Have you ever been told “You Need To Grow Up”?
Have you ever been told
“You Need To Grow Up”?
Well if you have - well done!
The art of playing just like we did when we were kids often gets lost in the hustle and bustle of adult life in a world dominated by responsibilities, bills, and schedules.
It's easy to forget the immense value of infusing our lives with the simple joy and boundless curiosity we once possessed.
I remember watching my children when they were young playing with a cardboard box and a blanket, creating all sorts of magical things - using their imagination, having fun, and giggling all the time.
Why do we feel as an adult we need to always act as if we are an adult!!
As we grow older, our creativity often takes a back seat to practicality, but by embracing childlike play we are reintroduced to the limitless boundaries of our imagination. Our imaginative play allows us to think outside the box, explore new possibilities, and approach challenges with a fresh perspective.
Stress Relief and Mindfulness.
As you know, life can get seriously hectic, leaving us overwhelmed and stressed out. However, by immersing ourselves in playful activities, we give our minds a break from the constant stressors. Play provides a form of mindfulness, where we become fully engrossed in the present moment. Whether it's building sandcastles at the beach or doodling with crayons, play lets us experience a tranquil state of mind that is invaluable for our mental well-being.
Two of our best friends live in Ojai, and last year we met each month and shared cooking a meal from various countries. Creating dishes from India, Mexico, Italian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese etc. - and of course English. (Yes - fish and chips!)
We had a lot of fun and an evening of laughter. The Indian meal, which consisted of 7 dishes, took over 3 hours and by the time we had finished, we were too tired to eat!
These sorts of evenings create lasting memories that you never forget.
Igniting Curiosity and Learning
Children have an insatiable curiosity, and playing is their way of learning about the world around them. As adults, we can tap into that same curiosity by approaching life with a sense of wonder and awe. Whether it's experimenting with a new recipe, exploring a new hobby, or embarking on a spontaneous road trip, embracing play helps us continue our journey of lifelong learning.
Remember when you were a child the sheer delight of chasing butterflies, blowing bubbles, or dancing in the rain? The fun in turning over stones in rock pools on the beach to see crabs and sea creatures?
The beauty of childlike play is that it finds joy in the simplest of things. By incorporating play into our daily routines, we can infuse our lives with a sense of wonder and excitement, even during mundane tasks. Play teaches us to appreciate the small moments that often go unnoticed.
So why not make a pact to never let go of our inner child's spirit of playfulness.?
Let's build sandcastles, race paper boats, engage in spontaneous dance parties, and let our laughter echo through the corridors of adulthood. Embracing childlike play isn't just about having fun; it's about reconnecting with our authentic selves, nurturing our well-being, and living life to the fullest.
Let's rediscover the magic of play and embark on a journey of joy, curiosity, and boundless imagination. Here's to never growing up completely!
Try it and see.
With Love & Light
Roger
“No one can dim the light that shines within”
“Each one of us has the ability to heal ourselves - and others. That gift, which is often dormant, can be awakened and used to transform our lives, and those around us, into something remarkable”