Community regards every participant as an individual, yes?, and with that individualism lies unique experiences before they reach a community space. Each person has memories, thoughts, behaviors, and ways of using their own interpersonal communication. Now, how are we to know where boundaries are set? Where are each person’s triggers? Cultural perspectives are also a care factor within communities.

Ethics and Agreements are a way to enhance communication by setting clear boundaries based on a soft set of ley lines. They provide a working framework of expectations. Boundaries are not restrictions as much as they help acheive an architecture of safety. Without them, a circle becomes this shapeless field where expectations blur and harm can quietly grow. Nobody wants that. We use some common ethical boundaries such as:

Confidentiality agreement that establishes mutual trust.
A clear distinction between sharing and advising.
Cutural humility with responsivity and equity for inclusive curiosity.
No substance use during or around meetings.
A trauma-informed tone that normalizes pacing, consent, and emotional regulation.
No diagnosing, no coaching, no rescuing - just listening and reflecting.
Active listening - as a way to sit with what is being shared between individuals.

Boundaries also protect the spaceholders and guardians. When lines are clear, you are free to be present without feeling responsible for anyone’s healing outcomes. The spaceholder and guardian maintains the container, the vibe, the pace and environment, not steer personal process.

Holding ethical boundaries comes from a place of care, universal love, and grounded tenderness, not limitation.

They allow participants to relax into their experiences and authenticity.