Nine in 10 North American mothers reported they would rather receive an “experience” than a gift this Mother’s Day, with a spa trip spa ranking number one on the list of desired experiences – according to a survey by Spafinder Wellness 365.

Conducted in April, 1,197 respondents took part in the State of Moms 2014 online survey. Two-thirds (64 per cent) of mothers reported only having an hour or less of “me time” daily, which probably played a factor in the findings that 95 per cent of participants would prefer an experience over a material gift for Mother’s Day.

The Changing Face of Motherhood Survey, conducted in 2012, stated that mothers needed at least four times more “me time” than they were getting in order to feel happier and more fulfilled.

Spafinder's results indicate that 91 per cent of mothers surveyed are frequently or occasionally stressed. These mothers worry, most notably, about their family’s health, finances and balancing work with family duties.

Interestingly, twice as many fathers (18 per cent) as mothers (9 per cent) report being rarely or never stressed. Another surprising result is that taking care of children only causes stress for less than a third of mothers (32 per cent).

Mothers’ favourite methods for de-stressing were also ranked by the survey, with spa treatments and massages the most popular, followed closely by exercise.

With significantly more mothers are pursuing a wide range of fitness and healthy living options – such as eating a healthy diet, going to the gym or taking fitness classes – Spafinder highlights the results as a clear indication that wellness is now incorporated into the mainstream mother’s life.