No matter what age group the moms on your Mother's Day list fall into, the gifts of health, fitness and well-being are always the best ways to appreciate any mom on any day of the year, especially Mother's Day.
1 Give the gift of unconditional love.
Numerous studies have shown that companion animals (whether cats or dogs) are good for our health. They can help lower blood pressure as well as the level of stress hormones in the body, and they also encourage social interaction.
For the right mother, adopting an animal can be the ultimate Mother's Day gift. Studies indicate that owning an animal reduces stress, petting lowers blood pressure, and [a companion animal] is company, it's a member of the family, and its unconditional love. For empty nesters, it gives an outlet for affection. However, if you are interested in giving Mummy a dog or cat, talk it over so there is no element of surprise.
After the initial conversation, present your mom with a dog care book, a leash, or accessories on Mother's Day, then come in [to a shelter or pet shop] with your mom and go through the selection process together. There are hundreds homeless, healthy, and loving animals available at shelters.
2 Make her smile all year long with bright white teeth.
(Why is it such a great gift for mom?) A lot of people wouldn't do it for themselves because they feel that it's an expense they shouldn't spend on themselves. Mothers would pay for the dentist or orthodontist to get the braces for their children, but hardly ever for themselves.
3 Give the gift that gives back.
Mother's day is the perfect time to give your mom something special as well as make a donation to a charity in her honour. The Autism Society of Trinidad and Tobago, The Cancer Society, and many others are always accepting donations, and having mom contribute to one of these will be an altruistic gift she (and the charity of her choice) will love.
One of the most special things about gifts that give back is that they not only touch someone you know, but they also touch someone that you don't know.
4 Treat her feet.
Consider getting your mom a foot massage, foot reflexology, or a relaxing pedicure. People pay so little attention to their feet and they are always cramped in shoes. Mom is usually running around after children all day long, and the last thing they do is take care of themselves and their feet. (If you have a foot spa and the requisite materials, you can even give her one yourself.)
5 Deal a meal.
Whether she's trying to shed weight from a pregnancy or get rid of her "menopot" -- the abdominal fat around her middle -- many moms can use a diet overhaul or at the very least, some weight loss tips. Also try getting her a couple of sessions with a registered dietician; you can ask your family physician.
Or if your mom is the breakfast-in-bed type -- and who isn't? -- try cooking a gourmet, healthy breakfast to start her day off right. You can make whole wheat, banana pancakes, a fruit cup with yoghurt and granola and egg white omelettes.
