Mother’s Day gifts – Are they really for us?

If you’re feeling stretched thin, constantly reacting instead of responding, and like the smallest thing might tip you over the edge, you’re not alone. Motherhood is beautiful, but it’s also relentless. And for the mums running on empty, this Mother’s Day isn’t just about celebrating, it’s about restoring and recharging.

Give Yourself Permission to Receive

It’s easy to make the day about everyone else, but here’s your gentle reminder:

You’re allowed to ask for something just for you.

If you struggle with the idea of asking, think of it as a chance for your family to show their love in a way that truly fills your cup. A hint-hint list on the fridge might be exactly what they need! Or lean into easy and forward them this list!

Mother’s Day Gifts That Actually Help a Burnt-Out Mum

Instead of another scented candle (as lovely as they are), here are some Mother’s Day gifts that provide real relief to an overstimulated, exhausted mum.

1. Loop Earplugs – Because Sometimes, Life is Too Loud

Turn down the volume on life without feeling disconnected. Perfect for moments when you love your kids’ enthusiasm—but not at full blast. I recently acquired the Engage 2 Plus earplugs and have been using them in the car, at the movies, during witching hour and any other time I just need to lower the volume so I don’t get overwhelmed.

2. A Shakti Mat – Stress Relief in 10 Minutes

Like a mini acupressure therapy session at home, a Shakti Mat helps ease stress, tension, and the ever-present mental load. I try to use mine either straight after my post bedtime shower or just before I hop into bed myself and it’s oh so relaxing.

3. ‘Practicing Presence’ – A Book to Help You Slow Down

Perfect for the mums who love to take photos of their kids – This book is a gentle reminder to savour the little moments and truly see the life you’re already capturing. Because being present isn’t about doing more – it’s about noticing more.

4. A Robot Vacuum – The Gift of Less Work

Not the most sentimental gift? Maybe. Will it save your sanity? Absolutely. Let the floors clean themselves while you take a breath. I can’t be bothered to do all the research myself, so I don’t have a particular recommendation – but the research should be part of the gift right?!

5. A ‘Do Not Disturb’ Voucher – The Gift of Uninterrupted Time

Whether it’s a solo brunch, a nature walk, or just an hour to scroll guilt-free, uninterrupted time is the ultimate burnout antidote. I recently did a painting class at Grounded Village Studio and sat down at the beautiful cafe next door for a peaceful lunch afterwards and it was pure bliss.

6. Something to Look Forward to – A Weekend Getaway

No planning required, just pure relaxation. Whether it’s a surprise weekend away planned by your partner (while the kids have a sleepover with the grandparents) or a quiet solo retreat to recharge, having something to look forward to can be incredibly restorative.

7. An Authentic Family Photoshoot – Capture the Moments Without the Stress

If you’ve been thinking about family photos (the kind you get to be in too!) but don’t know where to start, let your partner book something for you with a photographer you’ve been admiring on Insta. If that just so happens to be me (I’m chuffed), you can find my family session details here. Or maybe you’re one of my nearest and dearest clients already and you’d love some of your images printed, you can find a piece that makes your heart sing here. And because I’d love to gift back to all the mamas who continually support me in my craft, if you mention this post I’ll give you a beautiful 20% off your session or artwork.

Beyond the Gifts – Moments of Quiet Matter Too

A thoughtful gift is lovely, but if you’re feeling reactive and overwhelmed, what you might need most this Mother’s Day is space.

• A slow morning in bed
• An afternoon to yourself
• A few minutes of quiet in the chaos

Don’t be afraid to ask for it.

Little Things That Bring Ease Back Into Motherhood

Motherhood doesn’t always allow for grand gestures of rest—but sometimes, it’s the small, everyday choices that bring the most relief. These are a few gentle shifts I’ve made that help lighten the mental load and bring a bit more ease and grace into our days.

Ditch Dinner Stress

Dinner doesn’t have to be gourmet. I’ve embraced the ease of simple meals – think ravioli, toasties, peanut butter and banana pancakes or even a cheese board. Give the dinner a cute name like ‘fairy dinner’ if you eat outside, ‘inside picnic’ for a dinner on a blanket inside or snack platter as we love to call our dinner cheese boards. Bonus points if I prep it in the morning and skip the chaos of witching hour entirely.

Lean on the Screen (With Less Guilt)

I used to beat myself up over screen time. But I’ve started seeing it for what it is: a tool. Sometimes I’ll start with something gentle and enriching like Play School or an educational documentary, and then let the kids pick their favourite show after. It gives me a breather, and they’re pretty happy too.

Playground Playdates That Fill Everyone’s Cup

A weekly (or even fortnightly) playground hangout with another mum is magic. The kids can go wild in a space where shrieking is welcome, and you get a few minutes of adult conversation that isn’t about snacks or sleep regressions.

Fit Self-Care Into the Corners

Self-care doesn’t have to be a big production. I’ve learned to squeeze it into the in-between moments – like listening to a podcast while having a coffee in the shower, saying daily gratitudes out loud in the car with the kids, or getting my steps in at the playground. There are always little pockets in the day – you just have to claim them.

More Ways I Make Motherhood a Little Lighter

• Lower the Bar (Intentionally): Not every moment needs to be meaningful or Instagram-worthy. Sometimes, “good enough” is great.
• Music Mood Shifts: A well-timed playlist can transform the vibe. Calm classical for quiet play, dance party hits for the pre-dinner slump.
• Get Outside – Even Just Barefoot on the Grass: There’s something grounding about nature, even if it’s just five minutes in the backyard.
• One Toy Tidy a Day: Rather than the whole house, I pick one zone to reset. It keeps the clutter from piling up and feels more manageable.
• Say Yes to Help: Whether it’s a grandparent visit, a neighbor offering a hand, or accepting that your partner loads the dishwasher “wrong” – letting go of control is a form of self-care.

This Mother’s Day, Choose Restoration Over Obligation

This year, let Mother’s Day gifts be about more than just celebration – let them be about restoration. And if you’re after a list of Mother’s Day gifts that focuses more on the sentimental side of things take a peek at my post here.

You deserve it.

Big hugs,
Jayde