Often, when I think about being a child, I think about fun, play, and the constant awe and wonder of experiencing the world. When we grow up, especially as adults, we often lose the playful and creative part of ourselves. It is easy to lose this part as we take on more responsibilities. But, here’s the truth: play is not only for children, it is incredibly important for us as adults too.
Why Play Matters
When we engage in play, whether this is engaging in creative activities or giving ourselves time for unstructured activities that can be messy and does not need to produce anything important; we are giving our nervous system a break. We spend so much time in fight or flight mode, rushing through tasks, taking on many responsibilities, and going through the motions. Play allows us to slow down and promotes relaxation through triggering the release of endorphins, which helps us shift out of the “fight or flight” mode and into a more regulated state.
It also activates calming neurotransmitters in our braina—specifically GABA—which helps reduce anxiety and stress. This recalibration allows us to step away from the tension and move into a state of calm and ease.
Rediscovering Play as an Adult
In order to incorporate more play into your life, think about what you loved doing as a child. Perhaps you loved to build things, make crafts, or play games. Play is anything that sparks creativity, joy, or curiosity without the pressure of timelines or tasks to complete.
I encourage you to practice different ways of play. There is no right or wrong way to play or be creative. Maybe you will discover something brand new that you did not realize you enjoyed, such as attending a pottery class or trying a new hobby. Whichever form of play feels good for you, I encourage you to prioritize it and schedule time in your day to play.
Practice Play and Reflect On The Experience
Your homework for today is to find an activity that invites creativity or playfulness into your life. Try it out and notice how you feel afterward. Maybe you notice feeling more relaxed or you are able to remember the joy you once felt as a child. Remember what activities felt good for you, so the next time that you feel overwhelmed or stressed, you can go back to it and enjoy the benefits of it.
Again, in whichever way you enjoy play, whether it is as simple as doodling or taking a dance break in your living room, I encourage you to give it a try and let your nervous system experience the benefits of play.
Play is important for so many reasons in our lives and it may make a big difference for not only our nervous system but for our mental health overall. Go out and try something fun today! Remember, play is not only for children, we as adults also need to experience it.
Compassionate Affirmation: “I allow myself to play, explore, and enjoy life. Play is not childish—it’s nourishing, creative, and essential.”
Additional Resource: National Institute for Play – This page gives different resources for play and encourages lifelong play in our lives. Check out their page here specifically on play for adults and includes different tips and ways to rekindle play in your life.
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
LPC-MHSP, CEDS-C, ACS, NCC
Owner + Director
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Co. to assist in this mission.
The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirmed, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life.
To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or contact us here.
