This past weekend, I willingly got lost for about an hour in a cornfield with some friends because…’tis the season for all things fall!
It got me thinking: man, I’ve got to do this kind of thing more often!
It was silly and simple, but a few funnel cakes and many moments of stumbling through corn later, my brain and my heart felt happier, content, and at peace.
Why is that?
What is Play, and Why Play Matters
What is play exactly? According to the Oxford Dictionary, “play” is “engaging in activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose.“
When I was a classroom teacher, I was well aware that play is quite helpful for children.
Examples of play for me are playing my guitar, writing, salsa dancing, and creating art just for fun.
The research is outstanding for the positive effects of regular, unstructured time to play, including in these eight ways:
- Boosts creativity and problem-solving
- Improves executive functions
- Strengthens memory and learning
- Social and emotional development
- Develops social skills
- Promotes emotional regulation
- Fosters empathy and well-being
- Builds motor skills
And here’s the kicker – the benefits of play are incredibly similar for adults!
In addition to the eight benefits shared above, adults benefit in these ways:
- Reduced stress
- Improved mental and cognitive health
- Enhanced creativity
- Stronger social connections
How to Play...And Play Often
Here’s my pro-tip: to make time for play as an adult, schedule it like any other important task. Make it non-negotiable, like a meeting with your boss.
The best incentive is to start by naming what you enjoy doing, and then explore new and old hobbies, incorporating them into your daily and weekly routines.
This is my challenge to you: schedule one playful activity for one night this upcoming week, and one playful activity/time-block for the weekend!
You can do this!
Play is so helpful. I started this week lighter and brighter in the glow and memory of the fun I had with friends this weekend.
For all the talk about the importance of caring for our mental health, play is a great place to start!
Your friend,
Vimbo
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Vimbo Watson, M.Ed. is a speaker, professional development provider, education expert, former school principal, and national speaker on school culture, burnout recovery, and transformational leadership. She is also an active Navy spouse, named the AFI 2025 Washington Navy Yard Spouse of the Year. She helps educators, companies, and organizations build better systems where people don’t just survive—they thrive. Email hello@vimbowatson.com to connect!
