Dear Mothers, we wouldn’t be here without you. Whether you’re a birth mom, plant mom, stepmom, dog mom, cat mom, adopted mom, van mom, indoorsy mom, or outdoorsy mom, we are thankful for you and all you do for us. We wish we were better at expressing that.
Among the moms we’re celebrating this Mother’s Day is Mother Nature. Like all the other mothers, Earth gives life, provides, and nurtures—from the verdant forests giving air, to the mighty oceans dancing with the tide, to the soaring mountains touching the sky.
The personification of our planet as Mother Nature dates back to the Middle Ages, lasting from 500 AD to 1500 AD. If you look at the Latin word “natura” you’ll see that it means to be born, to spring forth, to arise. In ancient Greek mythology, Earth was personified as a goddess called Gaia, and in Norse mythology, it was a goddess called Jord Earth.
Most likely, Earth as Mother dates back even longer. Indigenous teachings refer to the earth as Earth-Mother, which gives water, life, and air and feeds humans, plants, and animals.
The earth is my mother, and on her bosom I shall repose.
Said by Tecumseh, the Shawnee chief and warrior, in the early 1800s.
These symbols of Earth as Mother Nature make it easier for us to understand where we come from and why it’s important to take care of our planet as a loved one. And on this Mother’s Day, we can remember that every one of us has a mother whom we can cherish.
Ways to Celebrate Mother Nature with Mom
Hiking: Slow down and stretch your legs on a hiking trail with your mom. These 10 amazing hiking trails start straight from your campground. No need to drive to the trailhead.
Boondock Camping: If you’re up for a little scavenger hunt, why not seek out some free camping for a boondocking trip with mom? Here’s everything you should know.
Lakeside Fun: The lake is the perfect backdrop for some quality time with mom. Try checking out the top 5 lake destinations in the U.S.
Mountain Biking: Is your mom a better mountain biker than you? Take her on the ultimate mountain biking getaway, complete with cozy campgrounds and easy trail access.
Beach Camping: Watch the waves, wait for the sunset, collect seashells—straight from your camping spot on the beach.
National Parks: Collect another stamp in your National Park passport. Mother Nature is best during summer at these 8 stunning sites.
Family Fishing: Catch and cook dinner for Mother’s Day. Our complete guide to fishing will walk you through all you need to know to impress Mom.
Thanks to all the moms out there for teaching us to appreciate the outdoors. And thank you, Mother Earth, for the seasons, for the birds and butterflies, for thunderstorms and sunshine, for the deep blue ocean and crystal clear rivers, and for so much more.
