This is an interesting time to discuss oxygen masks since we have all been wearing various masks for a few months now during this pandemic. If you have ever flown on an airplane (I know many of us have not in awhile) you might hear the message “Put your oxygen mask on before helping others.”
What exactly does this mean?
If you fail to put on your own oxygen mask, you may pass out and cannot be of help to anyone else. It is a simple concept yet many of us are so used to jumping in and helping others to the detriment of our own well-being.
As a parent, your children become your world and you give your all to them. You think of them first when buying things, taking them places, feeding them, etc. the list goes on and on. However, if you think about it…. How is this a disadvantage to you?
Self-care is one of the best things we can do as a person. We need to take care of ourselves and not rely on others for our mental and emotional health. Yet….we DO rely on others. When a big change happens, like a divorce, suddenly we are thrust into a world where we do not know how to function or take care of our basic needs. We are lost.
My challenge to each parent is this….
Take care of YOU first!
Make time each day to work on what is bothering you. Talk to a friend. Journal. Seek a support group. Do what it takes to be healthy and whole. I find when I do this for myself, I have SO much more to give AND I am MUCH better at giving what I can give.
Where is your oxygen mask? Is it handy? Pull it out now and USE IT!!!
Fruit Loops