GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO HAVE SOME FUN

Many of us focus so much on our work and family obligations in our busy, modern lives that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Sometime between infancy and adulthood, we stopped playing. In our spare time, we’re more likely to lose ourselves in front of the TV or computer than play games that are enjoyable and restorative as we did when we were kids. Play is important for adults as well, as it may be a considerable source of stimulation and relaxation. The well-known author, Alan Cohen once said: “There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” This is good advice. Find time to unwind from obligations and work and engage in creative, unstructured social interaction with family and friends. These joyous moments are helpful for people of all ages and makes life more enjoyable, reduce stress, accelerate learning, and help you connect with others and the outside world. It can be as simple as having fun with friends, throwing a Frisbee in the garden, playing fetch with the dog or taking a bike ride with your friends. The sole prerequisite for the activity is that you love it and have fun. These fun filled moments will cause the body’s natural feel-good hormones, endorphins, to be released with many health benefits.

Dr Ora Marx