"The opposite of play is not work. It's depression."
- Brian Sutton-Smith
"The most wasted of all days is one without laughter."
- E. E. Cummings
Incorporating playfulness in mindfulness can be especially helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma. Trauma can leave us feeling stuck in negative patterns of thought and behavior, making it difficult to connect with others and experience joy and fulfillment in our daily lives. However, by approaching mindfulness with a sense of playfulness and curiosity, we can help our brains rewire and heal from trauma.
Using playfulness in mindfulness can help us regulate our emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve our relationships with others. When we approach mindfulness practice with a sense of lightness and curiosity, we can help our nervous system shift from a state of hyper-arousal (fight or flight) to a state of calm and relaxation. This can help us feel more present and connected in our relationships with others, making it easier to build and maintain healthy connections.
In addition, incorporating playfulness in mindfulness can help us develop a greater sense of creativity and resilience in our daily lives. By approaching everyday activities with a sense of playfulness and curiosity, we can unlock a deeper sense of joy and satisfaction, which can help us cope with the challenges of life. This can be especially helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma, as it can help them rediscover a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives.