why empaths feel everything

Empathy is defined as “the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of another”. At its core, empathy is the ability to connect deeply with the emotional world of others, feeling and understanding their experiences as if they were your own. For empaths, this capacity is heightened, magnifying their emotional attunement and connection with the people around them.

The Neuroscience Behind Empaths

From a neuroscience perspective, the key to understanding empaths lies in the mirror neuron system. These are neurons in the brain that “mirror” the actions and behaviours of others. Essentially, they allow us to feel what someone else is feeling, helping us tune into their emotions and reactions.

If you often feel highly sensitive, open, or compassionate, sometimes to the point of absorbing the energy of others, there is a neurological explanation for this. Your mirror neuron system may be hyper-activated, meaning the neurons responsible for empathy and compassion are essentially working overtime.

This understanding can be incredibly validating. Feeling deeply and compassionately is not a flaw or something you are “making up.” There is a real mechanism in your brain behind your heightened sensitivity. Recognizing this can help empaths honour their nature, set healthy boundaries, and channel their emotional attunement in ways that feel sustainable.

For those interested in learning more about highly sensitive and empathic traits, Dr. Judith Orloff, a psychiatrist, has done extensive research on the topic and offers valuable insights.