Mother's Day: nothing like a mother's love

We know, Mother's Day has become a bit commercial. Those expensive bunches of flowers and generic 'I heart Mom' mugs make you cringe. But this year on 13 May, let's make the day all about family, and make some more meaningful memories.

A bond before birth

Remember, your special bond between you and your mother began early on. While she was pregnant, those first special flutters of movement started to link the two of you together.

And at birth, the feel-good hormone oxytocin was released and continued to increase with every touch and cuddle. In fact, as a newborn baby you already recognised your mom's voice from hearing it in the womb.

And at just a week or so old, your vision allowed you to focus about 20cm away, which was the distance between you and mom's face while you were being fed. She's literally always been someone you looked up to!

A bond for life

There's probably no one else who has been there for you like your mom. Someone who's worked hard and sacrificed so much to give you everything.

And along the way, she's helped shape you into the person you are today. Studies have even shown that mom's cuddles can help protect your heart, and that the stronger the bond between you, the more your capability for complex thought and problem-solving by age two.

So she's made you healthier, smarter and happier just by being in your life. And it doesn't matter how old you get, a hug from her always makes you feel better.

As the saying goes, 'Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.'

Make it about mom

This Mother's Day, you can honour this special person in your life. Reduce the stress and ignore the marketing, and just plan some quality time with mom, whether one-on-one or with the whole family.

You could even start a new family tradition such as taking a giant family photo every Mother's Day, and then add them to a photo album for mom each year. Remember, being present for each other is far more important than any present.

And if you're a mom, thank you for being a personal doctor, chef, cheerleader and best friend. Even when you don't always feel like it, you are being the best mom you can be for your child. After all, you've known them since before they were born.