Every year, Mother’s Day means more to me than just cards or bouquets. It marks a shift in the season. It's a signal that we’ve officially made it past the last frost here in New Jersey where the earth softens, the soil warms, and everything starts to stir again.
For me, this time of year always brings a sense of anticipation. We begin turning our attention outward: into our gardens, into our routines, and into our relationships. We roll up our sleeves, start planting, and begin the slow, steady work of growth in our gardens and in ourselves.
And in that transition, I always find myself thinking about the mothers and caregivers in my life; especially my own mom, who has always had a quiet strength and a generous heart. She has a way of giving without ever making it about her. It’s something I admire deeply; something I now understand a little better as I get older.
Because the truth is, giving like that takes a toll. Whether you’re a mom, a caregiver, or just someone who shows up for others, it’s easy to pour out without ever stopping to refill. So this year, I’m thinking of Mother’s Day not just as a celebration, but as a reminder. A reminder that selflessness deserves replenishment. That the ones who care for others need to care for themselves, too. That nurturing ourselves isn’t indulgent, it’s necessary.
If you’re a mom, or if you know one who could use a little permission to slow down, here are a few simple ways I’ve been thinking about to help refill your cup this season:
- Create a Morning Ritual
Lately I’ve been stepping outside with my coffee before the day begins. Just sitting, listening to the birds, and letting the light come up. It’s five or ten minutes of quiet that somehow sets the tone for the whole day. If you can, make space for that kind of stillness. It doesn’t need to be long, it just needs to be yours.
- Draw a Long, Restorative Bath
Transform your tub into your own sanctuary. Add some lavender soaking salts or a bath bomb that smells like spring. Light a candle. Play something soft. Let the day fall away and just be where you are.
- Start a Journal Practice
I'm a big fan of journaling every evening. Nothing structured, just a place to let thoughts land. A few sentences each evening before bed can help recenter your energy and give you some insight into what you really need. It’s one of the simplest tools I’ve found for realignment.
- Reconnect with Nature
Even just a short walk outside can shift everything. Pay attention to the warmth of the sun, the scent of blossoms, the way the light moves through the trees. Nature has a way of reminding us that it’s okay to slow down.
- Schedule Time to Fully Unplug
A spa day, whether it’s a massage, a facial, or simply time away from the noise, isn’t about luxury, it’s about return. There’s power in being cared for, in tuning into your body, and in letting yourself rest. It’s one of the most generous things you can do for yourself.
As we move outside to plant flowers and vegetables in our gardens, let’s not forget to plant seeds of care and renewal within ourselves, too. Growth doesn’t happen without nourishment and neither does resilience.
So this Mother’s Day, give your mom (or yourself) something lasting. Something that says: you deserve this. Not because you’ve done it all, but because you’re worth resting, receiving, and being nurtured too.