What defines PLAY? 

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Play is an activity engaged in for enjoyment and recreation, rather than any serious or practical purpose. 

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It is voluntary, spontaneous, and stress-free. For many people, play also occurs “outside of time and self,” meaning that we become less conscious of time, and of our own bodies and idiosyncrasies, when we play.

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Play includes a variety of pursuits as diverse as peekaboo and paintball, stickball on the beach and adult softball leagues, roughhousing and rock climbing. Play can be free and unhindered by rules or structured and codified, such as in the games of soccer and golf.

Play can also be solitary or social—the individual whipping up a new recipe in his kitchen is “playing” just as much as a group of children running around outside playing tag on a beautiful summer day. It takes countless forms that vary depending on an individual’s age, personality, and unique interests. 

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Here are just a few examples of play that you or your children likely engage in on a regular basis:

• Roughhousing with pets or children

• Playing make-believe

• Playing organized sports such as soccer, baseball, or basketball

• Engaging in other forms of physical activity such as rock climbing, skiing, surfing, or ultimate Frisbee

• Playing board games

• Dancing

• Going outside and walking in nature

• Engaging in creative expression such as making art, music, gardening, or cooking a meal

• Performing creative, innovative work (yes, work can be play!)

• Engaging in playful banter at your job or a party

• Having a playful relationship with your partner or spouse

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(Chris Kresser, M.S.)

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What do YOU do to PLAY? Here are just a few of the benefits you'll experience when you add a little play to your life. 

• Relieve stress

• Improve brain function

• Stimulate the mind and boost creativity

• Improve relationships and your connection to others

• Keep you feeling young and energetic

• Play helps develop and improve social skills

• Play teaches cooperation with others

• Play can heal emotional wounds.

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