Let Your Inner Child Play

Our society places a high priority on doing, trying, and working. Not so important is the idea of play and simply being. We think of play as something frivolous, childish, and even a waste of time—when in fact, play is just as important for adults as for kids.

“Play is the gateway to vitality. By its nature it is uniquely and intrinsically rewarding. It generates optimism, seeks out novelty, makes perseverance fun, leads to mastery, gives the immune system a bounce, fosters empathy and promotes a sense of belonging and community.”

- National Institute For Play

There are three main characteristics of play: that it’s voluntary, flexible to change, and enjoyable. The focus of play is on the play itself, not on accomplishing any goal or outcome.So how do you play? If you don’t know, spend a little time thinking about what you love doing, what makes time fly and what you would do with your time if money was meaningless. Notice what kinds of spaces and places help you feel more playful. How does play look, taste, smell, sound, and feel? Explore!