6 ways play
specifically impacts the brain:
1)
Play
stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which stimulates the
growth of neurons in the amygdala (where emotions are processed) and the dorsolateral
prefrontal cortex (where executive decisions such as problem-solving and
reasoning occur).
2)
Play
promotes the creation of neuroplasticity as well as new synaptic connections.
3) Play
improves cooperation, ability to follow directions, abide by rules, accept
feedback from others, and accept help from others.
4) Play
improves academic performance, including math skills.
5) Play
improves attention and concentration.
6) Play
improves ability to connect to others and develop empathy.
6 ways you can incorporate play into your daily life:
1) Surround
yourself with playful, funny people.
2) Be
active. One of the quickest ways to jump-start play is to do something
physical. Move, take a walk, throw a ball, and smile! Motion is one of the most
basic forms of play.
3) Host
regular game nights with friends.
4) Invest
in an art class, buy construction or science toys, and create something. Try
not to worry about whether you are "good" at the creative endeavor; just
simply enjoy the experience.
5) Re-engage
in a favorite hobby you may have given up at one time.
6) Watch
funny movies, collect jokes, and try to find something funny to laugh at least
once a day!
George Bernard Shaw once said, “We don’t stop playing
because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
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