Do you put your oxygen mask on first?

When you fly on an aeroplane, the flight attendant instructs you to put your oxygen mask on first, before helping others. Why is this an important rule for ensuring survival? Because if you run out of oxygen, you can’t help anyone else with their oxygen mask. This is an important metaphor for those of you who run around taking care of everything and everyone else except yourself.

​Time and time again I hear women say they feel selfish for having alone time.  If you don’t take care of yourself, you can experience burnout, stress, fatigue, reduced mental effectiveness, health problems, anxiety, frustration, inability to sleep and the list goes on… Are you experiencing any of these symptoms?

You are a teacher, helper, advisor and caregiver all wrapped up into one. You take care of your loved ones and help them with their life. What about your life?

It’s time to let go of the guilt and the excuses! Follow these simple yet vital tips:
General

• Get enough rest
• Eat right
• Have your physicals regularly
• Visit your doctor when you require treatment / advice

Daily

• Exercise regularly – go for a walk/jog
• Sit quietly at least 10 minutes – focus on your breathing / do a short guided meditation
• Listen to uplifting music / read an inspiring book
• Write in your journal
• Write a list of what you are grateful for (start a gratitude diary)

Spoil Yourself (Weekly / Monthly)

• Pamper yourself – have a massage, pedicure or facial
• Do an activity you love – dancing, yoga, pilates, sport etc..
• Reduce your stress with laughter - hang out with a fun, uplifting friend that makes you laugh or read jokes​

Remember, it isn’t selfish to take care of yourself, it’s necessary!
​
It's so important to schedule this time into your calendar - make it a daily or even weekly routine. Love yourself inside & out. You will be able to give so much more back. When you fly on an aeroplane, the flight attendant instructs you to put your oxygen mask on first, before helping others. Why is this an important rule for ensuring survival? Because if you run out of oxygen, you can’t help anyone else with their oxygen mask. This is an important metaphor for those of you who run around taking care of everything and everyone else except yourself.