As adults, many of us tend to dismiss the value of play, often thinking it’s something we “grow out of” as we get older. However, recent research from fields like neuroscience and psychology reveals that play is just as essential for adults as it is for children.

Dr. Stuart Brown, a pioneer in the “play movement,” has spent much of his career advocating for the importance of play for adults. His book Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul delves deep into the many benefits of play, and through his work at The National Institute for Play, he has led efforts to explore its impact on both children and adults. His 2009 TED Talk, “Play Is More Than Just Fun,” has also garnered millions of views, emphasizing how play can enhance our lives in meaningful ways.

Play’s Mental and Psychological Benefits

One of the primary ways play supports our well-being is by promoting psychological health. Dr. Brown suggests that play is not the opposite of work—it’s the opposite of depression. Play helps people reconnect with lighthearted moments, which, although they may seem trivial, are essential for emotional well-being. He advocates for creating a “personal play history” that allows us to reflect on the moments from childhood that brought joy—like a snowball fight or playing with friends in the park. This history, he argues, can shape adults into more well-adjusted individuals.

Dr. Brown’s research has even looked into the link between childhood play and adult behavior, with findings suggesting that a lack of joyful childhood play may correlate with negative outcomes in adulthood. He has even explored the play history of adult prisoners and found that those with less playful early experiences were more likely to engage in criminal behavior.

Furthermore, engaging in play activates neurons in the brain, providing a mental boost. Dr. Brown claims there’s nothing quite like play to light up the brain, which is why it may help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Simple activities like solving puzzles, playing games, or even adult coloring books can help maintain cognitive function and keep our minds sharp.

Physical Benefits of Play

Beyond the mental benefits, play offers substantial physical advantages as well. One of the key benefits is its ability to reduce stress and strengthen the immune system. Play acts as a powerful stress reliever, often more effective than traditional medicine in lowering stress levels.

An experiment conducted in London in 2016 highlighted how beneficial play can be for stress relief. In an attempt to promote a new Candy Crush game, organizers set up an “adults-only” bounce castle. They found that many stressed adults eagerly joined in, bouncing away their tension, showing that sometimes the silliest activities provide the greatest stress relief.

In fact, “rough and tumble” play, which involves playful physical movement, has been identified as an excellent substitute for exercise. Some gyms now offer fun fitness classes where participants engage in playful movements that mimic animals or primal behavior, allowing them to burn calories and get a full-body workout while having fun. Even something as simple as chasing your kids around in the backyard can be a great form of exercise.

The Role of Play in Relationships

Play isn’t just beneficial for your physical and mental health—it also enhances relationships. People who are more playful tend to be more enjoyable to be around. Relationships thrive when playfulness is present, as it fosters a sense of connection and lightheartedness. Playful comments and gestures, such as joking with strangers or engaging in flirtation, help create a relaxed and approachable atmosphere.

Dr. Brown also notes that animals signal playfulness through behaviors that indicate they are not being serious—such as keeping their claws in or making playful movements. Similarly, humans use small playful gestures, like flirting, to signal openness and interest.

Additionally, play fosters a sense of community. Participating in group activities, such as karaoke or team sports, can strengthen bonds and create a sense of belonging. These activities allow us to step outside of our regular roles and engage in a shared, playful experience.

Play in the Workplace

Given all these benefits, it’s no surprise that more companies are incorporating play into their culture. Tech companies, especially in places like Silicon Valley, are known for their playful office environments, featuring beanbags, foosball tables, and scooters to encourage creativity and relaxation.

Dr. Brown has even developed a course at Stanford University’s D School, titled From Play to Innovation, which teaches students how to integrate play into the innovation process. One famous example from this course involved a group of students who came up with the idea of a “wearable meeting”—participants donned white jumpsuits and wrote ideas on each other, creating a fun and interactive way to brainstorm.

While this might sound a bit whimsical, the underlying concept has serious applications in the corporate world. For instance, companies have found that incorporating play and humor into customer experiences can improve satisfaction and engagement.

Making Play Part of Your Routine

While much of the research on play has focused on children and animals, the evidence is mounting that adults can significantly benefit from making play a regular part of their lives. Just like sleep and nutrition, play is a foundational element for maintaining overall health.

If you’re not sure where to start, think about incorporating small playful activities into your daily routine. Whether it’s spending a few minutes drawing, playing a game, or engaging in lighthearted interactions with friends or colleagues, the key is consistency. A few minutes of play each day can have a big impact on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Final Thoughts: Rediscover the Power of Play

Play is not just for kids. Adults who embrace play in their lives reap the rewards of improved mood, better relationships, enhanced creativity, and physical health. By making time for play, you tap into a powerful habit that can elevate your well-being and keep you feeling vibrant. So, next time you’re feeling stressed or disconnected, try adding a little play to your day—you might be surprised by how much it boosts your health and happiness.