Adults need play too. There are many different definitions of "Play" but they all circle back around to this: purposeless engagement in an activity for enjoyment. Play is doing something JUST FOR FUN. No other reason, no expectations, no rules (well, depending upon your outlet of play - sports & games do have some rules). I think as adults we get caught up in to do lists and expectations (sometimes self induced) and forget to continue doing things just because we want to.
I've had many conversations with people about stress, burnout, depression, etc. These are the lesser feels that just happen sometimes - it's an inevitable part of being human. But when we set boundaries and make time to play, we can boost the hormones that promote happiness and reduce depression. "Happy hormones" include dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins. This article from Healthline digs into these as followed:
Dopamine: Known as the “feel-good” hormone, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s an important part of your brain’s reward system. It’s associated with pleasurable sensations, along with learning, memory, and more.
Serotonin: This hormone and neurotransmitter helps regulate your mood as well as your sleep, appetite, digestion, learning ability, and memory.
Oxytocin: Often called the “love hormone,” oxytocin is essential for childbirth, breastfeeding, and strong parent-child bonding. It can also help promote trust, empathy, and bonding in relationships. Levels generally increase with physical affection.
Endorphins: These hormones are your body’s natural pain reliever, which your body produces in response to stress or discomfort. Levels may also increase when you engage in reward-producing activities such as eating, working out, or having sex.
When I suggest making time for play, here are some things that come to mind:
Go outside and explore nature
Do something that promotes laughter
Get crafty/creative: art like the earth depends on it!
Read a book or take a class to learn something new
Play a game that feels rewarding to you or connects you with others
Find a community event where you can connect with other like-minded people
Try something new: a game, restaurant/meal, new route to explore, new workout, hobby, etc.
It can be so easy to get caught up in routine, but I encourage you to step out of it from time to time. Or better yet, make play a part of your routine! It may not fix all your problems, but it may help decrease your stress levels and increase balance in quality of life. Fuck around and find out.
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