What if life were as joyful as when we were children on a swing? How high could we swing until we touched the sky? If we twist the chains how fast can we spin? If we jump off at just the right moment could we feel what it was like to fly? In those moments on that swing, we were daring. We took chances.
As we grow into adulthood, we learn to play it safe and become more responsible. We also take fewer chances and forget how to play. Life gets busy with what everyone calls, ‘adulting’. Rushing the kids to soccer practice, working long hours, and pure exhaustion gets in the way of playing on those swings.
Now, what if you learned that active play can be beneficial to your emotional well-being? What if you learned play had the potential to aid in problem-solving skills and creativity? Of course, this does not mean shirking responsibilities we accumulate as adults. However, I am sure you heard what happened to Jack when it came to all work and no play.
It really is important to connect with your inner child occasionally. Dance in the aisles of the grocery store. Sing at the top of your lungs. Play catch in the park. Splash in puddles. Just be silly from time to time. It is in these moments when we truly connect with ourselves and each other. We are not meant to just work and then die. There is much more to life than that.
Through play, we build deeper connections with those around us. Play allows us to be vulnerable with one another. As we connect in the moment and experience the joy of play, we are letting our guard down and allowing others to see us and connect with us. Think about the smile brought to your face by watching a child fully engaged and enjoying a moment. Why not give that gift to yourself? Find your joy. Play.
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This post is republished on Medium.
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Photo credit: Annie Spratt on Unsplash