Rediscovering Play: Boost Your Mental Health in 10 Minutes Daily

The pressure to be productive often overshadows a vital aspect of human experience: play. According to Cas Holman, author of the upcoming book Playful: How Play Shifts Our Thinking, Inspires Connection, and Sparks Creativity, engaging in unstructured play can significantly enhance mental health, reduce stress, and help reconnect individuals with their inner child.

Holman asserts that adults have largely abandoned spontaneous play, typically starting around the age of 9. He emphasizes that this shift results in a society overly fixated on outcomes and productivity, neglecting the joys of simple, playful activities. “We don’t listen to the part of ourselves that wants to be silly in a meeting or dance while doing dishes,” he stated.

According to Holman, the reluctance to engage in play can significantly impact overall well-being. He explains that play is fundamental to human development and learning. “Play is how we learn to be human, how we learn who we are,” Holman said. He describes play as “life-affirming, soul-sustaining, and mind-expanding,” warning that a life devoid of play can have detrimental effects on psychological, emotional, and physical health.

Identifying Play Resistance

Holman identifies five signs that indicate a person might be “play-resistant.” Research suggests that adopting a playful mindset contributes to adaptability, resilience, and creativity, while animal studies indicate that play can bolster immune resistance in mammals.

Many adults he encounters express a desire to play but feel disconnected from that part of themselves. Holman describes these individuals as “play-curious” or “play-hesitant.” They want to incorporate play into their lives but often lack the guidance on how to do so.

For those seeking to rekindle their spirit of play, Holman suggests dedicating just 10 minutes each day to activities that are fun rather than productive. Simple actions like dancing in the living room, doodling, or having a casual conversation with a friend can help reconnect individuals with the joy of play. “The goal isn’t to accomplish anything — it’s to reconnect with joy,” Holman advised.

He also recommends starting with a specific “play memory” from childhood. Reflecting on past experiences of play can help individuals reconnect with its power and prioritize incorporating it into their daily lives. Holman reassures that there is no need to clear a calendar or take a formal class to embrace play; the key is to integrate playful attitudes into everyday activities.

Incorporating Play into Daily Life

Holman emphasizes that play extends beyond designated activities; it is also an attitude and approach that can be infused into mundane tasks. For example, he suggests that preparing breakfast can become a playful experience by experimenting with new ingredient combinations. “Rearranging your living room can change how you experience that space,” he adds.

To further enhance daily life with playfulness, Holman encourages individuals to stay open to new experiences and to embrace spontaneity. He believes that these small changes can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life, ultimately having a profound impact on mental health.

As society continues to grapple with the demands of productivity, Holman’s insights serve as a reminder of the essential role that play has in fostering resilience and creativity. By rediscovering the joy of play, individuals can enhance their overall well-being, proving that a few minutes of fun can be a powerful antidote to the challenges of modern life.