Posted by Racer on March 9, 2004, at 20:52:07
In reply to Hypersensitivity: How can I chill out, posted by devon00 on March 9, 2004, at 17:49:54
I have a lot to say on this issue, but am totally wiped out for today, so this is just a sneak preview for you. I do promise to write as soon as I can get the brain power to do so.
Anyway, when I think about these things, I start with definitions. All the things you're talking about have to do with perceptions, definitions, variations, etc. There is no one RIGHT level of sensitivity. There just isn't. Think about the bell curve, and how the continuum works. You fall somewhere on that curve, as do the rest of us. So, define what it is that makes you "hypersensitive" -- and then think about that definition a little more. Do you define hypersensitivity in absolute moral terms? If so, then can you restate it in more neutral language? (This isn't about semantic niceties, by the way. The words you choose are important, because they reflect your attitude about the issue.) Can you draw boundaries around your sensitivities? Like, "I am very sensitive to financial insecurities, but relatively unscathed by traffic problems." That sort of thing can be helpful, since it allows you to follow through to what you're really being sensitive about if it's not the obvious. (Brain power just flickered. I'm gonna end this quickly and come back to it later.)
As for other people, some of them are insensitive, and some of them may be defensive. You know, when you react to something insensitive that they say or do, they accuse you of hypersensitivity as a defense of their behavior. That's not about you being hypersensitive. That's about you learning some protective skills!
And I'm a big one for any physical activity that allows you to learn to know your body better. Yoga focusses on breathing, which is especially good. Pilates is also a good choice, but probably Yoga is a better first step. Good for you for thinking of something to do for yourself!
I'm glad you found your way here. There are a lot of great folks offering a lot of insight, intelligence, and just plain support. It's a good place, and I'm glad you've come to visit.
poster:Racer
thread:322536
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20040308/msgs/322621.html