Why is play so important?

Research has shown that play is not only beneficial for children but also for adults. When we engage in play, our minds enter a state of flow, allowing us to temporarily forget our everyday worries and live in the present moment. This state helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and develop creativity and problem-solving skills.

When we engage in playful activities, we allow ourselves to experiment with new ideas, take risks, and make mistakes without fear of judgment or failure. This freedom to explore and innovate can lead to exciting new ideas, innovative techniques, and unique perspectives in both our personal and secular lives.

Embracing play can also help to foster a sense of community and connection. By engaging in playful activities together, such as collaborative art projects or game nights, we can build relationships, exchange ideas, and support each other’s growth and development. 

By allowing ourselves to experiment, take risks, and make mistakes, we can unlock our full creative potential and find peace and connection whilst doing so.

How can you incorporate play into your life?

Creativity is a form of play.  There are countless ways to incorporate this into your routine, regardless of your age, interests, or location. The key is to find activities which genuinely bring you joy, so you can release your inhibitions and express yourself without fear of judgment or failure. To help you get started, here are some ideas for embracing play in your life:-

Participate in creative hobbies

Engaging in artistic activities like painting, drawing, sculpting, or photography can be a fun and rewarding methods of play. By experimenting with new mediums, styles, and techniques, you can discover new ways of creating and have fun doing it. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, there’s no limit to the possibilities when it comes to artistic expression.

For example, experimenting with sculpting can be a great way to explore your creativity and learn new skills. You could try sculpting with clay, wax, or play dough. Maybe you start with something simple like a basic shape or object, and then gradually work your way up to more complex sculptures. You could also experiment with different textures, colours, and materials to create unique and interesting pieces. The key is to stay open to where these explorations take you, and simply enjoy the process.

Join a group or class

Finding a community of like-minded individuals can be a great way to enjoy yourself. By enrolling in a local art class, attending workshops, or joining an art-related meet-up group, you can connect with other people who share your interests and passions. These settings offer a supportive environment for exploring your creativity and engaging with others.

For example, in an art class, you may have the opportunity to collaborate with other students on projects, exchanging ideas and techniques along the way. 

Explore your surroundings

Taking the time to appreciate the beauty around you can be a wonderful source of discovery and inspiration. Whether you live in the city or the countryside, there are always hidden treasures waiting to be discovered which speak to your curious spirit and spark pure joy.

For example, in the city, you might stumble upon a vibrant street art scene in a neighbourhood you’ve never explored before. You could spend an afternoon wandering the streets, taking in the colourful murals and graffiti, and drawing inspiration from the creativity and energy of the artists who created them. In the countryside, you might discover a secluded spot with a breathtaking view, or a quiet nature trail which leads you to a hidden waterfall.

Allow your curiosity to guide you, as you explore your surroundings, and keep an open mind to the beauty which surrounds you – you never quite know what gems you may discover.

Play games

Engaging in playful competition can be a great way to stimulate your creativity and connect with others. Games and puzzles, in particular, are a fun way to exercise your brain and challenge your problem-solving skills, whilst also fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection with others.

For example, a puzzle can be a great way to engage your creativity while also providing a fun and challenging activity to share with friends or family. As you work to piece it together, you can bounce ideas off each other, experiment with different approaches, and appreciate each other’s unique perspectives and strengths.

Whether it’s a game night with friends, a trip to an escape room, or round of miniature golf, these activities can provide a fun and engaging way to tap into your creative potential.

Embrace spontaneity

Breaking away from routine and trying new things can be a great way to unlock your creativity and discover new passions. You don’t always have to wait for someone else to suggest something spontaneous, take the initiative and plan something new yourself.

For example, you might decide to take a weekend trip to an unfamiliar city, exploring new neighbourhoods, and discovering local resturants, art galleries or museums. Or you could challenge yourself to try a new artistic technique, like screen printing or wood carving, to push yourself out of your comfort zone and explore new ways of creating. 

Alternatively, you could attend a performance that you might typically shy away from, or spend a day doing something exhilarating, like rock climbing or indoor skiing. By pushing yourself to try something new and different, you can expand your horizons, gain new perspectives, and ignite your creative spark.