On an airplane, you always put your mask on first before helping your fellow seatmates.

You may have heard about the Oxygen Mask Theory from a relative, friend or co-worker. It’s solid advice that directs you to put your oxygen mask on first if the plane is experiencing problems before helping the people around you put on theirs. If everyone followed this directive, there would only be the need to assist the most vulnerable passengers with their masks because everyone else would already have theirs on.

Helping Yourself Allows You to Help Others Better

This theory relates to self-care and how you can better help others. You see, even if people depend on you fully, you have your own set of needs that require attention. If you neglect these needs in favor of putting others first, you’ll eventually pay the price with your physical or mental health. That’s why it’s absolutely imperative to determine what you need to be happy and healthy and make sure that you’re taking care of those needs on a daily basis.

Specific Activities That Allow You to Be Well

Although everyone’s needs differ somewhat, there are universal ones that can be agreed upon. Good self-care requires ample rest, good nutrition, proper hydration, supportive relationships, the satisfaction of basic needs such as shelter and clothing, creative outlets, and thought-provoking, soul-fulfilling work. Everything else you decide to incorporate into your life such as bodywork, physical exercise, regular vacations, journaling, and aromatherapy are just icing on the cake. They make life that much sweeter for you.

Up-Level Your Life by Making Self-Care a Bigger Priority

Apply the Oxygen Mask Theory to your life and self-care routine. The better you are physically and mentally, the more capable you are of caring for others. By incorporating self-care tools such as aromatherapy into your daily schedule, you’re able to take care of your needs and still assist others whenever they need your help. You’re well-rested, nourished, hydrated, and at peace which gives you insight on ways to care for the people in your life better, too.