As we age, we become more experienced and wiser, but at the same time, we may also become more sensitive to the world around us. This sensitivity can be a blessing, as it allows us to deeply feel and empathise with others, but it can also be a curse, as it can make us more prone to negative emotions and reactions. If you’re a senior citizen who finds yourself feeling overly sensitive, don’t worry, there are mindful tips that can help you manage and even overcome this challenge.
- Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the act of being fully present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. This practice can help you become more aware of your sensitivity and how it affects you. By paying attention to your thoughts and emotions, you can learn to identify triggers and patterns that may be causing you to react in a sensitive manner. Additionally, mindfulness can also help you to stay grounded and calm in the present moment, instead of getting swept away by your emotions.
- Accept Your Sensitivity
The first step to overcoming any challenge is to accept it. Many seniors may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their sensitivity, but it’s important to remember that it is a natural part of who you are. Instead of fighting against it, try to embrace and accept your sensitivity. This will allow you to let go of any negative feelings towards it and focus on finding healthy ways to manage it.
- Find Healthy Outlets for Your Emotions
When we feel overwhelmed by our emotions, we often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as overeating, drinking, or avoiding our feelings altogether. Instead of falling into these traps, try to find healthy outlets for your emotions. This could be anything from journaling, painting, going for a walk, or talking to a trusted friend or family member. Find what works best for you and make it a regular part of your routine.
- Practice Self-Care
As we age, it’s essential to take care of our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Practicing self-care can help you feel more balanced and better equipped to handle your sensitivity. This can include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking care of yourself will not only benefit you but also those around you.
- Learn to Communicate Your Feelings
One of the biggest challenges for sensitive individuals is expressing their emotions in a healthy way. Many seniors may have grown up in a time where expressing emotions was not encouraged, making it difficult to communicate their feelings effectively. However, it’s essential to learn how to express yourself in a calm and assertive manner. This will not only help you manage your sensitivity but also strengthen your relationships with others.
- Don’t Take Things Personally
As we get older, we may become more sensitive to criticism or negative comments from others. However, it’s crucial to remember that people’s words and actions are often a reflection of their own insecurities and issues, not a reflection of your worth. Learning to not take things personally can help you let go of any hurtful comments and not let them affect you as much.
- Surround Yourself with Positive People
The people we surround ourselves with can greatly impact our emotions and well-being. If you find that certain people in your life cause you to feel overly sensitive, it may be time to re-evaluate those relationships. Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals who uplift and encourage you. This will help you feel more at ease and less likely to be triggered by others’ negativity.
- Seek Professional Help
If you find that your sensitivity is significantly impacting your daily life and relationships, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with tools and techniques to manage your sensitivity and any underlying issues that may be contributing to it. Seeking help is a sign of strength and a step towards living a happier and more fulfilling life.
Being sensitive is a natural and beautiful part of being human, but it’s essential to learn how to manage it in a healthy way. By practicing mindfulness, self-care, and effective communication, you can learn to embrace your sensitivity and use it as a strength rather than a weakness. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself as you work towards becoming less sensitive and enjoy the journey of self-discovery and growth.
