The benefits of play for children have long been documented, but there is increasing evidence to show that the use of play (and the attitude of playfulness) and creativity can promote a sense of wellbeing in adults in daily life and in the workplace.
Why play?
In the ever-increasing pressure of the modern, busy lives we lead, we have seen an increase of success, but also of anxiety-related conditions.
There are many other antidotes to stressful life, such as exercise and meditation or mindfulness practice. Creativity and playfulness are another excellent string to the bow, as an antidote to the stressful, pressurised environments and situations we often find ourselves in.
Ongoing benefits of play – play is a serious business!
There is much research into the benefits of play in the workplace, and the ongoing impact of an approach that embraces playfulness as a means of lowering stress and increases productivity through joy rather than pressure.
Play is rich in transferable skills –regular involvement in a creative, playful activity has been shown to lower stress, boost confidence. It can also promote the ability to collaborate, think on our feet in new or challenging situations and most of all, it’s fun!
Here are a couple of quotes that sum up why we should all be brining elements of play into our daily lives:
“…There is a kind of magic in play. What might seem like a frivolous or even childish pursuit is ultimately beneficial. It’s paradoxical that a little bit of “nonproductive” activity can make one enormously more productive and invigorated in other aspects of life.”
Dr Stuart M. Brown Jr. Founder, National Institute of Play
“Laughter reduces mental tension and increases energy, enabling you to stay focused and accomplish more. Both sides of the brain are stimulated during laughing encouraging clarity, humour and creativity and better problem solving ability.”
Sebastian Gendry, Expert in Laughter for Wellness and Founder of Laughter Online University
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