Play

October 27, 2010

A few years ago I took a dance class called Nia. Part of our routine was free-dance–we each took a turn at leading the group around the room in random steps of our own choosing.

Most of the women were uncomfortable with it. Even those who were graceful, fit and in step. They were afraid they’d look silly. The glass walls of the studio meant others who were working out could look in. Oh, the angst!

Me? None of those things at the time, but I didn’t much care. It was fun to just let go and move, and if you know me, you know that I don’t much care what people think.

And frankly, I knew that most of the people at the gym were so focused on their own bodies, their own workouts, that our little routine was hardly a blip on their radar screen.

When was the last time you let go of all inhibitions, let yourself go and just played?

We simply do not play enough.

I was talking to my rockin’ friend, Lore Raymond, the other day about how play and laughter are under-estimated. She’s writing a chapter on just this topic for an anthology and I think she’s on to something.

My husband and I took dance class last year, and while we didn’t always get every step perfectly, we had a blast expressing ourselves to music we love. We cracked up ourselves and our instructor. Our classes were grown-up play sessions and we really looked forward to them.

If your dog is your playmate, then you know all about letting yourself go. And if you’re lucky enough to be able to get down with kids or grandkids, it’s another opportunity to laugh, play and have fun.

It’s a tough world out there and for many people, it’s tougher than it’s ever been. It may seem like there’s nothing to laugh about. That play is superfluous.

I don’t think so.

Endorphin producing laughter is a great stress reliever. It’s free. And it’s contagious.

It really is the best medicine.

So play a little today. And laugh a lot.

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Here you’ll find my blog, some of my essays, published writing, and my solo performances. There’s also a link to my Etsy shop for healing and grief tools offered through A Healing Spirit.

 

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