Empathy

Empathy is often interpreted as the ability to put oneself in another’s place, but this simplistic definition does not capture its depth. Empathy is not merely feeling what another person feels; it is understanding their experience without becoming lost in it. This balance between connection and discernment is essential, particularly in professions that require rational decision-making without emotional burdens clouding judgement.

In acupuncture, for instance, the practitioner must attentively listen to the patient’s complaints, grasp emotional nuances, and understand their pain without absorbing it. An acupuncturist who is overwhelmed by a patient’s suffering may lose the clarity needed to determine the most appropriate treatment. Conversely, a lack of empathy results in a cold, mechanical approach, reducing the patient’s trust in the therapeutic process.

Neuroscience shows that empathy is not merely an emotional response but also a neurological function. The brain has specific circuits for recognising others' emotions, enabling an appropriate response to different contexts. However, regulating these impulses is crucial. Excessive empathy can lead to emotional fatigue and burnout, while its absence creates detachment and a lack of human connection.

In clinical practice, empathy must be structured. The practitioner listens, understands, analyses, and acts based on what is best for the patient, without being overwhelmed by the emotional impact of their pain. This approach ensures a balance between compassion and effectiveness.

True empathy is not merely an emotional reflex but a refined skill. It requires perception, control, and directed action. It is not about feeling for another but feeling with them, maintaining the objectivity necessary to make a real difference.