Family time is precious and lets you connect with the people closest to you. However, when was the last time you were able to simply enjoy the company of your loved ones without any distractions? Between sports practices, school events, and work commitments, it can be tough to find the time to give your undivided attention to your family. It seems like everyone is forever on the go and just meets in passing or over a hurried dinner before racing off to the next event.
Not only do these time restraints make it difficult to interact in a meaningful way, but being too busy can lead to unhealthy stress levels. According to helpguide.org, work and school are some of the main causes of stress. Make an effort to carve out some time each week to spend together doing something fun. The entire family can benefit from the stress relief and bonding time.Â
Have a Spa Day
Self-care is a wonderful way to destress. It’s also a great practice to teach your kids to promote healthy habits in the future. Try a low-key spa day to engage in some pampering and casual conversation. Try a sheet mask to moisturize skin or a new nail polish color. Hand and foot massages are another suggestion that the whole family is sure to love. Set the mood by playing some soft music and having everyone dress in comfortable clothing.
Tell Stories
Storytime is always a fun and soothing way to enjoy being together but often falls aside as children grow older. Bring back this classic by choosing a book to read together, or encouraging your kids to use their imaginations to make up a story of their own.
Indulge In a Movie Night
Sometimes you just need to relax. A lighthearted and funny movie can be the perfect way to unwind after a long week. Take turns letting each family member choose the main feature of the night. You can stick to simply watching a movie in your living room, or make it an event. Organize a slumber party with sleeping bags, pajamas, and popcorn. Or, try an outdoor screening to get some fresh air and a change of scenery.
Get Crafty
Making a craft can be fun for everyone. It’s also an amazing way to lower stress, provide a positive distraction, and support coordination, states piedmont.org. You can make an elaborate project or stick to coloring books. It doesn’t matter which type of craft you choose as any sort of creative activity will be beneficial. Crafting gives your family the chance to help one another and show off some impressive talents.
Cook a Meal Together
Increase the amount of time you spend with your members and reduce the burden of chores at the same time by cooking together once a week. Divide up the tasks to give everyone a job. Even the youngest can help stir or pour ingredients into a bowl.
Cooking as a family is also a wonderful opportunity to focus on healthy food choices and to teach your children about good nutrition. Create a meal plan with healthy and delicious ingredients to make the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Go Play Outside
Physical activity is one of the best ways to lower your stress levels and release some pent-up energy and emotions. The clevelandclinic.org backs up this statement and recommends exercise as an excellent method to boost your mood and get stress under control.
Switch up your normal exercise routine by opting to gather the family together for a game of backyard soccer or tag. You will still get the necessary cardio to stay healthy, with the bonus of feeling like a kid again yourself as you play together.
These are just a few examples of how you can come together as a family to improve your relationships with each other while caring for your health. Discover the activities that you enjoy the most by trying a variety of different things. You can also let each family member choose something new to do each week to get everyone excited about your new routine.