As we head into Mother's Day weekend, I reflect on what it means to be a mother to others and how I can mother the mother within. Becoming more mindful in my mothering is a daily practice that I continue to experiment with as I learn to share the care I give so generously to my children back to myself. This concept is not just a practice but a transformative journey that I discussed in my recent appearance on the Live Happy Now podcast.

What does it mean to be a Mindful Mother?

Motherhood is a gift unto itself. It calls forth my natural ability to nurture, tend to, love, and care for not only my children but my pets, loved ones, clients, and friends. Caring for others comes more naturally than caring for myself. It’s all to easy to forget that I need the same care that I give others.

To me, a mindful mother is aware, aligned, and intentional about how we care for our loved ones and ourselves. It’s about bringing our full selves to the small and significant moments that arise and need our full attention.

The Power of Being Present

On the Live Happy Now podcast, I spoke about the daily challenges of motherhood, where it can often feel like we're being pulled in a million directions. Our attention is continually being hijacked by others’ needs and interruptions. We switch roles, spin plates, and do our best to attend to the shifting priorities that trade places throughout the day. To stay sane and centered, I do my best to practice “presence”,  bringing my full self to the present moment. Practicing presence isn't about striving for perfection; it’s about being genuine and heartfelt in our interactions and making mindful choices about where we focus our energies. This theme has been instrumental throughout my life and is a concept we talk a lot about in our new book, Leading with Light: Choosing Conscious Leadership When You’re Ready For More.

The Radical Act of Self-Care

For me, I’ve had to learn that self-care is not selfish. Putting myself first and learning how to mother the mother that I am is a radical act of self-love and an essential practice to fill my own cup, so I overflow with energy to give. This Mother's Day, I encourage every mother to reflect on what it means to nurture oneself. What does your body need? What is your soul longing for?

To hear more about how I am practicing mindfulness as a mother and how you can, listen to this 25-minute conversation with Paula Felps on the Live Happy Now podcast. It just might be the confirmation and motivation you need this Mother’s Day weekend.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

• What it means to be a mindful mother.
• Why our presence is the greatest gift we can give our loved ones.
• Simple tips for practicing being present even in chaotic times.

And to all the mothers out there, thank you for all you are and all you do. The divine feminine is awakening in all of us and the divine mother is needed in our world more than ever. You deserve the care you give. Please do something that fills you up so you feel lit up to light the way. 

We hope you tune in wherever you love to listen. Please share!

Check out the full podcast feature and Live Happy Now Podcast's other amazing podcast episodes here.  

For those interested in delving deeper into the principles of conscious leadership and mindful mothering, buy our new book, Leading with Light. It’s a rich resource with insights, personal stories, and practices to help you grow.