By Allison Runchey, HTCP
With summertime now in full bloom, I’ve noticed myself naturally attuning to a more relaxed, light-hearted energy within and around me. Especially here in Minnesota, the long, warm summer days and lush, green landscapes bring a sense of ease coupled with the natural excitement of new growth.
There’s a playful atmosphere with music in the parks, lakeside beaches, and gardens blossoming. But for many adults, including myself, somewhere along the path of “growing up,” we may have traded playfulness for accomplishments and productivity. This can make us feel like playfulness is only a visitor rather than a permanent resident in our day to day lives. Ah, what to do!?
Image by Alexas_Fotos from Pixabay
We each have our own inner, fun-loving kid within us and our own unique sense of what “play” means to us. Whenever we play, it returns us to our full, vibrant, authentic selves. Even if we’re working, bringing a playful energy to our tasks can help lift our spirits. Most people intuitively know it’s important for our wellbeing to make time for fun. But, if your grown-up self needs a bit of convincing about how play can help you, here are a few ways:
It brings our attention to the present. We can let go of stories of the past or worries about the future, at least for the moment
We can let go of the pressure to produce an outcome. Rather, we follow our hearts without judgement, and without an expectation to get something “right.”
Play effortlessly restores a sense of joy and doesn’t need to take a lot of money or time. A few minutes doing what we love can make a difference.
It clears the emotional aspects of our energy fields, allowing us to release resentments, anger, and fear.
It helps open the flow of energy within ourselves and among groups. To paraphrase a beloved Energy Healing teacher, Janet Marinelli - when there’s laughter, the energy is flowing.
Next time you find yourself laughing or playing, take a moment to sense what’s happening for you physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. Everyone is different. How does your energy change when you’re doing something you enjoy?