Seven years ago, when a virus left me with room spinning vertigo for four months and a deep fatigue for another eight, I spent most of my time on the couch in our living room. As my friends and acquaintances were worried about me, I had many visitors at the beginning to come by and check on me. After a few weeks of entertaining my concerned pals, I realized that I was feeling more zapped and drained after most of the visits.  As I had little energy to begin with, I became super sensitive to other people’s energy. I knew I could not continue spending time with most of my well-intentioned guests. I needed all my strength and energy to heal and attempt to care for my 8-year-old daughter and 7-year-old son.

When a visitor arrived, I began to sense immediately whether or not my energy was starting to drain or if I felt supported and held in a way that was nourishing and helpful. Out of pure necessity, I learned to say a polite “no” to those who drained me. It wasn’t that I didn’t appreciate their good intentions, I just had absolutely no energy to pretend otherwise. One very difficult day when I truly felt like the life was draining out of me, my good friend Karen came over and asked what she could do. I just needed to be held which she did without speaking. After a couple of hours, I felt nourished and calm. I knew I could continue on.

As I continued to heal, I continued to only say Yes to those people who didn’t deplete me. Even though I have more energy now, I am still very careful with how I choose to exert it. I am grateful for that time of not feeling well, as it gave me the opportunity to learn a valuable skill.This is a skill I still carry with me today. 

I choose to spend time only with people who I feel good around. I am much happier and more content than I have ever been. Our time and energy are so valuable. 

Take a moment to reflect on those who you feel well around. Notice your energy when you are around them. Know that you are in a state of optimal healing when you are feeling well. Notice your energy when you are around difficult individuals. 

We will spend the next couple of classes talking about protecting our energy bodies and developing the skills to help do so.

I look forward to seeing you….BTW: I feel amazing when I am at meditation class with all of you!!