Realizing the critical importance of play, is a game changer

I once watched a documentary about dance raves in war-torn countries that were held around active war zones. The contrast seemed so strange at the time, young adults dancing, laughing, and partying with the sound of bullets and bombs going off in the near distance. But when they were asked why they were doing it, everything became very clear.

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The science behind how play affects our immune system, mental health and so many other aspects of our lives is undeniable. Play is important period. But especially during times of stress, trauma, and deep healing.

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Some key tips to rediscover or prioritize play are:

-approaching the activity with no end goal except for pure enjoyment

-play can take on many different forms, it's all about how you feel while you're doing it. Some signs that an activity is activating play for you are: it feels fun/enjoyable, it helps you feel in the present moment, you feel nourished afterward, you smile and/or laugh during the activity

-play + physical contact + nature= maximized benefits (such as a sport done purely for fun, partnered dance class, Acroyoga etc.) 

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