Seeking practical tips to boost your well-being? Embrace playfulness!

Play has a transformative power that often goes overlooked in our serious, productivity-driven world. It not only brings joy and a sense of lightness but also enhances cognitive function, boosts creativity, reduces stress, and fosters a greater sense of connection and fulfillment.

Oh, and did I mention it makes parenting easier too?

I’ve previously introduced you to Stewart Brown’s concept of play personalities. In this article, we’ll delve into the practical insights shared by Dr. Brown in his exceptional book, Play (check out our notes). Dr. Brown shares a set of Play Guidelines that offer simple yet impactful ways to bring more play into our daily lives.

So, without further ado, let’s take a quick look at these insightful guidelines and discover how they can transform our daily experiences.

1. Take your play history.

Take a ride down memory lane and dig up those childhood memories that truly excited you and brought you joy. It might be a bit challenging, but here are some prompts to help you out:

• When have you felt free to do and be what you choose?
• Is that a part of your life now? If not, why not?
• Search your memory for those times in your life when you have been at your very best.
• How and why did some kinds of play disappear from your repertoire?
• How free are you now as you play with your spouse or your family? Or do you treat them as an extension of a dutiful responsibility?

Once you’ve tapped into those magical memories, figure out how to bring that childlike wonder back into your life.

2. Expose yourself to play.

Start consciously noticing the countless opportunities for play that surround you every day! Whether it’s throwing a ball to a dog, running in a park, or simply taking a moment to bask in the beauty of flowers – it’s all play! Our world is full of joy, humour and beauty.

The more you choose to notice and savour these playful moments, the more your brain will start spotting them.

3. Give yourself permission to be playful, to be a beginner.

Don’t let your fear of looking silly hold you back from playing. Embrace the fact that you’re going to do things you’ve never done before. Play is all about exploration and breaking free from your comfort zone. So, approach it with a growth mindset!

In the end, it’s not about winning the game. It’s about having fun.

4. Fun is your North Star, but you don’t always have to head north. 

When looking for a play activity, the easiest way to find what works for you is to experience what’s fun. But here’s the kicker: not all play is easy fun. Some play requires effort, planning, and even some initial discomfort.

For example, a few weeks back, we went on a camping trip that involved packing up the entire family—a logistical nightmare. It wasn’t easy, but the memories we created and the laughter we shared made it all worthwhile.

Sometimes, the most rewarding play is found in the challenges we overcome.

5. Be active.

One of the easiest ways to jump-start play is to MOVE! Movement is the foundation of play. It brings joy, it boosts your happiness level, and it’s just fun!

Go for a run, join your local yoga club, play sports or just join your kids in playing tag! Gets you in a playful mood instantly.

6. Free yourself of fear.

“Fear and play cannot go together.” – says Dr Brown in the book. Find out what in your surroundings prevents a sense of trust and well-being that would allow play to emerge. Find your “secret space” where you can unleash your playful personality.

7. Nourish your mode of play, and be with people who nourish it, too.

Got a habit tracker? Add your play activities to the list and make it a habit to practice play regularly. And don’t forget to surround yourself with like-minded people who’ll cheer you on as you play your heart out. Start with your children —they’re the perfect partners in crime. Set aside special time to play together, and let the magic unfold.

My 5 Takeaways From a Month of Boosting Playfulness

Embarking on this playful journey and wholeheartedly embracing these guidelines for an entire month as part of my Wise Parenting Project was an absolute blast. And you know what? I made a fascinating discovery: when we genuinely prioritize play and cultivate our playful mindset, life becomes much easier and more enjoyable.

Without further ado, let me share my top observations:

• Play, quite simply, makes you feel great. It’s as straightforward as that. And let’s not forget that experiencing positive emotions is a fundamental pillar of our overall happiness.
• If you’re seeking to nurture a growth mindset, play is your ally. Suddenly, problems cease to be problems when you approach them with a playful mindset. They become exhilarating challenges that beckon you to explore various creative solutions.
• Play is a great tool for fighting stress and boosting resilience. It revitalizes your spirit and endows you with the strength to conquer any adversity life throws your way.
• Play has an extraordinary power to enhance your social allure. Your contagious joy and zest for life will make people crave your company! Let’s face it – nobody loves bores. And yes, it must be said being a boring parent is far from desirable.
• Moreover, play is the best way to strengthen bonds and enhance connection between people. Embracing a playful mindset makes it easier to engage in Playful Parenting, deepening the bond with your kids and bringing them immense joy.

The bottom line

As adults, we often underestimate the profound impact that play can have on our lives. Play is a gateway to happiness and personal growth. While it may require effort and conscious intention, just like all other great things in life, the rewards are undoubtedly worth it.

So, just start playing!

Loads of love,

Irina