Many of us may remember that deep belly giggle-like feeling on a swing in the neighborhood park. When you felt your tummy fill with butterflies as your legs kicked out and your head flipped back, with the warm sunshine on your face.
How about the last time you enjoyed a snow day? When the sleds came out of the basement and mittens were worn until it was time for cocoa and warming by the fire.
When was the last time you played in the carefree “not sure what time it is” kind of play? When you jumped through the puddles on purpose.
If it has been a while, why did you stop? Ask that question with curiosity and not judgment. Did someone around you tell you that you were “older now” and “playing is for kids”?
Now, let us take a look at the mental health benefits of play. Research shows that playing reduces stress, boosts the immune system, improves brain function, decreases the risk of depression, and can increase levels of empathy.
There is no doubt a connection to life happiness and stress management by the ability and willingness to play and be silly as an adult at any age. As a curious researcher of wellness and psychology, I have often asked, “Why did we stop playing”? So when a professor at Johns Hopkins asked us during a research study on happiness to practice playing as an adult regardless of stigma or social norms, I began to try it to see what the benefits may be.
I remember the first time I slid down the snow-filled hill, wearing my sky jacket pulled up tight with my scarf covering my age telling, with my own two daughters when they were young. I sled down the hills over and over again, giggling with glee as I realized I was free. To play and to be carefree of what others think is the essence of empowerment.
I was inspired to replicate this on the swing set at the local park later that spring. The same feeling of freedom and empowerment found me. I kept the research going, with my daughters and their friends remembering me for the bright green dragon onesie I wore to take them to school when they missed the bus; instead of grumping around in anger, silliness found me as I waved goodbye to them outside of the carpool line. Momma Dragon, the name still resonates with deep belly laughs echoing.
