Enhancing Mental Well-being in Children and Adults
It’s always a joy to see children at play, brimming with enthusiasm and squealing with delight. Whether kids are involved in team sports, romps through the woods, or conversations with imaginary friends, their playtime can significantly boost their physical and mental health.
But did you realize that the bodies and minds of adults can likewise benefit, too?
Let’s examine what playtime offers the young and, as they say, the young at heart.
What Exactly Is Play?
Any sustained activity that someone does for fun, one without a specific practical purpose.
A playtime activity might be highly organized and have precise and complex rules. The board game Monopoly is a good example.
On the other hand, play is often spontaneous and improvisational. For instance, two people could walk around their home pretending to be the King and Queen of England.
Of course, playtime can take place outdoors or indoors. It could involve physical exertion or sitting still. Play can incorporate elaborate costumes, props, and equipment, or it might require nothing but a person’s imagination.
You could enjoy playing with your spouse, partner, children, relatives, friends, neighbors, colleagues, classmates, dogs, or all alone.
Playtime and Mental Health
Whatever you play and however you play it, the mental health benefits of play are remarkably consistent.
Regular playtime can make a person feel happier and less stressed. Play stimulates the brain to release proteins called endorphins, which make people feel good all over and can ease pain as well, at least temporarily.
In addition, routine play can give people more energy and boost their self-esteem and confidence, particularly when their playful pursuits present new challenges to overcome.
Sports, games, and recreational activities can also enhance cognitive functioning. Indeed, games that require strategizing, like poker and chess, can strengthen a person’s memory and problem-solving skills.
Plus, creative play, such as making crafts or going on a make-believe adventure, can make a person more creative in other areas of life, including school and the workplace.
Social Play
When people play in groups, they can connect with their playmates in unique and personal ways, forming deep and lasting bonds.
After all, through play, you can get a vivid sense of what excites other people, what makes them laugh, and what brings them joy. And, when you see what their imaginations create, you can see what’s truly meaningful to them in life.
Moreover, children at play will discover new ways of sharing their ideas and communicating with others. They’ll learn how to cooperate and collaborate with their peers more effectively. They’ll become more patient and empathetic as they cheer each other on.
Exercising for 30 Minutes a Day
The health benefits can be profound when playtime involves physical exercise for at least half an hour daily.
Here are just a few of them:
- Stronger bones
- Greater muscle endurance
- Improved balance
- Better sleep
- Enhanced pulmonary and cardiovascular health
- Weight loss
- A reduced risk of many diseases and disorders, including strokes, diabetes, cancers, and arthritis
Therefore, walking, jogging, running, jumping, swimming, or moving around vigorously as you play is a great idea!
With all that in mind, the best types of play are physically active, mentally stimulating, and highly social. For example, there are countless hours of playtime that you can enjoy with your family. Swings, monkey bars, and trampolines epitomize safe, fun, healthy, and beneficial play.
So, maybe you’re in the mood now for some playing around. Whether you’re up for a game of tag or a round of Solitaire, an exhilarating world of play awaits!
Guest Blogger
Brittany Cotton is a Digital PR Specialist and writer who focuses on health, wellness, science, and other topics. In her free time, she reads, tries new recipes, and enjoys spending time with her family and dog.
Many thanks to our guest blogger for their contribution to Living Healthy List. Are you interested in submitting an article? Send an email with your contact information, suggested topics and an example of your work to Support@livinghealthylist.com