Mother's Day in the United Kingdom, The Perfect Gift
Mother's Day in the United Kingdom has a long history and is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, which is different from the date that Mother's Day is celebrated in other countries like the United States. The UK tradition has roots in both religious and cultural practices.
Origins in "Mothering Sunday"
The origins of Mother’s Day in the UK go back to the Christian tradition of "Mothering Sunday," which has been celebrated for centuries. This was originally a religious observance during Lent, where Christians would return to their "mother church" (the church where they were baptized or the main church in their area) for a special service. This was often the only time of the year that many people, particularly those in service or working away from home, would be able to visit their families.
Link to the Tradition of the "Prodigal Son"
The concept of returning to one's mother church can be linked to the biblical story of the Prodigal Son, symbolizing a return home. Over time, this day evolved to become a day for honoring mothers and maternal figures.
Evolution into the Modern Mother's Day
In the 16th century, the day became more focused on honoring mothers. Servants and apprentices who were working away from home would be given the day off to visit their families and mothers. Children would pick flowers or bake cakes to give to their mothers as gifts.
20th Century: Influence of American Mother's Day
The tradition remained largely religious and local until the 20th century when the modern secular Mother's Day began to take shape. In the early 1900s, American influence began to spread, particularly after the establishment of Mother's Day in the U.S. by Anna Jarvis in 1908. In the UK, Mother's Day gradually took on a more commercial and secular nature, similar to the way it was celebrated in the United States.
By the mid-20th century, the holiday had become more focused on celebrating motherhood, with children buying cards, flowers, and gifts for their mothers. The date for Mothering Sunday remained fixed as the fourth Sunday in Lent, often falling in March or early April, depending on when Easter is.
Today
Today, Mother's Day in the UK is a blend of the original religious customs and the more modern, secular celebrations. While it is still celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, it is widely recognized as a day for expressing gratitude and love toward mothers. Whilst giving traditional gift and flowers is lovely, consider offering enhanced wellness to your mother.
As women, aging presents unique challenges such as menopause, weight gain, aging skin and hormone imbalances. If you are interested in presenting your mum with improved wellness this Mother’s Day, perfectly tailored to her unique concerns, please contact me. I have spent many years dedicating my education and research to bettering Women’s Health.
Monika
Nurse Practitioner
Women’s Wellness Clinics
