Today, my mom turns 85! I was fortunate enough to spend the past week on the West Coast, in Portland, Oregon, with her and my aunt and uncle. It was a truly special time together. I’ve come to realize that not everyone can say they take after their mother, but I’m proud to say that being compared to her is the highest compliment I could receive. I am incredibly grateful for my mom and all the remarkable women in my life—family, friends, and others—who have profoundly shaped the person I am today. They've imparted wisdom that I continue to learn from and grow with each day.
As a child, I was nurtured by my mother and the influential women around me. Now, as an adult, I’ve come to understand the importance of what we call “self-mothering”—a powerful form of radical self-care. Self-mothering is exactly what it sounds like: offering yourself the same love and support a mother would, right in the moment you need it.
In my work as a Behavioral Therapist and Intuitive Eating Coach, I’ve noticed a strong link between self-mothering and intuitive eating. Both are centered on self-care and trusting inner guidance. They encourage us to step away from external pressures—whether that’s societal expectations or restrictive diets—and instead embrace a more compassionate, personalized approach.
Here are a few ways you can practice both self-mothering and intuitive eating:
Listen to your intuition. Your inner voice of wisdom within is available and ready to guide you in tiny everyday details and big life decisions.
Tend to your basic needs. Make sure you’re drinking enough water, eating when you’re hungry, and resting when you’re tired.
Make space for you. No matter how simple or small, creating a space just for you will help you feel more grounded through the ups and downs of life.
Create supportive boundaries. Be an advocate and mama bear for yourself. If someone or something is bringing you down, create boundaries that support you.
Deepen meaningful connections. Give yourself the permission and time to cultivate relationships with other people that bring you love, joy, growth, and encouragement.
Practice restorative rituals. Small, everyday practices that give you feelings of being cared for, adored and supported.
By blending self-mothering with intuitive eating, you cultivate a nurturing relationship with yourself that supports both your emotional and physical well-being. It’s about honoring your needs, trusting your inner wisdom, and creating a balanced, compassionate approach to self-care.
As a licensed Clinical Behavioral Therapist and Intuitive Eating Counselor, I’m here to help you integrate these practices into your life. If you're interested in working with me, feel free to reach out at rachel@livehealthynyc.com.