Embodied superpower: A qualitative study of the experience of highly sensitive wellbeing practitioners

Abstract

Purpose: Research has identified that approximately 20-31 percent of the global population can be considered highly sensitive––carrying the trait of sensory-processing sensitivity (SPS). SPS, associated with increased sensitivity and responsiveness to internal, environmental, and social stimuli, is often considered to be a vulnerability. Despite this, it has been shown to have the potential of becoming an asset to people. However, a gap exists in the research literature regarding the experience of highly sensitive wellbeing practitioners and how they can best manage their high sensitivity to the benefit of themselves and others. Design: A qualitative approach explored how highly sensitive wellbeing practitioners experience and deal with SPS in the context of working with clients. Method: In-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with ten practitioners, drawn from a number of wellbeing professions. Results: The qualitative grounded theory analysis revealed the overarching theme of experiencing SPS as an ‘embodied superpower’ and a complex, interwoven dynamic interplay between four major themes: appreciation, challenges, journey, and client work. The results show that, if managed well, SPS can indeed be a valuable asset to practitioners. Implications: As the first of its kind to investigate this topic in a systematic, scientific manner, the study has significance in exploring SPS, especially in relation to embodiment theory. Findings have implications for highly sensitive wellbeing practitioners, contributing to the understanding of their trait and offering practical suggestions on how to best manage it.