When Was the Last Time You Played?
When was the last time you played? I mean truly played, losing yourself in the moment, with no thoughts of deadlines, responsibilities, or adult concerns. If you're struggling to remember, you're not alone. As adults, it’s way too easy to forget about the power of play, overlooking its profound benefits for our own lives. But play is not just a trivial activity to be outgrown; it is a vital part of experiencing joy and rediscovering our true selves.
Play is an essential expression of who we are. It liberates us from the conventional constraints of our adult roles and reconnects us with our innate creativity and curiosity. Remember how simple things could bring immense joy when we were children? That capacity for wonder and delight is still within us, waiting to be rekindled through play. Engaging in play can shake off the dust that daily routines deposit on our spirits, refreshing our outlook on life.
Incorporating play into our lives isn't about diminishing our responsibilities but about enhancing our approach to them. Playful moments can break up the monotony of our schedules, injecting a sense of novelty and excitement. This rejuvenation is not just mental; it's physiological. Play can reduce stress hormones like cortisol and increase endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, improving our overall health and emotional resilience.
Why is play so effective? It’s because play is inherently immersive. When we truly play, we are present in the moment, fully engaged and free from the shackles of past regrets or future anxieties. This state of ‘flow’, as psychologists call it, is not only incredibly enjoyable but also immensely beneficial for our mental health. It helps us to process emotions and experiences in a way that is natural and healing.
Moreover, play is a powerful tool for creativity. It encourages us to see things differently, to experiment, and to take risks. This can lead to innovation and insights that are applicable far beyond the playful moment, into our personal and professional lives. By allowing ourselves the freedom to explore possibilities without fear of failure, play can lead us to solutions and ideas that we might never have considered otherwise.
Reconnecting with our true nature through play means acknowledging that we are more than our productivity or efficiency. It’s a recognition that joy, relaxation, and spontaneity are essential parts of our being. Play reminds us of who we were before the world told us who we should be. It peels back the layers of built-up persona and reconnects us with our core self.
But how do we make room for play in our busy lives? First, start small. It doesn't have to be a weekend away or an elaborate setup. Something as simple as doodling during a meeting or playing a quick game on your phone can be a playful break. The key is to allow yourself to enjoy the moment without guilt.
Second, make it a habit. Schedule time for play just as you would for any other important activity in your life. Whether it's a weekly dance class, a regular meetup with friends for a game night, or a few minutes each day to play with your pet, having these appointments penciled in your calendar ensures that they are not overlooked.
Third, be spontaneous. While scheduling play is important, spontaneous play can be incredibly refreshing. Allow yourself to be flexible—take advantage of unexpected free time to engage in playful activities that you enjoy. Maybe it’s stopping by the park on your way home from work or picking up an old guitar for an impromptu jam session.
Play is not just a luxury; it is a necessity. It molds our ability to adapt, to innovate, and to enjoy life. By making play a regular part of our lives, we do more than just relax—we reconnect with our deepest selves and rediscover the joy of living. So, I’ll ask again: When was the last time you played? If it’s been too long, perhaps it’s time to reconsider the role of play in your life. After all, play is where our true selves shine brightest.