Why adults need playdates: The science behind the emotional benefits of play
Introduction
True play occurs when we are so lost in the joy of an experience that we lose ourselves. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi calls it being “in the flow,” an athlete might call it a “runner’s high,” and some even say it happens when they’re “in the zone.”
Playful experiences have a remarkable influence on our emotional landscape. When we lose time engageing in play, our brains release endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin—the feel-good chemicals that enhance mood and reduce stress.
These emotional benefits of play are instrumental in fostering a sense of joy, contentment, and fulfillment in our lives.
I explore all of this in the two books I have written two books on play - one for educators, and one for general humans.
Five emotional benefits of play
1. Stress Relief:
When we play, we disconnect from daily worries and immerse ourselves in the present moment. Whether it's playing a sport, creating art, solving puzzles, or reading a good book, engaging in playful activities acts as a natural stress reliever, promoting emotional balance.
2. Enhanced Resilience:
Having a playful mindset nurtures resilience and optimism. Being intentional with our thoughts in this direction enables us to face challenges with a positive outlook, adapt to unforeseen circumstances, and bounce back from setbacks. The emotional resilience gained through play is a valuable asset in navigating life's ups and downs.
3. Improved Self-Expression:
Play offers a safe space for self-expression and emotional release. Through creative play, such as drawing, writing, or improvising, we can channel our emotions, gain insights into our feelings, and better understand ourselves.
Personal note here: Sometimes I don’t know how I feel about something until I’m engaged in play. When I read someone’s experience and can connect to it, this helps me add words to what I’m going through. For me, it’s like reading is breathing in, writing is breathing out. I don't know who said that first. It wasn't me, but I love the message.
4. Strengthened Social Bonds:
Playful interactions promote positive social connections and emotional bonding. Engaging in playful activities with friends, family, or colleagues creates shared experiences and fosters a sense of belonging and connectedness. In a word, play breeds trust among the players.
5. Engage in Playful Creativity:
One of the qualities of playful intelligence is imagination. In our ability to play with the unknown, we can visualize a future and begin to set goals. When we engage in creative play, we foster hope and imagination.
As adults, we (and I mean me) often get lost in our day to day busy-ness. Play isn’t on the calendar, so it doesn’t happen. When is the last time you expressed yourself through dance, art, writing, or any form of creative expression that brings you joy? I challenge myself, and I challenge you to find freedom in creation and let hope guide your endeavors.
Set a weekly playdate for yourself. Start small and see the benefits smile back at you.
Some playdates to try:
1. Join in on neighborhood events. Check the calendar at your local library, coffee shop, and community center. Show up.
2. Scavenger hunt. Make a general list before you walk off things to find. Some people collect all colors of the rainbow, others seek out textures (soft, crunchy, rough, etc). Then see what you can find!
3. Movie Night. With others or solo, celebrate your choice with costumes or a simple food treat.
4. Progressive Dinner. Divide your meal into parts (beverage, appetizer, dessert), and celebrate each in a different location.
5. Time out for your phone. Put your phone across the room and get snuggly on the couch with a good book. Allow yourself to get swept away without digital distractions.
Play is a universal language that transcends age, culture, and background. While we often associate play with physical activity or fun games, its impact goes beyond mere enjoyment. The significant emotional benefits of play and being playful contribute to our overall well-being.
As a play ambassador for the US Play Coalition, I'm passionate about sharing the power of play for wellness and overall happy lives. As you continue to seek answers to your own questions on play, you might be interested in the following articles:
The Power of Play: Five steps for unlocking creativity and joy in our everyday lives
How to find your dream job: The role of play personalities in fulfillment
