Although there's much interest in identifying empaths - people who are overly sensitive to the suffering of others - empathy and compassion continue to be misunderstood because they are used interchangeably. Yet, the latest mindbody research indicate they are different emotions, activate different parts of the brain, and have unique neurophysiological profiles.
Additionally, the so called compassion fatigue, is caused by excessive empathy rather than compassion. In fact, while isolated empathy for the suffering of others triggers unhealthy levels of stress hormones, compassion generates positive emotions with their associated neurochemistry-enhancing wellness.
In an upcoming Shift Network webinar on Empaths, I will explain the differences between empathy and compassion, as well as how to cultivate both emotions to enhance wellness. Stay tuned for more details.
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