Mother’s Day gift ideas

1. A day off - Whether your mom is a housewife or an employed professional who juggles personal life, household chores, parenting and work, she deserves a break. The last 24 months have been like one odd long day. Women are exhausted - both mentally and physically. So give your mom a break this year, and this Mother’s Day (if you haven’t already), set up a timetable to divide work among all house members to let your mother breathe! Don’t just help her take a day off to relax, but make sure that the timetable is followed.
2. Take her to therapy - Yes, more than anyone, our mothers in South Asian households can benefit from therapy. There may be enough space and room in the house for her and you, but you need to give her the mental space to address her emotional baggage and mental block. Women often become the punching bag in Asian households - both for their husbands, brothers or father, and their children. Your mother needs a scientific approach to let her guard down and embrace the good and bad that has happened to her. Let her grieve, lament and enjoy her life experiences. Let her heal. Sign her up for therapy and hold her hand through it.
3. Listen - Mothers spend more than half their life listening to the family and especially children. This Mother’s Day, maybe it’s time for you to set up a day in the week when you become a good listener and help your mother express her thoughts without interjection and judgement. For once, listen and listen not to talk back to her.
4. Spa - Nothing beats a traditional spa day for your mom. Let her enjoy a deep tissue massage with aromatic candles, flowers and rejuvenate her senses.
5. Tupperware - You’re not a South Asian if your mom doesn’t love her “Tupperware”. The more the merrier! Get her a new batch, you wouldn’t regret it.
6. Write that book or letter - If you haven’t been able to be with your mom due to reasons like the pandemic or even emotional distance, it’s time you write to her or write about her while she’s around to read what you have to say. Reconcile if you can, or at least tell her that you love her, while you can. Never take mothers for granted. Start writing that book - replenish old photos before you lose the albums.
7. Check on your friend/relative who has lost a mother - The pandemic has been harsh to each family. This Mother’s Day, make sure you remember your friends and relatives and perhaps check upon them if they’ve lost their mom, maybe spend a few hours with them. Cushion them, and tell them you’re there for them.