Sensitive People

As social creatures, humans naturally congregate for various reasons, from celebrating life's milestones, such as birthdays and holidays, to cheering on sports teams or mourning those we have lost. During these interactions, our bodies are incredibly sensitive, constantly and unconsciously scanning the environment to evaluate our safety. We are perpetual sponges, absorbing everything from the food we consume and the media we watch to the subtle facial expressions and words of the people around us.

This constant monitoring happens behind the scenes through the autonomic nervous system—essentially our "automatic" internal regulator. Based on what it perceives, it toggles between two primary states: the parasympathetic and the sympathetic nervous systems.

When we feel safe, the parasympathetic nervous system takes over, often called the "rest and digest" mode. In this state, our breathing deepens, our heart rate slows, and our digestion functions optimally. This allows our internal resources to shift toward higher-level functions, such as emotional regulation, complex problem-solving, and meaningful social connection.

Conversely, the sympathetic nervous system triggers the "fight or flight" response, a primal survival instinct. While this once protected our ancestors from physical predators, modern life presents different challenges. Unfortunately, the nervous system can struggle to distinguish between an actual life-threatening danger and a stressful, passive-aggressive email from a colleague. This is where therapeutic intervention becomes valuable, helping individuals learn to regulate these automatic responses.

I recognize that every person requires a tailored approach to nervous system regulation. While some clients find peace through breathing exercises or meditation, others might find release in more active expressions, like crying or even screaming into a pillow. Developing these unique, effective strategies is a deeply rewarding part of my clinical work. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming, trauma-informed therapist who leans on somatic therapy for deep healing, my goal is for this process to be truly transformative for my clients.