The Power of Play: Finding Calm and Joy Through Playful Activities

In our fast-paced adult lives, it's often a challenge to slow down and embrace moments of calm. Yet, these moments are crucial—they create the space for play, which can significantly reduce worry and infuse our lives with joy.

Breaking Free from Anxiety

Anxiety often thrives in the chaos of our thoughts and schedules. By intentionally creating moments of calm—whether through meditation, a quiet walk, or simply sitting in stillness—we pave the way for playful activities to flourish. Play allows us to shift our focus away from worries and immerse ourselves in the pure enjoyment of the present moment.

Embracing Moments of Calm

Imagine the last time you paused, took a deep breath, and felt a sense of inner peace wash over you. These moments of calm are not just fleeting respites from busyness; they are essential for our mental and emotional well being. When we slow down and allow ourselves to breathe deeply, we open the door to playful activities that can uplift our spirits and ease our worries.

Making Space for Play

I found myself navigating this adult world with the energy of GO! Trying to fit my neurospicy self into this neurotypical, masculine energy, driven world. Working but dreaming of running my own business. Homeschooling my kids but feeling like I wasn’t cutting it. Sitting 15 years into a pretty broken marriage. I was broken and angry at life when I started this journey.

One word stood out to me, allow. Through years of practice I have learned to extinguish my fiery energy with calm and by doing so discovered that I was in desperate need for play. It was nearly as uncomfortable for me to allow myself to play as it was to allow the calm. 

Through embracing both calm and play, I have rediscovered my true happiness. 

Embracing Playful Activities

Incorporating more play into our lives starts with creating space for calm. Here are some ways to cultivate moments of playfulness:

• Mindful Reflection: Start your day with a few minutes of meditation or deep breathing.

• Nature Connection: Ground yourself each day by stepping barefoot on the natural ground. Or take leisurely walks in nature, noticing the sights, sounds, and sensations around you.

• Creative Expression: Engage in hobbies like painting, writing, or playing an instrument—activities that allow for free expression.

• Social Play: Arrange fun activities with loved ones, whether it's a game night or a spontaneous outing.

Let's prioritize these moments of joy and discovery, knowing that they not only reduce worry and anxiety but also enrich our lives with laughter and connection.

How do you carve out moments of playfulness in your daily routine? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!