Motherhood and the holidays can be a beautiful mix of joy, laughter, and love — often seasoned with a dash of overwhelm and burnout. Many mothers feel pressure to live up to society’s expectations of creating the perfect, blissful holiday season — smiling on the outside while juggling the many stressors that come with it.
Every family is doing their best, especially as we navigate unprecedented challenges this season. No matter how your family celebrates, one thing we can all share is gratitude.
Practicing gratitude can support mental health during the holidays by reducing stress and anxiety, boosting happiness, and building resilience. Gratitude can be found in life’s simple moments — a hug from your child, a warm meal, or the sunshine on your face.
So don’t forget to add that secret ingredient — gratitude — to your holiday recipe.
If you’d like to share what you’re grateful for and explore more mindfulness practices in any season, join Marissa Visscher at Many Mothers Family Center (4001 Office Court Drive, #207, Santa Fe) for United in Motherhood every Monday from 10 – 11 AM.
Written by Marissa Visscher, November 2025