diff --git a/cpu/saml21/include/periph_cpu.h b/cpu/saml21/include/periph_cpu.h
index 309caa8c09b6..727e6197d3e5 100644
--- a/cpu/saml21/include/periph_cpu.h
+++ b/cpu/saml21/include/periph_cpu.h
@@ -26,6 +26,13 @@
 extern "C" {
 #endif
 
+/**
+ * @brief   Override the default initial PM blocker
+ *
+ * STANDBY and BACKUP mode are blocked by default. Idle modes are enabled.
+ */
+#define PM_BLOCKER_INITIAL      0x00000101
+
 /**
  * @brief   The Low Power SRAM is not retained during deep sleep.
  */