Emotional Energy
Emotions are a stunning expression of our energy, the “vibe” we give off. We register these with intuition. Some people feel good to be around; they improve your mood and vitality. Others are draining; you instinctively want to get away. This “subtle energy” can be felt inches or feet from the body, though it’s invisible.
STRATEGIES TO READ EMOTIONAL ENERGY.
1) SENSE PEOPLE’S PRESENCE:
This is the overall energy we emit, and it’s not necessarily congruent with words or behavior. It’s the emotional atmosphere surrounding us, like a rain cloud or the sun. For instance, we may give off an aura of mystery, joy, or sadness. To compare extremes, think of the Dalai Lama’s light, compassionate presence versus Charles Manson’s deranged darkness. Presence is also associated with charisma, a personal magnetism that you’re drawn to. Warning: charisma doesn’t always contain heart. Charisma without heart can’t be trusted. It’s a dangerous combination present in many con artists and seducers. As you read people, notice: Does their overall energy feel warm? Calming? Uplifting? Invigorating like a breath of fresh air? Or is it draining? Cold? Detached? Angry? Jarring? Depressed? Do they have a friendly presence that attracts you? Or are you getting the willies, making you back off. Also see if people look anchored in their bodies, indicating that their feet are firmly planted on the ground. Or are they floating outside themselves, which may indicate flakiness and distractability?
2) WATCH PEOPLE’S EYES:
We can make love or hate with our eyes. Our eyes transmit powerful energies in what the Sufi poet Rumi calls “the glance.” Just as the brain has an electromagnetic signal extending beyond the body, studies indicate that the eyes project this too. In fact, research reveals that people can sense when they’re being stared at, even when no one is in sight—an experience reported by police officers, soldiers, and hunters. Indigenous cultures respect the energy of the eyes. Some believe that the “evil eye” is a gaze that inflicts injury or bad luck on its target. Also, science has documented “the look of love”: joining eyes with a loved one (or even a dog) triggers a biochemical response, releasing oxytocin, the warm and fuzzy “love hormone.” The more oxytocin your brain has, the more trusting and peaceful you’ll feel. Take time to observe people’s eyes. Are they caring? Sexy? Tranquil? Mean? Angry? The way others look at you can make you feel adored or afraid. Also determine: Is there someone at home in their eyes, indicating a capacity for intimacy? Or do they seem to be guarded or hiding? Certain people’s eyes can be hypnotic. Avoid looking deeply into eyes you distrust or sense may be dangerous. The less you engage negative people, the less they’ll focus on you. On the other hand, feel free to fall into the eyes of people you cherish. Enjoy all that beautiful energy!
3) NOTICE THE FEEL OF A HANDSHAKE, HUG, AND TOUCH:
We share emotional energy through physical contact, much like an electrical current. Ask yourself whether a handshake or hug feels warm, comfortable, and confident, or whether it is offputting, making you want to withdraw. Are people’s hands clammy, signaling anxiety, or limp, suggesting being noncommittal and timid? Is their grip too strong, even crushing your fingers, indicating aggression or overcontrol? Along with physical cues, the energy of touch reveals people’s emotions. Some hugs and handshakes impart kindness, joy, and calm, whereas others feel clingy, draining, even hostile. Therefore, spend time with people whose energy you like. Be wary of those whose energy you don’t like, so you’re not depleted. Avoid physical contact (including making love) with anyone whose energy doesn’t feel good.
4) LISTEN FOR PEOPLE’S TONE OF VOICE AND LAUGH:
The tone and volume of our voice can tell much about our emotions. Sound frequencies create vibrations. Some frequencies we hear. Below an audible range, sound can be felt (think of a bass’s vibration). When reading people, notice how their tone of voice affects you. Words ride the energy of tone, its warmth and coldness. Ask yourself: Does their tone feel soothing? Or is it abrasive, snippy, or whiny? Are they soft talkers or mumblers whom you can barely hear, signs of meekness or low self-esteem? Or do they talk too loud or too much, signs of anxiety, narcissism, or insensitivity? Are they fast talkers, trying to sell you something? Or boring you to death with a slow monotone, suggesting depression and no spontaneity? Be aware of sighing, which relays sadness or frustration. Also, a pinched voice suggests emotional repression, overcontrol, or a thyroid disorder. Always observe how much people laugh, a sign of lightheartedness. Does their laugh sound genuine? Fake? Childlike? Joyous? Or are they overly serious, rarely laughing? In addition, FBI profilers interpret a quivering voice and sudden change in pitch as potential signs of deception.
5) SENSE PEOPLE’S HEART ENERGY:
The most important aspect of energy to read is whether people exude a sense of heart. This is the lovingkindness in us, our capacity for empathy, giving, and connection. When heart is present, you’ll feel the warmth of unconditional love emanating from others, which makes you feel safe and at ease. It’s the unspoken sense of being accepted, not judged. No one can fake this. Our heart presence builds through our good intentions, deeds, and emotional work to overcome fear and negativity. The heart is the most positive quality anyone can have. It’s healthy to be drawn to it.
~Above lines are taken from the book THE ECSTASY OF SURRENDER by JUDITH ORLOFF, MD
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