Yes, parenting can be stressful. But keep in mind, being a kid can be stressful, too. While parents need their breaks every now and then, relaxation can also be a family activity, and South Florida offers an array of activities that can put you at ease for a bit—children in tow.
YOGA FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Thursdays is kids yoga at BKS Yoga Studio in Naples. Drop in for a regular adult class while the kids are in the next room over learning the basics of yoga.
Kids yoga: 4-5 p.m. Thursdays, $10; BKS Yoga Studio, 2900 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, bksyogastudio.com.
Keep the flow going at home with the “Yoga for Families” DVD by L.A. yoga gurus Ingrid Von Burg and Tom Morley. The hour-long video features quick-paced and easy-to-learn routines. Find it and more info at yogatohavefun.com
CREATIVE RELAXATION
Art can be a great way to relieve stress. In fact, just 45 minutes of practicing some sort of art can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) by at least 75 percent, according to a study in the Art Therapy journal. Luckily for us, Alliance for the Arts offers Family Art Labs monthly. Expect a hands-on activity inspired by the current exhibition.
Family Art Labs: fourth Saturday, free; Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, artinlee.org/artlab
GET AWAY FROM IT ALL—TOGETHER
One nice thing about Florida is that you’re never too far from a tourist destination. So take a quick family trip. Hotels such as Loews Miami Beach cater specifically to families. It recently underwent a $50 million renovation to offer a special kids’ space with arcade games, a kiddie library and even room for daily classes such as pizza making.
Loews Miami Beach, 1601 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, loewshotels.com