I wanted to relax today, but then I realized I’m a mom.

— Every Mother Who Ever Lived

So you’re a mom that can never fit in time to unwind and relax? If this sounds familiar, then read on to see what you can start now to find the time to replenish yourself.

1. Make the Kids’ Bedtime Earlier. That doesn’t mean the children have to fall asleep earlier. They can be in their bed as they look at or read books or other quiet activities like talking to one another. Make it seem like a treat that you won’t force them to fall asleep as soon as they are in bed. Even moving bedtime 30 minutes can help you to have some time to unwind.
2. Establish Quiet Time Breaks. Make a set time every day where everyone home will observe quiet time. This can be during a child’s nap time or it can be observed after school or dinner. Make the time pleasant by offering a small snack or offer a reward for those who do quiet time well. Whatever you do, schedule it in your calendar and keep that appointment.
3. Wake Up Earlier Than The Kids. It doesn’t have to be more than 30 minutes. Set an alarm to go off before the children normally wake up for the day. This time can be valuable to gradually wake up rather than being woken up from a child demanding breakfast.
4. Now that you have some more time in your daily life to yourself, you can take better advantage of the following ideas! Meditate. It’s science. Meditation helps your body to relax. There are many resources that offer free meditations. Play around and see what you like.
5. Write 5 Things You Are Grateful For. Maybe even buy yourself a cute notebook or journal and some fun pens. Take time to really think about what is going well in your life. Noticing the good and focusing on that will help you see that life isn’t that horrible after all. Even if the dirty dishes and laundry are piled a mile high.
6. Look Outside. Notice your surroundings. Inspect the grass, plants, and trees. Listen to any sounds you may hear. If you live in a dense city, you can still admire the sky or how uniform the windows on the high rise align. Even better, take a walk around your neighborhood or visit a nearby park or trail. 
7. Connect With Others. Talk to a good friend or family member. Think of a friend that you haven’t spoken to lately and ask them how their day is going. Come up with a question to ask and really listen. Be vulnerable with others that you trust. Laughing and developing friendships help stress melt away.
8. Listen To Good Music. Jam out to your favorite bands from your teen years or set up a relaxation music station on your favorite music app.
9. Take A Bath. Make the water warm and turn down the lights. For an extra relaxation bonus, add bath salts or bubble bath or both!
10. Put Yourself To Bed. Create a bedtime ritual instead of crashing. Make your bed. Spray the linens with a calming scented spray. Dim the lights and light a scented candle. Change into comfortable pajamas and wash up. Tuck yourself into bed with a good book.