Winding down isn?t easy for anyone, especially for parents. Not only do you have to attempt to relax after a chaotic day of managing kids, but your children?s ability to wind down at night also directly affects how calm your evening is. Because of this we came up with five wind it down tips specifically for parents so you can enjoy more relaxing pre-bed rituals.
1.) Set Aside Time for Yourself After They Go To Bed
Once your children go to bed, it?s easy to want to just go straight to sleep yourself. While this may seem like the best bet in the short term, you may find that your racing mind can interrupt your sleep patterns. Try to take an hour or so to read, journal, take a bath or listen to calming music before you make your way to bed. That way your mind will have a chance to take a break before you do the same with your body.
2.) Make Sure They Relax
The less chaotic getting your children to bed at night is, the easier it will be for you to wind down. As parents, you know it?s not always possible to have a completely seamless time getting the kids to go to sleep, but the more structure and routine you implement, the easier it will be to make it a smooth bedtime? transition. If they go to bed easy, you will be less wound up before your own bedtime.
3.) Spend Quality Time With Your Partner
Not only should you take some time out for yourself after getting the kids to sleep, consider carving some time out with your partner, friends or family. Whether it?s doing a puzzle with your spouse or calling a family member to catch up, making some time for those other than your children will put your mind at ease.
4.) Make Time for Yourself During the Day
Winding down is not just about the actions you take right before bed. As a parent, there is no shame in recruiting help with the kiddos for even just an hour a day. Use that time to go to the gym, do yoga, or partake in whatever activity will reset your mind and body to equip you to handle anything that comes your way for the rest of the day. The less stressed you are during the day, the easier it is to wind down at night.
5.) Plan Family Meals Appropriately
After a long day, it?s typical to find the easiest thing in the cupboard to make because you simply don?t have the time to make a more elaborate meal. While you don?t have to slave away in the kitchen, eating an unhealthy, large and processed meal right near bedtime will make it harder for not only your children to fall asleep, but you as well. Making small changes to improve your family?s dinner habits will have a positive effect on everyone?s sleeping habits.
Parents, what winding down tips do you use? Let us know in the comments!
