Finding Balance With Physical Boundaries

"So, I decided to try something new the other day—something totally outside of my comfort zone. Usually, I stick to things like Pilates, Aqua Zumba, or water aerobics, but this time I went for a cycle class. And not just the beginner class… no, I went straight for the intermediate one. Let me tell you, it was a challenge. A 55-minute class that pushed me to my limits and left me with a very sore bottom! But you know what? As tough as it was, I walked away with a new appreciation for my body and how it adapts under pressure.

This class made me think about how our bodies find a way to handle difficult things when we're pushed to the limit. It’s not just about physical endurance, but also about how we navigate challenges in life. When we’re under pressure, our bodies and minds can surprise us with how they find ways to get through it, and that’s where we move from simply surviving to truly thriving.

This lesson can apply to more than just a workout class—it’s also about our physical boundaries. We haven’t talked a lot about physical boundaries, but they’re so important. Just like in a workout, we need to respect what our bodies are telling us. It’s easy to ignore physical boundaries, especially when we’re used to pushing ourselves. But just like when you’re learning something new—whether it’s cycling or Pilates—you have to listen to your body, take breaks, and know when to slow down or stop.

Sometimes we break those physical boundaries, either by overextending ourselves or allowing others to cross them. Maybe we’ve allowed someone to be too close or too demanding of our time and energy, or maybe we’ve neglected our own need for rest and care. And when those boundaries are crossed, healing is essential. Just like how you need to rest after a tough workout to recover, your body and mind need space and care to heal when boundaries are broken.

So, how do we heal from broken physical boundaries? Start by reconnecting with yourself. Take a moment—whether it’s in a quiet room, a shower, or maybe even floating in a pool—just to check in. How does your body feel? What do you need right now? This self-awareness helps us understand where we’ve allowed those boundaries to weaken and how we can rebuild them.

Physical health and boundaries go hand in hand. When we’re mindful of our physical limits, we can push ourselves when it’s appropriate, but we can also protect ourselves from harm. It’s okay to challenge yourself, like trying that new workout, but it’s equally important to listen when your body says, ‘I need a break.’

Your body is always communicating with you—whether you’re on a bike, in a pool, or simply going through your day. Respect what it’s telling you. Rebuild those boundaries when they’ve been crossed, and remember that healing is just as much a part of the journey as any challenge you take on.

And hey, as you go about your day, remember this—you are worthy of love, worthy of healing, and worthy of setting the kind of boundaries that reflect your true self. You don’t have to carry those bruises alone, and it's okay to ask for help. Whether it's through a counselor or trusted friend, make sure you have someone in your corner as you heal.

With care and compassion,
Catherine Harlan
Founder of Sparrows of Hope"