Mother’s Day Bonding: 5 Healthy, Fun Ideas That AREN’T Brunch

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Written By: Melissa Fiorenza

While nothing says “I love you, Mom” quite like mimosas and buttermilk pancakes, there are other ways to celebrate your mother that don’t involve a $50 brunch. This Mother’s Day, honor your relationship by doing something together that’s good for the soul. Here are a few ideas.


1. Cook together.

Okay, so this one does involve food. But here’s the twist: ask your mom to teach you firsthand a family recipe you never got around to learning—like her or her mom’s secret marinara sauce. Already know ‘em all? Then pull up some recipes and pick something delicious that you’ll both enjoy. (Bonus points: Wear matching aprons. Come on, do it for the Insta pic.).


2. Get lost.

Hop in your car, pick Mom up, and drive out of town—no set destination and no using Google Maps, at least for the first couple hours. See where your ride takes you! If you stumble upon a lavender farm, get out and take a pic. If you end up somewhere suuuuper unsafe, well, then, turn on GPS and laugh about it the whole way home.


3. Hit up the outlets.

Agree to spend a certain amount on each other, then drive to your nearest clothing outlets. Pick outfits out for each other (your chance to totally help your mom show off those legs!) and grab a quick lunch in between. The healthy part? Walk, don’t drive, between all the stores. FitBits on, water bottles in bags.


4. Take a class.

Check out nearby events on Facebook or Google one-time classes in your town—perhaps a flower arranging class, a mother-daughter yoga class, a photography 101 session. Wanna do something a little closer to home? Sign up for a free trial of Openfit and work out together in your living room. If exercise isn’t your thing, sign-up for Pimsleur and start learning a language together while you plan a mother-daughter tip for the future.


5. Get pampered.

Either at the spa or at home with DIY mani/pedis, teeth whitening kits, and mud masks, nothing tops chatting and laughing and looking a little ridiculous doing some good old-fashioned self-care. Just be sure to treat her to a little extra; she’s the one who raised you, after all.


Whatever you end up doing, enjoy it—turn off your phone (if you can), cherish these moments with your mom, and remember to thank her for all she’s done for you. Be present. That’s probably the best present you can give her.