Sensing Boundaries in the Body
A somatic boundaries worksheet identifying body signals of yes, no and maybe, personal space preferences and a situation to practise.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Somatic · Boundaries
- Approach / concern
- Somatic
- Technique
- Somatic · Boundaries
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Sensing Boundaries in the Body?
Sensorimotor approaches help clients notice bodily signals related to boundaries and personal space, supporting assertiveness and safety, especially after trauma.
Why it works
Ogden et al. (2006) describe boundary exercises in sensorimotor psychotherapy. Interoception and proprioception are core elements of somatic therapy (Payne et al., 2015).
When to use it
- People-pleasing
- Trauma survivors
- Difficulty saying no
- Relationship work
How to use it in session
- Recall yes and no experiences.
- Note body signals.
- Explore personal space.
- Plan practice.
- Reflect.
Clinician tips
- Go gently with trauma survivors.
- Practise distance exercises in session.
- Link to verbal boundary skills.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Can my body really tell me my boundaries?
Body signals often reflect comfort or discomfort before we consciously decide.
What if I can’t feel these signals?
That’s common, especially after trauma; awareness grows with practice.
References
Ogden, P., Minton, K., & Pain, C. (2006). Trauma and the body: A sensorimotor approach to psychotherapy. W. W. Norton.
Payne, P., Levine, P. A., & Crane-Godreau, M. A. (2015). Somatic experiencing: Using interoception and proprioception as core elements of trauma therapy. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 93.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
