In the midst of worldwide events that are, oftentimes, tragic and day-to-day experiences, either professional or personal, that may be traumatic, it is all the more important to engage in activities that are pleasurable. In the spirit of self-care, setting healthy boundaries for our level of engagement in external suffering is a critical self-preservation tool. It may seem counterintuitive to establish distance at a time that requires increased connection. However, over-investment in external suffering can create a backlash, in the form of heightened internal suffering, aka vicarious trauma (compassion fatigue, secondary traumatization).

While that sounds like a logical backdrop, it may still feel somewhat irreverent, potentially uncaring and/or possibly disrespectful to laugh and let loose. However, it is through our ability to disconnect with our connected-self, that self that links up with the suffering of others, and reconnect with our selfish-self, that self that thinks about what makes US happy,  that we can tap into the light and unfettered abandon that clears the mind and feeds the soul. By helping ourselves, we can then help others. Unfortunately, we may have received mixed messages about this practice and, therefore, feel conflicted.

We can make a shift though. What one thing can you commit to doing TODAY on behalf of only yourself? (Including reading this blog 😃 )

Click to access Conf14_Boundaries.pdf

Here is my favorite make-me-laugh video of the week: