Our kid’s bedtime is a gift and a curse in our household. I spend most days looking forward to it, especially since my three-year-old has now given up naps. However, the bedtime routine itself is what I dread the most. It is single-handedly the hardest and most stressful time of the day. Most evenings by the time we actually get the girls to finally fall asleep, I am ready to pass out myself. Both of my girls love to elongate their bedtime routing with requests to read more books, drink more water and the need for a million extra hugs.

If bedtime stresses you out, here are a few ways to de-stress after your kids bedtime routine.

1. Light Yoga or Stretch

Before bed every evening try to do a little bit of exercise. It doesn’t need to be anything strenuous, a few light stretches, or yoga can be done in as little as ten minutes (or less if you’d like). Simple poses as a downward dog promote calmness and muscle relaxation. If you want to help your kids calm down before bedtime, try getting them in on yoga or stretching activities as well.

2. Stick to the Routine

This isn’t the easiest thing to do for busy families. However, it is pertinent that you try your hardest. Identifying a good schedule and sticking to it is the key to helping your kids get used to going to bed without the stress. Try and start your routine at least an hour and a half earlier if your kids typically have trouble when it’s time for them to lay down.

3. Listen to Music

I love to listen to relaxing tunes before bed. Nighttime is the perfect time to put on your favorite playlist and sit back with your favorite book and chill before heading to bed. I prefer acoustic or Top 40 to put my mind at ease, as it’s always been the genre that has helped me get in the mood to head to bed.

4. Have A Drink

It doesn’t have to be wine, anything will work. I love a giant glass of green tea, rooibos or lavender tea before bed. All three are great for helping to relax and in the case of rooibos, will knock you right out.

5. Meditate

Meditation has done wonders for me the last several weeks. I use my Bellabeat Leaf Nature for deep meditation on a daily basis. Bellabeat also has other meditation programs available that are great for use throughout the day when you find yourself getting stressed out. If you don’t have a Bellabeat (besides recommending that you get one), you can always close your eyes and focus, while taking several deep breaths.

6. Prep for Later

As you are getting your kids ready for their baths, get your things out that you need as well. This will allow you to focus solely on that when it’s your time to get in the tub and relax.

7. Have A Snack Ready

Snacking before bed can be a bad idea, however, a light treat never hurt anyone, right? Whether its popcorn, nuts, pretzels or dried fruit; get your favorite snack item together for when it’s time to kick back.