When we think of Centaury we usually consider the issue of boundaries, since those who need it are unable to say No to requests for help or attention.
There’s a Meatloaf song called, ‘I would do anything for love
but I won’t do that’, currently the theme song for a UK TV advert. It attempts
to convey the message that however much we want to please people at Christmas,
we shouldn’t let it go against our own values, wishes, or need for self-care.
However, maintaining or erecting boundaries does not mean
trying to control other people’s behaviour; it means preserving our autonomy by
not allowing them to exploit our willingness to help, usurp our needs or time, invade
our space or decide our commitments.
People who need Centaury are generous in spirit. Service to others may even be their life
mission, but it needs to be undertaken with discernment and self-awareness.
Their ‘weakness’ is one of the kindest and gentlest in the range as they so
much want to help, and their good hearts will not let them say no. Centaury gives and gives, well beyond the
need for rest and respite.
And they loathe conflict and often agree to help, or get involved,
rather than risk hurting or offending others.
By taking Centaury they learn the authenticity of maintaining their own
values, their own priorities, and need for relaxation and space. Dr Bach expressed
so sweetly the mind-set of Centaury types: “… I have learnt to hate strength
and power and dominion … just for the moment I would rather that I suffered
than that I caused one moment’s pain to my brother.”[1]
The positive emotions of all the flower remedies have
sterling qualities and, once back in balance, a Centaury person is ‘One who
serves wisely and quietly. One who knows when to give or when to withhold.’[2]
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| Photo: by 822640 on Pixabay |
“The boundary to what we accept is the boundary to our freedom.” Tara Brach
