Play
Passion
Love
Authenticity
You
If you read my “About” page you will know that my dad gave me the gift of PLAY at an early age. Integrating PLAY on a daily basis for me has brought me joy, fulfilment, and energy to spare – but more on that later.
So how did my dad give me that gift? He provided the environment for me to play and enjoy it, never forcing me. He shared his enthusiasm, his spirit of fun and love of life, helping me grow and learn to love to PLAY.
My partner asked me recently, “What is Play?” I never had to put it into words before because I know what it feels like. I had to stop and feel it before I could say it. Play is anything that brings us joy and energy. Let me emphasize anything!
I know some of you reading this already know about the magic of PLAY and how it enhances your life – and I know some of you don’t. So this can be a review and a new learning opportunity for you whether you’re the former or the latter!
From my own experience and observing others in their PLAY modes, here are some examples of PLAY: Tending an allotment, gardening, any sport if you’re doing it for joy and energy, knitting, walking, meditating.
What is your PLAY? Have you thought about it? OK, let me help.
List 10 things that you LOVE to do!
Put a tick by those things on the list that you’ve done in the last week.
Now focus on what you haven’t ticked and choose TWO things that you absolutely love and are kicking yourself for not doing in the last week. Put a CIRCLE around those 2 things.
OK – the ball’s in your court.
Now what? Reflect on what you need to do differently to start integrating those two circled things into your week (or maybe it’s every day or every other day) to get your “hit” of joy and energy.
My PLAY every day is moving – whether that be cycling, hiking, walking, Pilates. Movement is play for me (one of many modalities). I make PLAY a priority because I know how important it is for my wellbeing and energy. No matter how old we are our wellbeing and energy are of prime importance to living a fulfilling life in which we thrive.
Get to know PLAY from different dimensions. I invite you to explore the following references that have certainly given me further insights.
Seize your playfulness!
http://www.nifplay.org/science/pattern-play/
http://www.helpguide.org/articles/emotional-health/benefits-of-play-for-adults.htm
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2012/11/15/the-importance-of-play-for-adults/
TED TALK: http://www.ted.com/talks/stuart_brown_says_play_is_more_than_fun_it_s_vital
