Bedtime might be a trial of fire, where you struggle to get everyone bathed and into their PJs before spending more time than you would have imagined possible tucking them in and reading them the same story they’ve heard a million times before, but once they’re finally off to slumberland, well that’s your time! The thing is, it can often be hard to know how to kick back and relax once the kids are in bed, especially when that parenting adrenaline is still pumping through your veins, making you a bit keyed up. So, take a look at some of the best ideas for post-bedtime relaxation, when you have to stay in and look after the kids, below, for some ideas.
1. Pour Yourself a Grown-Up Drink
Whether you fancy a glass of wine, a cheeky gin and tonic, or a mug of hot chocolate with an indecent amount of marshmallows, a good drink can set the tone for ultimate relaxation. Light a candle, put on some chill tunes, and pretend you’re at a fancy spa instead of surrounded by forgotten toys and laundry piles.
Pro tip: Drink it out of your nice glass or mug. You deserve better than that chipped cup with Peppa Pig on it.
2. 8. Play Video Games (For Yourself, Not the Kids)
If you’re a gamer at heart, now’s the perfect time to dive into a game that isn’t rated E for Everyone. Revisit an old favourite, try a new RPG, or lose yourself in a chill game like Stardew Valley. Because you know what? Gaming is actually surprisingly relaxing
Not into traditional gaming? Mobile games or puzzle apps can be just as satisfying. Feeling lucky? Why not dip your toes into the glitzy world of social casino gaming? These games let you spin, bet, and bluff without any real-world stakes, but rather virtual coins or credits —perfect for when you need a little adrenaline rush but can’t be bothered to leave your sofa.
Play a few hands of poker, try your luck at the roulette wheel, or watch the virtual coins pile up in the slots. It’s all the fun of a night at the casino, minus the effort of putting on trousers. Bonus: no judgment if you play in your pyjamas with biscuit crumbs everywhere.
3. Binge a Series You Don’t Have to Share
When was the last time you watched something that didn’t involve talking animals or cheerful people singing about feelings, and friendship and all of that kid-friendly stuff? Now’s your chance. Queue up that crime thriller, trashy reality show, or period drama that’s been sitting on your watchlist for months, and enjoy the heck out of it while you can.
The best part? No one will interrupt with, “Mummy, can I have a snack?” or “What’s happening now?” as if you’re the Netflix narrator.
4. Turn Your Bathroom into a Mini Spa
You don’t need a fancy retreat to feel pampered—your bathroom will do just fine. Run a hot bath, toss in a bath bomb, and let the steam carry away the day’s chaos. Add a face mask, some soothing music, and maybe even a cheeky glass of prosecco for full relaxation mode.
Just don’t fall asleep in the tub. That’s a level of relaxation even your waterproof phone case can’t handle.
5. Get Creative (Even If You’re Terrible at It)
You don’t have to be the next Van Gogh to enjoy a bit of art therapy. Grab some colouring pencils, paints, or even that adult colouring book you impulse-bought ages ago and never touched, and let yourself get lost in the process of creating something artsy without the kid spilling glitter all over it or being your harshest critics!
Not into traditional art? Try baking something that looks half as good as it does on Instagram, knitting a wonky scarf, or finally starting that DIY project you’ve been meaning to do. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s to have fun and switch off your brain for a bit.
6. Read a Book That Isn’t About Parenting
Remember books? Those magical things full of stories and information that you used to enjoy before bedtime became an Olympic sport? Dig one out and lose yourself in another world that you haven’t visited every night for more bedtimes than you’ve lost count of!
Whether it’s a steamy romance, a gripping mystery, or a self-help book you’ll pretend you finished, reading is a great way to relax and remind yourself that you have interests beyond CBeebies.
7. Try a Home Workout (No, Really)
Hear me out—exercise might not scream “relaxation,” but a gentle yoga session or even a dance workout in your living room can do wonders for your mood. Plus, it’s a great way to shake off the stress of the day and get those endorphins flowing.
If yoga isn’t your thing, throw on a workout video that lets you channel your inner Beyoncé. Trust me, nothing says “relaxation” like pretending you’re headlining Glastonbury in your living room.
8. Have a Guilt-Free Snack Session
Forget the kale crisps and celery sticks—it’s time for the good stuff. Once the kids are asleep, break out the secret stash of chocolate, the posh biscuits, or that ice cream you’ve been hiding at the back of the freezer.
Pair it with your drink of choice and enjoy the rare pleasure of eating something without having to share it with at least one other person. It’s not selfish—it’s survival, and you’ve earned it.
9. Do Absolutely Nothing
Sometimes, the best way to relax is to just stop, and do absolutely nothing at all. Put your phone on silent, turn off the telly, and just...exist. Sit in the quiet, take some deep breaths, or even meditate if you’re feeling fancy, and it will give you the headspace that you so desperately need after being a dedicated parent all day long.
This is your time to recharge and remember that you’re a human being, not just a snack-fetcher, bedtime-enforcer, and Lego-picker-upper. You really don’t have to feel guilty about doing anything at all because you’ve been busy doing all kinds of things for your kids all day long, right?
Relax, you’ve earned it!