Soulful and simple ways to honor the mother in your life
It’s May, the time of year when Spring is in full bloom in most temperate parts of the world. Historically, ancient cultures took this time of natural fertility and abundance to honor Mother Nature and other representations of the mother archetype. The Greeks revered Cybele, a mother goddess, while Romans celebrated Hilaria. The Norse celebrated Frigg, wife of Odin, often featured with her distaff, a tool used in spinning wool. And in the US and parts of Europe, the traditions of Mother’s Day and Mothering Sunday have long been a springtime ritual.
Mother’s Day as we know it took root in 1907, when Anna Jarvis organized the first celebration in honor of her own mother’s devotion—and mothers everywhere. Ironically, she became dismayed by how quickly it turned into a commercial spectacle. By the 1920s, Anna was actively protesting the very industries—cards, candies, and cut flowers—that had co-opted the day she’d hoped would be sacred and sincere.
In that spirit, we thought we’d share a few ideas to celebrate mothers—no shopping involved. We hope you’ll find something that inspires you for whatever stage of motherhood your loved one is in, and whether they are near or far.
Presence for Mother’s Day
- Take Her on a Sunrise Nature Walk
The early morning hours, before the world wakes up, are a wonderful time to connect. Perfect for those early risers. (If not—let her sleep in!)
- Work or Play in Her Garden
This is especially great if there have been major projects waiting to be done. Mothers love having others with them—many hands make light work!
- Hand Write a Letter or Poem
Handwritten messages are a dying art. Taking the time to personalize your thoughts is always a welcome gift.
- Run an Herbally-Infused Bath
Bonus points if you can source them from the garden—look for lavender, calendula, or mint. Epsom salts add relaxation.
- Prepare a Farm-to-Table Breakfast
Use what’s already in the pantry or garden, but if you need to round out the offerings with a few purchased items, we won’t tell.
- Go Forest Bathing
It’s a fancy way of saying “Nature Walk,” but it’s also a Japanese philosophy of immersing oneself in nature known as Shinrin-Yoku. Go somewhere with solitude and allow for a meditative, mindful sensory experience.
- Give Her a Tech-Free Hour or Day of Peace
Offer to wrangle kids and manage tasks.
- Make a Flower Crown Together
Little ones especially love helping with this one! Look for how-tos online.
- Host a Picnic in a Park or the Backyard
Make it sustainable and fancy with cloth napkins and reusable items.
- Try a Mother-Child Yoga or Meditation Session
Mindful mothering is always just the thing.
- Create a Gratitude Jar Just for Her
Make it unique with decorations, inspirational quotes, photos, and special notes from you.
- Record a Family Gratitude Video or Audio
Especially great for mothers at a distance so they can see and hear you.
- Stargaze with a Blanket and Hot Tea
End the day with a cozy, relaxing dose of wonder.
Mindfulness Matters
Gift giving is a lovely way to celebrate someone, and certainly receiving gifts is perfectly aligned with many people’s love language. In these high-paced, modern times, it’s easy to forget the simple pleasures of sharing thoughts and spending time instead of dollars. And the payoff is a stronger, healthier bond.
It also happens to be incredibly sustainable as well. Holidays in the United States can include a lot of waste—both of money and material that just goes into a landfill after one use. Gifts of presence are inherently eco-friendly.
We think Anna Jarvis would approve.
Thank you for stopping by! We hope the mothers in your life feel celebrated and connected this Mother’s Day. Be sure to give us a follow on Instagram, and sign up for our Ewe’s Letter below if you’re not already a Dream Team insider. Until we see you again—sweet dreams!
