Make your Emotional Sensitivity Your Superpower with Reiki

October 30, 2025

By Jess Smith, Chief Energy Alchemist and owner of Elevated Vibrations Collective LLC

I have noticed that for many, emotional sensitivity often feels like a burden, and many individuals, particularly empaths (people with the ability to perceive the mental or emotional state of another individual), often feel drained and overwhelmed after being around people. 

Many empaths feel zapped of their energy leading this superpower to feel like an encumbrance. 

In the past I wouldn’t have described myself as an empath, as I have a tendency to be very guarded with my own emotions, but after several people told me they appreciated how empathetic I am. 

This observation led me to understand that I didn’t know this about myself because the way I am is the only thing I know, so I didn’t realize not everyone picks up on other’s emotions and cares for the feelings of others the way I naturally do. 

I've heard from many individuals about feeling exhausted and overwhelmed after spending time in social settings such as work events or family gathering and have experienced this myself. 

While these occasions often bring joy and connection, they can be emotionally exhausting, especially for those sensitive to others' feelings and energy. 

As they engage in these interactions, the constant flow of emotions can lead to fatigue, sparking a wish to be less empathetic and retreat from their sensitivity. 

This difficulty in managing emotional boundaries can cause them to question whether their sensitivity is more of a tribulation than a blessing. 

My journey with regular Reiki practice has led me down a path of reconnecting my emotional sensitivity, and to a place where I invite these deep feelings with open arms, leading me to the realization that feeling deeply is important. 

Feeling deeply is intrinsically linked to the ability to care profoundly and take meaningful action. When we allow ourselves to be open to our emotions, we become more attuned to the needs and experiences of those around us. 

This heightened awareness fosters a compassionate response, prompting us to engage actively in efforts to support and uplift others. In contrast, a state of numbness or desensitization can lead to apathy, where the drive to make a positive impact diminishes. 

By embracing and understanding our emotions, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to a more empathetic and responsive world, where actions are guided by genuine care and concern for the well-being of all. 

Well, now we’re back to the beginning. How can we feel deeply without imploding? 

Feeling intensely doesn't have to be synonymous with feeling overwhelmed. Instead, it can be a source of strength and insight. 

Balancing Emotions Through Reiki

One of the most significant challenges empaths face is distinguishing between their emotions and those of others. 

Through my self-Reiki and mindfulness practices I have become more self-aware and able to identify what emotions and energy belong to me and which do not. This has been an evolution that occurred after consistent practice and now happens very naturally.

By recognizing when I’m being affected by others’ emotional states and their energy, I can take steps to self-regulate and maintain a calm nervous system. This way, I can support the other person without bearing the burden of their emotions.

Another cool aspect is that the other person may feel a sense of calm in my presence. Their nervous system might even align with mine, helping them achieve a more balanced state.

Self-care and nervous system regulation are incredibly beneficial, but it’s equally important to remember the significance of setting boundaries!

The Importance of Boundaries

Establishing boundaries is vital for anyone, especially those who are emotionally sensitive. 

I am truly amazed by how many younger individuals understand boundaries and are capable of establishing them effectively. For me, however, my introduction to boundaries felt like uncharted territory; it wasn't something I had been taught as a younger person. 

If you felt overwhelmed at the mention of boundaries, I completely understand. But don't worry—I've learned how to set boundaries, and you can too! 

By setting clear boundaries, we can be compassionate and empathetic without losing ourselves in the process.

This is a process, trust me, I know! A few years ago, I kept hearing and reading how important it is to set boundaries, but no one was saying what a boundary is or how to set one. 

Personal boundaries are like invisible lines that mark where one person's space ends and another's begins. 

Boundaries can be physical, emotional, intellectual, or spiritual, helping protect our well-being and independence. By setting clear boundaries, we express our values and needs, making sure interactions are balanced. 

This helps us have supportive relationships and avoid burnout, leading to healthier connections with ourselves and others.

How do you know when you need a boundary? 

You can tell you need a boundary when you start feeling overwhelmed or resentful in certain situations, or when something is happening that you are not okay with. If you notice that your needs are consistently being ignored or you're frequently feeling drained, it might be a sign to establish clearer limits. 

Additionally, if you find yourself saying "yes" out of obligation rather than desire, it might be time to reassess your boundaries. Recognizing these signs can help maintain your well-being and improve your relationships.

At first, setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable and awkward, and that's ok. It’s a learning process. Eventually it starts to come naturally. 

A good place to start is by creating a self-care routine for yourself and to honor it by setting boundaries around it. Learn more on how to do this in my blog: Three Ways to Create Boundaries around Your Self-Care.

Three Ways to Create Boundaries Around Your Self-Care

As you have read thus far, you know by now that self-Reiki is a part of my self-care routine. I established it as a consistent practice by setting boundaries around it. I do it every day and my family knows respectfully not to interrupt my self-reiki sessions. 

Reiki has allowed me to connect with and to value my needs and empowered me with confidence and self-worth needed to communicate this to others. 

This communication not only protects my emotional wellbeing but also enhances my relationships with others. 

When we are clear about our boundaries, we create a space where genuine connection can flourish without the risk of emotional entanglement. 

For an empath, boundaries may involve:

• Establishing time limits for social events. 

• Allowing for solitary moments after interactions. 

• Politely declining invitations to large gatherings that feel overwhelming. 

• Minimize time spent with individuals who constantly drain your energy. 

  
  

Conclusion

My journey with Reiki has been life-changing, allowing me to embrace my emotional sensitivity rather than shy away from it. By feeling more deeply, I have cultivated a richer, more meaningful life. 

Emotional sensitivity is not something to be feared or suppressed but rather a powerful tool for connection and understanding. 

By embracing our sensitivity, we open ourselves to a world of profound empathy and compassion, enriching both our lives and the lives of those around us. 

When we understand and honor our emotions through practices like Reiki, we can find strength in sensitivity and transform our emotional experiences into opportunities for growth and connection.

Click below to learn more about how you can learn Reiki and your own daily self-Reiki practice.

Reiki Lifestyle I Course: Elevate & Thrive