Rediscovering Play: How 10 Minutes Daily Can Boost Your Mental Health

The increasing focus on productivity may be stifling our mental health. According to **Cas Holman**, author of the forthcoming book, Playful: How Play Shifts Our Thinking, Inspires Connection, and Sparks Creativity, unstructured play is essential for adults, helping to relieve stress and reawaken a connection to our inner child. Holman emphasizes that many adults abandon playful activities around the age of nine, replaced by an overwhelming emphasis on productivity.

He explains, “We’re overly focused on productivity and outcomes, so we don’t listen to the part of ourselves that wants to be silly in a meeting, explore a new route to work, or dance around in the kitchen while we do dishes.” This reluctance to engage in playful behavior not only diminishes joy but can also have serious repercussions on mental well-being. Holman strongly asserts, “A life devoid of play is detrimental to our psychological, emotional, and physical health.”

Identifying Play Resistance

Holman identifies five signs that indicate someone may be “play-resistant.” Research supports the notion that a playful mindset fosters adaptability, resilience, and creativity. Animal studies further suggest that play can enhance resistance to illness. Many adults, Holman notes, express a desire to play but feel disconnected from that aspect of themselves. He describes these individuals as “play-curious” or “play-hesitant,” wanting to incorporate play into their lives but unsure how to do so.

To counteract this trend, Holman advises dedicating just ten minutes each day to activities that are fun rather than productive. He suggests simple activities such as dancing in your living room, drawing doodles, or making a phone call to a friend just for the sake of conversation. “The goal isn’t to accomplish anything — it’s to reconnect with joy,” he explains.

Reconnecting with Joy through Play

Holman encourages individuals to start by recalling a specific “play memory” from childhood. This act of remembering can help re-establish the significance of play, ultimately leading to its prioritization in daily life. “You don’t need to clear part of your calendar or take a class (although those can both be fun!),” he suggests.

He further illustrates that play is not limited to recreational activities but can also be an attitude applied to everyday tasks. For example, cooking breakfast can become a playful endeavor simply by experimenting with new food combinations. Rearranging furniture can also be a playful act that transforms one’s living environment. Holman encourages a lighthearted approach, saying, “Translate for the birds in the morning.”

Through these strategies, Holman presents a compelling case for the vital role of play in adult life. By reclaiming the joy of play, individuals can enhance their mental health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. The evidence is clear: making room for fun is not just beneficial but essential for a fulfilling existence.