Episode 200: The Sensitive Person's Toolkit for Challenging Days with Julie Bjelland, LMFT
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Summary: In this episode of the HSP and Neurodivergent podcast, I share insights on managing the tough days that sensitive individuals often face. After recently losing my mom, I’ve realized how crucial it is to have a "Sensitive Person's Toolkit" to help navigate overwhelming emotions, sensory overload, and other unique challenges.
I discuss common struggles like emotional burnout, strained relationships, social exhaustion, and grief, offering practical tips and tools, such as the use of cold water and ice for immediate relief, practicing self-compassion, and grounding techniques.
I also invite you to join the Sensitive Empowerment Community, where you can connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive, ad-free environment. We’re celebrating our 5th anniversary with a special live chat on September 24th, and I’m excited to announce a new live course, "Nurturing Compassion as a Way of Being," starting September 16th, led by the amazing Gracie King. This course is free for all members and will guide you in cultivating compassion in your daily life.
If you're looking for more support, visit sensitiveconnection.com to find resources, book sessions, and explore the tools I recommend for sensitive individuals. Please like, subscribe, and share the podcast to help others find this supportive space.
Take care of your beautiful, sensitive self, and remember, you’re not alone on this journey.
Resources Mentioned in Episode
Join the Sensitive Empowerment Community: SensitiveCommunity.com (get free access to the upcoming Nurturing Compassion Course)
Course Mentioned: Get 50% off today! The HSP Toolbox Course: Daily tools to balance the sensitive nervous system
Product Recommendations for the Sensitive include essential oils, calming devices, and all the products mentioned in this episode.
Free 4/2/7 Calming Breath Technique and get signed up for my weekly newsletter to stay informed of new episodes and resources.
Free Webinars: I mentioned the Sensory Overload one and the Sensitivity and Anxiety one. Learn more here
Free Meditations on the Podcast: www.HSPpodcast.com and click the meditation button
Blog Post: The Sensitive Person's Toolkit for Tough Days by Julie Bjelland, LMFT
Free Teaching of the 3-Step Self-Compassion Practice I shared
Directory of Sensitive and Neurodivergent Therapists, Healers, Coaches
Explore all resources on my website: SensitiveConnection.com
Key Takeaways from "The Sensitive Person's Toolkit for Challenging Days with Julie Bjelland, LMFT"
Importance of a Toolkit: Julie emphasizes the value of having a "Sensitive Person's Toolkit" to navigate tough days, particularly for those who are highly sensitive or neurodivergent. This toolkit helps manage challenges like sensory overload, emotional burnout, strained relationships, and grief.
Immediate Relief Techniques: Cold water and ice can provide immediate relief by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety and stress.
Self-Compassion: Practicing self-compassion is crucial for emotional resilience. Julie shares that self-compassion helps reduce self-criticism, improves relationships, and enhances overall well-being.
Grounding Techniques: Techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 method and deep breathing are effective in bringing oneself back to the present moment, helping to calm the nervous system during overwhelming times.
Connection to Nature: Spending time in nature is restorative for sensitive individuals, helping to regulate the nervous system and provide a much-needed break from overwhelming emotions.
Creative Expression and Comfort Rituals: Engaging in creative activities like journaling or creating comforting rituals can help process emotions and provide a sense of stability.
Supportive Community: Julie highlights the importance of joining a supportive community like the Sensitive Empowerment Community, which offers a safe, ad-free space for connection and growth.
New Course Offering: The "Nurturing Compassion as a Way of Being" course, starting September 16th, is a free offering for community members and focuses on cultivating compassion to enhance emotional resilience and deepen connections.
Product Recommendations: Julie shares her favorite holistic products, including essential oils, sleep aids, and fidget tools, which help manage sensory overload and support overall well-being.
Gratitude and Healing: Julie reflects on the healing process after her mother's passing, emphasizing the importance of supportive connections and personal rituals that provide comfort and connection.
These takeaways provide practical tips and resources to help sensitive individuals manage challenging days and build resilience. Julie invites listeners to explore more through her community, courses, and product recommendations.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Updates
03:20Creating a Nurturing and Supportive Community
06:09The Importance of a Sensitive Person's Toolkit
10:20Practicing Self-Compassion and Nurturing Compassion
15:06The Healing Power of Nature and Creative Expression
19:26Grounding Techniques and Coping Strategies
25:31Finding Support and Connection in Difficult Times
29:16Building Resilience and Preparedness
34:28Honoring Memories and Taking Care of Oneself
I’m Julie Bjelland, LMFT
Psychotherapist, author, and founder of Sensitive Empowerment, specializing in high sensitivity, neurodivergence, and adult-discovered autism in women and AFAB individuals. I love developing tools that balance our sensitive nervous system, reduce challenges, and help us reach our fullest potential so we may excel in our unique talents. I’ve created a global hub of extensive support, including online courses, the Sensitive Empowerment Community—a nurturing sanctuary—a globally top-ranked podcast, articles, free webinars, and more. My passion is helping create a world where differences are embraced as strengths and celebrated. LGBTQIA+ and Neuroaffirming. Learn more at JulieBjelland.com
In this episode, Julie Bjelland and Willow McIntosh explore the pain of being misunderstood, the joy in finding belonging, and the transformative power of self-acceptance and honoring one’s true self as a sensitive and neurodivergent person.