"Here's what I ask for every Mother's Day"

"Here's What I Ask for Every Mother's Day..."

Every year, when Mother’s Day rolls around, my family asks me the same question: “What do you want for Mother’s Day?” And every year, my answer is the same:

I want a day off.

Not flowers, not breakfast in bed (though I wouldn’t say no to coffee), not even a fancy dinner. What I really want is one day to just breathe. A day where I’m not “Mom,” but simply me.

Motherhood is beautiful, messy, and overwhelming all at once. It’s a constant juggling act of schedules, snacks, and sleepless nights. And while I wouldn’t trade it for the world, sometimes I just need a moment to step back—to remember who I am outside of being a mom.

So, this Mother’s Day, I’m yet again asking for a day off. A day to sit in silence, read a book, sip my coffee while it’s still hot, and maybe even take a nap. A day to recharge so I can show up as the best version of myself for my kids.

But here’s the thing: one day a year isn’t enough. Moms need more than a single day to themselves. We need space to breathe, to rest, and to reconnect with ourselves on the other 364 days, too.

For me, that’s where independent play comes in.

On the days when I’m wearing my “super mom” cape, running from one thing to the next or putting out dumpster fires like it’s a profession, I still find moments to recharge—thanks to sensory play. When my kids are immersed in their sensory kits, building worlds, solving problems, and learning through play, I get precious moments to myself.

While they’re busy digging for dinosaur bones, creating magical mermaid lagoons, or constructing their own little cities, I can step back and breathe. It’s not a full day off, but in those small, quiet moments, I find the energy to keep going.

And here’s the best part: sensory play isn’t just keeping them busy. It’s helping them grow. Through independent play, they’re building cognitive skills, developing fine motor abilities, and fostering creativity. They’re learning patience, perseverance, and problem-solving—all while I’m recharging.

For the moms reading this, I see you. I know you’re over-tired, over-touched, and over-caffeinated, but you’re also over-loved by those little humans who think the world of you—but you deserve a moment to breathe.

And for the partners and families reading this, here’s a little secret: the best gift you can give the mom in your life isn’t something wrapped in a bow. It’s the gift of time. Time to rest, reset, and reconnect with herself.

So, this Mother’s Day, let’s redefine what it means to celebrate moms. Let’s make it about giving her what she truly needs: peace, calm, and a moment to just be.

Because when moms get the chance to take care of themselves, they come back stronger, happier, and more present for their families. And isn’t that the greatest gift of all?

So here's to finding a little bit of calm in the chaos this year—and not just on Mother's Day.

Until next time mama's 💕

~Manuela XO

PS...do you have some insight, questions, or relatable stories? I would LOVE to hear from you, so feel free to leave a comment on this post! Even if it's just a quick hello, let's chat! 🫶🏼