What are personal boundaries? They are the invisible dividing line between ourselves and another. We often only notice them when someone that we haven't invited, comes too close. We use boundaries to determine the appropriate degree of interaction with another.
A healthy boundary protects our personal space yet allows healthy realting to take place. A boundary does not cut us off from others. A boundary is like a gate - we can open it to let appropriate people in, and keep it closed to keep others on their side of the fence.
There are endless possible variations to personal boundaries. It depends on how we are, and what we need. So our boundary will move and change just as we do. A boundary is an organic dynamic structure and not at all fixed. See for yourself by noticing how you are when a complete stranger sits next to you on a bus. With some you may be relaxed and open, and with others you may find yourself becoming tight and rigid.
It is an interesting exercise to notice your boundary. Even though you may not have been particularly aware of them before. It may surprise you how it has been operating without your assistance. By noticing how a boundary can work to your benefit it will become clear if it needs adjustment in any way. Notice the variations depending on where you are, what you are doing or who you are with.
Just like a good garden a good boundary requires care and attention. The work involved is well worth the effort to enhance physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Comments or quesitons are welcome in confidence to info@psyche.ie or via the contacts page of my website www.psyche.ie
