Toxic people are an unfortunate reality of life, and while you can’t always avoid them, you can change how you deal with them.
Instead of getting sucked into their negativity, relying on your spirituality can protect your energy and maintain your inner peace. That doesn’t mean pretending you’re perfect or above it all — in reality, it’s a way of staying connected to yourself when people try to throw you off course. See if any of these tips help you out.
1. Visualise a protective shield around you.
Source: Unsplash Before facing a toxic person, take a moment to imagine a shield of light or energy surrounding you. A protective barrier helps you deflect negativity while keeping your inner peace intact. Picture their harmful words or actions bouncing right off. It’s a simple yet powerful way to feel emotionally safer.
2. Ground yourself with deep breathing.
When a toxic person starts getting under your skin, pause and take a few deep breaths. Inhale slowly, hold for a moment, and exhale fully. Grounding yourself with your breath helps you stay calm and present, making it easier to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting emotionally.
3. Practise the art of non-reaction.
Sometimes the best way to deal with toxicity is to give it *nothing* to feed off. When you practise non-reaction, you withhold your energy from their drama. Let their words float past you like leaves on a river. Staying neutral robs them of the reaction they’re craving.
4. Use affirmations to stay centred.
Affirmations like, “I am calm, I am strong, I am protected,” can remind you of your inner power. Repeat these phrases silently when someone’s negativity is getting to you. Affirmations help you redirect your focus and reinforce your sense of peace.
5. Meditate to clear negative energy.
After dealing with a toxic person, take a few minutes to meditate. Sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Imagine any negative energy being released with each exhale. It sounds simple, but it helps you reset and let go of what doesn’t serve you.
6. Set clear, compassionate boundaries.
Boundaries are essential for protecting your energy. Be clear about what you will and won’t tolerate, and communicate it kindly but firmly. For example, “I’m not comfortable discussing that,” or “I need some space right now.” Boundaries are a form of self-respect and spiritual self-care.
7. Send them love — from a distance.
It might sound counterintuitive, but sending love to toxic people (mentally, not physically!) helps release your resentment. Visualise them surrounded by light and love, then let it go. Doing so frees you from holding onto negativity while keeping a healthy distance.
8. Practise gratitude to shift your focus.
Toxic interactions can leave you feeling drained and negative. To counter this, take a moment to list a few things you’re grateful for. Gratitude helps shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s right, reminding you of the good in your life.
9. Use crystals to protect your energy.
Crystals like black tourmaline, obsidian, or amethyst are known for their protective properties. Carry one in your pocket or wear it as jewellery when you know you’ll be dealing with a toxic person. Whether you believe in their power or not, having a physical reminder of protection can be comforting.
10. Practise forgiveness (for your own peace).
Source: Unsplash Forgiving someone doesn’t mean you condone their behaviour — it means you’re freeing yourself from the burden of resentment. Forgiveness is a spiritual release that helps you let go of negativity. Remember, it’s more for your benefit than theirs.
11. Imagine cutting energetic cords.
Toxic people can create invisible “energy cords” that drain you. Visualise yourself holding a pair of scissors and cutting these cords. Imagine feeling lighter and freer as you sever these connections. It’s a symbolic way to reclaim your energy and power.
12. Connect with nature to recharge.
Spending time in nature helps cleanse and reset your energy. Go for a walk, sit under a tree, or listen to birdsong. The natural world has a calming, grounding effect that can help you shake off the negativity from toxic interactions.
13. Trust your intuition.
Your gut feelings are there for a reason. If someone’s energy feels off or a situation feels draining, trust yourself and step back. Your intuition is a powerful spiritual tool that helps you protect yourself before things get out of hand.
14. Focus on your own energy, not theirs.
Instead of getting caught up in someone else’s toxicity, focus on maintaining your own positive energy. Remind yourself that you are responsible for your own vibe. By keeping your energy high and balanced, you’re less likely to be affected by their negativity.
15. End your time with them with a mental cleanse.
After dealing with a toxic person, imagine washing your hands or taking a mental shower. Visualise the negativity washing away, leaving you clean and refreshed. This ritual helps you symbolically leave their toxicity behind and move forward with a clear mind.
