Are you a highly sensitive person? If so, I’ve got your back because today I’m sharing 7 daily habits to cope and thrive as a highly sensitive person (HSP). Before I do, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about what exactly an HSP is.

When you’re highly sensitive, your brain is more easily overstimulated. This means that you tend to get overwhelmed by loud noises, crowds, busy environments, and strong fragrances. You are also empathic, so you feel the emotions and energy of others. This, too, can overload your senses and lead to overwhelm.

It can be really challenging being a highly sensitive person in the extrovert-centric, busybody world we live in. Thankfully, over the years, I’ve learned habits to cope and play on my strengths as a highly sensitive person, and I’m going to share them with you right now.

Watch the video below, or continue reading to discover my 7 daily habits to cope + thrive as a highly sensitive person:

1. Start your day in solitude.

Starting your day in peaceful silence is the best way to fortify yourself against overwhelm. This daily habit also quiets your mind, so that you experience less anxiety and worry throughout the day. Not only that.

The more you can reduce stimulation first thing in the morning, the more mentally sharp and focused you’ll feel for the rest of the day. Try beginning your day by meditating, journalling, or simply sitting in silence as you sip a cup of herbal tea.

2. Say no to sh*t you hate.

Tapping into the power of ’no’ is one of the best ways to protect yourself from overwhelm as a highly sensitive person. Instead of filling your schedule with activities that you hate, say ‘no’ to useless busyness, so that you can say ‘yes’ to the things that really matter. Make a daily habit of editing out the tasks and activities that no longer serve you. As Nathan W. Morris puts it:

“Edit your life frequently and ruthlessly. It’s your masterpiece after all.”

A good question to ask yourself as you practice saying ‘no’ is, “does this activity align with my core values or goals?” If you’re doing something purely out of obligation, or habit, it might be time to get on the No Train.

3. Be a one task master.

Many of us have been told that multitasking is the Holy Grail of productivity. But if you’re highly sensitive, multitasking is a one-way ticket to overwhelm and frustration. Because here’s the thing.

The mind of a highly sensitive person is already susceptible to overload. Trying to do too many tasks at once will make you feel mentally fragmented. You will accomplish more when you eliminate distractions and bring your full attention to one important task at a time. Put your phone on silent, shorten your to-do list, close the door, and be a one task master.

4. Exercise

Exercise is a key way to reduce anxiety, and fortify yourself against physical and emotional overwhelm. You’ve probably already heard that yoga is a great way to calm your mind, and reduce stress, and I couldn’t agree more. However, any form of exercise that you enjoy will help you to cope and thrive as a highly sensitive person.

I like to exercise at home or outside using YouTube videos, and Gaia.com, which is like the Netflix of the yoga world. I also do HIIT workouts from Sarah’s Day’s Sweat It To Shred It ebook.

5. Declutter your space.

A cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind. That’s why I’m a firm believer in minimalism. I admit that minimalism is not for everyone, but if you’re introverted and highly sensitive like me, less really is more. Removing unnecessary items from your space will reduce overwhelm and make you feel more calm and clear-headed.

When decluttering, ask yourself, “does this item bring me joy?” or “does it serve an important purpose in my life?”

6. Eat living foods.

A lot of people don’t realize that when you’re highly sensitive, you’re also more sensitive to certain foods. Caffeine and alcohol can have detrimental effects for HSPs. After working with hundreds of introverted students and clients, I’ve also noticed that many of those who identify as HSP are also more sensitive to sugars, chemicals, and processed foods.

If you are highly sensitive, I strongly recommend that you remove processed foods, refined sugar, and caffeine from your diet, and replace them with living foods. Eat as many raw and lightly cooked fruits and veggies as possible. Eating living foods will raise your energy levels, clear your mind, and protect you from overwhelm.

7. Create a special bedtime routine.

The way you start and end your day can make all the difference when you are highly sensitive. Proper sleep helps HSPs to better cope with emotional and environmental stimulation throughout the day.

Create a special wind-down routine at night so that you enter dreamland in a relaxed and peaceful state. Here are some ideas:

  • Put your devices on airplane mode, or out of reach.
  • Do some relaxing bed yoga.
  • Set a timer and meditate for 5 minutes.
  • Close your eyes and visualize your favorite moments from the day.
  • Journal about your day.
  • Read a chapter from a good book.

I hope you found these tips helpful! If you enjoyed the video, remember to give it a like, and to subscribe, as it really supports my channel!

highly sensitive person

Check out the fortune I got today! Even the universe agrees that I’m sensitive! 😛

Are you a highly sensitive person?

What are some of your daily habits to cope and thrive as an HSP? Please do share in the comments below, I’d love to hear from you!

Xo,