SHOWNOTES

When was the last time you truly played – not as a means to an end, but just for the joy of it? Many of us think of play as something left behind in childhood, a luxury that doesn’t fit into the responsibilities of adulthood. But according to Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, best-selling author of The Way of Play and expert in brain-based emotional health, play is essential for everyone – not just kids. It’s a powerful tool for regulating emotions, fostering connection, and building the kind of resilience that sustains us throughout life.

In this episode of The Emotional Longevity Podcast, we explore why play is one of the most overlooked yet critical elements of emotional health. Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or someone simply looking to bring more joy and balance into your life, this conversation will shift how you think about play.

Why Play Is Fundamental to Emotional Well-Being

The Science of Play: How It Shapes the Brain

Play isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a biological necessity. Neuroscientific research shows that play activates the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for problem-solving, emotional regulation, and social connection. This means that when we engage in playful activities, we’re not just having fun; we’re training our brains to be more adaptive and resilient.

“Play builds neural connections that help us manage stress and emotions, it strengthens pathways for creativity, social intelligence, and even self-awareness.” 

– Dr. Tina Payne Bryson

Play also creates a sense of presence, pulling us out of anxious thought loops and into the moment. Whether it’s through sports, dancing, music, or even lighthearted conversation, the act of play can be a powerful way to reset our nervous system and improve overall well-being.

Why Adults Need Play Just as Much as Kids Do

For many adults, the idea of play feels foreign – something that doesn’t fit into the structure of a busy life. But Tina argues that adults need play just as much as children do.

“We think of play as something extra, but it’s actually a key part of what makes us thrive,“ she says. “It’s one of the most effective ways to relieve stress, increase joy, and strengthen relationships.“

Play doesn’t have to be childish or time-consuming. It can be as simple as engaging in a creative hobby, moving your body in a way that feels good, or laughing with friends. The key is to approach life with a sense of curiosity and lightness.

Small Shifts That Bring More Play Into Your Life

If play feels like a foreign concept, start small. Here are a few ways to integrate more playfulness into your daily routine:

• • • Reframe Play: Instead of seeing play as unproductive, recognize it as a vital part of mental and emotional health.
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    • Engage Your Senses: Listen to music, doodle, cook a new recipe, or explore a creative hobby that allows you to immerse yourself in the moment.
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    • Move Playfully: Dance, stretch, or take a walk with no agenda – just for the joy of movement.
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    • Laugh More: Seek out humor, watch a comedy, or share playful moments with friends. Laughter is a form of play that instantly shifts our emotional state.
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    • Be Spontaneous: Say “yes” to unexpected invitations or take a different route home just to explore. Spontaneity can spark a sense of playfulness and adventure.
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Even the smallest acts of play can have a profound impact on how we feel, think, and connect with the world around us.

The Connection Between Play and Emotional Longevity

Dr. Bryson emphasizes that play is deeply connected to emotional longevity—the ability to sustain emotional health and resilience over time. When we embrace play, we engage in a lifelong practice of renewal, creativity, and connection.

“Play isn’t just about having fun—it’s about how we process emotions, how we bond with others, and how we stay resilient through life’s challenges,“ she says.

If you’ve ever felt disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in rigid patterns, play might be the missing ingredient. By incorporating more lightness and creativity into daily life, we can build stronger emotional foundations that carry us through both joyful and difficult moments.

Bringing Play Into Your Life for Emotional Resiliency

If this conversation resonates with you, I invite you to look at play as more than just an escape – it’s a way to reconnect with yourself, strengthen relationships, and build emotional resilience.

For those looking to dive deeper into this topic, Dr. Tina Payne Bryson’s book, The Way of Play, is a fantastic resource for parents. 

And if you’re ready to take your emotional health to the next level, my Emotional Health Coaching Program, Uncover the Power Within, offers evidence-based strategies to help you integrate more balance, connection, and resilience into your life.

If you found this conversation valuable, consider sharing it with someone who could benefit from it. And don’t forget to subscribe to The Emotional Longevity Podcast for more insights on how to enhance your well-being in simple, practical ways.

Let’s bring play back into our lives – not just as an afterthought, but as a path to deeper joy, connection, and resilience.