MICHELLE KEENAN empowers people and organisations to achieve optimal wellbeing by providing customised wellness coaching programmes tailored to their unique goals.
When was the last time you did something purely for fun?
Not for productivity, not to tick off a goal, not because you “should”, but simply because it brought you joy.
For many of us, once we hit adulthood play gets pushed aside as something childish or unnecessary, but the fact is fun isn’t frivolous. It’s actually a powerful ingredient for wellbeing.
Play, whether it be a board game, kicking a ball around, dancing in your kitchen, or getting into a creative project, helps us switch off from the pressures of daily life.
It sparks laughter, lightness, and a sense of freedom that we often forget we need.
Neuroscientists have found play stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.
It also lowers stress hormones, making it a fantastic way to reset both mentally and physically.
Beyond the science, fun helps strengthen our connections with others. Shared laughter and playful activities build trust and deepen relationships.
Have you noticed how much easier it is to bond with someone after a silly game or a good laugh?
That’s because play helps break down barriers and reminds us of our shared humanity.
The challenge is that, as adults, we often feel guilty about prioritising fun. We label it a waste of time and get told we should take life more seriously.
But play isn’t wasted time, it’s restorative time.
It fuels creativity, improves problem-solving, and boosts resilience by giving our minds a break from the serious and the stressful. So, how can you bring more fun into your life?
Start small. Say yes to that game with your kids. Pick up a hobby you used to love. Join a quiz night with friends. Even a few minutes of silliness can lift your mood.
Remember: fun isn’t extra, it’s essential, and your mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing will all benefit from it.
