While she nurtures everyone around her, her emotional and mental health quietly waits for attention. This Mother’s Day, let’s shift the spotlight back to her.
Mothers have long been the silent nurturers — constantly sacrificing and adjusting themselves for their family’s happiness. But in the process of caring for everyone else, their own happiness often takes a backseat, buried beneath responsibilities and expectations.
According to the World Happiness Report 2024, women experience more negative emotions than men, despite being emotional anchors of their families. But why should happiness come only with age? It’s time to embrace joy without guilt.
HER WELLBEING MATTERS:
A mother’s happiness has a positive impact not just on her own health but on the well-being of the entire family. “When a woman is happy, it reflects in her physical and mental health. Stress and emotional exhaustion can increase risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and weakened immunity. On the other hand, happiness has been directly linked to better health, stronger relationships, and a longer life.”
For generations, women have been conditioned to suppress stress, anger, or anxiety in the name of patience and resilience. Suggests that one of the most powerful shifts women can make is acknowledging their own emotions. This should become part of their everyday life, built through small but meaningful practices.
“Everyone expects a mother to balance everything — work, home, relationships — but rarely are we told to balance it with our own happiness. A happy mother creates a happier home and that’s something worth investing in.”
WAYS TO FIND PEACE AND JOY:
If happiness feels like a luxury rather than a right, it’s time to reframe that mindset.
There are some ways to nurture your own happiness:
- Turn ‘what ifs’ into ‘what is’: Women, especially mothers, often worry: What if I fail? What if I disappoint someone? Instead, focus on what is happening now and what is within your control.
- Leave no room for guilt: Whether it’s taking a quiet tea break, going for a walk, or pursuing a long-forgotten hobby, small pockets of happiness matter. A daily success journal can help, as writing down even tiny achievements reinforces a sense of self-worth.
- Practice box breathing for stress relief: A simple way to calm the mind is through box breathing — inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four. It’s a quick and effective way to reset the nervous system.
- Challenge the narrative: “Many mothers feel uncomfortable prioritizing themselves because they fear being perceived as ‘selfish’. But self-care isn’t selfish; it’s self-sustaining.”
The world has long taught women to put themselves second, but a life well-lived doesn’t work that way. Choosing joy isn’t about stepping away from responsibilities, but about creating boundaries around your needs and others.’ So, mothers, it’s high time you embrace self-love and prioritize your well-being.
