For many of us, the busyness of day-to-day life can seem overwhelming. It can be hard to take a step back from the stressors, but if we don’t, it can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. Being conscious of how we can play and laugh can be the perfect way to look after ourselves and find some respite from all the craziness.
Being conscious of play and laughter is about taking the time to wiggle and wriggle in joy. Making music, dancing, singing, and enjoying a good laugh with friends or family. It’s about taking a break from your everyday life and enjoying some much-needed lightness. Conscious play and laughter cleanse us from our worries and help us to gain a little bit of perspective.
Laughter is a powerful thing, it increases endorphins, relaxing us and boosting our mood. It relaxes the entire body and can even reduce physical pain. Studies have also shown that a good belly laugh can reduce our cortisol levels, levels of anxiety, and depression.
There is something special about laughter that is shared with others. When we laugh together, we share a moment of connection, and it helps to solidify our relationships with one another. A good belly laugh with a friend can be just the thing that one needs to get away from a stressful day and feel that connection.
Dancing is another great way to engage in some conscious play. Moving our bodies, grooving to music, and feeling the beat. It can be a great way to let go of our stress and to revel in our being. Allowing our minds to wander and our bodies to sway, and feeling the energy that is created. It can be a perfect antidote to anxiety and depression.
Singing can be a powerful form of self-expression. Expressing our feelings and emotions in song allows us to be in the present moment, to connect with ourselves, and to open ourselves up to joy. Singing can help us to express ourselves in a nonverbal way, even when words are hard to come by.
Music also helps us to regulate our emotions and is incredibly powerful in terms of our mental health. Music brings us together, and when we listen to uplifting music, it can bring a sense of peace and contentment.
When we focus on conscious play and laughter, it helps us to remember that life is not solely serious. We are allowed to be silly and to enjoy ourselves in little ways. A conscious approach to play and laughter can bring joy and lightness, and provide a sense of relief from our busy lives.
So make a conscious decision to take a break for a little while and enjoy some fun. Whether that’s a good old-fashioned belly laugh with friends or a alone-time sing-along, make time to let yourself be.
