5 Reasons You Should Be Playing as an Adult
Posted: June 12, 2023 | By: Rocio Ramos
As adults, many of us envy how easy it is for kids to have fun and find joy in almost anything they do. But the truth is, we ourselves have the same opportunities that kids do to enjoy every day. The problem is that we’ve become too overwhelmed with responsibilities, deadlines, social pressure, and our need to fulfill numerous obligations that life becomes stressful. However, the quicker you embrace finding time to play and unwind, the more you’ll positively impact your physical, mental, and emotional health. Let’s explore five reasons you should be playing more as an adult.
Stress Relief and Mental Health
Play and taking time to relax can be incredible stress relievers for adults. Engaging in activities that bring joy and amusement can help reduce the levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, in our bodies. Playful activities, such as running in the park with your dog, playing catch with your kids, or even putting together a jigsaw puzzle, divert our attention from daily worries and promote a sense of calm and contentment. This can help improve your overall mental health.
Stimulate Creativity and New Ways of Thinking
When we allow ourselves to play and relax, it also allows us to unlock our creative potential. Engaging in creative activities can help stimulate our imagination and may help us think outside the box. Playing can even encourage us to explore new ways of thinking. Whether it’s trying our hand at a musical instrument, experimenting with cooking, or simply doodling, play nurtures our creativity, which can have significant benefits in both personal and professional aspects of life.
Support your Physical Health
While play and relaxation provide a surplus of mental health benefits, it can also contribute to our physical well-being. Participating in physical activities like sports, dancing, or yoga not only helps us stay fit but also boosts our cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and enhances flexibility. Engaging in relaxing activities such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can also help support healthy blood pressure and healthy sleep. By making time for play and relaxation, we are also investing in our long-term physical health.
Can enhance Productivity and Focus
While busy adults might think play and relaxation take time away from being productive, it’s quite the opposite. Taking regular breaks for leisure activities allows our minds to recharge, reducing mental fatigue and increasing focus. When we return to work or tasks after a period of play or relaxation, we often find ourselves more energized, motivated, and able to concentrate better. This boost in productivity can lead to improved performance and efficiency in our personal and professional lives.
Better Relationships and Social Connections
Playful and relaxing activities provide opportunities for adults to connect with others on a deeper level. Engaging in shared hobbies, participating in team sports, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones promotes bonding and strengthens relationships. The social interaction that comes with play and relaxation not only fosters a sense of belonging and support but also offers an outlet for self-expression and emotional well-being.
In our fast-paced society, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of play and relaxation. The benefits they bring to our lives are extensive, encompassing physical health, mental well-being, creativity, productivity, and relationships. By embracing play and relaxation, we cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling existence, ensuring we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and joy. So, let’s set aside time for play, indulge in moments of relaxation, and reap the remarkable benefits that they bring to our adult lives. Make sure you’re following our Better Health Movement Facebook and Instagram pages for ideas on how to unwind and relax.
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