Sober Synthesis

“The only people who get upset about you setting boundaries are the ones who benefited from you having none.” —Unknown

Topic: Establishing Healthy Personal Boundaries

What are personal boundaries and why are they important?

• Personal boundaries are the limits and rules we set for ourselves within relationships. A person with healthy boundaries can say “no” to others when they want to, but they are also comfortable opening themselves up to intimacy and close relationships. 
• Many people were taught from a young age to prioritize the feelings of others over their own needs. 
• Setting healthy boundaries is necessary for emotional and physical self-care and positive relationships.
• Boundaries differ from person to person and are mediated by variations in culture, personality, and social context.

How do I establish healthy personal boundaries?

• Setting healthy boundaries:
  • Requires self awareness. 
  • Requires clear, compassionate communication. 
  • Requires consistency.
  • Requires accepting discomfort that arises as a result. Note: This is often the hardest step.

• Compassionate and consistent communication requires modulating our autonomic nervous system arousal.
  • A mindfulness practice can support self awareness clarity and help modulate nervous system arousal. 
  • Maintain self care basics: restorative sleep, healthy eating, exercise, abstinence from drugs and alcohol, play/recreation.
• Practicing via role play can significantly enhances learning/neuroplasticity. 

How to Set Healthy Boundaries & Build Positive Relationships (positivepsychology.com)

Proposed questions for thought/sharing:

1. What changes have you made with your personal boundaries and how have those changes supported your recovery/wellness?

2. What are your challenges with personal boundaries? Any ideas for the future?

3. What people in your life can help you develop/practice healthier boundaries?

Disclaimer: This summary is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed.