Episode 6: What Chronic Illness Taught Me About Boundaries

In this episode of Both Sides of the Couch, Kari explores one of her favorite topics, boundaries, through both a therapist’s and a chronically ill person’s lens. She reflects on how the body sometimes enforces limits long before the mind does, especially when chronic pain, fatigue, or stress make “pushing through” impossible.

Kari shares how she’s learned to honor physical boundaries just as much as interpersonal ones with family, friends, clients, and even herself. She dives into the difference between boundaries and consequences, the grief that can come when others don’t respect our limits, and why enforcing boundaries is an act of self-respect, not rejection.

She also discusses how boundaries evolve over time, how to negotiate them in relationships, and why clear communication makes them healthier and less intimidating. Whether it’s saying “no” to a draining conversation, recognizing your body’s need for rest, or renegotiating time with a loved one, Kari reminds listeners that good boundaries protect both connection and well-being.

✨ Takeaway: Boundaries aren’t walls, they’re clarity. Start treating your body’s signals and your relationships’ needs as part of the same conversation.