Psychotherapist and researcher, Dr. Elaine Aron, author of The Highly Sensitive Person, introduced the world to the ‘highly sensitive person’ and the associated traits of  high sensitivity. According to Dr. Aron  “the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) has a sensitive nervous system, is aware of subtleties in his/her surroundings, and is more easily overwhelmed when in a highly stimulating environment.” Through her research, she discovered that between 15- 20% of the population exhibits high sensitivity. Dr. Aron explains that the traits of a highly sensitive person are innate,  normal and she also encourages HSPs to really understand and value their sensitivity. On Dr. Aron’s web site it says “Sensitivity is anything but a flaw. Many HSPs are often unusually creative and productive workers, attentive and thoughtful partners, and intellectually gifted individuals”. You can take the test designed by Dr. Elaine Aron and determine whether you have these traits and are perhaps an HSP. Self-test.

I like to stay away from labeling myself or remaining  in any one category or “group”  but nonetheless I have been intrigued by Dr. Aron’s research and insights and I do in fact  identify with the traits of a highly sensitive person. Not to mention growing up and even still today, I often hear these words ” Julie, you are so sensitive (in other words too sensitive)”.  Since learning more about what it means to be sensitive  over the years and in my continued self-discovery and research on intuition, now when I hear these words about being too sensitive, I smile back and say ” yes, I know and I’m so glad” .  Afterall, it is not who I am fully and completely but it is an important part.

There are lots of  great resources on the web pertaining to this topic. One great resource I am a member of is Jenna Avery’s Sensitive Professsionals Network. Jenna is a life coach for sensitive souls and has created a really neat professional network for sensitive professionals worldwide. Since being a member I have connected with other great professionals there. Grace Kerina is one such individual. She kindly invited me to be profiled on her web site, Highly Sensitive Power. She asked me some really interesting questions and our exchange can be found here .

May you embrace who you are more fully each day. All the best!