Play: reduce stress and improve mood
I just had to write another blog post on play. Once I saw it, I couldn’t unsee it in the therapy room. So to expand and provide more options to build on play, here you go.
As I mentioned in the last post, play is an essential aspect of human life. Yet as we grow older, it's easy to forget the importance of play. Play helps us to reduce stress, improve our mood, and enhance our creativity. However, in our busy and often stressful lives, it can be challenging to find time for play. In this blog, we'll explore four more ways to build play into your life.
Find Time for Hobbies: Hobbies are a great way to build play into your life. Whether it's painting, playing an instrument, or gardening, hobbies provide a sense of joy and playfulness. Take the time to identify a hobby that you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine.
Spend Time with Kids or Pets: Spending time with kids or pets can be a great way to build play into your life. Children have a natural sense of playfulness, and spending time with them can be infectious. Pets also provide a sense of joy and playfulness that can be therapeutic. Take the time to engage in activities with kids or pets that bring you joy.
Incorporate Playful Activities into Your Routine: Incorporating playful activities into your routine can be a great way to build play into your life. This can include things like playing board games with friends, taking dance lessons, or going to a comedy club. Identify playful activities that you enjoy and make them a regular part of your routine.
Embrace Spontaneity: Embracing spontaneity can be a great way to build play into your life. This means being open to new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone, like playing in the rain. Whether it's trying a new activity or exploring a new place, embracing spontaneity can add a sense of adventure and playfulness to your life.
In conclusion, play is a crucial aspect of human life, yet it's easy to forget its importance as we grow older. By finding time for hobbies, spending time with kids or pets, incorporating playful activities into your routine, and embracing spontaneity, you can build play into your life and reap the many benefits it provides. Remember that play is not just for children, and it's essential for adults to engage in play regularly to improve their mental and physical well-being. So take the time to have fun, be silly, and let your playful side shine through!
My name is Kristi and I am a therapist in Ogden, Utah. If you exploring play or other themes reach out today. I’d love to help and if I can’t I’ll help connect you to someone who might.
