Are you a “sensitive” person?  Studies show that about twenty percent of us have nervous systems that are physiologically more “sensitive” to stimuli than others.  We are more sensitive to — and often more troubled by — various sounds, smells, foods, food additives, chemicals, heat, cold, light, toxins, skin sensations, physical vibrations, etc. 

Scientists have found that these same “sensitive” individuals are also more “tuned in” to other people’s feelings and needs.  They have a stronger tendency for empathy, and show more ability for understanding, concern and care for others.  If these studies went further, they would also discover that these same sensitive individuals are usually more aware of spirit —  the divine and subtle energy of God’s unseen world that underlies this outer reality of our physical senses. 

Thus “sensitive souls” are often more strongly affected by both the positive and negative energies of people and the world around them.  They tend to have deeper spiritual experiences and understandings, but can also experience greater spiritual pain and confusion.  Research shows that sensitive people tend to thrive and excel beyond the norm when they are supported in nurturing environments.  But in abusive or toxic environments, they tend to be much more troubled and depressed than others.  The blessing, and the curse. 

As sensitive souls, we need to take special time to heal and nurture ourselves, more than our modern culture would usually suggest.  When sensitive children are raised in supportive environments, they grow up to be the deepest thinkers and the most caring and empathic healers (consider Albert Einstein and Mother Theresa).  But in abusive environments, these same children are more likely to develop psychological disorders, turn to addictions, and commit crimes against themselves and humanity (think Adolf Hitler and Charles Manson).