It can be tough to find the time to do almost anything when you have kids, especially when they are babies and or toddlers, as their needs are much greater than older kids. On that odd occasion when you do have those rare spare hours you are often left feeling guilty for leaving them right?

Well luckily for us parents that guilt is misplaced, as multiple surveys in recent years have revealed that quality time with your kids trumps quantity. Some of the most shocking facts that has come out in recent years is the fact that should you spend too much time with your loved ones it could actually be more harmful! So going on a night/day out with the lads or ladies, taking that business trip or even promotion shouldn't weigh on your conscience too much!

I have to admit i have struggled in the past to leave the family behind and not only because i didn't want to miss the kids, but for the sake of my partner, looking after two kids under three is bloody relentless at times right! Seeing friends and spending time away for your other-half also has its benefits of course! Parenting is tough both psysically and mentally, sometimes people need more than just time away, they need support and there are some great free rehab centers to help people suffering, recover from their issues.

I have now grown accustom and almost reliant on escaping the kids in and outside the house for a couple of hours a night after work every now and then and or on a weekend.

Heading out three nights this week straight after work so i won't get to see the boys before bed. Hard not to feel guilty! #parentguilt

— Yorkshire Dad (@TheYorkshireDad) 14 February 2017

I thought i would share with you some of the activities i enjoy in an attempt to help you relax and enjoy a stress free time away from the tribe:

Golf

On the occasion i get to spend half a day away from the family i like to get out on to the golf course with my friends. Golf is also great for relieving stress... what could be better than getting outdoors with your pals, putting on your new golf shorts and shoes and hitting a load of golf balls? Putting in the miles when you walk means that you will have plenty of time to chat to your friends and concentrate on the mental and psychical aspects of you game.

Poker & Black Jack

If i don't have enough time to get out of the house i do like to play poker and play jack online. There are plenty of places to play online like this site where you can easily sign-up and start playing almost instantly. Play on a budget, connect with other players and kick-back on the sofa on your phone on laptop and immerse yourself in another world.

Rock Climbing

I have recently taken up bouldering at my local climbing center. I highly recommend it as not only is it fun, but it is a good work-out and if you go with friends you get some much needs socialising!

Xbox

Playing video games can relieve your stress, reduce your depression, and make you feel better. I have to admit that i don't get to play on the computer enough at home, but when visiting friends it is often our first port of call. Games such as Fifa, Call of Duty and Rory Mcilroy golf are easy enough for any gamer to jump into easily. Their online capabilities and platforms also mean that you can connect and chat with like-mind gamers all over the world.

Thanks for reading folks, i hope you have found this article useful. Please feel free to share your way of escaping and relieving stress!