Remember hearing, "Go outside and play", when you were a kid? How awesome would it be if someone told you to do that today and you actually did?!

As a pediatric nurse practitioner, I have counseled parents & teens for years about the importance of play as children develop. As a mom, I routinely put play before homework and encouraged my kids to explore, get dirty and find ways to be creative. As a coach, I incorporate play into recovery practices for clients. Play is often associated with carefree childhood days, where imagination knows no bounds, and laughter is a constant companion. However, the importance of play doesn't diminish as we grow older; in fact, it becomes increasingly crucial for adults in maintaining overall well-being and fostering creativity.

What is Play?

Play is as much mindset as it is action. Anything you do that brings joy or excitement can count as play. Dr. Stuart Brown, head of the nonprofit, National Institute for Play. says that "Play is something done for its own sake. It's voluntary, it's pleasurable, it offers a sense of engagement, it takes you out of time. And the act itself is more important than the outcome."

The Upsides of Play

In a world dominated by responsibilities and stress, incorporating play into our adult lives can be a game-changer, offering a myriad of physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

Stress Reduction

Play invites us to be right here, right now. It's permission to be spontaneous & lighthearted. Whether it's an active game or a board game, play offers us a temporary pause from daily pressures. During play, we feel the immediate positive effect as our body releases endorphins. Our mood lifts and we tend to feel more hopeful, appreciative and motivated to move forward.

Creativity Boost

Play allows us to tap into our imaginative side. We can create, express, innovate and think outside the box. That can have a ripple effect on our daily problem-solving strategies and promote flexibility in our thinking.

Improved Relationships

Humans are social creatures. Plain and simple: Adults who play are more fun to be around. Play builds community and enhances our relationships. When we share laughter and enjoyment, we create bonds that foster trust, compassion and empathy. Those qualities promote a positive atmosphere where open communication and a sense of belonging can thrive.

Mental Stimulation

Strategy games, chess, puzzles... Play that challenges our mind stimulates our cognitive function, memory and problem-solving skills. We experience opportunities to take on a beginner's mindset, strategize and learn from our mistakes.

Physical Health

Active play provides a fun way to move our bodies. Movement boosts our energy and is linked to better health and stress management.

Need a few ideas?

#1 Give yourself permission to play. Put aside your to-do list. Playfulness happens in the moments when we allow ourselves to enjoy.

#2 Be present. When we're less distracted, we're more apt to take advantage of a playful moment.

• What did you enjoy as a kid? Brainstorm the grown-up version of that.

• Invite others to play with you - tag football or game night anyone?

• Create a game atmosphere. Maybe you challenge yourself or create friendly competition.

• Have kids in your life? Join them on their level and let them invite you into their world of play.

• Use your humor and make someone laugh.

• Tell someone a good story.

• Use nature to explore, crunch some leaves, climb a tree, collect shells, build a sandcastle.

• Next time you walk by a swing - get on.

• Music is a state changer - turn it up - hum - whistle - belt it out - or get up on the dance floor!

In a world that often emphasizes the seriousness of adulthood, integrating play into our lives is not only beneficial but necessary. It's a gateway to vitality according to the National Institute for Play. Play is "uniquely rewarding, it generates optimism, seeks out novelty, makes perseverance fun, leads to mastery, gives the immune system a bounce and fosters empathy.” 

It's time to embrace the transformative power of play and rediscover the joy and vitality it brings to our lives. So, go ahead, pick up that board game, join a sports league, or indulge in a creative pursuit—because play is not just for kids; it's a lifelong necessity!