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Positive Energy
How to Build Vitality and Stop the Energy Vampires
By Judith Orloff, M.D.
There are many types of vampires to watch out for. The main ones I stress in my book are the Drama Queen, who wears you out with her dramas; the Sob Sister, who whines all the time; the Blamer, who cuts you down with criticism; and the Go-For-The-Carotid type, who purposely cuts you down without any respect for your feelings. Keep an eye out for these types so you're aware of their methods, and stop them from draining you.
1. Take inventory. Think about people in your life who give energy and people who drain. Specifically identify the energy vampires and begin to evaluate ones you'd like to limit contact with or eliminate. Plan at least one complete afternoon with people who give off positive energy and avoid drainers. Notice how this beneficially affects your physical and emotional well-being.
2. Set clear boundaries. It's crucial to limit the time you spend discussing a vampire's gripes. When approaching her, remember the difference between being a bitch and setting boundaries is attitude. Instead of saying, "You're selfish and self-obsessed. I can't take you anymore," which a part of you likely feels, take a breath and shift to your heart.
3. Meditate. Sitting in meditation is a lifeline to your center, to the earth. It will ground you when you've been struck by a vampire. By calming the mind, you can re-align with your essence. Close your eyes. Focus on your breath. Then gently extend your awareness downward to strata, bedrock, minerals and soil. From the base of your spine, begin to feel a continuity with the earth's core. Picture having a long tail that roots in the earth's core. Allow the earth's energy to infuse your body and stabilize you. If you meditate for five minutes or an hour, this is sacred time.