Depth of processing: Why do highly sensitive people feel overwhelmed during rest?
- Dr Pranita Rao
- Jul 4
- 3 min read
What is the science surrounding the depth of processing in highly sensitive people?
Scientists suggest that highly sensitive people have default brain networks that become activated during deep, detailed thinking, language usage, and while engaging with different stimuli. These activated brain networks were found when highly sensitive individuals weren't focusing on any particular tasks either. Studies conclude that highly sensitive individuals process brain inputs more deeply and clearly, even when their brain is in a rest state.
This research study gives us insight into processing too much information as sensitive souls. It assures us that there is a reason for highly sensitive people to become stimulated or overwhelmed quickly. It helps us understand that our high sensitivity isn't our fault, but rather a physiological response.
Often, we might be self-critical and blame ourselves for feeling tired even when we haven't done much work. At such times, it might be helpful to remind ourselves that highly sensitive people have a brain network which works on default mode and is constantly processing information even when we are at rest. It's not because we are being lazy or complaining about life unnecessarily.
I find that giving ourselves scientific evidence for being unique makes it easier for us to embrace ourselves.
Wouldn't you agree?
How does abstract art impact information processing in highly sensitive people?
The abstract art in this post represents the nerve networks in highly sensitive people. There are two colorful nerve synapses passing information to each other. Nerve synapses don't exactly look like the ones in my artwork. However, the idea was to showcase an artistic perspective towards the depth of processing.
The shades of blue of the nerve synapses represent emotions. The dull shades of red, yellow, green, and blue around the nerve synapses hold both the neurons together, showcasing the need for support for those identifying as highly sensitive people.
In my experience, abstract art can help highly sensitive people process information more quickly. As a highly sensitive person, I have experienced a decrease in my overwhelm after painting with colors like white, pink, or blue. Often, abstract artists could be thinking non-linearly while painting (unless one is replicating another artist's artwork). I theorise that non-linear thinking helps in expressing one's ideas freely. Freedom of expression allows one to process information without inhibitions, thus decreasing overwhelm.
So, my dear reader, if you are a highly sensitive abstract artist, please know that you can utilise abstract art to support yourself.
What are you waiting for? Let's get our brushes out!
-3, 2, 1, Cheers,
Pranita
Science communicator | Author | Intuitive abstract artist | Energy worker
Reference: Brain Response of Sensitive People to Emotional Pictures – Sensitivity Research. Sensitivity Research. Published April 12, 2020. Accessed July 4, 2025. https://sensitivityresearch.com/brain-response-of-sensitive-people-to-emotional-pictures/
Please Note:
The word count for this post is 428.
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Disclaimer - Please note that the information on this site and blog is not medical information. Expressive Sensitive is a space to inform, educate, and engage highly sensitive people about the relationship between abstract art and high sensitivity. Please be advised that I utilize my education and experience as an artist, self-healer, energy worker, and a science communicator to create authentic content in this space.
To get medical support, please reach out to a qualified medical professional. Please reach out to authorized educational professionals to replicate my artistic or emotional coping methods.
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