Tell a workaholic: Play isn't just good for your health — it could improve your work output.
Why it matters: Taking play breaks can reduce stress, strengthen teamwork, and boost creativity and problem-solving, researchsuggests.
The big picture: Play leads to a more "exploratory, open-minded, experimental place, and that's usually where solutions come from," says Piera Gelardi, Refinery29 co-founder and author of the forthcoming book "The Playful Way" (out in April).
Meanwhile, "play deprivation" could be linked to negative mental health outcomes, according to Stuart Brown, clinical researcher and founder of the National Institute for Play.
Adding some play to your workday can look like doodling for a few minutes, listening to your favorite song, or going for a walk to seek awe outdoors.
To find more opportunities to play, identify the grown-up version of the thing you loved as a kid, Gelardi says.
If you dressed up dolls, play with your own style. If you enjoyed sports, build more movement into your day.
💭 Abbey's thought bubble: A long walk by the Missouri River, headphones in, while listening to a niche YouTube video essay about the cultural legacy of "The Sims" is my version of play.
💭 Travis' thought bubble: My playground has always been the outdoors. Activities like mountain biking, ultimate Frisbee and skiing make me feel like a kid again.
