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Remember the days when "exercise" just meant running around until your sides hurt from laughing? When playgrounds were your gym and a game of tag was your cardio? They don't have to be just memories. Reintroducing "play" into our adult lives isn't just a fun idea; it's a fantastic way to boost our physical wellbeing.
We often think of physical activity in terms of structured workouts, gym sessions, or hitting a certain number of steps. And while all of those are helpful, there's something uniquely beneficial about movement that comes from play. It's less about obligation and more about joy, and that shift in mindset can make all the difference.
Physical benefits of letting loose and playing include:
Improved Cardiovascular Health (without even trying)—Chasing a Frisbee, playing hide and seek with your kids ... even a vigorous game of charades gets your heart rate up. It's exercise in disguise, making it more sustainable and enjoyable than a treadmill session you might dread.
Enhanced Flexibility and Mobility—Think about how kids move. They bend, twist, squat, and reach without a second thought. Play encourages this natural range of motion, helping to keep joints active and your muscles limber.
Stronger Muscles and Bones—From carrying a picnic basket to engaging in a friendly game of volleyball, playful activities recruit various muscle groups. The impact from activities like jumping or running also contributes to stronger bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life.
Better Balance and Coordination—Ever tried hula-hooping as an adult? It's tougher than you remember! Play challenges your proprioception (your body's awareness in space) and helps refine your coordination, which is vital for preventing falls and maintaining agility as you age.
Play helps us reconnect with a sense of wonder and curiosity. It's a reminder that movement doesn't always have to be about reps and sets; sometimes, it's just about having a blast. So, dust off that jump rope, gather some friends for a casual game of catch, or whisper to someone, "Tag. You're it!" Your body (and spirit) will thank you!
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Today's Action Prompt: Find a few minutes today to engage in a playful movement. It could be availing yourself of the delights at the local playground, playing catch, going skating, follow along with a silly YouTube movement video for kids. Just move for the sheer joy of it!