Did you know that play is healing?
There is so much power in creating a practice of play on our healing journey.
The truth is, many of us don’t know how to play. We’ve lost connection with the inner child that is naturally playful, curious, and open.
Don’t worry, we can always reconnect to our playful self!
Let’s play a game together!
True or false?
Play is a waste of time
FALSE. We’ve been conditioned to believe that we should always be achieving, producing, or “doing” something. Few of us spend our time doing things that are light hearted just for ourselves. Play is an investment in self care.
Play helps us connect to our inner child.
TRUTH. When we make play a priority, we are allowing that inner child to be seen, heard, loved + celebrated. It is important to make time to connect with the child living inside of you.
Play brings out creativity.
TRUTH. Play helps us connect with creativity, our imagination, and gives us a new perspective. Don’t be surprised if you start becoming more creative as you practice play.
Play is for kids, not adults
FALSE. Think about the people you’re drawn to. Usually, they’re light, open and they don’t take themselves to life too seriously.
Whats their secret? They’re tapped into playful energy. It’s contagious!
You have to earn play-time.
FALSE. We live in a world where we are taught “work now and play later.” We grow up very fast and we have not had the opportunity to access the freedom to fully self-express and experience joy. Because of this, our nervous systems are stressed and we deal with burn out. You do not need permission to earn time to play. Give yourself permission to connect to play-time, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted
How to Practice Play:
- Play a boardgame with someone
- Paint a picture using your fingers
- Turn on a song and dance like nobody’s watching
- Go on a hike and jump from rock to rock
- Play a game of fetch with your dog (animals easily model what play is for us!)
Take some time to connect with your inner child. What is ONE new activity that your inner child would like to try?
Disclaimer: I am not a mental health professional (yet). I simply share my learnings from life. If you or anyone you know are in danger or trouble or having a mental health issue, please contact Samaritans on 116 123 (from UK) or call Breathing space in Scotland https://breathingspace.scot/ or seek service of a local Mental health professional.