With Mother's Day approaching, many people will be honoring their mothers, grandmothers, and other maternal figures.
Our mothers, whether biological or adoptive, are vital in shaping our identities and guiding our moral compass during our early years.
Mother's Day is a day to honor mothers, but we rarely hear about the significant advantages that this celebration may have on mothers, advantages that can spread across the family.
Here are some ideas to improve the wellbeing of mothers and their loved ones on Mother's Day and every day.
Reduce Mom's stress and increase her happiness
Mothers are generally happier and less worried when they feel loved and appreciated.
Many, nevertheless, may encounter difficulties that worsen their stress levels and cause them to feel undervalued. Many continue to struggle with social pressure to be the ideal mother and a lack of gender equity in the workplace. Additionally, mothers may experience a great deal of daily stress as a result of feeling emotionally disconnected from their family members.
What, therefore, can families do to increase mothers' satisfaction? According to psychology studies, Hallmark cards appear to have it right: boosting a mother's self-esteem by telling her that she is a fantastic mother or that she always knows how to cheer up the family can significantly increase moms' happiness.
Remember to give your mother a call if you're an adult living distant from them. Mothers tend to identify as parents more intensely and feel more emotionally linked to their children than dads do. A mother's happiness can be greatly increased by a phone call or a conversation over tea with her children, regardless of their age.
There are other ways to support moms besides the family. Moms might also benefit from celebrating Mother's Day with friends and other support networks. Have a surprise meal with Mom's close friends on Mother's Day instead of just having a family celebration.
Children gain when their mothers feel happy
Celebrating mothers has positive effects on their children as well. According to research, happier parents are better able to assist their kids' social and mental development both within and outside the home. For instance, my study has shown that their teenage children see mothers who are less stressed as having a greater ability to understand their perspective.
Stress can also affect mothers' attention to their families, which affects the development of children. My colleagues and I recently conducted a study that revealed that mothers who are less stressed and more attentive might help their kids develop healthy coping mechanisms by setting an example of how to successfully handle their emotions.
Children feel better, and their mothers engage with them more effectively when they are feeling well. As a result, it's critical to express gratitude to Mom on a daily basis rather than only on Mother's Day.
Despite being the primary provider of care and comfort for many families worldwide, mothers are often taken for granted. While Mother's Day brunch and flowers will surely be appreciated, let's honor mothers every day. Helping mothers feel happy will also make the family happy.