P L A Y - not just for kids

Nearly everyone of us starts out playing quite naturally. But what happens when we get older that we're made to feel guilty for playing? Unless we are being productive, developing a skill, or making money, then we feel we shouldn't be doing it.

Actually the opposite is true-by bringing more play into our lives we become more productive and happier in everything that we do.

Play is critical in sustaining social relationships, being creative, and most importantly- being happy. It allows us to discover our most essential selves and our world and has been built into us through millions of years of evolution. We're designed to find fulfillment and creative growth through play.

Imagine a world without play. That means no books, movies, sports, music, art, flirting, daydreaming, no comedy, no stories. Life would be pretty grim without play. It is now even recognised in the workplace with ping pong tables going into lunch rooms, planned activities to build up staff morale, and employees engaging in social events outside of work.

I believe life without play is a grinding, mechanical existence where we only do things necessary for our survival. When you open your eyes to it, play is everywhere. It can be dancing, visiting friends, surfing, playing in the rain, reading a book, bouncing a ball, dirt bike riding, jumping on a trampoline, or daydreaming about your future hopes and dreams. Play opens up a world of possibilities and finds us doing things just for the heck of it.

So, whether play means to you gardening or bungee jumping, make sure you find time to play because the best memories we have are usually moments of play.