The Importance of Play for Adults
Have you ever thought about trading the joy of play for what you think is a more productive schedule? That exchange might have cost you more than you realize.
Experts suggest that engaging in unstructured play is a straightforward way to enhance mental well-being, alleviate stress, and reconnect with our inner child.
“Everyone benefits from playing,” says Cass Holman, who is set to release a book titled *Playful: How Play Shifts Our Thinking, Inspires Connection, and Sparks Creativity*. He emphasizes that adults particularly need to immerse themselves in joyful activities, as many stop engaging in unplanned play by around age nine.
“We become so fixated on productivity and results that we often ignore that part of us that wants to be a bit silly in meetings or try new routes to work,” he explains. “Even spontaneous dances in the kitchen while cooking can be overlooked.”
Holman notes that the fear of judgment can hinder our playful pursuits, which can significantly affect our overall well-being.
“Play is fundamental to our humanity. It teaches us about ourselves, how to fail, communicate, love, and even rebel,” he continues. “At its core, play is life-affirming and soul-nourishing. A life devoid of play can be harmful to our psychological, emotional, and physical health.”
How can you tell if you’re a bit resistant to play? Holman outlines five signs.
Five Indications You’re Hesitant to Play
- You find enjoyment in simply checking items off your to-do list.
- You often feel guilty about taking breaks.
- You struggle to recall the last time you laughed without a specific reason.
- You think that play is just for children or limited to weekends.
- You’re constantly busy yet rarely feel happy.
Research shows that playful thinking can foster adaptability, resilience, and creativity. Interestingly, studies on animals indicate that playfulness can enhance disease resistance.
Many adults that Holman has encountered over two decades seem eager to play but feel disconnected from that part of themselves. “They’re sort of ‘play-curious’ or ‘play-hesitant,’” he notes. “They want to incorporate play into their daily lives but feel unsure about how to start.”
For those wishing to rekindle their playful spirit, Holman recommends dedicating just 10 minutes each day to something enjoyable rather than productive.
“Dance in your living room. Doodle. Call a friend just for a chat. The point isn’t to achieve anything but to reconnect with joy,” he advises.
Holman also suggests revisiting personal “play memories.” Just thinking about childhood games can help you recognize the importance of play and prioritize it in your life. “You don’t have to block off an entire day or enroll in a course, though those options can be fun, too,” he adds.
Play is about attitude and approach, and it can even infuse the most mundane tasks with a sense of fun. “Prepare breakfast in a playful way; mix ingredients you haven’t tried together,” he suggests. “Or rearrange your living space to see how it changes your experience.”
To incorporate more playful moments into your life, Holman offers several strategies:
- Let go of self-judgment: “Don’t worry about what others think, and remember that you can be your own toughest critic. Allow yourself to play.”
- Stay open to new experiences: “Be receptive to whatever may occur instead of being fixated on specific expectations. Focusing too much on outcomes can make things stressful and less enjoyable.”
- Reframe what success means: “Ask yourself what you genuinely want. Is it necessary to finish a hike in under an hour, or could you take the time to explore? You don’t have to ‘win’ the hike!”
