Do you find yourself dreading the very thought of your wellness routine? The daily workout, the meticulous meal prepping, and the obligatory walks can seem like an uphill battle. But what if there was a way to turn this drudgery into delight? The answer lies in reclaiming a part of ourselves that we often leave behind as we journey into adulthood: playfulness.
Think back to our childhood days. Play was not a chore; it was an inherent part of our existence. We didn’t need to understand the scientific reasons behind why moving our bodies was good for us. We simply ran, jumped, and laughed with abandon because it brought us joy. As we grew older, we traded in this carefree approach for a more regimented view of health and fitness. Somewhere along the line, we forgot that staying active could be enjoyable rather than a tiresome task. And here’s a crucial point: enjoyment is a major factor in not only starting an exercise habit but also sticking with it. The same holds true for other healthy behaviors. Our brains are wired to seek out experiences that are fun, so if we can make our wellness routine enjoyable, we’re more likely to keep at it.
The Many Benefits of Infusing Playfulness into Wellness
When was the last time you took a break from your busy schedule to do something that truly made you smile? Incorporating playfulness into our lives nurtures a sense of curiosity. This, in turn, keeps our minds sharp, sparks creativity, and makes us more open to learning. But the advantages of playfulness extend far beyond that.
Greater Adaptability
A recent study revealed that individuals who embraced playfulness during the challenging times of COVID – 19 were more adaptable and resilient when faced with stress. They were also less likely to succumb to anxiety or resort to harmful coping mechanisms. It’s incredible to think that engaging in fun activities can actually soothe our nervous systems, providing a natural buffer against the pressures of life.
Improved Consistency
In the realm of wellness habits like eating nutritiously and exercising regularly, we typically focus on the health benefits. While these are undoubtedly important, reframing our mindset to seek pleasure, indulgence, enjoyment, and social connection within these habits can lead to long – term commitment. When we associate our wellness routine with positive emotions, we’re more likely to stick with it.
Support for Long – Term Mental Health
As we age, playfulness becomes even more crucial for our well – being. A playful attitude can help combat loneliness, manage chronic pain or illness, ease mental health concerns, and enhance our overall sense of well – being. In essence, it’s never too late to make fun a priority, regardless of our age.
3 Ways to Make Your Wellness Routine More Playful
If you’re eager to inject more playfulness into your wellness routine, here are some practical ideas to get you started. Remember, if it’s been a while since you’ve allowed yourself to simply have fun, that’s perfectly normal. Just like any new habit, it takes time for your brain to adjust. Be patient with yourself as you explore these strategies.
Revisit Childhood Passions
Think back to the activities that once captured your imagination as a child. Before the weight of career aspirations and household responsibilities took over, what were you passionate about? Whether it was drawing, playing outdoors, building forts, or creating imaginary worlds, you can transform these into adult – friendly versions. For example, if you loved being outside, plan nature adventures. Explore local hiking trails or learn how to start your own garden.
Schedule Playtime
Once you’ve identified the activities that resonate with you, consider what you hope to gain from them. Are you looking to relieve stress? Or perhaps you want to add more spontaneity and vibrancy to your life? Set clear intentions for your playtime and then block out time in your calendar, treating it as seriously as you would a family commitment or work function. You can even combine playful activities with other self – care habits. For instance, dance around the kitchen while preparing a healthy meal.
Be Present in the Moment
In today’s digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of our free time glued to our screens. One in four adults consider scrolling through their phones to be a hobby, and over 40 percent of people spend most of their leisure time watching TV or consuming social media content. To truly experience the rejuvenating benefits of play, it’s essential to unplug. Designate certain times or spaces as device – free zones, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the moment. This will make your playtime more fulfilling and enriching.
