Marcia C McCormack, BSN, RN, PHN, FCN

“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” — Proverbs 17:22

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” — George Bernard Shaw

As adults, we often view play as an indulgence or a reward saved for when all our important work is finished. However, scientific research reveals a remarkably different story: play is a biological necessity.

Integrating unstructured, joyful play into our daily routines isn’t just about entertainment. It directly supports our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, acting as a natural buffer against chronic stress and isolation.

The Science of Adult Play

When we play, our brain state shifts from hyper-vigilance and rigid productivity toward cognitive flexibility and restoration.

• Neurochemical Restoration: Playful activities stimulate the release of endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin while lowering systemic cortisol. This chemical shift signals safety to the central nervous system, allowing the body to step out of “fight or flight” mode into a state of cellular repair.
• Neuroplasticity & Brain Health: Unstructured play challenges the brain in novel ways, building new neural pathways that enhance memory, problem-solving skills, and emotional regulation.
• The “True Fun” Trifecta: Author Catherine Price highlights that true play occurs at the intersection of Playfulness (a lighthearted, outcome-free attitude), Connection (shared presence with others or nature), and Flow (deep absorption where time seems to stand still).

Why Play Benefits Body, Mind, and Spirit

Dimension	Physical & Psychological Impact	Community & Social Benefit
Physical Health	Lowers blood pressure, improves sleep quality, and reduces muscle tension from chronic stress.	Increases energy and stamina for active social interaction and daily service.
Mental Well-Being	Reduces symptoms of anxiety and burnout; fosters resilience during life transitions.	Restores a sense of perspective, cognitive clarity, and emotional balance.
Spiritual & Social Growth	Dismantles perfectionism, builds deep trust with others, and opens space for gratitude.	Strengthens communal bonds and encourages authentic fellowship.

How to Relearn How to Play

If you haven’t engaged in unstructured play in years, starting can feel unnatural. The key is to lower the stakes and focus entirely on the process rather than any measurable product.

1. Identify Your Play Style: Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play, notes that we all have distinct play personalities. Are you an Explorer (wandering new places), a Creator (crafting or gardening), a Joker (sharing laughter), or a Kinesthete (joyful movement)?
2. Schedule “Unproductive” Time: Set aside 15–20 minutes where the explicit goal is to accomplish nothing useful. Sketch without worrying about skill, wander outdoors with no set path, or try doing a puzzle.
3. Swap “Fake Fun” for “True Fun”: Passive entertainment like screen scrolling often leaves us feeling drained. Opt instead for tactile, sensory, or relational activities that encourage laughter and presence.

Are you ready to incorporate play into your life? Here is a 14-day daily plan to get you started!

Now, go out and PLAY!