Energy Vampires! Run or Not To Run?
Exploring the dynamic with energy vampires and how we can maintain our energy
We throw the label, energy vampire around and strategically distance ourselves from these “monsters”. Until one day, when we’re on the receiving end of the label, we stop to explore the dynamic in a little more detail to find that the choice, to blame or take responsibility is presenting itself.
In simple terms, we label a person an energy vampire when we feel drained of energy after being around them. For instance, at times when we are sensitive and compassionate and offer a listening ear to a troubled friend. We give them our attention until their story runs out of words or until our capacity to pay attention starts to dwindle. What remains with us is drained energy and hesitation to engage with this energy vampire again.
Wait a minute! As we label someone an energy vampire we are also labelling ourselves as their victim. A victim as though we left our door open and got robbed of our energy. And just like that, the tables turn. A victim with a story to tell, seeking a sensitive and compassionate listener.
Well, what can we do? Protecting ourselves from every potential energy vampire could gradually limit our social engagements as people around us go through all sorts of experiences that they want to share. We may want to continue to be sensitive and compassionate but also maintain our energy.
Keep it simple — practice presence without getting carried away with someone’s story. While listening, ground yourself by maintaining the sensation of your feet on the ground. While listening, relax your body and let your breath travel smoothly. While listening, observe your surroundings, the colours, the shapes, the lines and the shades. While listening, pay attention to the words, the tone, the pace of speech, the volume and the pauses.
“When you love someone, the best thing you can offer is your presence. How can you love, if you are not there?” Thich Nhat Hanh
A little more advanced — In yoga practice, bandhas or locks in the yogic system are used to gradually gain control of your energy system. Initially, practising it physically. With time you can master the practice and it will happen more automatically.
Whatever you do, do NOT run — Energy vampires smell your fears!
About the author
Many thanks to Dr Mehmet Yildiz for interviewing me as a new creative writer of ILLUMINATION
Further reading
As a new writer, I’ve been keen to explore various topics and writing styles. Have a look at some of the other articles I’ve published recently and please feel free to share your thoughts! It’s always great to learn from feedback
Have a look at these articles by some lovely writers
Some really helpful tips from Elizabeth Marchetti
This one is by Chowa Sekai, I went a bit highlighter crazy on this article!
And I appreciate Dew Langrial writing this one!
