10 Earth-Friendly Ways to Pamper Your Mama this Mother’s Day

Celebrate the mothers in your life mindfully; try this mix of DIYS, waste-free gifts, experiential ideas and conversation starters to inspire her.

When I was young, I remember spending hours at my craft table putting together gifts and conspiring with my sisters on how we would make our mama feel special on Mother’s Day. As I got older, those gifts turned to items I thought she might want or need, attempting to spoil her to make up for all she gave up raising us three. Now I live thousands of miles away, and what I wish more than anything is to share experiences and conversations with her, along with a few small thoughtful gifts that align with day-to-day objects which might remind me of how much I love her.

In this spirit, I’ve put together 10 ideas to pamper your mama (or any of the mothers in your life!): a mix of DIYS, waste-free gifts, experiential ideas and conversation starters to inspire her.

1. DIY Sustainable Spa Day

Create a little spa package of your own using a few DIYs like Tub Tea, Green Tea Facial Mask, Matcha Body Butter, and DIY chai scented soy wax candles.

2. Slow Flower Bouquet

Instead of getting your mother a bouquet from the grocery store, have a look at what’s available around that’s produced locally. 50% Of U.S. flower farms have gone out of business since 1992 and 75% of Americans don’t know the origins of their flowers. Support local businesses and the environment by searching the directory on SlowFlowers.com to find local growers instead of buying low cost imports produced unfairly. Or, sign up for a flower arranging class together and make a bouquet as a team that you can then dry and have last forever.

3. Afternoon Tea Party

Though it may seem a bit silly to throw a tea party when you’re a grown up, there’s something quite sweet and simple about it. Spending the afternoon in self-created decadence is a special way to pass the day, and it doesn’t take much to put together. You can follow my guide on how to create one in your own backyard (or the local park) HERE.

4. Philanthropic Present

Donating money to an organization on your mother’s behalf, and thus protecting mother earth in the process, is a sure-fire way to ensure the gift you give will keep giving tenfold. Greenpeace, EarthJustice and Environmental Working Group are all great organizations who fight the good fight for all of us.

5. Outdoor Adventure

Turn off your phones and get out in nature with your mama, whether it’s a little promenade, hike, swim, camping trip or another fun adventure. Spending time in nature is an important part of physical and mental health, helping us bond with each other and our planet.

6. Books For The Soul

Join the ‘Because We’ve Read’ bookclub with your mom to give you some subjects beyond the usual to connect on. I also recommend Women Who Run With The Wolves and If Women Rose Rooted to inspire you and yours to come to know the ancient wisdoms of women and the wild woman within.

7. A Podcast To Inspire Her

Tune your mum into your favourite new podcast. #LiveAwake is the one I recommend to everyone which I wholeheartedly feel each one of us should listen to at least once. It’s a little gift that costs nothing but the time of introduction, that will keep you and yours inspired for months and years to come.

8. Zero Waste Gift Basket

Gather a few disposable items your mother uses most and create a gift basket with reusable versions instead. Some ideas might be a reusable mug, reusable water bottle, reusable produce bags, some stasher bags, reusable tupperware, a personalized handkerchief, a bamboo toothbrush, some beeswax wrap, urbana sac bag … You can watch THIS video for some more ideas.

9. Sustainable Wine Club

For moms who like to enjoy the odd glass of vino, Club W, a wine box subscription service with a focus on sustainability allows you to gift subscriptions for wine boxes to loved ones so they can try new wines or learn more about their favourites.

10. Be A Tourist In Your Own Town

If you can’t get out to nature, or even if you can, put a weekend day aside to explore your city with tourist’s eyes. Head to your favourite museum or see an exhibition, book tickets to the theatre or to see a band, try a restaurant you’ve never visited, explore a new neighbourhood, check out your local monuments and see where the day leads you, you’re bound to fall in love with your city again.

Still need some inspiration before Mother’s Day? Try Sweet + Simple Gifts for Tea Lovers.