26. Highly Sensitive Person (HSP): Rethink Normal and Ask for What You Need with Lou Kelle West

Expand and Impact

Have you ever wondered how your sense of self evolves as you grow and change? In this episode of the podcast, we explore the transformative journey of identity with Lou Kelly. Together, we uncover how our understanding of who we are can shift from being shaped by external influences to being rooted in personal wisdom and self-awareness.Lou opens up about her path, sharing how her identity was once heavily influenced by her family and environment, and how, over time, she began to cultivate a deeper connection with herself. We discuss the role of discernment – knowing what is truly meaningful and worth integrating into your sense of self. Lou also reflects on how, in her early years, she struggled with being reactive and self-critical, but by her late twenties, she embraced self-reflection and began taking responsibility for her personal growth.A key part of Lou's story is discovering that she is a highly sensitive person (HSP). We dive into the DOES framework – depth of processing, overstimulation, emotional empathy, and sensitivity to subtleties – that defines the HSP trait. Lou shares how this sensitivity impacted her life, from early challenges like overstimulation in noisy environments to learning how to advocate for her own needs. By the end of this conversation, you’ll see how understanding and honoring your sensitivities can lead to a more grounded and authentic sense of self.

Episode Timestamps:

(00:06:19-00:08:21) Lou reflects on her personal growth, including empathy and seeing multiple perspectives.

(00:09:11-00:13:02) Discussion on Lou's discovery of being an HSP and her journey with yoga as a healing tool.

(00:13:03-00:19:45) Lou explains the deeper aspects of yoga beyond physical postures and its role in connection.

(00:19:47-00:21:36) Exploration of how yoga benefits HSPs, providing peace and helping manage overstimulation.

(00:21:56-00:28:16) Explanation of the DOES acronym and physical/environmental cues that help HSPs.

(00:28:16-00:32:00) Lou shares her experiences with shame and the importance of self-love and "loving boundaries."

(00:32:01-00:37:07) Importance of rest and regulating the nervous system for HSPs to thrive.

(00:37:07-00:50:05) Lou’s four-pillar approach to helping HSPs embrace their sensitivity and practice self-care.

Guest links:

Website: https://www.loukelle.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lou.kelle.west/

Highly sensitive self test: https://hsperson.com/test/highly-sensitive-test/

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Expand and Impact, LLC - Disclaimer

This podcast is presented solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or any other qualified professional. We shall in no event be held liable to any party for any reason arising directly or indirecty for the use or interpretation of the information presented in this audio/video. Coprite 2024, Expand and Impact, LLC - All rights reserved.