Define play and the different types of play (including active play).
Discuss how and why humans evolved to play. The evolutionary advantages of doing so. The benefits for mental, physical and emotional health.
Discuss why in the modern era adult humans are increasingly over-stressed with work and are play deprived and how they could benefit from more play to deal with mental health issues. Especially with the mental and cognitive benefits that come from active play. Discuss why active play is seen as frivolous and superfluous and not taken seriously by adults but could help reduce sedentary and stressed behaviour.
Discuss why and how play reduces stress, anxiety and depression (including impact on hormones such as cortisol). why it is inherently mindful and facilitates the flow state and why taking time out to play should be prioritised.
Not just playing as individuals but socially too to enhance the benefits for us as social beings. Incorporate the impact on other hormones and neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin. “Depression could be termed self-imposed hibernation, not wanting to go out and play.”- JA Tsiouris 2005