Just because you’re not a kid anymore doesn’t mean all fun and play should go out the window. Adding play–physical and mental–into your day will relieve stress, improve brain function, boost creativity, improve your relationships and connections, and make every day more enjoyable!
Here are 10 ways you can incorporate play into your day!
1. Play with your kids.
Pizza and board game nights are great but try stepping outside and doing some physical activity with your kids. You can go rollerblading, biking, hiking, or run around and play tag. You will be able to build a stronger relationship with your children while you both are getting exercise.
Don’t have children? Invite a friend or family member to bring their children over and spend time with them!
2. Ditch the traditional workouts.
Working out should be fun! If you are bored with your regular running route, try Zumba, a cycling class, or grab a friend and play some tennis! You will be burning calories without even realizing it.
3. Spend time with your pets.
Our animals do so much for us—they bring joy, emotional stability, and love us unconditionally. They also make for great play pals! Take them for walks, wrestle around with them, run, jump, be active!
4. Have adult play dates.
Our kids have play dates, so why can’t we? A few times a month get a group of friends together and focus on fun and play. Go bowling, play pool or miniature golf, sing karaoke, or take a painting class. Focus on letting loose, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company!
5. Make chores more fun.
Wait, should the words ‘chores’ and ‘fun’ really be used in the same sentence? Yes!
Being an adult means we have adult responsibilities, but that does not mean we have to dread them. When you fold socks, throw them into the basket like you’re shooting free-throws. When you have to mop the floor, blast some music and dance away that dust and dirt. Find ways to make your daily adult routine “not so serious.”
6. Enjoy your office time.
Many studies have shown there is a link between fun at work and increased productivity. Even if your workplace doesn’t provide opportunities for fun and play, you can still inject your own sense of play into breaks and lunch hours. Always make an effort to joke with co-workers during coffee breaks, relieve stress at lunch by taking a walk or playing games with your officemates.
7. Discover your playful side.
Incorporating play is physical and mental. Getting stuck in a serious mindset will ultimately discourage you from physical play. So learn to laugh at yourself, don’t take life so seriously, brush off the little petty things, and learn to loosen up!
8. Try things you’ve never done before.
Escaping your comfort zone is key for having a more playful life. Think of your kids or friend’s children—they are always coming up with new games, taking on new adventures, and not overthinking situations. And what happens? They have fun! Trying new things is stimulating and exciting—don’t be afraid to embrace change and new opportunities.
9. Embrace your inner artist.
Stretching your mental muscles is just as important as your physical muscles. Participating in art is one of the best ways to boost brain activity, creativity, and have more fun!
You don’t have to be a Vincent van Gogh or Ernest Hemingway to enjoy the arts. It can be anything: writing, finger painting, sculpting, pottery, music, dance—just go for it! And don’t worry about whether it’s “good” or not.
10. Do at least one of the following this week:
- Have a family nerf war
- Try a new workout class
- Take a nature walk with your camera
- Write a mini short story using a creative writing prompt
- Send a friend a funny photo or joke
- Ride a rollercoaster
- Take a bike ride with a friend or family member
- Make a fort in your home
- Have a picnic in the park
- Go to a waterpark
- Join a non-competitive sports league
- Go swing on a swing-set
- Play mini golf
- Go bowling
- Discover a new hobby
- Go swimming
- Play tennis
- Blow bubbles
- Make chalk art on the driveway
- Explore your city
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” -George Bernard Shaw
Get your own personalized plan!