How You Can Celebrate Mother’s Day on a Deeper Level

As Mother’s Day approaches, consider it more than just a holiday—it’s a valuable opportunity to reflect on your relationship with your mom. Because let’s be real, strong personal connections aren’t just “nice to haves”—they’re crucial for longevity.

According to The Atlantic, over half of mothers describe their relationship with their adult children as “intimate but also restrictive,” often marked by mixed emotions. One major source of strain? Many moms feel the relationship isn’t equally reciprocated.

So instead of just checking the box with a card or a quick call, use this weekend to take a meaningful step toward a stronger, more balanced connection. Here’s how to get started.

3 Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gifts

Sure, most people remember to buy their mom a gift—but if you’re looking to strengthen your relationship, it’s worth going a step further. Take a moment to really think about what you’re giving her—and why it matters. Here are three ideas to consider.

1. Something Personalized and Meaningful

Skip the generic décor or another body lotion set—she’s probably got plenty. Instead, choose something that carries real meaning. Think: a serving dish printed with a cherished family recipe in her mother’s handwriting, or a piece of jewelry engraved with the coordinates of a place that holds deep significance for her. The goal? A gift that tells her you know her and value the history you share.

2. Something That Will Keep Giving

Consider a gift that keeps giving—like a subscription tailored to her needs or interests. It could be something practical, like a cleaning service, something enriching, like a coaching package, or simply something that brings her joy, like a monthly bouquet subscription. The beauty of this kind of gift? It reminds her of you, not just on Mother’s Day, but all year.

3. The Gift of Your Time

Let’s be honest—this one’s tough. Time is your most limited resource and giving it away might feel like the hardest gift of all. But for many moms—especially those who are retired or no longer in the thick of daily demands—your packed calendar may not be something they fully grasp. If she’s always happy to spend an hour catching up on the phone, she might assume it’s just as easy for you to do the same.

That’s why giving the gift of time—real, intentional time—can mean so much. And no, we’re not talking about simply dropping by or squeezing in a quick call. Put thought into it and show that you planned ahead. Maybe it’s organizing a brunch with your siblings or creating a special day around something your mom truly loves. If distance is a factor, consider a virtual experience: a movie night, a baking session, or even a happy hour.

The point is, you’re showing her that—even with all you have going on—she’s a priority. And that’s often the gift that means the most.

Taking an Even Deeper Approach

The Atlantic highlights several science-backed strategies for boosting your mom’s happiness—not just on Mother’s Day but for years to come. While these actions aren’t a substitute for a thoughtful gift, they can serve as powerful entry points or additions for deepening your connection.

One example: if your mother is still providing financial support, it may be worth reevaluating. Even if she says she doesn’t mind, research shows that it can carry emotional strain she might not articulate.

You might also consider stepping into roles she’s long held—like hosting family gatherings. Taking that off her plate is a subtle but significant way to show appreciation for the decades she’s carried that responsibility.

Similarly, the Seattle Times offers a few psychology-informed approaches that go a long way: express genuine gratitude, offer thoughtful compliments, and—most importantly—be fully present when you’re with her.

Embracing Mother’s Day on Your Own Terms

At the end of the day, it’s also important to remember that mothers are people, too. That means it’s entirely possible to have a strained relationship with your mom, even if you’ve done nothing wrong. Whether you’re grieving the loss of your mother or the loss of a once-close bond, you should feel empowered to approach Mother’s Day on your own terms—whether that means celebrating or opting out entirely. Option B offers some thoughtful suggestions on how to navigate this emotionally charged holiday and take care of yourself in the process.

The Bottom Line

As Mother’s Day approaches, take a moment to reflect on how you can strengthen your bond with your mom—whether through a meaningful gift, quality time, or a deeper connection. But remember, this day isn’t one-size-fits-all. If it brings up complicated emotions or a challenging relationship, approach it on your own terms. Ultimately, it’s about investing in what matters most—your well-being and the relationships that shape your life.

Need help prioritizing your time to focus on your relationships? An Arootah Coach can help! Get started with a complimentary results call to learn more.