PLAY
Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending our son’s end of the year “field day” field trip!! It was your typical HOT Florida day, but it was at a park with a bunch of shade and lots of fun water games. Several times throughout the day, I couldn’t help but look around and experience a contagious JOY from the kids!!! There were dozens of rosy cheeks, sweaty heads, dirty toes, and endless smiles. These kids were playing their hearts out and getting in some pretty epic exercise without even knowing it. Perhaps the most inspiring participant was the teacher, who got right in there with the kids and played along the whole day, water soaking stations and all. (His teacher is awesome!)
Play is the most basic and natural form of exercise for kids, but it is just as important for us as adults as well. Yesterday was an amazing reminder to me of this “primal law” to play more. I went to bed last night really tired, really fulfilled, and really inspired to fit in more play time. With summer break around the corner – I just can’t wait to make this even more a part of my fitness routine with my family. Fitness does not have to be sweating on the treadmill, spinning everyday, or achieving constant PR olympic lifts. While I personally enjoy these other forms of exercise, it does not compare to a good old fashion “play date.” Spending some time each week involved in active and fun play is invaluable. It allows you to apply your fitness to real-life situations like playing at he park with your kiddos, stand up paddle boarding on a beautiful day, or tossing a football with your buddy. An added perk – play helps to alleviate some of the negative effects of chronic stress hormones that build up related to everyday life.
What do you say?! Take some time today to PLAY a little (or a lot). Spontaneous breaks to free your mind can do SO much for mental and physical health. Get up from your desk or out of your car and exercise your free spirit. Find a kid, animal, or co-worker and toss a ball, kick a can, or climb a fence. LOL. Seriously though, there are so many possibilities that we as adults over look every day to play. Having kids has made this so easy for us to appreciate. Not to mention the time spent bonding is priceless. So, how do you like to play – any family favorites???
Okay, now put your phone down and go PLAY!