PLAYTIME

August 17, 2022

Do you like time to play?

Adults need to have playtime just as much as kids do. By channeling your inner child you can relax, reboot, and recharge. Clay Drinko, PhD., a psychologist in Hudson Valley, New York, says “Play is a great way to practice mindfulness, decrease overthinking and boost social connections.”

Celeste Headlee, a communication expert and author, adds “Play isn’t something that ends when you leave elementary school — it’s a coping strategy our species requires.”

Think back to your childhood and remember what you played. Board games, drawing, doodling, riding bikes, playing hide and seek were all things we played for hours. Try cooperative play where you work together rather than compete with each other. Playing together relieves stress, stimulates creativity, and boost our connection to others.

Benefits of play.

• Healthier immune system

• Improved sense of connectedness

• Increased empathy

• Boosted creativity

• Reduced stress (especially when paired with laughter)

• A positive outlook on life

  —from Chopra.com

Play ideas.

• Host a game night

• Play mini-golf

• Color (in a book or free hand)

• Fly a kite

• Frozen yogurt and window shopping

• Join a sports league

• Play with children

• Visit a farmer’s market

• Do a random act of kindness

• Attend a play

• Bake

• Do chores together

Plan some time and dedicate it to playtime. Play helps adults enjoy life and stay connected with others.

Have a playful day!

Ann

Dragonfly Books and Art

Do Nothing: How to Break Away From Overworking, Overdoing and Underliving. Headlee, Celeste. 2021 Gives permission to slow down, take breaks, and reengage with what truly matters. Amazon.com

Play Your Way Sane. Drinko PhD., Clay. 2021 Games emphasize openness, reciprocation, and active listening; keys to a mindful and satisfying life. Amazon.com