Lately I’ve been practicing setting intentional time aside for play. But what is play? Can adults play? Oh yes, adults are designed for play, but many of us get lost in the world of work and being spread thin that play, an essential part of our adult development need, becomes missing.

But here we are again, what is play? How do adults play?

Play would be described as pursuing activity that does not have consequences for failing, winning, or loosing, but can be tried over and over again until satisfied. Play is meant to refresh and build joy.

Play looks different for everyone depending on hobbies and interests, unique personalities, and resource availability.

For me, play was diminished the last 5 years, lost in the transitions of life but thankfully, is now making a comeback, and a strong comeback it is.

When I am playing, I find creativity starts to blossom. When I allow myself time for play, I experience peace in my body, my mind feels lighter, and I find myself smiling, perhaps saying outloud, “oh, I like that idea!” Pen and paper in hand, I start to write my ideas out. Play helps me wonder, play helps me develop areas that I crave to develop.

The older I get, the more I realize how stressed my body had been for so long, chronically stressed. What was meant to feel like play as a child, teenager, and adult didn’t always feel like play. I would find my mind pre-occupied with worry, concern, and confusion about various life circumstances, for a long time I was fighting the battle of a prolonged anxiety disorder, and it took about a third of my life to heal from.

I am so thankful for the “bigger minds” in my life that helped me grow, heal, and mature into the best version of Kailey I was made to be. Today, the best version of Kailey, plays. She’s learning how to play hard and is loving it.

Here are a few ways I am practicing taking time to “play”

Blogging out my thoughts and experiences (this!)
Reading books on books and books that spark insight and inspiration
Creating encouraging videos on social media (instagram, facebook, and some YouTube)
Writing and playing music with my guitar
Cooking and baking, giving away homemade goods to loved ones
Decorating my house with thrifted treasures
Playing and singing in a worship band with the guitar
Taking a once a year trip (if finances allow, even more!) to explore a city or country I hadn't explored before

Other forms of play I hope to pursue:

Learning how to play the piano better
Exploring painting and canvas artwork
Re-vamping my Joy Makers Project online merch
Starting a Joy Makers podcast

What kinds of play do you pursue currently? What kinds of play do you want to pursue?