Play is often seen as something reserved for children — a way for them to explore, laugh, and learn. But what if adults need play just as much? In a world filled with work, responsibilities, and routines, many adults forget how to engage in activities simply for the joy of it.
The truth is, play has real mental, emotional, and physical benefits for grown-ups too. Whether it's spontaneous, creative, physical, or social, making time for play could be one of the best things you do for your overall wellbeing.
What is adult play?
Adult play involves any activity that brings enjoyment without a serious goal or outcome in mind. It’s about doing something just because it feels good, not because it’s productive or efficient.
Examples of adult play include:
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Kicking a footy with mates at the park
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Doing a creative DIY or craft project
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Playing board games or trivia nights
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Building something just for fun
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Dancing in your living room
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Going on spontaneous adventures
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Playing fetch with your dog
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Watching a comedy with friends
Dr Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play, describes it as “something done for its own sake... it’s voluntary, it’s pleasurable, it offers a sense of engagement, it takes you out of time.”
As adults, we often trade joy for structure — but play gives us permission to experience the moment, connect with others, and express our authentic selves.
1. Play boosts creativity and problem-solving
Children naturally use play to understand their environment, test ideas, and solve problems. Adults are no different — our brains still thrive on novelty, experimentation, and fun.
That’s why many innovative companies, like Google and LEGO, integrate play into their workplace culture. They know that when people feel relaxed and curious, they are more likely to:
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Think creatively
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Collaborate better with others
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Explore new approaches to challenges
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Develop flexible, solution-focused thinking
Types of play that support creativity:
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Brain games and puzzles
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Improvisation or storytelling
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Art, music, and crafts
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Role-playing games
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Building or construction play
Incorporating playful thinking into your day can help shift your mindset, break routine, and enhance your ability to deal with life’s challenges.
2. Play relieves stress and supports mental health
All work and no play can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even depression. Engaging in play is one of the most natural ways to regulate your mood and manage stress levels.
Benefits of play for mental wellbeing:
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Releases endorphins—natural feel-good chemicals that promote calm and happiness
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Improves brain function and memory
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Encourages laughter, which boosts circulation and eases tension
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Promotes mindfulness, keeping you grounded in the moment
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Builds resilience during difficult times
Play can also enhance emotional regulation. Whether it's playful movement like dance or simply engaging in a hobby, it creates a mental break from pressure and worry.
3. Play strengthens social connections
Adults often get caught up in solo routines — work, chores, exercise, screen time. But social play can restore a sense of connection, fun, and community.
How play helps relationships:
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Strengthens existing bonds through shared joy
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Encourages communication and trust
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Builds empathy and emotional connection
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Offers light-hearted moments in otherwise serious relationships
Social games, team sports, dance classes, or even a simple beach day with friends can reignite that sense of belonging and fun.
Play helps you connect without pressure. It’s not about winning or achieving — it’s about the shared experience.
What does play look like for you?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to play. What’s playful for one person might feel stressful to another. The key is to find what feels good to you, without judgment.
Use the table below for ideas:
| Play type | Examples |
| Creative play | Painting, sketching, writing poems |
| Physical play | Playing tennis, cycling, dancing |
| Social play | Board games, trivia nights, karaoke |
| Nature play | Hiking, beach cricket, outdoor exploring |
| Spontaneous play | Jumping in puddles, singing in the shower |
Even just 10–15 minutes of play each day can have a positive impact on your wellbeing.
Final thoughts
We never lose the need for play — we just forget how to prioritise it. When you make space for play as an adult, you invite more creativity, connection, and balance into your life.
So, what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner child and give yourself permission to enjoy life just a little more — without the pressure of outcomes.
