What is an Empath?

I found this article from the Mind Unleashed very interesting, and was surprised by how much this describes me.

                                     http://themindunleashed.org/2013/10/30-traits-of-empath.html

"Being an empath is when you are affected by other people’s energies, and have an innate ability to intuitively feel and perceive others.  Your life is unconsciously influenced by others’ desires, wishes, thoughts, and moods.  Being an empath is  much more than being highly sensitive and it’s not just limited to emotions.  Empaths can perceive physical sensitivities and spiritual urges, as well as just knowing the motivations and intentions of other people.  You either are an empath or you aren’t.  It’s not a trait that is learned."  

I found this article to be so accurate in describing a variety of complex traits that I have (I discovered that I pretty much have all 30 of the traits described!), and found some consolation in knowing that this is often the cause of unexplained fatigue or physical symptoms.  I plan to learn more about what being an empathic person is about so that I can better take care of myself and ultimately use this gift to help others when possible.