Page 28 - Fourways Gardens April 2021
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Lifestyle











































              the iMPoRtAnce of PLAY foR AduLts




                                                B y Michelle  l .  r a y M ond




                hildren spend most of their days   Playing does something wonderful for   For many, it has been years since we played,
                playing. It is how they  develop   our overall health. Numerous studies   so how do we know when we are playing?
                fine motor skills and hand-eye   show the benefits of play for adults,   •  When  there  are  no  goals  to  attain,  the
        Ccoordination. Playing keeps them   from our chemistry and neurological   objective is the activity itself. Just play!
         active, physically and mentally. It offers   functions to cognitive development and   •  When we are in the present moment.
         an opportunity for learning and problem-  enhancement of memory and mood.  •  When we are smiling during an activity.
         solving.                                                              •  When  we  want  more  and  cannot  get
                                            Playing can:                        enough of it.
         Playing is a crucial part of children's   •  Help us relax and decompress.  •  When we lose track of time.
         development.                       •  Be used as a stress reliever.   •  When we feel energised but relaxed.
         But what about us adults?          •  Improve our overall brain function and
         When did we stop playing?           assist with relieving  the symptoms of   Here are some ideas and
         Why did we stop?                    depression and PTSD.              recommendations to get back
                                            •  Give relief to insomnia and stimulate the   to having fun:
         We [adults] do not need to play to develop   mind.                    •  Try  computer  games  or  console  games
         our brain and muscles.  We do, however,   •  Boost creativity.         that suit your temperament and budget.
         need it for a range of other important - and   •  Improve relationships and our   •  Give adult painting or colouring a try.
         often overlooked - reasons.         connection to others.             •  Play with animals or children.
                                            •  Keep us feeling young and energetic.  •  Play a variety of board games.
         Higher functioning mammals, like dolphins,                            •  Try something you've never done before.
         spend a lot of time playing, right throughout
         adulthood.


                    We do not stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing!

                                                   – George Bernard Shaw.


                                                  Fourways Gardens • 26 • April 2021
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