Don’t Jump on The “Crazy Train!”
Ever feel like you’re being pulled onto someone else’s "Crazy Train?" You’re having a relatively calm day, everything’s just fine and then suddenly, here comes the boss with the frantic energy, the friend with the endless drama, or the parent detailing their latest medical crisis.
Their whirlwind energy yanks you from your center and thrusts you into the chaos of THEIR story. You may not even notice what’s happening. All you know is that before the interaction, you’re feeling grounded, and afterward, your breath is shallow, your jaw is clenched, and your mind is spinning.
As Yogis, we tend to be empathetic people—always wanting to save people, offer help, and ease others’ suffering.
Sometimes, we empathize so much that we absorb other people’s energy to our own detriment. We take on others' anxiety, urgency, or disorganization. We unconsciously match that energy, letting it dictate our own state of being as we try to alleviate their suffering.
It would be wonderful if it were an even exchange—if our Zen and calm could somehow be energetically transferred to others.
But in most cases, it doesn’t work that way.
We unknowingly and willingly hop on someone’s Crazy Train, derailing our own inner peace.
Here’s the thing: Boarding someone’s Crazy Train…is a choice. But with some self-awareness and preparation, we can make a better one.
Keep Your Feet On Solid Ground
When we’re grounded, we respond instead of react. We maintain clarity, purpose, and calm, no matter the noise around us. This protects our mental and emotional well-being and allows us to be more effective and present in all our lives. Imagine being the eye of the storm—calm, centered, and unshaken.
Practical Strategies to Staying Grounded
1. Set Clear Boundaries, Protect Them, and Honor Them
Not every demand requires your immediate attention. You can set firm boundaries politely that protect your time and energy. If your boss/partner/friend/ thrives in high-speed chaos, acknowledge her energy without mirroring it. Say, “I hear this is urgent; I’ll prioritize it as soon as I can.” Then, address the concern when you know you’re responding and not reacting. Honor your emotions. They are just as important as hers.
2. Be Prepared
When you know you’re going to interact with someone who tends to pull you onto their Crazy Train, prepare beforehand. Use a mantra. I’ll repeat to myself something like, “I stay grounded in my own energy,” or “I honor my own energy in this moment” or “Their story is not my story.”
3. Put Your Practice into Practice
Just as in your yoga or meditation practice, when you focus on breath and sensations of the body, bring the same awareness into this interaction.
Breathe
Breath is your anchor. When you feel someone else’s energy pulling you, take a deep breath, hold it for a moment, and exhale slowly. This simple act signals to your nervous system that you are safe and grounded.
Be Aware of Sensations
When the energy around you gets overwhelming, focus on physical sensations. Be aware of your heart rate, the tension building in your shoulders, feel your feet on the ground, the chair supporting you, etc. This keeps you connected to the present moment and less susceptible to being swept away.
If you find that you’re starting to get sucked into the other person’s story–taking it on as your own–repeat your mantra. “I am grounded and present in this moment.” Or another mantra that resonates with you and your heart.
4. Practice Non-Attachment
Remind yourself: Other people’s energy is not your responsibility. Visualize their frantic energy as a train passing by. You’re at the station, observing, but you choose not to board.
5. Lean into Gratitude/Shift Your Energy
Gratitude grounds us in positivity and abundance. When the Crazy Train threatens to derail you, pause to think of three things you’re grateful for in that moment. This simple practice shifts your focus.
The Bigger Picture: Building Resilience
Over time, you will build resilience. You’ll no longer feel drained or frazzled by other people’s energy. Instead, you’ll navigate even the most chaotic situations gracefully and easily.
You’re in Charge of Your Energy
The world will always have its Crazy Trains, but you have the power to choose how you engage with them. Staying grounded doesn’t mean isolating yourself or ignoring others; it means honoring your peace while being present for life’s demands. It’s a skill, an art, and a daily practice—one that transforms how you live and how you thrive.
