By Donna D’Cruz
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” —George Bernard Shaw
Playfulness is not only a source of delight and creativity, but also a potent tool for reducing stress, enhancing relationships, and making life more memorable and meaningful. As Carl Jung noted, playfulness can help us tap into the deeper realms of the psyche, fostering greater understanding of ourselves and our network of family and friends, while also inviting a deeper sense of well-being during the holiday season and beyond. A study by the University of Chicago found that shared playful activities can improve relationships, enhance emotional connections, and increase happiness. Are you ready to have fun and play this holiday season?
Here are some ideas to share with your family and friends: Get creative with your holiday decorations, whether it’s crafting homemade ornaments or adding playful touches to your decor. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to dig in! Dare yourself to reimagine the holiday traditions with a playful twist. Consider incorporating fun games, lighthearted competitions or humorous elements into your celebrations. You are creating new memories, new stories.
Instead of focusing on extravagant gifts, opt for playful or sentimental gifts that can evoke laughter or warm memories. Be creative!
Explore holiday light shows or displays in your area. The enchanting scenes can bring a sense of wonder. Engage in playful volunteer activities during the holidays. You can bring joy to others and experience the power of giving.
Incorporating playfulness into your life during the holiday season can be a catalyst for catching an ecstatic wave! Jump on with seasonal gusto (even if you don’t initially feel too enthused) and be reminded to embrace the present, seek joy in the simple things, and not take life too seriously. Playfulness is a powerful tool for enhancing your emotional well-being, promoting connection with others, and infusing your holiday season with moments of pure happiness.
“The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect, but by the play instinct acting from inner necessity.” —Carl Jung
Tune in for weekly Dip Into Bliss meditations every Thursday at 5PM with Cristina Cuomo and Donna D’Cruz on Instagram, @donnadcruz1 and @cristinacuomo; donnadcruz.com