May is Maternal Mental Health Month, and I have a gentle but powerful challenge for you.
But first—check in with yourself.
How are you really doing?
Are you eating enough? Drinking water? Getting sleep? Asking for help when you need it?
How’s your mental load these days? Are you staying afloat, or could you use a buoy?
As a perinatal mental health therapist in Maryland and a mom of two, I truly care about your well-being. I also know how easy it is to put yourself last—to finish your toddler’s leftovers instead of sitting down for a nourishing meal, to push through the overwhelm without a pause, to keep going without reaching out.
But here’s the truth: this isn’t sustainable. It doesn’t serve you or your family.
And let’s be honest—our phones and constant screen time often add to our mental load, increase overstimulation, and distract us from the things we value most.
The Challenge: Reduce Screen Time, Reconnect with Nature
This Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, I invite you to join me in a simple but meaningful challenge:
Trade screen time for scene time.
That means being intentional about reducing non-essential screen use and replacing it with real-life moments, nature connection, and nurturing your well-being.
Later this month, I’ll be sharing a piece I authored for Postpartum Support International with practical tips on how time in nature can support your mental health and parenting journey. Stay tuned—I’ll share the link as soon as it’s published!
Small Shifts, Big Impact
In the meantime, try making small changes:
- Step outside for a few minutes of fresh air.
- Grow a plant or start a small garden.
- Put the phone down and truly connect with your partner, your children, or yourself.
- Join our next Flourish in Motherhood nature-based gathering on May 9th in Parkville, MD—you’ll be surrounded by other moms who get it.
Think of this month as a gift to yourself:
🧠 Less overstimulation
💡 More presence
🌱 More joy in real-life, 3D moments
💞 More connection to what truly matters
Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are the ones we give ourselves—from a place of self-compassion, care, and respect for our needs.
You don’t have to do it all.
You are not alone.
And you are so worthy of support and replenishment.
Are You In?
Are you up for the challenge?
Are you ready for the gifts?
I’d love to hear from you in the comments or connect via email at lauren@guidedinnature.com.
Wishing you care, calm, and connection this May—and always.
Let’s get out there!
