Why you should play more - even as a grown-up!

Think of the word ‘play’. You’re probably imagining kids running, laughing, jumping and engaging with toys, right? But who said play was age-restricted? Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, most of us stopped playing and focused more on adult responsibilities and priorities.

If you’re a parent, teacher or care-giver, you may be aware of the numerous cognitive, social, physical and emotional benefits of play for children;¹ but research shows it’s critical for adults too! Let’s look at how playing more as a grown-up can be good for you –

Relieves stress

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Jacqueline Harding, a Senior Lecturer in Childhood Studies, analysed more than 100 different academic studies to uncover the benefits of interactions between parents/carers and young children while playing. The report stated that parents in isolation could reduce their stress levels by playing with their children,² proving that playtime is beneficial for both kids and grown-ups.

A 2013 study of 898 young adults also found that playful individuals reported lower stress levels and used healthier coping styles more effectively.³

Improves brain function

A recent study showed that adults who played the puzzle video game, Cut the Rope, regularly, had improved executive functions,⁴ while a further study found that the more individuals over the age of 50 engaged in games such as sudoku and crossword puzzles, the better their brains functioned.⁵

The American Journal of Play provides evidence indicating that adults who regularly engage in play display improvements in a range of cognitive functions, including creativity, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.⁶

All the motivation you need to challenge your mind and ‘exercise’ your brain with a good dose of play!

Boosts mood

If you’re playing, you’re probably having fun – and if you’re having fun, you’ve likely triggered a release of endorphins; your body’s feel-good hormones. Endorphins can alleviate pain, promote feelings of happiness and pleasure,⁷ and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.⁸ Aiming to increase your playtime and therefore endorphins, is a great way to boost your overall wellbeing and mood!

Find more simple ways to boost your mood here.

Improves physical health

Play is an ideal way to boost enjoyment and engagement in physical activity. Participating in active play or hobbies promotes an increase in exercise, which as we all know, is essential for a long, healthy life and the prevention of several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes.⁹¹⁰

How can you incorporate more play into your life?

You’re busy and adult responsibilities can’t just be left undone – there are school runs, work, social commitments and household duties, among other tasks, that require your energy and attention. But play doesn’t need to be something big, grand and time-consuming. Here are our simple tips for re-igniting your inner child and learning to play more –

Break the monotony of your day and use your coffee break to doodle, play quick puzzle games or complete crosswords. Think ‘micro-moments’.
Organise a regular family/friend games or sports night. Getting your family and friends involved means minimal social sacrifice, maximum connection!
Inject play into your working day by engaging in more creative and collaborative tasks such as writing and brainstorming. You could even organise team-building events and friendly competitions amongst colleagues!
Rediscover hobbies or take up new ones! Simply engage in activities that spark your interest, whether that be painting, dancing, crafting, gardening, building Lego or cooking.
Schedule time outdoors and in nature on the weekend/during days off from work. Kick a ball, swim, fly a kite or hike. Check out five science-backed benefits of being outdoors here.
Spend time engaging in your children’s play – join them for 10 minutes while they make mud cakes, stack blocks, play video games, jump on the trampoline and colour in. This will increase the amount of play in your day-to-day life as well as boost your relationship with your child/younger family member. Who knows, you may even find a new shared hobby!

So here at Chuckling Goat, we’ve decided that play shouldn’t be an indulgence reserved for kids only; it’s important for a well-rounded adult life. I’m about to get my wellies on and join the kids in the outdoor mud kitchen, Rich is off to tinker with his tractors and Shann will be enjoying her favourite hobby – gardening. Let us know how you’ll be incorporating more play into your day-to-day routine!

Looking for inspiration? Check out 5 outdoor activities for your kids, and be sure to get involved too!

Any questions? Contact one of our Nutritional Therapists via live chat, weekdays from 8 am to 8 pm.