Motherhood is a demanding journey,
often requiring women to juggle multiple roles at once.
This constant balancing act can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion, a state commonly referred to as “mom burnout.”
Neglecting self-care diminishes a mother’s ability to effectively care for her family.
Prioritising personal well-being isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity for maintaining the energy and patience motherhood demands.
“Self-care starts from within; it includes both mental and physical well-being,” says Mercy Nzuki, a psychologist and mental health expert.
“Take care of yourself. The only person who can truly do that best is you because you are the most important person to yourself,” Nzuki says.
For Lilian Akaal, a mother of three, Mother's Day used to pass like any other ordinary day, full of daily routines and responsibilities.
Sometimes, she didn’t even realise the day had come and gone.
That changed five years ago when she got her first smartphone.
Since then, online reminders have made it easier to acknowledge the day.
Still, for a long time, she misunderstood Mother’s Day as simply a day to celebrate her mother, overlooking the fact that she, too, deserved recognition.
“In a good year, when my business is doing well, I send my mother some money so she can treat herself, especially since we live far apart,” she says.
“I do it to appreciate her for raising me well. She’s my first love, my role model,” Akaal says.
While gifts and flowers are lovely gestures, there’s a deeper, more meaningful way to honour mothers by encouraging and supporting their self-care.
Beatrice Awuor, 21, says she celebrates Mother's Day by helping her mom unwind and relax.
“We spend time outdoors, whether it’s a walk in the park, a visit to the lake, or even a simple picnic. Nature gives her a break from her daily routine. Sometimes, I also involve her in activities she enjoys, especially those that let her disconnect from work and recharge,” Awuor says.
“Mothers deserve a moment to breathe. Celebrate her with self-care.”
For some, the tradition of gifting still holds strong.
John Mwangi, 19, began buying gifts for his mother when he was 15.
"On Mother’s Day, I surprise her with something nice, maybe a watch, shoes, or a dress. I use part of my monthly allowance,” he says.
“It’s a small way to show appreciation for her role in my life. Mothers should be celebrated every day, but especially on this one.”
Psychologist Nzuki emphasised that self-care isn't just about buying yourself nice things or indulging in fun activities.
It also involves regularly checking in with yourself, mentally, emotionally, and physically.
“If we begin to see self-care as a way of connecting with our inner selves, then mental wellness becomes more achievable,” she says.
“It helps you stay in touch with your emotions, even during overwhelming times.”
As mothers continue to juggle multiple responsibilities, it’s important not only to honor them with gifts, but also by prioritising their well-being.
