The Times of India

5 bedtime shlokas for children to end the day with positive thoughts and sleep peacefully

Bedtime isnt just about switching off the artificial lights, its also the time when the mind replays the entire day. To set the mind at peace, many elderly in Indian families follow a simple practice: Chanting shlokas. While weve often seen grandparents follow this tradition, its an effective way that can even help children to wrap the day peacefully. For children, chanting simple shlokas before bedtime can become a powerful ritual. Parenting coach Vidhi (@old.school.parenting) recently shared some of these shlokas for children. Here are 5 bedtime shlokas parents can teach children to help them end the day with positive thoughts and sleep peacefully: Om Krishnaya Vasudevaya Haraye ParamatmanePranata: Kleshanashaya Govindaya Namo Nama: This is a prayer to lord Krishna, which asks the divinity to remove all the worries, difficulties, and fears from life. Benefits: This shloka can help children who feel anxious.It encourages a feeling of trust, surrender, and inner security. Om Namo NarayanayaThis shloka is a prayer to Lord Narayana. It's easy for children to remember. For children who feel anxious at night, chanting this shloka can help feel calm and composed. When practiced daily, this shloka can create a soothing and repetitive bedtime rhythm. Om Namah ShivayaI bow to lord Shiv, this shloka says. Often associated with strength and balance, this mantra can give kids the power to fight all worries. Parents can also participate along with children in chanting shlokas, because a peaceful atmosphere provides a better space for children. Rama Skandam Hanumantam Vainateyam Vrukodaram Shayane yah smaren nityam Duhswapnam tasya nashyatiReciting this shloka before sleep can provide a sense of protection because it remembers lord Rama and Hanuman. Since many children feel fear before bedtime because of darkness and silence, chanting this shloka can help make them feel secure and overcome fears. Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah Sarve Santu NiramayahSarve Bhadrani Pashyantu Ma Kashchid Duhkha Bhag Bhavet.The meaning of this shloka is May everyone be happy, may everyone be healthy, may everyone see goodness, and may no one experience sorrow. This shloka teaches children gratitude. If children chant this regularly, they understand that wishing happiness for everyone nurtures their happiness too.Making bedtime more meaningful A bedtime ritual does not need to be complicated. A few minutes every night can bring about a special moment for both parents as well as children. Over time, these simple practices can become lifelong memories, carrying the warmth of family traditions wherever they go.