Ever Been Called "Too Sensitive"?

Hello everyone!

It’s hard to believe summer is just around the corner. I know I say this a lot, but May really flew by! It’s been such a busy month, but also a fun one—getting outside more, soaking up the sun, and trying to enjoy everything this month has to offer.

Lately, I’ve been noticing the simple, everyday ways we connect as humans more and more, which inspired me to write about being an empath or highly sensitive person this month, along with a few other reflections to support you in staying grounded, present, and mindful as we head into summer.

Wishing you a lovely rest of May!

Warmly,

Mandy

FROM THE GG BLOG
What It Really Means to Be a Highly Sensitive Person (And Why It's a Strength)

If you’re someone who feels deeply, picks up on the energy in the room, and finds yourself emotionally impacted by things others seem to brush off—there’s a good chance you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive.” Maybe it was said with good intentions. Maybe it came as a criticism. Either way, hearing it over and over can make you feel like your emotions are too much, as if you need to hide them, shrink yourself, or get over it.

But what if your sensitivity isn’t something you need to hide or fix? What if it’s actually your superpower?

In a world that often rewards productivity, detachment, and emotional resilience, being a highly sensitive person (HSP) or empath can feel like a burden. But the truth is: your sensitivity offers you a vast amount of insight, intuition, and compassion—it’s a strength, not a flaw.

MENTAL HEALTH CHECK-IN
Nighttime Digital Detox

If you find yourself scrolling before bed, having trouble falling asleep, or feel unsettled, it might be a sign to look into your nighttime routine. A digital detox doesn’t have to be extreme—it’s really just about being more intentional with your screen time in the evening and setting some healthy boundaries around technology.

Not sure where to start? Begin by simply noticing your habits. Are you reaching for your phone out of boredom? Do certain apps leave you feeling more anxious or overstimulated? Once you're more aware of your patterns, try setting a digital curfew—about an hour before bed is a good place to begin. That gives your mind and body time to wind down and get ready for rest.

Instead of scrolling or watching TV, consider swapping in a calming activity like reading, gentle stretching, or deep breathing. And if going tech-free for a full hour feels like too much, that’s okay. Start small—maybe put your phone across the room or off your nightstand. You can ease into it gradually, building a routine that feels doable and supportive of your lifestyle.

The benefits? A nighttime digital detox can help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost your overall sense of presence. Most importantly, it can support better sleep since blue light and constant stimulation can mess with your body’s natural rhythms and keep your brain in “go mode” when it should be winding down. If you're already feeling anxious or dysregulated, late-night screen time can often make things worse.

By creating some tech boundaries at night, you're prioritizing your well-being and giving yourself the space to truly rest.

INSPO
Reconnect with Your Younger Self This Summer

Something I’ve learned from supporting others on their healing journeys is the importance of reconnecting with your younger self. As we get older, we often stop doing the things we loved as kids. Summer is the perfect time to lean into that sense of playfulness. The longer days and slower pace make space for fun, spontaneity, and connection. By revisiting activities you loved as a kid, you're not just creating fun memories, you’re also honoring and nurturing your inner child.

Here are some simple ways to do just that:

• Go swimming in a pool, lake, or the ocean

• Play mini golf with friends or family

• Treat yourself to ice cream—maybe even chase down the ice cream truck!

• Have a picnic in the park with your favorite childhood snacks

• Build a sandcastle or dig your feet into the sand

• Watch your favorite childhood movie or cartoon

• Blow bubbles or fly a kite

• Visit an amusement park or fair

• Go camping and make s’mores

• Keep a summer journal or sketchbook like you might’ve done at camp

• Make a playlist to throwback songs from your childhood or teen years

Remember, these don’t have to be big or perfectly planned. The goal is to find little moments of joy and presence that help you reconnect with a more carefree, creative, or curious version of yourself. That younger you is still part of you—and they deserve some fun this summer, too.

LISTEN
🎙️ How To Improve Critical Thinking, Embrace Uncertainty, and Stop Self-Censoring

In this episode of 10% Happier, host Dan Harris sits down with journalist and author Jenara Nerenberg to talk about groupthink, the health implications of self-censoring and the role of comedy in pushing against social norms. Listen here.

Today’s Affirmation

RESOURCES
Books

• Trust Your Mind: Embracing Nuance in a World of Self-Silencing by Jenara Nerenberg.

• Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker, Phd.

• The Child In You: The Breakthrough Method for Bringing Out Your Authentic Self by Stefanie Stahl.

If you're in Maryland or DC and looking to discuss therapy options, you can find me at Mindful Therapy Collective.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and it is not a replacement for individualized therapy.