Book

ids.

Play is

for k t s u j t n’

Play isn’t just for kids.

A book by Erica Mimken

Benefits of Play Making the time to play can be beneficial to our mental and physical health.

How to Play Sometimes we forget that the simplest things can be considered play.

The Play Experts We could take some pointers from these experts.

Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, many of us stop playing. We exchange play for work and responsibilities.

When we do have some leisure time, we’re more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than to engage in creative, brain-stimulating play. By giving ourselves permission to play with the joyful abandon of childhood, we can continue to reap its benefits throughout life.

It really helps.

Play provides us with the opportunity to take risks.

Play changes our perspective, stimulating creativity.

Motivation levels are increased when we play.

Problems can be solved through play.

Staying active physically and mentally through play can increase your life span.

Play increases our level of happiness and builds self esteem.

Play can help strengthen relationships and can breakdown barriers.

Play helps us build on social skills such as communication, cooperation, and boundary setting.

Play enables us to feel safe with others and it builds a form of trust.

Play increases energy and prevents burnout.

Play reduces stress hormones in the bloodstream.

Don’t forget about the simple things.

RIDE A BIKE 1. Go outside.

2. Get on bike.

3. Pedal.

GO FOR A DRIVE 1. Get in car.

2. Turn on radio.

3. Push pedal.

READ A BOOK 1. Pick a book.

2. Find cozy spot.

3. Read words.

DO A DANCE 1. Clear space.

2. Turn on music.

3. Move your body.

TAKE A WALK 1. Put down phone.

2. Gather friends.

3. Wander.

They know what they’re talking about.

“Play fosters belonging and encourages cooperation.”

Stuart Brown, MD Contemporary American psychiatrist Stuart Brown’s research shows play is not just joyful and energizing — it’s deeply involved with human development and intelligence. Through the National Institute for Play, he’s working to better understand its significance.

“Play is the hightest form of research.”

Albert Einstein Theoretical Physicist

Einstein coined the term “combinatory play.” He famously came up with some of his best scientific ideas during his violin breaks. If given an hour to tackle a monstrous problem, he’d spend 55 minutes thinking about it and five minutes putting the solution together. His insight into creativity was of a similar depth.

“In every real man a child is hidden that wants to play.”

Friedrich Nietzsche Philologist/Philosopher

In Nietzsche’s most popular book, Thus Spoke Zarathustra, he described what would become one of his most memorable theories — that of the Overman. “Overman” refers to Nietzsche’s conception of a man who has literally overcome himself and human nature.

“Almost all creativity involves purposeful play.”

Abraham Maslow Psychologist

Abraham Harold Maslow was an American psychologist who was best known for creating Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, a theory of psychological health predicated on fulfilling innate human needs in priority, culminating in self-actualization.

“A little nonsense now and then, is cherished by the wisest men.�

Roald Dahl Novelist

He rose to prominence in the 1940s with works for both children and adults and became one of the world’s best-selling authors. Dahl is known for his humorous style of writing.

“Play keeps us vital and alive.

It gives us an enthusiasm for life that is irreplaceable.�

Lucia Capacchione Art Therapist

A Registered Art Therapist and pioneering Expressive Arts Therapist, she conducts workshops and professional training using her innovative methods. She is known internationally as an expert in creativity. She sparks and nurtures creativity in all areas of life.

Created by: Erica Mimken Typefaces: Univers LT Std (47 Light Condensed and 57 Condensed) Glypha LT Std (45 Light and 55 Roman) Images: Royalty Free and For Reuse from Creative Commons and Google Images Facts: Dr. Stuart Brown’s book “Play” http://www.psychcentral.com/

Note to reader: Getting out of our daily routines and making time for play is a healthy habit to get in to. I urge everyone to try and take the time to get creative, be weird, or do something out of the ordinary; even if just for a little.