Last Updated on May 4, 2025
Mother’s Day is one of my favorite holidays—a time to celebrate motherhood.
As a teacher, I spent hours helping students create gifts for their moms. As a daughter, I did the same for my own mother and mother-in-law.
But I often wondered: Does my mom love handmade crafts? My mother-in-law does, but what about my own mom? Trying to figure out everyone’s love language became exhausting, and the pressure to make everyone feel special left my own cup empty.
After experiencing two miscarriages, I realized how much of a blessing motherhood is. My body endured so much to bring life into this world—why not celebrate that?
But over time, Mother’s Day started to feel like a to-do list rather than a celebration. I was so focused on planning for the moms in my life that I forgot to pause and appreciate the day myself.
That’s when I decided to redefine Mother’s Day.
No more planning elaborate brunches, hunting for perfect gifts, crafting handmade presents, or stressing over dinner reservations. Instead, I began to see Mother’s Day as an opportunity to rest and recharge.
At first, the idea of taking the day for myself felt foreign. How could I possibly spend Mother’s Day without my kids? But the truth is, we pour into our children 365 days a year. Taking a moment to care for ourselves isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. It allows us to replenish our spirit and reflect the love we so freely give to our families.
The Heart of Rest
Grocery lists, birthday parties, holidays, homework, bills … oh my! We truly are the keepers of all things. Scripture invites us to embrace rest as a sacred practice.
In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
As mothers, we carry the weight of love and responsibility every single day. Rest isn’t just allowed—it’s a gift we are invited to receive.
Even Jesus modeled rest. He withdrew from the crowds to pray and recharge (Luke 5:16), showing us that stepping away isn’t just wise—it’s necessary. So why do we feel guilty about pausing for ourselves?
Overcoming Guilt: Why Taking Time for Yourself Matters
It’s easy to feel guilty when we take time away from our families, but a rested and renewed mother can pour more love into her home. By stepping away for a moment of stillness, you honor both your humanity and your role as a mother.
When your children see you caring for yourself, they learn that love is a balance of giving and receiving. You’re modeling emotional health, boundaries, and the truth that everyone deserves moments of rest.
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What I See is Love: Loving Yourself as You Love Others
I wrote a children’s book called, What I See is Love, and the message is simple: love is found in everyday moments.
But I’ve come to realize that love isn’t just about what we give—it’s also about what we allow ourselves to receive. Prioritizing self-care teaches our children that love includes taking care of ourselves, not just others.
I want my children to know that while I love being their mom, I am also a person who needs quiet moments to recharge. When I give myself that grace, I show up with more patience, joy, and presence. Motherhood is a beautiful gift, but it’s also demanding. The best way to love my family is by first extending that same love to myself.
5 Ideas for a Day of Rest for Moms
If you’re craving a slower, more intentional Mother’s Day, here are a few ways to celebrate yourself:
- Spa Day or At-Home Retreat – Treat yourself to a massage, a facial, or a long bath with your favorite book and a cup of tea.
- Solo Coffee Date & Journaling – Spend an hour alone reflecting on the joys and challenges of motherhood.
- Yoga Class or Nature Walk – Move your body and embrace the peace that comes from being in nature.
- Shopping Alone – Stroll through your favorite shops without an agenda or interruptions.
- Quiet Worship & Prayer – Dedicate time to sit in God’s presence, meditate on scripture, and let His love fill your heart.
Whatever you choose, let it be something that nourishes your soul and reminds you of the incredible work you do every day.
Embrace the Gift of Rest
This Mother’s Day, I encourage you to redefine what the day means for you. Maybe that means sleeping in, spending the day alone, or simply allowing yourself to be celebrated.
However you choose to spend the day, may it be a reflection of the love you give all year long. And may you remember this truth: Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s an act of love, for both you and your family.