With the snow and freezing temperatures, it’s easy to justify cozying up and staying inside where it is warm, but research tells us that play is imperative to engaging the brain. Yes, even in colder temperatures. In fact, research tells us that play boosts social skills, relationships, and brain function. It even lowers stress and aggression.
Despite this knowledge, or perhaps honest laziness, it seems that the older we get, the less we tend to find time to play. In fact, we make all the excuses why we don’t. Work, exhaustion, kids’ sports, it’s too hot, it’s too cold, our bodies hurt, and so on. But the dilemma is quite simple: if we don’t make time for play, then we are stunting the true ability of our brain and mental wellness.
Still not convinced? Researcher Stuart Brown, MD, describes play as time spent without purpose. If you’re anything like me and my energizer bunny syndrome, then that might sound terrifying. But Dr. Karyn Purvis of the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development states that “Play disarms fear, building connectedness, and teaches social skills and competencies for life.” Nowhere in the research does it say that play is only for children, so the excuses won’t stand. It’s time we stop complaining that today’s kids aren’t playing enough when we aren’t playing enough ourselves.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t factor in age and physical ability when it comes to play, so keep in mind that not all activities are equal. Do what you can and remember that playing literally lights up your cortex like a Christmas tree. Make it fun, get festive, and make memories without all of the winter excuses.
* Shovel snow
* Build a snowman or an igloo.
* Have a snowball fight.
* Go sledding
* Work on a puzzle
* Knit or sew
* Read a book
* Move your body – yoga, strength training, walking, etc.
* Bake
* Play a board game
* Complete a crossword puzzle.
* Try a new hobby you’ve been putting off.