What does it mean to be a mother?

Recently, during the holidays, I had a moment of clarity that I wanted to share. I was sitting with my family, amidst the usual holiday chaos, when my dad shared some wisdom: "We should replace 'love' with our own name in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a." The verse reads:
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails...
So, I did. I replaced "love" with my name and reflected on what that really means. And for every one of the 16 people in our extended family, I did this. And you know what? It stopped me in my tracks. This is what being a mother is all about. A mother is love. She’s patient and kind—but that doesn’t mean she’s perfect.
Motherhood Is Not Perfect
Sometimes, I’m not patient. Like when I’m playing Castle Panic with my 7-year-old, and he’s taking too long to pick up the cards. Or when I’m not as kind as I’d like to be and let my baby cry just a little longer than necessary because I want to finish one more thing. I’m often proud of my kids, my life, and my journey, but love is not proud. I don't always get it right.

But does that make me less of a mother? No. And here’s why: It’s not about perfection. Motherhood is about the baby steps—the little moments of growth. It’s about moving through those imperfections with love and patience, even when it feels hard.
Embracing Baby Steps
Like today, when I moved a little faster when I heard my baby stir. Or when I played Castle Panic in the morning, even though the day got busy. Little things add up, and I’ve learned that they make a big difference.

This journey isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up, day after day, and doing the best we can.
Here’s the thing—whether you’re religious, spiritual, or just focused on personal growth, the idea that “love is patient, love is kind” is a universal truth. It’s a reminder that we’re all doing the best we can in this wild journey of motherhood.
A Simple Practice for Busy Mamas: Ocean Breath
And this is where you come in. Motherhood can feel overwhelming. Balancing everything—work, family, self-care—is no easy feat. But the key is finding small moments to reset. One of the ways I do that is through breathwork. It’s simple, quick, and can help you reconnect to your body and your inner calm.
One of my favorite breath techniques is Ocean Breath, also known as Ujjayi Pranayama in yoga. It’s a grounding and calming breath that can help ease stress and anxiety.
How to Practice Ocean Breath:
Sit or lie comfortably in a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. You can sit or lie on a chair, cushion, or cross-legged on the floor. Heck even the bathroom might be your best place if you have little ones.
Close your eyes and bring your awareness to your breath. Take a few natural breaths in and out through your nose.
Create the sound of the ocean by gently constricting the back of your throat, as if you were fogging up a mirror or whispering a soft "ha" sound. It should sound like the gentle waves of the ocean.
Breathe in through your nose for a count of 4, feeling the breath move deep into your lungs.
Exhale through your nose for a count of 4, making the same oceanic sound.
Repeat for 5 minutes, focusing on the rhythm of your breath and the sound of the waves.
Why It Works:
Ocean breath helps calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and bring you back to the present moment. When life feels like a whirlwind, taking just five minutes to focus on your breath can make a huge difference in how you feel. If you're like me and do better with a friend- listen while I guide you with a 5-minute guided Ujjayi breathing meditation while in your car or on a break – instant stress relief.
You Matter
So, here’s my challenge to you today: Take five minutes for yourself. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and practice Ocean Breath. You matter. Your well-being matters. And you are doing an incredible job.
Little things, like this breathwork practice, add up. Just like the small moments of motherhood that might seem insignificant at the time but add up to something beautiful.
Let’s move through this year, together, taking one small step at a time.
Much love,
Jennica
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