Emotions are contagious, but that doesn’t mean you have to get swept up every time someone around you spirals. In this episode, we dig into the science of emotional contagion, why your nervous system syncs with others, and a practical mindset shift that lets you step back, see the bigger picture, and respond with intention.

You’ll Learn:

• Why emotions spread like wildfire (and how our brains are wired to catch them).
• The difference between direct and indirect ways emotions shape our stories.
• A simple “once upon a time” phrase that creates instant emotional distance.
• Real-life examples of breaking free from mirroring anger, stress, or fear.
• How practice turns this high-effort skill into a reliable tool when you need it most.

Timestamps:

00:30 – Why other people’s emotions feel like they take over your own
03:17 – Direct vs. indirect ways to change your emotions
06:31 – Client story: irritation that shows up every time he leaves the house
10:39 – Client story: parenting stress and family emotional escalation
13:32 – Client story: catastrophizing and conflict
17:09 – How to practice emotional differentiation
19:03 – Kindness narrative: A friend sharing time and attention

Submit Your Kindness Narrative:
Share a moment of kindness that moved you or changed you. Email your story (written or audio) to calmyourcaveman@gmail.com or DM me on Instagram @CalmYourCaveman.

For full shownotes, including resources mentioned, go to: https://www.calmyourcaveman.com/episodes/how-to-stop-absorbing-everyone-else’s-stress