"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw
As we journey from childhood to adulthood, we lose the magic of play.
In our lives with long to-do lists we rarely take time out to play and reconnect with our inner self. As adults we often feel play is a waste of precious time.
Incorporating more fun and play into daily life can help adults laugh more, boost creativity, improve the quality of relationships, as well as mood and outlook.
Four child hood activities we can all bring back in our life-our adult life- full of responsibilities, bills, and errands.
1. Coloring
A coloring book, pack of crayons or color pencils not only brings back childhood memories of hot summer afternoons- it is a great relaxation technique too. Coloring helps de-stress and reduces anxiety. Choosing different colors establishes a connection with inner feelings and at the same time stimulates creativity. Reference
2. Playing with Clay
Kneading the clay is an amazing stress reliever. It taps into the subconscious mind and helps the creative juices flow. In our world of constant typing- rolling the clay, exercises fine motor skills. To sculpt clay is self-expression, and letting the imagination wander in a free space. Natural clay is even better; it helps connect with the earth, which has a grounding effect.
3. Running Barefoot through the Sprinkler
The earth is negatively charged and adults are full of free radicals that cause inflammation and aging .Running barefoot through the spray on wet earth is literally the best anti-aging secret in the world. Source. Nothing neutralizes inflammation and supports healing faster than directly touching the earth. Being connected to the Earth's energy helps bring us back to our natural electrical state which is vital to our health as we are electrical beings!
4. Jumping on the Trampoline
This is a low-impact exercise, strengthens the leg muscles and repetitive jumping increase bone density. Not only does it help with coordination, Trampolining like other exercises releases endorphins the feel-good brain chemicals. The most important benefit of jumping on the trampoline is that it activates the lymphatic system. The lymph system, which carries toxic substances out of the body, needs gravity, body movement and body heat to eliminate properly. Bouncing on a trampoline stimulates the lymphatic drainage system to get rid of toxins, bacteria and waste from the cells, effectively cleansing them.
Set aside regular, quality playtime and reclaim your inner child. Give yourself permission to play without the cares of the world and reap myriad health benefits throughout the life.