Take a moment and reflect back to your childhood. What is the first thing that comes to mind when asked, “What were your favorite ways to play?”
Maybe you enjoyed all types of play when you were a kid. Imaginative like creating pretend scenarios. Or active play like roller skating, water gun fights, or a game of kickball. And as you’ve become an adult, perhaps it’s still a part of your life. Maybe you love to play with your dog. Or perhaps you enjoy cards and games, hiking, tennis, and even dancing.
- To occupy oneself in amusement
- To act or perform in jest
- To pretend
- To manipulate
- To engage in an activity for enjoyment
In the last 20 years, there has been much research done in the benefits play has in our adult years. Findings show that individuals who are more playful by nature often experience less stress. Play tends to open the creative pathways of our brains. It helps us come up with new ideas.
It also affects our social and emotional wellbeing. You may have heard the term “take some time to play with it” when learning a new concept or figuring out a new device or tool. This term suggests that you take some time to get familiar with a new idea or tool. It's a time of trial and error without the worry of “getting it right”. As we watch children play, they’re not caught up in getting things right or having to do something perfectly.
There is freedom when we can just be ourselves. Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute of Play explains that “what all play has in common is that it offers a sense of engagement and pleasure, takes the player out of a sense of time and place, and the experience of doing it is more important than the outcome.”
Anytime you’re struggling with a new idea or a challenging situation, take a few minutes to let your mind wander. Allow the creative brain to think outside the box and see if when you come back to the dilemma, you’re able to generate new ideas.
- Engage in a hobby that captures your imagination. Making sure that you enjoy the process. Don’t solely focus on the end product. For example, try flower arranging, gardening, cooking, photography, creative writing, or learning a new language.
- Get together with others. Do something everyone enjoys. Try getting coffee, playing a game, or exploring a new spot.
- Try playing actively. Consider hiking, tennis, golf, walking with a friend, dancing, frisbee, or bike riding.
- Visit a playground, park, or beach. Check out the swing that you haven’t been on since you were a kid. Build a sand castle! Don’t let the children have ALL the FUN!!!!
Whatever you choose to do, remember that play isn’t just for those under 15 years old. Tap into your inner child and let that child free. You may be surprised how good you feel, and you’ll cherish the memories those moments create.
Care you will love.
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