8 Influential Moms On Navigating Motherhood During Quarantine

The current reality in these "unprecedented times" of acting as a parent, professional, teacher, partner, playmate, chef, workout instructor, and maybe more have put many a mom in an unprecedented emotional, psychic, mental, and spiritual space. It’s not uncommon for parents to vacillate between gratitude—for this unexpected time to spend with their families—and despair and worry—for obvious reasons. It’s also not uncommon for all members of any given family to wear the same sweatpants for days on end. And in the midst of everything, Mother’s Day is a mere couple of weeks away. To honour the holiday and the women it champions, BAZAAR.com has asked some of the chicest moms we know to share how they’re navigating these troubled waters, what their current states of mind are, and how they're planning to celebrate a day dedicated to them—from home, of course.

Related article: 30 Stylish Mother’s Day Gifts Your Mom Will Actually Use

KRISTEN NOEL CRAWLEY

Founder of KNC Beauty

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

My husband, two kids, and my mom.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

Patience, for sure. I no longer get that little break from them every day while they’re at school. I try to fill their days with activities and such, but it’s daunting at times trying to keep them busy. I’ve definitely learned to go more with the flow and that every day isn’t going to be perfect.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

I have my ups and downs. There are days that I just want to lie in bed and days when I want to be productive. I go with how I feel and don’t try to push myself. I had a whole to-do list for when this whole thing started, but that seemed to cause me more anxiety, so I’m just taking it one day at a time.

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

I’ve definitely immersed myself in interior design. I’ve always loved it, and now I have the time to really do it. I’ve been watching documentaries, masterclasses, old movies, etc. for inspiration. Lots of blogs I’ve found, and, of course, there’s so many cool interior Instagram pages.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR CHILDREN ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

I just want to take them to go play. We’re blessed to have a nice backyard, but they miss going to the park and seeing their friends.

WHAT’S ONE SELF-CARE GIFT ON YOUR LIST FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

I’ve been doing a lot of home improvement/renovations, and my body is feeling it. I’d love to go get a massage, but obviously, I can’t. So I choose the Hypervolt Plus massager.

CARLY CUSHNIE

CEO and Creative Director of CUSHNIE

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

I’m currently at home with my husband, our two daughters (one-year-old and newborn), and my mother-in-law.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

It’s taught me that children really don’t need much other than your time and attention. So right now, it has been important for me to slow down and really value this extra time I’ve been given to be together with my family.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

Although there are plenty of times when I feel anxious and worried, I’ve mostly felt grateful through this time. I’m at home with my family, in a safe place, with plenty of food and the essentials that we need. So many people do not have that, and just surviving the day-to-day let alone the virus is extremely difficult.

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

I was doing Melissa Wood Health online prenatal workouts leading up to the birth of my two-week-old, I’ve been listening to the Sakara Life podcast, and watching lots of Netflix.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR GIRLS ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

When this is all over, I can’t wait to go to the beach and play in the sea and sand with my girls.

WHAT’S ONE SELF-CARE GIFT ON YOUR LIST FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

With two young children now and even less time to go to the spa, I would love this Stacked Skincare microneedling tool to work on my fine lines and dark spots, and get that post-spa glow.

CHRISELLE LIM

Influencer and Founder of The Chriselle Factor

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

At home with my husband and two daughters. Chloe is five years old, and Colette is one and a half.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

During this time, working parents are expected to be a full-time stay-at-home parent along with working full time. And I’ve come to realize it just does NOT work. This is why there are stay-at-home parents, and there are working parents. It’s merely impossible to do both at the same time. Yet during this time of quarantine, we are expected to do both.

We are grateful to be safe at home, but I would be lying if I told you that it was easy. It’s actually really hard. I haven’t been fully present with my kids during this time, because I’m always trying to sneak in work. And I’m never able to fully dial into my work because I’m always with my kids. It’s just our new reality at this point.

It has taught me to have an open and earnest conversation with my oldest daughter of what is going on. Having her be aware of the situation so she understands that this is not normal but we all need to help each other out during this time.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

The first two weeks were tough. I had a few mental breakdowns because I was simply frustrated by the fact that I couldn’t give my all to either or. Frustrated that I couldn’t fully focus on my kids and be present because I had to work during the day, but also really shitty that I couldn’t be productive and meet all the deadlines that I was used to. I realized after two weeks, my expectations for myself for work and being a parent have to be different now. I had to change my mindset in order for me to be in a better mental state. I’m doing much better now and feel like we are finally in a great flow of things and figured out our new “system” and schedule.

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

I binge-watched Tiger King, which was the most ridiculous thing I’ve seen in a long time. I think having a bit of a mental escape is healthy and to be able to laugh during this time! I also have been LOVING TikTok. It’s just brainless content that has humour. I have found myself on TikTok so much during this time.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR GIRLS ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

I would love to first get a really STRONG massage and get all these kinks out of my shoulder that has been building up tension during this time. But definitely the first place we want to go to once this is all over is our usual spot in Hawaii for the summer. We miss being by the water and the tropical heat.

AUBE JOLICOEUR

Model and Influencer

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

I’m at home with my son, Miles, and my boyfriend, Michael, who’s currently working from home.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

I wasn’t always the schedule type, but I’ve found that maintaining a schedule with Miles keeps the days running smoothly. Keeping a routine during this uncertain time has also helped me.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

If I’m totally 100 per cent honest, my mental state has been all over the place (up, down, and just plain frustrated at times), but overall it has been a reflective time. I’ve been oddly motivated by the whole experience. I’ve gotten in a habit of writing down my thoughts and inspirations, so I can possibly make something out of them in the future!

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

A lot of different Netflix shows have been helping me get through this. Mike and I have also enjoyed listening to audiobooks (many are available for free this month). And I can’t forget the Instagram influencer moms that have helped to keep me entertained and motivated.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR BABY ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

Part of my plan, which has been on pause due to the pandemic, is to take swimming lessons with my baby. I never had the opportunity to take lessons as a child, and I want to give my child the opportunity to learn early. So we will definitely be doing that as soon as the pools reopen.

WHAT’S ONE SELF-CARE GIFT ON YOUR LIST FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

A massage and soak at the thermal baths/spa. In New York City, AIRE Ancient Baths is one of my favourite places to go for a nice relaxing day and massage. My dream gift for Mother’s Day!

Related article: Stay Home With BAZAAR: How To Make Paper Flowers

MARA HOFFMAN

Designer

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

My mom, husband, and son.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

If there was ever a time to practice the art of patience, the time is now.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

Fluctuating. Some days I feel so clear and hopeful and in the flow, and other days I can feel the opposite. Ebbs and flows.

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

I love Ram Dass and have his book Grist for the Mill with me, which is a true lifesaver. I also love Pema Chödrön, who writes so eloquently about grief and discomfort. I love listening to music as well. I spend so much time on my computer for work that I prefer to be off the screen when I’m not working. Oh, I’ve also been drawing portraits of my best friends.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR SON ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

The same as I will do during this—play, hug, make funny dance videos together, be in love.

WHAT’S ONE SELF-CARE GIFT ON YOUR LIST FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

My products are starting to dwindle, so I would say a gift card to Shen Beauty, one of my favourite female-run businesses that carries many of my fave products like Vintner's Daughter and Joanna Vargas.

ANNE V

Model with The Lions Model Management

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

I’m home with my four-and-a-half-year-old daughter.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

Sheltering in place has taught me how to work together as a team with my daughter and really support one another. She is only four and a half, but she is really starting to understand that there are moments that we both need our own time and space sometimes. I also have really learned how to multitask. There’s not one day that goes by that I am not doing two things at the same time.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

Honestly, I’ve been great. In the beginning, my workouts are really what kept me very happy, but then I pulled a muscle and I felt that I needed to find something else to keep my sanity. I started doing Kundalini every day, and it has been life-changing for me and my happiness.

I feel so grateful that I am listening to my body when it needs a break, and I’m pretty aware of my emotions and my needs, so I act on any tough times quickly to change or adjust the outcome.

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

I haven’t had a chance to look at anything. What has kept me the most at ease is to be working and staying busy. I’m doing an Instagram Live series on fitness, mindfulness, interviews with people who inspire me and professionals who can give us knowledge at this time. It’s been so great to connect with people during this time, make new friendships online, and just support one another. I feel constant support from others, and now I'm trying to give the same back.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR DAUGHTER ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

I wouldn’t want to celebrate any other way than be at home with my daughter.

WHAT’S ONE SELF-CARE GIFT ON YOUR LIST FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

I keep on hearing the Molekule is the best air purifier, and I’d love one for my house to keep it clean.

ANGELA FINK

Creative Director and Influencer

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

I’m at home with my husband, Kelly, and my three-year-old, Lola.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

That parenting from the heart is the plentiful path. Each child is so different; each child has their own mind. Finding how to connect to your child is vital. My husband took me aside the other day and kindly said, “You know, she is not listening to you when you get upset and get overwhelmed.” I immediately got defensive but knew there was truth to this. I have learned that Lola responds to a calm voice, firm but gentle. This time with her has shown me how to connect to this joyful little girl in ways I never thought possible.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

Hopeful for the future. I have taken this time to reset, refocus on what is essential to my family and me. I am finding that what we need for our existence is not how we have been living. It’s been very eye-opening. My heart gets heavy with the weight of the world. Still, I hold space for myself in those moments, allow myself to feel all the feelings, and then take action by posting about ways to help, supporting small businesses, or donating money or time to something that genuinely inspires me.

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

I am currently reading these books—Ready, Set, Breathe: Practicing Mindfulness with Your Children, The Chimp Paradox: The Mind Management Program. I am reading Business of Fashion every day, listening to The Goop Podcast. At night, I take a Yale college course, The Science of Well-Being. It’s been very enlightening.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR DAUGHTER ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

We will for sure take a much-needed road trip to the desert.

WHAT’S ONE SELF-CARE GIFT ON YOUR LIST FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

I’ve purchased multiple ice rollers for family and friends but never for myself. I use a jade roller and put in the fridge, but nothing is like the actual ice roller with two rollers that stay cold longer. I’ve added this to my wish list.

RAMYA GIANGOLA

Stylist and Influencer

WHO ARE YOU CURRENTLY HOME WITH?

I am at currently at home with my husband, daughter, and our dog.

WHAT HAS SHELTERING IN PLACE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT HOW YOU PARENT/MOTHERHOOD?

It’s really forced me to slow down as a parent, not to expect so much to be done in a single day, to appreciate even the small accomplishments and insights we can share together as a family. I realize we were all (myself, husband, and daughter) moving at such a fast pace with super-hectic, over-packed daily schedules of work, school, activities, social life, travel, etc. ... I feel maybe we weren’t able to have time and space to reflect. ... We just kept going. My goal is for us to try and keep this slower pace and focus more on connection and communication. Feeling more while actually doing less.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL MENTAL STATE THROUGHOUT THIS TIME?

I have found myself flip-flopping between moments of gratitude for how blessed we are to have a safe and lovely home, our health, food on the table, and each other, and then feeling terrified of what’s to come when this is over and what kind of life is ahead for our society ... what will the new normal really be? Will our children’s generation just have a completely new reality (more than it was already?)? It’s hard to fathom what’s to come.

WHAT RESOURCES (BOOKS, FILMS, INSTAS, OR WEBSITES) HAVE BROUGHT YOU THE MOST EASE?

I recently started listening to Jessica Snow and her guided meditations around imagination, knowing, creativity, and more. She’s been a great resource. Also, I’ve been watching a lot of my favourite movies, introducing those that are age-appropriate to Chiara—that’s been a fun way to share stories with her and my memories of when I saw them and how they inspired me.

We don’t watch the news at home, so I’ve been getting my news as I always do from The New York Times, Financial Times and LA Times ... I can only imagine how much more stressful things would be hearing the news on the TV; being able to read about it and not having it in our shared space at home has made a big difference I think.

WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU’LL DO WITH YOUR DAUGHTER ONCE THIS TIME IS OVER TO CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY?

I think the first thing we will do when it’s safe to do so is traveling somewhere special to us. We may be celebrating more than just Mother’s Day by the time-travelling is possible again! But that’s what we have been talking about a lot at the dinner table is where we will go when we can travel again someday.

WHAT’S ONE SELF-CARE GIFT ON YOUR LIST FOR MOTHER’S DAY?

I am dying for the Georgia Louise Hollywood Facial at Home kit. I truly miss seeing Georgia when she is in L.A., and her team for my monthly treatments. This will help me up my skin game for sure.

This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.

Related article: How All Of Your Favourite Celebs Spent Mother's Day 2019