Episode 17

17. Are You an Empath? Signs, Energy Boundaries, and Understanding Your Sensitivity

In this episode of The Spiritual Sanctuary: Wisdom for the Divine Feminine, we explore what it truly means to be an empath—a highly sensitive, intuitive person who absorbs the emotions and energies of others. Many empaths move through the world feeling deeply affected by their environment without understanding why, and learning the signs of empathic sensitivity can bring clarity, grounding, and empowerment.

Together, we look at the emotional, energetic, and spiritual traits that define an empath, the challenges that come with heightened sensitivity, and the strengths that emerge when you learn how to manage your energy. We discuss boundaries, energetic protection, grounding practices, and how to turn your sensitivity into a source of wisdom rather than overwhelm.

As we move through the conversation, we explore meaningful questions such as what distinguishes an empath from someone who is simply caring or intuitive, how empathic sensitivity shows up in daily life, why some people absorb emotions more intensely, and which spiritual tools can help you stay grounded, protected, and balanced. We also talk about how being an empath can influence relationships, work, and your overall spiritual path.

For more guidance, classes, and support for intuitive and empathic individuals, visit bertena.org.

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About the Podcast

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Spiritual Sanctuary: Wisdom for the Divine Feminine
Where you stop searching... and start becoming

About your host

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Bertena Varney

Bertena is a spiritual teacher, priestess, and intuitive guide who blends ancient wisdom with grounded, modern insight. She is the creator and host of The Spiritual Sanctuary, a podcast devoted to the Wheel of the Year, Divine Feminine wisdom, goddess traditions, ritual, meditation, and soul-aligned living.

With decades of experience as a college educator and a deep background in spiritual studies, Bertena brings a rare combination of academic depth and embodied spiritual practice to her work. Her teachings weave together seasonal spirituality, priestess paths, somatic awareness, tarot and oracle wisdom, and contemplative ritual—always with an emphasis on empowerment, discernment, and personal sovereignty.

Bertena is the founder of the Ancient Arts of the Priestess Academy, where she offers self-paced courses, seasonal lessons, and immersive spiritual education rooted in the cycles of nature rather than hustle culture. Her work is especially supportive for women seeking a slower, more meaningful spiritual path—one grounded in trust, rest, and inner authority.

Through her podcast, courses, and writings, Bertena invites listeners into a sanctuary space where wisdom is remembered, not rushed, and where spiritual growth unfolds in its own time.

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