When you think of the word Boundary, what do you think of. I believe the root word has to do with limit- so a limit to a property, with a fence around a boundary, right? Or a limit as to how far you will extend yourself or spend your energy. It’s very useful to work with yourself or a coach/teacher and talk about boundaries – especially if you feel drained or you went through a lot of trauma. Just going over it within or with someone can be very beneficial.
If we check in with ourselves and just ask these types of questions, we can learn a lot: What did I spend my time and energy on today? Where was my focus? Was it useful? Was it a wise way to spend that time and energy? Did value come back? These can all point you in to one thing: You- your energy, attention, focus, is valuable. It has a lot of worth. Like when they say “time is money” or that you “PAY attention”. It’s currency. So once you see that and accept that you, you’re energy, is valuable- sacred. And it’s yours. You can decide what to do with it. Not anyone else. Draw boundaries. Even making small adjustments can change a lot.
Practicing grounding and mindfulness- just checking in with your body. “How am I feeling? Do I have a lot of energy?” Let your intuition really inform you. As opposed to saying “I have to go to this place- do these things- talk about these topics- even though I should be working on something else.” Now you can have a boundary, recognizing your energy is valuable and making that decision. There is a big difference.
The more we practice, of course, the better we get. You might decide you have boundaries in certain areas: Here’s what I will and will not consume- even with information, screens. Here’s what I will and will not tolerate. Here’s what I know to be true and I will not bend on it. Here’s what my mission is and what I’m here for- so why put energy into something else? Even with healing or forgiving- a boundary that you can let something go and heal- as opposed to using energy to figure it out or think about it. Let the natural healing process take place.
There is a lot more on the topic, but those ideas might help you work with it and feel good about it. During a hike recently I was with a group and boundaries came up- someone said “I set a boundary but then feel bad about it.” Recognize that a smart boundary is good for you and it extends out. It helps in so many ways. And you having your gate in place allows you to clear things out and nourish your energy which makes you stronger and better overall.
Thank you for reading. I hope you have a great day.
Get some outdoor time today. Wishing you health and strength!
