The truth behind the origins of Mother's Day

Did you know that Mother’s Day in the UK was originally called “Mothering Sunday”, which was a custom which  started in the Middle Ages.  The tradition was that you paid your ‘mother’s church’ a visit on the fourth Sunday of Lent - either the church where you were christened, or your parish church, which was called ‘going-a-mothering’ when you did so. 

On this day, which came to be known as Mothering Sunday, servants were also given the day off to go back to the parish they were born, with children and other family members also joining in.

Over the centuries, commercialism got in the way of its true meaning and origin and soon, “Mothering Sunday” was replaced with the ideals of “Mother’s Day” a fairly new concept which derived from America where you show how much you loved and appreciated your mother with chocolates, jewellery, flowers, candles etc. 

The American incarnation of Mother’s Day was created by Anna Jarvis in 1908 and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914. 

Arguing that American holidays were biassed toward male achievements, Anna Jarvis started a massive letter writing campaign to newspapers and prominent politicians urging the adoption of a special day honouring motherhood.

By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday, and Jarvis had established the Mother’s Day International Association to help promote her cause. Her persistence paid off in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially recognised but once Mother’s Day became a national holiday, it was not long before florists, card companies and other merchants capitalised on its popularity.

Ironically, by 1920, Jarvis  had become disgusted with how the holiday had been commercialised,  she publicly denounced the transformation and urged people to stop buying  Mother’s Day flowers and  cards. 

Jarvis eventually resorted to an open campaign against Mother’s Day profiteers, speaking out against confectioners, florists and even charities. She also launched countless lawsuits against groups that had used the name “Mother’s Day,” eventually spending most of her personal wealth in legal fees. By the time of her death in 1948 Jarvis had disowned the holiday altogether, and even actively lobbied the government to see it removed from the American calendar.

Although Mother’s Day is an over-commercialised event which is far removed from its original meaning, it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, so why not inject a little consciousness  back into Mother’s Day with thoughtful gifts created by conscious minded people? 

 FOR THE MOTHERS LOOKING TO UNWIND - KŌHĪ

Kohi Japanese Bath Steam  £10 

This Japanese Bath Steam is packed abundantly with nature's treasures that aids in relieving aching muscles, give a sense of wellness and self care and allow your senses to be present with the charming scent. Infused with fragrant essential oils along with various salts. This makes a perfect gift for your loved ones.

Directions of use: Use the tea bag pouch provided to put in your bath tea. Pour your desired amount into a bath tub or foot spa to experience the essence of a Japanese Bath Steam.

Ingredients: 100% Organic rose petal, vanilla, orange oil, lavender oil, hibiscus oil, lemongrass, neroli essence & Himalayan Salt.

 FOR MOTHERS WHO LOVES TEA  - Calmtree 

Calmtree Mother Spirit Tea Set  £45  

This dry tea blend contains sweet, earthy and aromatic flavours with mint undertones: Mullein, Ashwagandha, Chamomile Flowers, Fennel, Kotu Gola & Lemon Balm 

The blend of herbs in Mother Spirit dates back to Ancient times. Each herb has been revered for its healing and spiritual properties.  The combined medicinal benefits have been passed down the ancient lineage of shamans and energy healers. 

Also included in the gift set is  ROSE QUARTZ crystal, attached to the diffuser and a Green Glazed mug which was handmade and skilfully glazed so that each piece is unique. 

FOR THE MOTHERS THAT LOVES THEIR BEAUTY SLEEP 

Sleep Goddess Satin Beauty Sleep Slip-Over Pillow Case  £19.99 

Welcome to the original slip-over beauty sleep pillow case.  It is elasticated and securely fits over the pillow like a glove so will not slide off. The elastic band makes it quite easy to slip onto a pillow, cushion or sofa chair, or even car or airplane headrest and it is convenient for you to remove.

This makes it multifunctional and easy to take with you wherever you go. Pop into your handbag and use wherever you need a shield between your hair or skin and another surface. As with all dark fabrics there is some small chance this could cause some slight colour transfer.

The satin pillowcase gives you all the luxury, breathability, slip and shine of silk without the guilt. They are cruelty free so free from silkworms or other animal products and are handcrafted here in England. 

Unlike cotton pillowcases, this pillowcase’s friction-free surface helps your hair to thrive by reducing loss of moisture, eliminating frizz and preventing bedhead. It is also very gentle for your eyelashes and the skin on your face and neck and aids in the prevention of wrinkle formation. It is also not uncomfortably slippery so it stays in place and you stay on it!