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It's evening, and I am on the floor, hammering new shiny tacks into a 100-year-old suitcase someone threw out and I picked up. The time seems to stay still as I am completely engrossed in the process of restoring the suitcase, adding details, giving it new life. I have no idea yet what I am going to do with this, or where I am going to put it, but that's not important now. What is important is that I feel the tiredness of the day, anxiety over troubles and problems, washing away with each new tack that I hammer in. I have no idea how to restore old things, so I am learning it all from YouTube, articles, and just experimenting. My teenage son peeks in and asks me what I am doing, and I answer: "I am playing." And he knows exactly what I mean by that.
The Forgotten Importance of Play and Joy
In our fast-paced world, where productivity and results are often prioritized, the concept of play can seem frivolous or even childish. Yet, as Dr. Gabor Maté, a renowned physician and trauma expert, emphasizes, play is a fundamental aspect of our well-being that adults often overlook. Dr. Maté reflects, “I was so driven by justifying my existence in the world that I forgot to play.” This profound statement underlines the essential nature of play, not just for children, but for adults as well.
The Science of Play and Joy
Research in psychology and neuroscience underscores the critical role of play in adult lives. Engaging in playful activities and experiencing joy can significantly reduce stress, improve cognitive functions, and enhance emotional well-being. Play activates the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation.
Moreover, play fosters creativity and problem-solving skills by allowing individuals to approach situations with a flexible and open mindset. It encourages experimentation and risk-taking in a low-stakes environment, which can lead to innovation and personal growth.
Embracing the Process Over the End Result
As adults, we often focus on the end result, neglecting the sheer joy of being in the flow—a state of complete immersion and enjoyment in an activity. The concept of "flow," introduced by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, describes a state where individuals are fully engaged in an activity, losing track of time and external concerns (Janet Lansbury). This state is not just pleasurable but also enhances performance and creativity.
In PLAY,
Elena Davydova, MSW
Interested? Stay Tuned for Part 2, HOW to Rediscover Play in YOUR Day!
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