Rules play an important role in establishing safety and trust at the beginning of a relationship. They help define boundaries and create structure, which makes communication more effective and comfortable. In group work and therapy, rules play a particularly important role as they create a stable and supportive space for working through emotional and interpersonal problems. In the context of the Gestalt approach, rules also help establish clarity and understanding between participants. They define what is acceptable and what is not acceptable in the communication process, which helps create an atmosphere of trust and respect. For example, a group may have rules of confidentiality, which helps participants feel protected and free to express their thoughts and feelings. Let's talk about boundaries - rigid and labile. Rigid boundaries are clear and rigid boundaries that are stable and difficult to change. They can be well defined and protected, providing a person with a sense of security and stability. However, boundaries that are too rigid can inhibit interaction and communication with others, creating a wall between the person and the world around them. On the other hand, labile boundaries are more flexible and changeable boundaries that can change depending on the situation or interaction with other people. People with labile boundaries may be more open and adaptive, but they may also experience greater vulnerability and instability. How does this relate to rules? Rules can serve as a form of regulating boundaries in communication and interaction. They define what is acceptable and what is not acceptable in a given context, creating structure and clarity. For people with rigid boundaries, rules can provide a clear framework and a sense of security, while for people with labile boundaries, rules can be something more flexible and adaptive, allowing them to feel more comfortable in different situations. However, rules need to be flexible and adaptable to changing needs and situations. This allows you to create an atmosphere of openness and support, where each participant feels comfortable and important. Once the first phase of establishing rules has passed and the participants have established mutual trust, the rules can gradually be replaced by a more flexible and open relationship. The same is true in real life, not in group therapy. It is important to remember that it is quite difficult to communicate across rules and boundaries. Creating deep and authentic relationships requires opening up, being vulnerable, and being willing to connect on a deeper level..