The idea that children need to play is nothing new. Over the decades, many studies have shown the benefits of play during childhood. Regular and unstructured play are both important for a child’s development. When children play, they hone their cognitive, emotional, and social skills, improve their physical health, and develop better motor skills. But did you know that play can be just as good for adults?

Play and fun keep us smarter, healthier, and happier

Peter Gray, a prominent research professor at Boston College in the United States in the field of play from an evolutionary and biological perspective, believes that we live in a work-obsessed society where adults have forgotten how to play. As in the animal kingdom, he argues, play is not only beneficial but crucial for our survival.

Adults who play tend to be healthier than their all-work-no-play peers, boasting lower blood pressure, better cholesterol levels, and better general fitness. They are also emotionally and socially more equipped to maintain a positive mindset and keep stress and anxiety at bay. Perhaps most remarkable, playing sharpens cognitive functioning in adults.

Gray cites studies showing that mammals with the largest brains play significantly more – proof that we, as the most intelligent creatures on earth, should do the same. He also points to examples in the animal kingdom where the desire to play suppressed predatory urges. This reinforced his belief that play has become instinctual: a necessary tool for a longer, healthier life.

Wired for play

Liezl Thom is a qualified neurolinguistics practitioner, a master life transformation coach, and a multiple brain integration coach. She believes playfulness is essential for a longer, healthier, and happier life. As such, she has guided many of her clients to incorporate playtime into their daily routines. Liezl echoes Gray’s sentiments.

"Playfulness is essential for a longer, healthier, and happier life."

She explains that neuroscientific research shows humans are hardwired for play. “We have a biological drive to engage in playful activities thanks to dedicated neural circuits in our brains that are activated by playful stimuli,” says Liezl. “There are specific areas in the midbrain identified as so-called ‘play circuits’, which trigger the desire to play when stimulated by playful elements in the environment.”

It seems that, from a physiological point of view, it is unnatural not to play. As food for the soul, play is evolving into a basic need, almost as important as our need for nourishment and shelter. The results are visible. “People who regularly play have a lightness of being – a light-hearted approach to life,” Liezl explains. “Perhaps it’s the twinkle in their eyes, perhaps taking a break from the seriousness of life makes them more relaxed, which in turn makes them appear less stressed. Having fun and playing seems to slow the ageing process.”

"Play is evolving into a basic need, almost as important as our need for nourishment and shelter."

Life as your playground

Many experts agree that play provides the most benefits when it is done simply for its own sake, with no particular purpose in mind. Liezl concurs, defining play as any activity that makes you feel engaged, excited, and creative. “Whether you invite friends over for a murder mystery evening, walk the dog, fly a kite, juggle oranges, or sign up for line dancing – if it brings you joy and a sense of freedom, it can be reframed as play.”

But how does a life coach prioritise play in her own life? Liezl believes it’s as much about mindset as the actual activity. “I’m very aware of the language I use. When I arrange a coffee date or even a training session with a friend, I call it a play date. I’ve made a conscious decision to, as far as possible, keep Friday afternoons open for play dates.”

This approach applies to work as well, as she aims to operate from the same space of light-heartedness and curiosity. “‘Find what you love, and you will never work a day in your life.’ I find great joy in my work and approach it with the same sense of fun and wonder as I would a game.”

"When I arrange a coffee date or even a training session with a friend, I call it a play date."

Liezl’s tips for adults who want and need to play more

• Schedule time for play
  Even if it’s just a few minutes every day, prioritise fun and create opportunities to enjoy life. Otherwise, what’s the point?

• Break from routine
  Break the monotony of your day by incorporating short play breaks. Engage in a quick game of solitaire, solve a puzzle, or take a few minutes to doodle. These micro-play moments can invigorate your mind and spirit.

• Rediscover hobbies
  Revisit activities you loved as a child or explore new hobbies that intrigue you. Whether it’s painting, dancing, gardening, or building intricate Lego structures, engaging in activities that spark your interest is a great way to play.

• Incorporate play at work
  Infuse play into your work environment by introducing elements that foster creativity and collaboration. Brainstorming sessions, team-building games, or even a friendly competition can uplift the workplace atmosphere.

• Have playful interactions
  Play with your pets, family, or friends. Organise a games night, go for a walk, or engage in a friendly sports match. Shared play experiences create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.

• Embrace spontaneity
  Allow yourself to embrace the unexpected. Say yes to impromptu adventures, try a new activity on a whim, or take a scenic detour during your daily commute.

So, there you have it, folks. If you want to survive and thrive, reframe your mindset and play more. Whatever and whenever – the more pointless, the better. You’ll be smarter, happier, and healthier for it. Anyone up for line dancing?

Written for Medihelp by Maritha Broschk