December Boundaries and Self Care
December is for Setting Boundaries and Making Time for Self-Care Aanii! December is here already! It has been an eventful year for everyone. Here at the Advocacy Resource Center, we have covered some intense topics throughout the year, including human trafficking, stalking, teen dating violence, sexual assault, missing and murdered indigenous relatives, abused pets, residential boarding schools, domestic violence, and cultural abuse, just to name a few.
This month, ARC will focus on decompressing and taking time for ourselves. Learning how to set healthy boundaries for our mental health is essential, especially during this time of year. Like an invisible fence, boundaries define the space we need for self-care and protecting our mental health and emotional well-being. Boundaries are crucial and must be communicated to maintain healthy relationships to help create peace within yourself. How do we establish boundaries? We must first understand our limits. Becoming self-aware is the first step in setting healthy boundaries. Honoring your beliefs and values, recognizing your needs, and knowing your emotional limits are essential in drawing boundaries in a personal relationship. Identifying situations or people that make you uncomfortable or that drain your emotional energy is the foundation for creating healthy boundaries.
Communicating your boundaries is necessary once the boundaries are clearly defined. Express your limits respectfully and assertively. Be direct and avoid being vague by leaving room for exceptions to your rules. Establishing boundaries through effective communication helps others understand your expectations and creates respect within your relationships. Learning to say no is imperative in creating boundaries. Saying NO is not a sign of weakness or being rude to others. It clarifies that your limits are not negotiable, and you deserve respect. Do your best not to succumb to external pressures; you are working hard to create peace in your world, not add unnecessary stress. Your consistency reinforces your boundaries and maintains your new foundation.
Setting your limits is a form of self-love. It is a commitment to your emotional health and well-being. Make time for self-care activities and make them a habit. Taking care of yourself allows you to become authentic and helps you stay true to yourself. As with most things in life, things change.
Your boundaries and limits may be evaluated or revisited occasionally. Your opinions, responsibilities, beliefs, schedules, and values are always subject to change. If you need to reduce, modify, or eliminate certain boundaries, clearly communicate your limits and remain consistent. Life is short; spend your precious time doing things that make you happy with people who make you feel your best. Do not be afraid to ask for help when needed.
Help is always available, and support is provided at 906-632-1808. Visit our website at www.arcsaulttribe.com for more information. Happy Holidays from the Advocacy Resource Center! Wishing you health and happiness in the New Year!