Self Care Tip of the Week: PLAY

This week’s self care tip is: PLAY!

C’mon who doesn’t like having fun and playing around?  For some reason, once we reach a certain age the concept of ‘play’ almost becomes extinct in our lives. And when we think of play, we think of children.

The type of play I am suggesting is not just for kiddies. Nope. All of us need to let go of the stoic concept that play is for kids only, loosen up, and play a little more.

Play is such a fabulous expression of creative energy.

Here are just a few of the many benefits:

• Stimulation
• Relaxation
• Rejuvenation
• Exhilaration

One of the reasons play can be so helpful to us is that it is not so outcome focused. In our professional lives we tend to be focused on creating perfect outcomes for everything (get it done, do it right, be more efficient, wear many hats, etc). Play is the exact opposite.

Play is about losing yourself in the moment. Enjoying what you are doing. Being present while you are doing it. And not criticizing yourself. Just have fun. There is no right or wrong.

Here a few suggestions for you:

• Grab a notebook/sketchbook and start doodling or drawing  (use different colors/styles/etc)
• Do karaoke with friends
• Bake cookies in funky/different shapes
• Can you knit/sew/crochet? create something fun. Maybe a gift for yourself or someone else
• Invite friends over and whip out an old board game or even better a physical game like Twister™ or Charades
• Take a dance/theatre/acting class

Think of fun, new, or different ways you can wake up your desire to PLAY.

Have fun with it! You deserve it.

Read more self care tips here: http://transitionsinnursing.com/caring-for-yourself/

Alicia-Joy

*photo courtesy of kthompsonstudios

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