As a mom who loves yoga, I never leave home without my trusty mat, even when traveling with the kids. Yoga is my escape, keeping me grounded with all the craziness of parenting. My practice brings me calm when surrounded by toddler chaos. As the family gear-heads up for vacation, my mat comes too to keep me centered.

Packing for a trip with little ones already means cramming the car with stuffed animals, coloring books, and enough snacks to feed an army. Making room for one more item seems daunting. But a few extra folds and my mat slides right in, essential as a set of pajamas.

While the kids are still sleeping, I unroll my mat on the hotel floor as the sun peeks through the curtains. A quick sun salutation energizes me for the day of chasing after tiny humans. After long hours walking around crowded theme parks and museums, a few restorative poses relax my sore feet and back. The familiar sequences let me find my breath when annoyance bubbles up after the fiftieth game of “I Spy.”

Sometimes, I enjoy switching things up with a bit of pilates in between my yoga routine. The same yoga mat can be used for pilates exercises, making it a versatile companion for my well-being. If you’re interested, you too can learn about beginners matwork here and discover the benefits of incorporating pilates into your routine. Whether it’s the serenity of yoga or the dynamic movements of pilates, my mat serves as an essential anchor for self-care during our family adventures.

On rainy days stuck indoors, I clear a space on the floor and encourage the kids to follow along with child-friendly poses. We giggle together as downward dogs and warriors in training wobble about. While their interest only lasts a few breaths, this bit of playtime bonds us together. Then I flow through vinyasas as they return to playing pretend, keeping an eye on me in child’s pose.

After long travel days, I draw the curtains and light a candle, my mat beckoning me for sleepy time stretches and savasana. The kids find their own yoga by burrowing into pillow forts and bedtime stories. My chances to duck away and realign on the mat are fleeting, but so necessary.

Having my yoga mat on family trips, even the most chaotic ones, keeps me present. As I hold plank amidst the craziness, I find my center. Inhaling and exhaling mindfully, I remember to appreciate these precious days, as my little yogis grow up much too quickly. My mat comes home with me more critter crumbs than when we left, but returning grounded and with a full heart is worth a few deep cleans.