Get it on Google Play

Episode 229 - Boundaries in Buddhism

Episode 229 - Boundaries in Buddhism

Author: JoAnn Fox: Buddhist Teacher May 26, 2026 Duration: 38:03
Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox
ReligionReligion & SpiritualityBuddhismSpirituality

In Buddhism, we're encouraged to cherish others more and deepen our compassion. Some may wonder if there is a contradiction between these heart-opening practices and having healthy boundaries.

But here is the truth: even the Buddha set boundaries.

In the texts, the Buddha frequently chose who to engage with, when to enter noble silence, and how to protect himself so he could serve the world effectively. In fact, true compassion requires boundaries. Sometimes the kindest thing to do for another is to set a strong boundary.

In this episode, JoAnn Fox explores the concept of boundaries through a Buddhist lens. We look at how creating a boundary isn't an act of anger or separation; it's an act of wise compassion for ourselves and others.

According to the American Psychological Association, healthy boundaries are not "walls" to keep people out, but rather "gates" that allow you to manage your energy and safety.

Buddhism offers perspectives to help us find the sweet spot between "porous" boundaries that leave us depleted, and "rigid" boundaries that keep us isolated or limit our growth.

" All the happiness in the world arises from wishing others to be happy

All the suffering in the world arises from wishing ourselves (alone) to be happy."

—Shantideva, Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life

 

Shantideva (1997). A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life. Translated by Vesna and B. Alan Wallace. Shambala Publications. 

 

Find us at the links below: 

Our Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/BuddhismForEveryone

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone

Private Facebook Group:: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/

Website: Buddhismforeveryone.com

Instagram: @buddhism4everyone

X: @Joannfox77

TikTok: @buddhism4everyone

YouTube: @Buddhism4Everyone

To learn more about the new Wednesday evening drop-in classes on Zoom, visit https://buddhismforeveryone.com/meditation-classes-for-peace

Interested in an online Study Program, visit https://buddhismforeveryone.com/ongoing-buddhist-study-program

To learn about Buddhist Coaching with JoAnn Fox visit www.BuddhismforEveryone.com or email JoAnn Fox at joann@buddhismforeveryone.com


You'll find Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox to be a conversation that feels both timeless and immediately useful. JoAnn Fox, a Buddhist teacher with over two decades of experience, guides these discussions with a genuine warmth and a welcome touch of humor, making profound ideas feel accessible. This isn't about abstract philosophy; it's about the tangible ways these ancient practices can reshape our modern days. Each episode, released every other week, delves into practical applications. You might explore how to cultivate patience during a frustrating commute, find a deeper sense of contentment amidst daily routines, or develop the compassionate resilience the world needs. The podcast serves as a gentle, consistent reminder that spiritual growth isn't separate from ordinary life-it's woven right into it. JoAnn's approach demystifies meditation and mindfulness, framing them as tools for anyone seeking more peace or clarity. Whether you're completely new to these concepts or looking to deepen an existing practice, the conversations meet you where you are, offering insights that encourage reflection and, most importantly, action in your own life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Official website RSS
Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox
Podcast Episodes
Episode 200 - Living Generously [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:06
What does it mean to live generously? In this episode of Buddhism for Everyone, we explore the subtle ways we can practice abandoning stealing—not just materially, but in the countless small ways we might take without re…
Episode 199 - A Disciplined Mind Brings Happiness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:49
Buddha taught that "A disciplined mind brings happiness." In this episode, we explore how shedding the habits of mind that are harmful to ourselves or others is the key to our own happiness. In the stillness of reflectio…
Episode 198 - The Five Gatekeepers of Speech [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:50
The Buddha, in his gentle wisdom, offered us a path to mindful speech through what he called "The Five Gatekeepers of Speech." These gatekeepers stand like sentinels, reminding us to pause before we speak. We ask ourselv…
Episode 197 - Metta Practice [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:32
Metta, or loving-kindness, is a beautiful practice in Buddhism that calls on the heart to soften, to expand, to reach out with the wish for others's happiness and well-being. It's about nurturing love, not just for those…
Episode 196 - Making mindful choices [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:06
This episode explores how to make mindful choices that lead to happiness and well-being in the future. We can learn how to distinguish between virtuous actions and nonvirtuous actions Virtuous actions are those that lead…
Episode 195 - Feel before you act [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:40
In this episode we explore one of the core teachings of the Buddha—the Five Aggregates and their connection to our problems and suffering. The Buddha taught that life is pervaded by dukkha, which means dissatisfaction or…
Episode 194 - Enjoying without attachment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:17
Joy and pleasures are woven into the fabric of our lives. The teachings of Buddha invite us to dance with moments of delight without the chains of attachment. In this episode, we explore how to savor the pleasures of lif…
Episode 193: Compassion as antidote to anger [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:17
For the average person, Moments of anger are inevitable. They can flare up in response to various triggers, from personal frustrations to global injustices. However, according to the Buddha's teachings, there is a powerf…
Episode 192 - Solving Anger with Dharma [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:40
In this episode, we delve into a universal human experience: anger. But fear not! We're not just exploring the problem; we're diving into solutions. Get ready for an enlightening journey as we uncover practical strategie…
Important Announcement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:32
Virtual Classes with JoAnn Fox start this Saturday, March 2nd! You can enroll any time! What: An ongoing study program to practice the entire path of Buddhism. Join us at any point! When: Saturdays 10 am EST Why: People…

«12345»