the ability to see beautiful things everywhere around me. For instance how a coloured leaf in the forest is being backlit by the sun. I know many people would walk past it and not notice, and I am very grateful for noticing the small, beautiful things like that. I consider it a strength because it makes my life so much more beautiful.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wonderfully said! :)

[@lynby2108]

When animals or vulnerable people are treated badly it may as well be happening to me I feel it so much. I relate to everything you said

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy you found the video relatable Lynby :) Take care and have a nice day today!

[@jessie9653]

Totally agree

[@aliciap4380]

Oh my goodness yes! I was taking care of about 10 feral cats at my last job. Always made sure they had the best quality food and filtered water. The one kitty got run over and lost his tail. Was a huge opened wound and looked terrible. I named him Thumper ❤ He did end up recovering. Even though he wouldn't let me pet him, he became my best buddy. I tried multiple times to try and rescue the cats but it never ended up working out. Moved across country and had to leave them it broke my heart and cried myself to sleep for a couple months. This all to say it non stop pained me to see Thumper injured, knowing they were out in extreme weather conditions and didn't know love. Coworkers could just come and go without thinking twice. This isn't about thinking highly of myself at all but sometimes I wish things that most people don't pay much mind to wouldn't affect me either. It can be so incredibly heavy.

[@florperez163]

Being sensitive allows me to make connections with other people. Another advantage is that I am aware of “bad situations” or negative intentions and avoid them.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Awesome! :) Thanks for sharing

[@Robert-qm1ld]

Yes, that’s the main advantage to me, changing a bad situation or avoiding it.

[@followyourbliss973]

As a very sensitive person, I like that I'm aware of nature; plants and animals and I enjoy quiet time and if someone needs to talk, I'm a good listener!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love it :) Thanks for sharing

[@meinhendl]

don't you think we are too good listeners ? sometimes i think people become addicted to this property ? and they unashamedly dump us, use us downright and we're left completely broken afterwards?

[@lxraycatmaui2884]

My grandmother knew I was different, she was the best protector I've ever known. As a child, the world is unknown, to a sensitive child it can be terrifying. God bless you, Emma.

[@bumblebee803]

You are soooo lucky to have such a positive person in your life. :)

[@littlestbroccoli]

It sometimes can feel like the world punishes the positive expressions (feeling more deeply, being sincere, thinking deeply and taking longer to make decisions), and many of us are left with only the negative experience for much of our lives, which can define us in such an unfortunate way. I find myself suppressing my positive HSP expressions on a daily basis because I'm so fearful of aggressive reactions to me just being who I am. The world can feel quite cynical at times. But, living with only the difficult parts of being sensitive makes for a very hard life. If possible, I want to lean into my positive traits more, and express them without fear. Luna Lovegood is a kind of a hero to me. She's very unafraid to express things others find weird or "inappropriate" to the situation. Good luck to everyone out there. You are not alone.

[@lunalovegood9349]

Thank u for this💙💙

[@littlestbroccoli]

@@lunalovegood9349 Haha 💕👏

[@soph8164]

Beautifully said-Thank you!

[@kirstenvzumba9246]

Yesssss!!!! I love your atitude!!! This is a blessing, not a curse!! The world needs us. Now more than ever. Thank you!

[@kirstenvzumba9246]

OMG, you hit the nail on the head when you talked about being deeply affected by others' suffering, especially animals or vulnerable people (children, elderly). Wow!! This trait is SO strong in me!! I don't have a problem with physical sensitivity (itchy clothes, etc), but I can get SO SAD when I see suffering people or animals and as you said, these images can "haunt" me for days or weeks!! This trait exacerbates my depression, but on the other hand, I don't want to become hardened and lose my compassion. Just yesterday I was lamenting over all the sadness in the world and I thought the exact words you said. " I just wish that every person and living creature in the world could be healthy, loved, happy and thriving!!". Lol!! You get me!! Thank you for that!! I often feel so alone and not understood. 😊❤❤❤❤❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗🌺💖

[@carab1036]

Because I am so aware of changes, I found a lump on my dog's leg when it was no larger than an almond. It turned out to be cancerous and the vet was amazed that I had even felt it. Because we found it so soon, they removed it, no chemo and she is sitting here beside me seven years later. I sometimes get weighed down with it, but mostly I have learned to accept it and find ways to be grateful for being sensitive.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's such a lovely story Cara and I'm so happy to read you're doggy is still sitting beside you :) Give her a hug from me

[@DoofenSpyroDragon16]

Wow, that’s amazing! Happy you were able to save your dog from something potentially deadly!! Yes, sensitivity can be a superpower like that sometimes 😃

[@truno7]

The best thing for me is: seeing such strong beauty in simple things. Like colors in nature and an old beat up car. The worst: sensitivity to sound, and anger/sadness are so strong

[@ronda176]

I relate to everything you talked about. Working in an open floor plan office was very uncomfortable for me. And sitting in a room full of people all talking at the same time is torture. Sensory overload for sure. I very much enjoy your videos on this topic. Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes! :) Thank you Ronda, take care and have a lovely day!

[@mithilarai6060]

I have tears rolling down my face while watching this. How misunderstood we are, not only by others but by ourselves.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Let's start by understanding ourselves a little better and trying to take good care of ourselves :)

[@mirandabb22]

Yes, the wind! The constant noise in your ear, it is exhausting. Funny too hear I'm not the only one. I love the wind but some days it is just too much 😂. The best thing is enjoying the little things, like food, a beautiful sky or music. Little happy moments that bring so much peace and happines.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha from reading the comments so far, it looks like we're definitely not the only ones who have a hard time dealing with wind :) Love what you said about enjoying the little things :)

[@theresa.m.]

I feel like being a highly sensitive person makes me a wonderful friend. I care deeply for my friends and listen to them. I also point things out when hiking my family wouldn’t normally notice, and they are always tickled with what I find. On the flip side, when you mentioned the open floor plan at your job, I realized why I get so overwhelmed at my house. I have 5 kids and a one story house with an open floor plan. It drives me insane. As soon as we get to our next duty station, my husband promised me he will get us a two story home, or at least a home with a very separate play area for the kids. I really thought it was just me, but finding your videos I realized I’m not alone.

[@shaunab2154]

I love being sensitive. I tend to be very reclusive until I feel comfortable. I’ve been chastised for it my entire life. I didn’t realize the strength of it until I was older. I realize problems and bad situations way before others. I feel pain and sadness gravely but it is balanced by love and great pleasure of the simplest of things. I’m often not understood but people are drawn to me for my soft nature. In life I’ve suffered from work politics the most. I’ve strived in being financially stable and having a rock solid marriage.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts Shauna, loved reading your comment :) Take care and have a nice day today!

[@flowergirl7260]

I found out i was an HSP in the '90's but there never really was a community or a place where you could go to "normalize" the experience. You are doing a great job. Thank you.

[@deborahroper3694]

When I love someone, I love very deeply. When I’m hurt by someone I love, I hurt very deeply. Luckily, I forgive, but not forget. I learn to protect myself and heal but that takes time. I still allow myself to love but I’m very guarded. I may even choose to still love the person who hurt me but they will never have the key to open my heart to them ever again. I still think that when I was loving that person that I got more out of the relationship than they did because they had other agendas, and mine was only to 💕 love.

[@jennierollins8789]

The best thing about being sensitive is it brings you more depth, better understanding of people, your environment, and earth as a whole. It helps us love more deeply and unite those around us. 🌠

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Well said Jennie! 😄

[@bumblebee803]

I used to dream of fitting in. Now I really don't want to. I see that the sensitive side is a super power to be proud of. So I agree, we see things in depth and not shallow like most people.

[@lenadamrose7078]

So true!

[@NicolaJacksonOT]

exactly, exactly!

[@Lola-mt1ne]

People have told me that I am overly sensitive for my entire life. I worked for 40 years as a critical care and ER nurse, challenging on a good day. I don't think that either marriage partner understood this about me, and maybe I didn't know it the way I now do. It's freeing to recognize this and do what I need to do to make myself comfortable first. Thanks for your channel.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome Lola, happy to hear you're experiencing some benefits of recognizing your sensitive trait :)

[@cclark5456]

Working in an office with an open floor plan for 2 years was one of the worst experiences of my life. I had to quit my job and have several months at home to recover my mental health. I can't handle driving in busy traffic, but in the middle of a quiet night I love driving. The wind and cold ears affects me too. Noise issues and strong (or toxic) smells upset me. Thank you so much for your HSP videos, it's the best thing I have ever watched on youtube. I don't have to blame myself anymore for being different or not as tough as other people. I love the fact that I am super observant, extremely self aware and empathetic/understanding towards others.

[@anicame2]

I’ve always felt that I feel EVERYTHING more strongly than most. What I love most about being sensitive is that I have so much empathy for others. I forgive people quickly and let go of anger because I feel their pain even when their actions or words were hurtful at the moment.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I can relate to that :) Thanks for sharing

[@mandyrichmond3989]

So true!

[@TheFrandall]

Same here

[@OnTheSensitiveSide]

When I learned about high sensitivity a few years back, it explained so much about my struggles in life. I stumbled onto Elaine Arons “the highly sensitive person” book and used it as a guide book to navigate my life as if learning life for the first time. I really appreciate channels like yours where people share experiences and tips, in this way we can help each other as a misunderstood minority 🙏🏽 Saludos from Curaçao 🇨🇼

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Shannon! :) I can relate to your experiences with finding out about high sensitviity and reading Elaine Aron's book :) I stil reread it frequently. :) Take care!

[@francineh.7825]

Even though I am an empath, and it can be challenging, I wouldn't trade it for anything. As you said we pick up on subtleties that others miss and our compassionate nature is needed in this world.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I agree, thanks Francine! :) Take care and have a lovely day today!

[@feinberg4625]

As a pianist and composer who basically lives for the music of Bach I'm very glad I'm sensitive despite its downsides

[@michelleluisce]

It’s hard being a HSP sometimes but one of the things that I love about being like this is that we see beauty everywhere: the moon, seeing someone smile, a flower, a child laughing, seeing cute dogs on the street, etc. We’re light in a world where sometimes can be very dark.

[@JediBunny]

Thank you so much for covering this, Vera 🪶 it is so validating and comforting to hear you speak on being a highly sensitive person. I only realised a couple years ago that this was my experience and it’s wonderful to find others who share and understand that depth of feeling. To answer your question, my favourite thing about being an HSP is our ability to deeply connect with animals and nature 💚🌊🍁🕊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗💕

[@jmoufarrege]

I really can relate to all that. I lost my father three weeks ago and while he was sick all I could think about was if he was scared, if he knew how sick he was, and all I wanted was to make him feel safe and happy. People always tell me that it’s beyond my reach, that I don’t have control over how a person feels, but it’s hard for me to understand that. Vera, you are a wonderful person! ♥️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I'm so sorry for your loss, my sincerest condolences. Sending you a hug 🌷

[@jmoufarrege]

@@SimpleHappyZen thank you 🙏🏻 ♥️

[@gretchendoyle8489]

Oh my, your comment about wind (noise)! You’re the first person I’ve found who feels the same way I do about it! No one understands when I say it’s overwhelming to my ears. It frazzles me to be outside on a windy day. I don’t like the feeling of it battering my skin, but more than anything, it’s how loud it is that bothers me the most. I’ve always had a sense I was more sensitive, although I didn’t know that term for it until I was trying to figure out why my (then) baby/toddler was so unhappy and crying all the time. As I learned more about her sensory sensitivity, I realized it all described me, too. I struggle with people not understanding me, but I still try to protect myself as much as I can, even when I get negative comments.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah good to hear someone else's experience with strong wind! :) Happy you learned about your own sensitivity, as well as your child. :)

[@gaylegillit672]

You are not alone. I am sensitive to wind even if I am indoors. If it is a windy night, I don't sleep well, even if I can´t hear the wind. I do enjoy a gentle breeze on my skin, however.

[@Robert-qm1ld]

I use earplugs on windy days if I want to be out. Not perfect but they help.

[@homethatilove4595]

@@gaylegillit672 Yes, I get really tense when wind is strong. Gentle breeze is Perfect in my sheltered back patio

[@loopy18lau]

That’s so interesting that you said about getting a headache in the wind. I have to always wear earmuffs in the winter or I get earache and a dizzy head. I often feel embarrassed to have to wear them but suffer if I don’t

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes! Me too haha :) I think I might get a cuter one though hihi, this one makes my head look like an easter egg

[@clairekirkwood8939]

I totally get what you said about getting frazzled and flutered when surrounded too! Much more focused and productive when by myself! Also being an overthinker, sometimes I beat myself up for this. Thank you for sharing your experiences and making us realize others feel the same x

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Claire :) No need to beat yourself up over it, and there are always some ways to practice with overthinking less if you'd like :)

[@maebychassit4973]

You are telling my story word for word. So relatable. I have known I am HSP for a few years now and it unlocked so much for me. I finally understand that I’m not wrong. Just different! I shared this video with my husband to help him see more what I try to describe to him. Traveling in South America right now and I have been challenged every day. But I came prepared this time with earplugs and noise canceling headphones and it has made a big difference! One thing that makes me special as an HSP is that I feel things and help others to understand how they are feeling. I am a licensed mental health counselor and have the background and education to help explain, but had to give up my practice because it was too overwhelming to hold space for others at this stage in my life. Thank you for the video!

[@OnTheSensitiveSide]

I have had the same considerations and decided against it. Beautiful thing is that we remain open minded, we discover other ways of helping people that don’t drain is that much.

[@maebychassit4973]

@Cielo Vida absolutely! Sometimes i feel like I wasted so much time and money in grad school and obtaining my license. But I learned so much about myself and healed in the process. And I helped many clients on a deep level in the few years I practiced. Not a waste :) there are so many ways to help others without being their therapist. I now work as a professional organizer and I help clients in some really cool life changing ways

[@maebychassit4973]

@@OnTheSensitiveSide exactly.

[@wendylee13]

Me too! This is my life!

[@cigel6952]

I've got ear plugs everywhere! They're in my purse, my car, my weekend bag, my bedside table.... I always just thought I had sensitive hearing but of course I know now that's it's more than that. I hope that made the stimulation of travel, less intense :)

[@whyyyyyyyyyme]

It's a relief to see anotger HSP person from time to time because sadly I don't meet them in my close environment at all.

[@TEWMUCH]

I think because I'm so sensitive, it gets so overwhelming that I just shut down my feelings completely. I do feel bad about myself quite often that I can't do the things I wish I could.

[@calleigh21]

Watching your channel has helped me feel better about having this personality trait.Thankyou 🤍

[@susanjaneleitner7670]

A wonderful video Vera. Yes, we do know what we know before many others. I believe it is intuition for want of a better word. I too am haunted by sad things I see and hear. I avoid the evening news except for the weather. I quickly turn off any of these upsetting commercials as soon as they start. I always need to rest after a dinner or event. I adjust my time to allow for the rest I need. I rest by reading, sketching, writing and listening to music. I function best when I live on a schedule. I aim to live on a schedule Eighty percent of the time. I like and understand myself and this is a blessing. Stay happy and humble. ❤️ Suzy

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Loved everything you shared Suzy 🤗🌷 Glad you enjoyed the video. Take care!

[@wholeplantfoodgal5134]

I never viewed my sensitivity in this way before! This was really helpful and positive. Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear it :)

[@The_Dutch_Samurai]

I sense energy from people ( negative energy en positive energy) and loud groups drains my own energy level much quicker than normal and then i need some alone time in a relaxed place like nature or my home. I always call myself energy sensitive because i like a sponge 🧽

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah yes, the sponge analogy works great :)

[@charlenebrissette3348]

I love that my sensitivity has helped me to slow down and enjoy the little things.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Me too :) Thanks Charlene

[@darrenpierson2650]

I have found I am more sensitive since the pandemic. I have always been more sensitive when it comes to females and I think that is because I have always been around more females than males. I have 3 sisters, most cousins my age are female, I have two daughters, and most jobs I’ve had are more females then males. I am a kitchen worker at a high school and I treat all the kids as my own as I get to know them. When any of them are really upset it bothers me and I want to help the best I can and I worry about them until I know they are ok. I even go to their graduations. I just want to make a difference for them and encourage them to do their best and try to become the best them they can. Thank you for helping realize that I am experiencing some of these hsp symptoms or behaviors and what to do to help manage!

[@gabiw2364]

One thing that has greatly improved my well-being and that sounds so stupid to pretty much everyone else: Grocery delivery! (I have to first explain this by saying that I don't live in a country where grocery delivery has a very long history; it's fairly new and not always available, especially outside of bigger cities.) I often found supermarkets too hectic even before the pandemic hit, and often unbearable since Covid. I don't want to generalize, though; I also witnessed super nice things at supermarkets, like one person buying a donation bag for a local soup kitchen at the supermarket checkout and two people behind her watching that following suit; but in general, supermarkets are... just not my happy place, to be completely honest. The atmosphere is often tense, especially around the lockdowns (of which we had quite a few). So ever since the pandemic, my partner and I have been trying different supermarkets that deliver groceries and stuck with a local one that is great. The food is good, they have a great variety of products all the way from bulk discounts to local/organic stuff as well as gourmet products. They also treat their employees fairly and you can see they make continuous efforts to be more eco-friendly (optimizing delivery routes, switching to reusable bags, actively advertising and discounting products that are about to expire so they don't have to be thrown away, etc.). They also carry household/cleaning stuff and beauty products. It's suuuper convenient and I absolutely love it! I didn't realize how much seeing aggressive people fighting over toilet paper and arguing with grumpy cashiers upset me until I made the switch. And no one in my family understands. They are like "well, that's all very nice, but why don't you just buy those things at the supermarket?!" :D Talk about self-care not having to look pretty - my form of self-care looks like a bunch of reusable bags with my favorite groceries at our doorstep on a Monday at 7 am, knowing that I don't have to go to a supermarket or the drugstore AT ALL and it makes me SO HAPPY :D :D (It has also helped me to get better at meal planning/household organization - nice side effect.)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I can understand that one :) I go to get my groceries once a week, but it does take quite a bit of energy every time haha.

[@gabiw2364]

@@SimpleHappyZen Dear Vera, I also wanted to say thank you for your Ikkyu Tea coupon code :) I've been wanting to learn more about tea for a long time and I just ordered a tea and matcha selection with your code! All the best from Vienna and have a lovely Christmas time.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

​ @Gabi W Oh that's wondeful!! I hope you'll really enjoy them :) Their teas are amazing :)

[@debbieangelreikihealer1617]

Love yr channel. Tk u for giving me permission to be me .knowing there's nothing wrong with me but kindness/love and wanting to be peaceful. Love and light to u all.❤❤❤🌈

[@helenamartin977]

You are very wise and your advise is very helpful. I especially liked when you said it is sometimes hard for us to like ourselves and our sensitivity. Being more mature now I have learned to avoid upsetting things Thank you for all your videos.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Helena :)

[@busybee833]

I have appreciated you explaining me….lol. I’ve been called a witch before because I will know something about someone prior to them knowing about it. People make fun of me because I cry easily. I find though that I have a issue with trying to make a front person image to hide myself. Some people just think I’m cold or mean so I struggle with balance. Does anyone else? I just want everyone one to appreciate everyone…to agree to disagree find a compromise and move on in any situation. Copping is hard I’ve become a hermit and non sociable which causes its own issues.

[@theresew9910]

Hi Vera thank you for all your tips 🤗 it has taken me a long time to really understand being sensitive, i think the most important thing is being aware of it and putting the correct boundaries in place! And protecting myself by not trying to solve everyone’s issues just the people that are most important to me ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's a very important point, thanks Therese! Definitely somerthing I'm working on as well :)

[@theresew9910]

@@SimpleHappyZen ❤️

[@riaamaye]

Love this video, Vera! I stumbled across the book HSP also when I took myself on a solo date to the bookstore and suddenly things started to click when I read that being highly sensitive is a trait that others experience too! I always wondered if me noticing the subtle things or getting overwhelmed easily had an explanation to it but also makes me proud of the compassionate person it has also shaped me to be. Love you even more knowing we share this trait ❤️ cheers to more self acceptance coming into the new year.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Oh I love that!! :) Thanks for sharing and YES, cheers to more self acceptance in the new year! :)

[@charlenebrissette3348]

I hate noise, dogs barking is probably the worst for me.

[@MarineBrnd]

Hi Vera! What a great video. I'm highly sensitive too and can get really overwhelmed with my empathy towards others. I'm a huge overthinker too. But I have a great intuition wich has proven itself to be very useful. I hate strong winds as well, I'm always in a bad mood when it happens, stressed and it gets me really irritated. That's pretty much the weather we had all week in Northeastern France so I spent my day relaxing to recover from that. I wish you a nice weekend, take care!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts Marine. :) From reading the comments so far, turns out we're not the only ones who have a hard time with windy days :) Have a nice day today!

[@susanspisak65]

I have always been highly sensitive …. I grew up during the 70’s when it really wasn’t acceptable ….. I feel like my misunderstood sensitivity manifested itself in Panic Disorder … which I was diagnosed when I was 27 years old. I am now 57 and still, even though managed through medication, have breakthrough bouts. I am blessed to have found your channel. I am learning more about myself and how to cope with being highly sensitive! Thank you so very much 😊

[@cheryl8493]

Vera, I get a headache also from cold windy weather!! It never fails. I’m loving these sensitive person videos! I can so relate to everything you’ve shared! Especially my ruminating/overthinking mind. I’ll actually replay conversations over and over in my head! Drives me crazy. Thanks hon for being wonderful you❣️🌺🌼

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗💕🌷

[@kylee2927]

Hi Vera. This video is amazing. Everything I feel you have put into words. Thank you. I am a highly sensitive person and I also have sensitive skin, sensitive eyes. I have to be quite careful what skin and hair products I use or I have a reaction. I was wondering if other emotionally sensitive people related to this ... or maybe this is just me. Love you Vera, and your beautiful heart ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Kylee for your kind words! :) I've learned that sensitivity can be physical as well as mental and emotional. So I also have sensitive skin, sensitive eyes, sensitive everything basically hahaha

[@Shelleybella33]

Thank you for your videos, your voice and facial expressions are so calming and I love your authenticity. I think one of the best things about being an HSP is being able to love people well, we spend a lot of time analyzing relationships so we learn how to please the people in our life, how they best express and receive love. Unlike many other types of people we don’t want to cause anyone pain so we are careful to not hurt anyone and if we do we are quick to recognize and make ammends. I often struggle with trying to understand people who are deliberately mean, it just doesn’t make sense to me

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Loved what you shared Shelley and I agree haha, I can't figure that out either. :) I guess it speaks more about their experiences in life, that have contributed to their current actions.

[@annlavine3576]

i rescue cats

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's wonderful Ann :)

[@cheshirecat200302]

This is so spot on for me! One advantage that I realize is that because we have high levels of empathy and are good listeners, we can usually communicate well, in the other person's lingo and context. But being sensitive also rules out certain occupations for me, e.g. I do not think that I have the mental fortitude to be involved in humanitarian field work because I will be so overwhelmed.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Exactly :) I can relate to certain jobs being too emotionally draining :)

[@laura5425]

This totally resonates with me. The whole separating your own thoughts, emotions and needs from those of other people. That's tough work sometimes ^^

[@jeroenvw3204]

I learned recently through therapy and reading the book from Elaine Aron that I'm highly sensitive. I always knew kinda because especially during my childhood I was called out for being too sensitive and unfortunately also bullied for many years. In the present, I view my sensitivity more and more as a strength and learn better how to use it as a leader at a company. Truly connecting with people, without getting caught in their emotions, which is still a balancing act.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Loved everything you shared Jeroen! :) Thanks, have a nice Sunday!

[@laura5425]

I can only imagine how tough the HSP trait becomes for a little boy. Even as a girl that is more likely to be viewed as sensitive, it hurt substancially to have people constantly step over boundaries or onto my "antennas". It took me a while to understand that they simply can't see the world as I perceive it and that they can't sense the unsaid emotions of their opposite. Have you found some strategies to better cope with less empathic people? I totally agree that meaningful connection to other friendly individuals can be quite healing and one of the major perks of this

[@jeroenvw3204]

@@laura5425 Thank you Laura, I appreciate your comment about being a little boy. It has been very challenging in the past. I learned to live with the past through therapy and it's still ongoing. I like what you said about "they simply can't see the world as I perceive it" That's actually one of my coping mechanisms being aware of people experiencing the world differently. Though I still find it difficult when someone says I'm too sensitive, which still happens once in a while. Also, protecting my feelings if that makes sense. Sometimes someone can be frustrated, angry etc. I try to be aware of that when I start to feel the same as that person and isolate my feelings. Especially with the world we live in now, it's hard sometimes to not take over feelings from other people.

[@NicolaJacksonOT]

The vivid imagination - exactly. It's overwhelming but sort of also feels like a superpower too!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Haha yes!

[@adelevialva4909]

Thanks for your information and insights, they are very validating🦋

[@chrischabre9382]

Thank You for your Christmas letter! I had a good year, thank you 😊! And your videos are always inspiring!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear it!! 🤗💖

[@Megpezz]

I’m excited to see you covering this topic more, Vera! Thank you 💛

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome Megan, happy to hear it! :) Take care and have a nice day!

[@quietcomfortasmr]

Thank you, Vera, your videos make me feel seen and understood. I love how you are so honest and shine a light on these life experiences that not a lot of other people are talking about. Thank you for reminding me of the positive side of being sensitive. Your videos are wonderfully relaxing and very helpful, thank you for creating them! xo

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for your kind words and good vibes 🤗🌺💖

[@towerofresonance4877]

I have so many moments in the day and especially at night time when awareness is heightened to the point where I can feel the distress of other people. I have come to a point where I can identify and warn people of such events.

[@jessie9653]

I've had the same things happen

[@trulyme7345]

Thank you so much for sharing your experiences, especially the one about being over- or understimulated. I felt there was something wrong with me, but you explained it perfectly!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Glad to hear it! :)

[@MaryLyon-g2w]

One of the best things about being sensitive for me is that I make friends easily and people really value my friendship!!

[@almutimkerbell88]

what a great video, thank yo so much♥ I dont know if I should tell this story here, but this reminds me of the time I had to take antidepressants because of my burnout. While they helped with the panic attacks, they also took away all other good things that Vera mentions in the video. Now that I am done with them it is taking a while to have my personality back, and it is something I am appreciating and putting more value on. Learning to live as a high sensitive person is not easy, but right now I would not change it. Please , understand that this was just my experience, I am not trying to shame anyone on medication or trying to say it is bad.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for sharing your story and I'm happy to hear you're starting to feel better, take care!

[@Hirschkurve]

Sometimes I feel as if this sensitivity makes me less worthy in daily life, as if I'm disabled in very subtle ways. I then envy the seemingly stronger people...

[@sparky9839]

Thank you for this! It resonates so much. Just being understood is so valuable. 🙏🏻

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I agree, it really helps :) Take care!

[@mahsatahmasbi6604]

It’s the best video I’ve ever seen that talks about me👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻😅 The worst thing about being highly sensitive is overthinking. I think a lot and I can’t shut my brain down Unfortunately I mostly think in negative way☹️

[@jessie9653]

Me too, in turn can give me terrible anxiety 😞 I have noticed some difference in my negative thinking since I have upped my vitamin D3 to 7,000iu a day

[@mahsatahmasbi6604]

The level of vitamins have the important role! I hope you get Through this✌🏻 For me during my pms it gets worse

[@jessie9653]

@@mahsatahmasbi6604 me too, I'm going through my change of life 😔

[@annhatten1036]

That was a very informative video I'm 64 years old and have been sensitive all my life I wish I would have had your video when I was younger. I struggled with this all my life and now I'm disabled and I'm inside most of the time by myself. However I like to be by myself and I find myself closing myself off from everyone and I get mad at people very easily and I choose not to talk to them again because they get me so frazzled. I feel that is probably the wrong way to handle stuff but I think I'm too old to change can an old dog learn new tricks

[@pigletsbank437]

🙌

[@jessie9653]

😆 I'm 40 and feel the same way.

[@annhatten1036]

@@jessie9653 thanks for replying to me. I started thinking I was the only 1

[@laura5425]

It's hard to learn new tricks, but maybe if the people and situations around you change. Perhaps you can try to connect to other HSPs in your area?

[@155books]

Thank you so so much for sharing this! I find I’m always having to ask people to turn the volume down on the tv, radio etc. or to turn any bright lights off and they never understand why. But one of my favourite things about being a highly sensitive person is the beautiful details I can appreciate in every joyous moment! 🧡

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Exactly! :) Thanks for leaving a comment, happy you enjoyed the video :)

[@floridanativelh568]

Thank you for your thoughtful and substance filled content. This was immensely helpful 🥰

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear it :) Have a lovely rest of your weekend!

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Hi Vera I can relate to some of the things you mentioned but not all. Thanks for sharing and helping to understand highly sensitive people.❤

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Cathy! :) Yes, even within highly sensitives, we're all still different and unique. There are many HSPs who love going on rides and seek thrills, whereas others really dislike that stuff. So in the end, we're all our own person :) Take care and have a nice day today!

[@fredswartley9778]

Great video. I am a highly sensitive person and because of this I've struggled greatly in life. However, I am beginning to see the benefits of being sensitive and appreciate those more fully. I am thankful that God made me unique and created me for unique purposes in this world.

[@sparky9839]

Everything you touched on applies to me. Also I can’t sleep at night because of what is happening to the non-human animals every second of every day. My rage and grief are overwhelming. Thanks again for sharing. 🙏🏻✌🏻

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Maybe try thinking about the good and positive side of things. For example, I love sharing vegan food with people, to show them how nice it can be, and try to talk about things in a positive light. It also keep things way more positive in my headspace, because no one is truly helped if I feel angry and sad about it all the time. :) Take care and have a lovely day!

[@dorothy9618]

My family Christmas celebration exhausts me. Sometimes I have to sneak away to a quiet room and be alone for a while before rejoining my children and grandchildren. I doubt that anyone understands this need.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi Dorothy! I think that maybe if you explain, more people might understand than you think :) Holidays can be exhausting for many people at times, so I suspect they might share your feelings :)

[@luisacarolina8873]

as a sensitive person I find it so hard to stay positive lately with corona and everything else up to the point where I have a "breakdown" once a week, sometimes more. Do you have any experiences with breakdowns or a teenage crisis Vera? if so, could you please make a video on it? I feel like your videos really help me out and they help other people understand what kind of a person I am. It's like going to a therapist every time I watch your videos. Thank you so much 💖💖💖

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I'm sorry to hear you're having a tough time Luisa. I personally don't have any real experience with breakdowns, so maybe talk to someone about them? You don't have to go through it alone :) I can relate to times being tough right now, so it makes total sense that it would get overwhelming at times. Take good care! Sending you a hug

[@luisacarolina8873]

@@SimpleHappyZen thank you so much anyways 💖💖💖

[@RedJulesFire]

I’m also very sensitive and I sometimes wear noise reducing earplugs to help. They don’t prevent me from hearing everything, they just soften sounds. When I first used them, I barely noticed the difference until I took them out several hours later. I couldn’t believe how much louder it was.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahaha yes I get that! I also love using them when I do things that are really loud, like vacuuming or using the blender. It doesn't take away all the noise but it does a great job softening it.

[@helenamartin977]

Oh, I forgot to say how much I enjoy being in and observing nature.

[@patrickhansberry4355]

One quality I love about being sensitive is that I have a broad imagination and I believe that I can bring my imagination to life!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love that!

[@Nightchriss873]

I am still learning about myself and my sensitivity (definitely it's life long journey). I can relate to a lot of the points mentioned in the video. I can be a good listener and have a lot of empathy. I like art, music, nature and working on my passion personal projects. I am also learning to trust my intuition and "inner gut" feelings more. Because something inside me knows what is good for me (or the oposite) often earlier than myself :). Thank you Vera for the video, I enjoyed it a lot.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear you enjoyed the video and I love what you shared about learning about your sensitivity :) Take care and enjoy the rest of the weekend!

[@bengtrubin2981]

Vera, after watching you video on being sensitive; I realize that I am on the opposite side of this kind of sensitiveityscale. I don't mind sounds, traffic, smells, .....I can have a deep discussion on the phone standing in the main street or a giant mall, or ..... The reason I mention this is because that many of us who are UN -sencitive, shoud and must pay more attention to people in families, work areas, etc that ARE sensitive, but perhaps can't express it so well as you do. I hope your video gave us all that are on my side of the scale .....a really strong message; pay attention and be gentle with the one in the group, that might be sencitive!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Love that, thanks for sharing your thoughts Bengt!! :)

[@anicame2]

I can relate to all of it!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗🌿

[@lieslherman]

I honestly had never heard of a "Highly Sensitive" person until one of your recent videos, and I have never felt more understood in my life. I had a doctor mention something in passing about it when I was younger, but as I never quite fell into a category of ADHD or OCD or other neurogivergence, I always just assumed I needed to toughen up or go on anxiety meds because my sensations were too overwhelming. It's something I'm getting better at embracing as I age, but I still feel overwhelming shame at times because of how easily I break down, or how much I struggle to do certain things. While I've loved your videos on the topic and hope you do more, do you know of any additional resources on being HSP? I think it does really help just knowing I'm not alone or broken, and I feel less compelled to try to change than I used to, but I'd especially love to know if there's any science behind it and more management strategies.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts Liesl. :) If you haven't already, I highly highly highly recommend checking out Elaine Aron's book, called The highly sensitive person - How to thrive when the world overwhelms you. It was such a comforting and reassuring read for me (as well as informative of course) and it really helped me to feel less alone. It also just shares so much interesting tips and stories. Take care and have a nice weekend!

[@lieslherman]

@@SimpleHappyZen I keep meaning to look it up, but making it a priority now! Thank you SO much for bringing all this to my (our) attention--and all your videos in general! You're such a calming presence on my feed and I'm so grateful for it. 🙏

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you! :) Hope you'll enjoy the book as much as I did. Let me know what you think :)

[@Robert-qm1ld]

Hi Vera! 😊. The best thing about being sensitive? Being safe, being aware of negative situations, not being a victim, acknowledging and staying away from or changing bad situations. I think that’s crucial if we want to experience the larger world. Otherwise we might as well be reclusive (which I want to be sometimes). ✌️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

YES! Well said Robert :)

[@shenanigans3923]

Love all your videos Vera ❤ An interesting video idea could be a HSP in a relationship eg. How do you negotiate a balance to meet the needs of each other if your partner is a non-HSP - living together or dating.

[@anicame2]

I loved this video. Thank you

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear it :) Take care!

[@homethatilove4595]

As an artsy person, I see ALOT of details many people miss... That's why going out for long hours is so draining on me

[@vibinaselvan8169]

I can relate to this very much like me. Thnxx 😍❤️❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear it :) Thank you and have a nice day!

[@deeh7105]

Wow! Thank you so much for this video! This is me thru and thru! 💝

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome Dee, so happy you enjoyed it! :)

[@white_tulip2189]

I wonder if one trait of an HSP is to go to immense lengths and measures to solve insecurities, shortcomings and issues with themselves and the environment. For example i have skin issues (the wonders of being young - rosacea, irritation, marks that take over a year to heal, uneven tone, bad skin balance) and i am sure that the average person with such problems does not do as much research and lifestyle changes as I do.

[@hrobert745]

I and some other family members have this problem. I found that a lot of it comes from diet and stress. I started a Whole Foods plant based diet (all organic) and it has made a big difference.

[@jessie9653]

🙋‍♀️ I do 🤭

[@natureinurbanspace1280]

You are true , I really get upset by watching sensitive news , wounded by crude behaviours.

[@gabiboschetti2590]

I still have doubts if I am a HSP or not but I identified myself a lot with everything you said. for example the travel "issue" is so true to me too!! I'm finally planning to visit my family and despite I miss them a lot I am scared on how tired and drained I will feel afterwards. At the same time I'm learning a lot from you on how to take care and "protect" myself ✨

[@tamiewert808]

I feel as if this video was meant for me! I am 53 and I'm still learning about myself! I never felt understood, even by myself. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for this video!❤️ I think the most important part of being an HSP is the intuition aspect!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

🤗💕💕

[@meredithf.1022]

Thank you so much for this wonderful video, Vera! I love your comment about not letting sensitive labels define us. I really appreciate that you addressed all sensitive people in general, not just HSP folks specifically. Everything you discuss here describes me perfectly, but I am diagnosed with ASD-Asperger's instead of HSP. I love all of your presentations on this subject- You are so insightful and wise, and your tips are very helpful! 💖😁

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much for leaving this kind comment Meredith! :) I appreciate it. And I'm happy to hear you're enjoying my videos on sensitivity :) Take care and have a lovely Sunday!

[@aliciar4715]

I feel you when you say that other's pain can be overwhelming. Personally I struggle with this, and a way I cope is repeating the mantra "this is not my pain" over and over. It helps me to distance myself a bit from the situation and continue with my day. Do you have tips on how to cope with this? Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's wonderful Alicia! I do something similar, just reminding myself that these are not my own feelings, they're someone else's, so they are not mine to feel or own. :)

[@DrJustininJapan]

wow very powerful video!! you ALWAYS CHOOSE the most interesting topics

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Justin! :)

[@bumblebee803]

I just found out that I'm a 'super empath' and it thrills me to see how powerful that is. It makes a lot of sense about the way I am wired. I love your videos, they make me feel grounded.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear you're enjoying my videos :) Take care and have a wonderful Sunday!

[@bumblebee803]

@@SimpleHappyZen Thank you, you too.

[@sphkfg]

Vera, you look like Caroline Wozniacki, danish tennis player🌼 what a beautiful name - meaning Faith in russian.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Sara! :)

[@joank5585]

I used to push myself to do things that I didn't enjoy because everyone would push me because they thought I wasn't having fun and I didn't want to be a wet blanket, for example going on rides when I am terrified of heights just to please people and afterwards I would be so sick. What I love about being sensitive is just the opposite of this I accept peoples limitations and accept them as they are. Being empathetic is a beautiful quality and now I'm very happy that I am 😊....your new mug does look greener on this video than it did on your patreon

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Loved what you shared Joan! :) And yes haha the color is different right? :D

[@jessie9653]

I agree 100 percent, I did the same things

[@Anakellycss]

Thank you so much... 🤗🙋🏽‍♀️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome Anna 🤗🍵🌷

[@iCeleste7]

When my baby is crying, Google home timer is going off, and the TV is blasting all at the same time, I feel like my brain is going to explode.

[@DominiqueFrancon]

Another senior citizen here. I am 68 years old, and never realized that I was highly sensitive until just a couple of years ago when I came upon Dr. Aron’s book. As a child and young woman, my mother was always telling me that I was “too touchy” and I “need to get thicker skin.” I remember feeling like I didn’t belong anywhere. At my 20th high school reunion, some of the girls that picked on me actually came up and apologized to me for their behavior. They said that I seemed so wise just observing them from a distance. I got some much-needed therapy when I was in my late 20s and that helped a lot although the topic of highly sensitive didn’t come up because I didn’t have a clue about it. Now I have a granddaughter who is highly sensitive. I’m hoping that she will have more insight into this beautiful trait at a much younger age because of her grandmother.