Empathy and the Nervous System

Last week, Trauma Rewired explored the neurology of narcissism, so this week we're focusing on empathy. Matt Bush, co-lead educator of the Neuro Somatic Intelligence Training, is back on the show to help us dive deeper into why some people are highly empathic and how they can protect themselves from its overwhelming effects. Believe it or not, empaths and narcissists have foundational similarities. Not only does the brain chemistry look the same, but empaths and narcissists both struggle with nervous system regulation and look to others to help them regulate their emotions. But whereas the narcissist avoids the emotions of others, empaths are deeply affected and have a physiological experience to the emotions of others on a subconscious level. This can lead to emotional fatigue, chronic stress, poor sense of self and more. So what's the difference between having empathy and being an empath, and how can you change subconscious behavior? In this episode, Elisabeth, Jennifer and Matt cover the signs of being an empath, the causes of elevated empathy, such as deficits in the interoceptive system, and how it impacts our overall health. If you identify as an empath, tune in to learn about the power of nervous system regulation for changing harmful empath behavior! Topics discussed in this episode:   What it means to be an empath Empathy from a neurosomatic perspective Causes of high empathy Why being an empath isn't always a good thing How deficits in the interoceptive system lead to empath behavior The correlation between sensory mismatch and empathy How to retain your empathic gifts and also prioritize yourself Nervous system regulation as a tool for change     Get started training your nervous system with our FREE 2-week offer: https://www.rewiretrial.com   Learn more about the Neuro-Somatic Intelligence Coaching program here: https://www.neurosomaticintelligence.com/?utm_medium=aff-traumarewired&utm_content&utm_source   Connect with Matt Bush: https://www.nextlevelneuro.com/a/2147666262/2U4AvzLR   Connect with us on social media: @trauma.rewired   Join the Trauma Rewired Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/761101225132846 Head to https://calendly.com/traumarewired/consultation for a consultation to identify trauma responses in your own life and learn how to train your nervous system to move out of behaviors that aren't serving you!   FREE 1 Year Supply of Vitamin D + 5 Travel Packs from Athletic Greens when you use my exclusive offer: https://www.drinkag1.com/rewired This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com