Sure, you could keep pushing the car yourself, but what if you didn’t

We grow up believing that motherhood means constantly giving... To be considered a "good" mother, we're expected to give, to keep every plate spinning, even when we're completely drained.

But what if all this self-sacrifice is actually doing more harm—to us and to our families?

I’ve had to take a hard look and accept that I can’t keep running on half a tank, always in desperate need of a refill.

It feels like we’re all on a cross-country road trip, barely coasting into the next town with just enough gas. Sure, I could push the car (I have before—metaphorically speaking—I know I’m strong enough), but what if I (we!) didn’t have to?

Gretchen Rubin, an author and happiness expert, talks about the power of “treats”—small acts of kindness we show ourselves to recharge, not as rewards, but as sources of ongoing energy.

With the holidays fast approaching, these little joys aren’t indulgent; they’re necessary.

Self-Care Isn't Selfish—It's Essential

When we allow ourselves small treats, we build reserves of energy that help us be fully present with our loved ones. Our children see this too—learning that nurturing yourself is key to a life well-lived. Imagine entering the new year energized and refreshed, instead of completely drained.

So, what does it look like to give yourself a treat?

Here are some small but powerful ways to make sure you’re not only giving magic but feeling it, too:

For The Pregnant Mama

Treats might be registering for:

Silky pajamas even though you’re about to be leaky and bleeding
Panties that fit and are comfortable (I like these seamless ones)

Browse through something uplifting or beautiful, like an art book, magazine, or a photo album.
Allow yourself a window of time with absolutely no obligations or to-dos. Just rest, daydream, or see where the time takes you.
If you plan to breastfeed, the Cocoon is the ultimate treat to help you feel beautiful and covered (you'll spend 1800+ hours in it).

For The Breastfeeding Mama

Laying next to your newborn, but not being responsible to care for them.
Nursing your baby and having someone ready to take them to burp and change
Silky pajamas in your new PP size even though you’re leaking and bleeding still
Panties that fit and are comfortable (I like the seamless ones).
A bath with the best bath mix (and someone watching the kid/s -out of the house).
The Cocoon is the ultimate mama treat feel beautiful and ready to nurse wherever mom-life takes you.

For The Toddler Mama

Schedule a coffee date with yourself. Even if it’s just 15 minutes, savor the feeling of being just you for a moment—without checking your phone (i suggest leaving it in the car).
Curl up with a novel or inspiring read, escaping into another world, if only for a few pages a day. A few faves: Book, Book
A weekly bath, a meditation session, or a favorite hobby. These moments don’t have to be elaborate; they’re simply time to reconnect with what brings you joy. 10 min can do a lot.
Box breathing - this book is awesome for parents and kids

From the We Are Amma Mama Team

“Easy-No-Fuss-outfits in the morning is a total treat - I love putting on my Olive Mirage and Halo Necklace (that's why we designed them)” - Satya, CEO

"I always step outside to enjoy the sunset (even for just two minutes) with a cup of tea in my hand and a prayer on my lips." -Emily, Co-Founder

“Going outside, closing my eyes and letting the sun shine on my face for one minute (you can set a timer) really helps me a lot when I need to center myself” -Amy, Creative Director

"Getting out to enjoy a nice glass of wine with my husband or a friend" - Ciara, Head of Customer Happiness

"A 30 min walk just listening to music." -Anna, Head of Fulfillment

The holidays are about giving, yes.

But let’s also show our kids that giving starts within ourselves. They’ll remember the way you made the season special, but they’ll also remember the way you took time for yourself. This season, gift yourself small treats that lift your spirit and keep your energy high. The magic you create deserves to be sustained, and that starts with filling your own cup first.

So as you make memories for others, keep a little magic for yourself, too. Your heart—and your family—will thank you for it.

Sure, you could keep pushing the car yourself, but what if you didn’t have to?