Adult Play IS Productivity
Lately, I’ve been allowing myself to just be—to breathe, to rest, and to enjoy the little things without pressure. Carrying that practice into my weeks has been a gift. Of course, planning ahead helps me check things off my list, but I’m also learning the value of slowing down and being present.
A few weeks ago, I had an experience that reminded me why play matters
It was a Friday, and my husband and I picked the kids up early from daycare and hit the pool with some friends. We laughed, splashed, and played—it was pure fun. For once, we weren’t rushing or distracted. We were simply in the moment.
The kids were little fish in the water, but the best part? The adults joined in, too. We slid down the slides, balanced on the rope net, and even attempted handstands. It wasn’t perfect, and there may have even been a minor adult injury (oops)… but it was joy. Real, present joy. And then I was reminded:
Play isn’t just for kids. Adults need it too
It’s not only grounding, but it’s also healing and medicine. When we play, our bodies release endorphins and oxytocin—chemicals that lower stress, boost mood, and strengthen connection with others. Laughter and movement activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” state), signaling safety and helping to calm the fight-or-flight responses that so often dominate our busy lives.
In fact, neuroscientists have found that play lights up the same brain regions involved in creativity, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Play resets us. It softens the edges of life’s demands and reminds our bodies and minds that rest, fun, and connection are just as important as productivity. So, here’s my claim:
Play isn’t separate from productivity
Play is productivity
On a recent walk with a friend, she told me she never passes a swing at the park without stopping to use it. That stuck with me. Why don’t we, as adults, give ourselves permission to play more often? I imagine your first thought might be, ‘I don’t have time.’ But here’s the truth: that’s exactly why we need play the most.
Play is necessary
It keeps us alive, connected, and light-hearted. It’s something I want more of—I want to play my way through life, not just push through it. So here’s a reminder to myself, and to you too: