Playfulness is More Than Child's Play

Real talk time – when was the last time you allowed yourself to be swept away in a moment of pure, unadulterated play? And no, binge-watching your favourite series on Netflix doesn't count. Think more along the line of a spontaneous dance-off in the living room, a random game of hide-and-seek with your kids, or just doing a silly walk because you felt like it. If a memory doesn't immediately spring to mind, then this article might be the nudge you need to indulge in a little fun.

Play is often associated with childhood, but it's high time to break those shackles. Our adult lives, with their deadlines, responsibilities, and sometimes monotonous routines, can easily become breeding grounds for stress and burnout. But here's the silver lining – it doesn't have to be this way. The antidote might just be embracing a playful spirit.?

Interestingly enough, play is not a frivolous act of time-wasting, as societal norms might have us believe. On the contrary, engaging in lighthearted fun can be a catalyst for creativity and innovation. It fuels our imagination, helps us think outside the box, and gives us a fresh perspective. And these are not just abstract ideas. Google, a pioneer in the tech world, has long advocated for integrating 'play' into their workday, which has been lauded as a driving force behind their success. And play helps us improve our social skills:

During childhood play, kids learn about verbal communication, body language, boundaries, cooperation, and teamwork. As adults, you continue to refine these skills through play and playful communication.

But it's not just about improving productivity or sparking innovation. Playfulness has profound implications for our mental health as well. It creates a sense of joy, boosts our mood, reduces stress, and enhances our overall well-being. The act of playing stimulates our mind and body in unique ways, helping us feel happier, more fulfilled, and more in tune with ourselves.?

And let's not forget about our relationships. Whether it's with our colleagues, friends, spouses, or children, bringing a playful spirit to the table can bolster our bonds with those around us. A light-hearted banter, shared laughter, or a collective fun activity can reinforce our connections, making them more satisfying and meaningful.?

But how do we, as adults, embrace playfulness amidst our myriad responsibilities? That's where the fun lies. It could be as simple as singing aloud while cooking, creating a makeshift drum set from pots and pans, or having a pillow fight with your partner. It could be prioritising time for hobbies, indulging in board games with friends, or simply chasing your dog around the park. Start small, but remember, the key is to let go of inhibitions, be spontaneous, and laugh heartily.

By no means is this a call to abandon responsibilities, stop taking life seriously, or live in a fantasy world. But it is a gentle reminder to not let adulthood rob us of the simple joy and creativity that playfulness can bring. It's about creating a balance, adding a dash of fun to our routines, and thereby, making our lives more enjoyable and enriched.

Take a moment to be creative. Think creatively. Or even dare to be silly. Because, in the words of George Bernard Shaw, "We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing."