PLay a little

So many of us lose the sense of play as we get older yet it’s something that still lives inside us and can feel incredibly freeing to let out from time to time.

For example, I recently found myself on a beach diving around making ridiculous efforts trying to play volleyball, something I’d never tried before.
I spent more time jumping and falling face first into deep sand than managing to connect with the ball. However, despite how ridiculous my efforts must have looked, it took me right back to being a child and that carefree feeling of just playing for the sheer fun of it.

Play can momentarily help us step away from feelings of pressure, responsibility and constant productivity while playful activities are known to reduce stress hormones, improve mood and protect against burnout and anxiety. The laughter and enjoyment gained from playing can act as natural emotional resets and can keep us mentally flexible, emotionally healthy, socially connected and feeling deeply alive.

I may have ended up eating more sand than scoring volleyball points on the beach that day, but the uplifting benefits gained from that simple but immersive step into the world of play for playing’s sake lasted me for days.

Are there activities or games you would love to give a try just for the fun of it and that might help you find a release from the everyday stressors of life? Let me know!