Does it surprise you to learn that the opposite of play isn’t work?
According to Psychology Today, “Work and play can be more similar than we think. We can—and many do—work and live playfully. And so we can—and do—often play in ways as structured and as serious as we work."
According to pioneer play researcher Brian Sutton-Smith, "the opposite of play is depression.” This is why being intentional about playfulness at home and work increases satisfaction and purpose.
Research links play at work with less fatigue, boredom, stress, and burnout. Play is further positively associated with a sense of competence, and creativity.
There has even been links between people with more playful characteristics having lower blood pressure.
Play has to be central to any personal well-being strategy.
So how do you stay in touch with your playful side, especially as you age?
There is one answer... practice playing!
Here are two ways you can incorporate play to encourage a more joyful you.
Take a 10-15 minute healthy break. It’s no secret that our favourite practice is through doodling.
- Schedule a 10-15 minute doodle break. Have colourful writing instruments, paper and some calming music playing and let yourself be creative.
- If you have a lot of work in a day, every 90 minutes, take a moment to – pause – stretch and then doodle for 15 minutes. Let yourself refresh from the task at hand and build some calm into the next phase of your day for greater calm, clarity, creativity and confidence.
It all starts with recognizing that play is a really important ingredient to help you to work better, feel better and live better.
Happy Doodling!
Shared from the Doodle Breaks blog.