Playing Fights Stress and Slows Aging

Play Stimulates the Brain

Games aren’t just for kids anymore. More and more people over 50 are venturing online to play games. People are hopping on the Internet to play for a multitude of reasons—to have fun, exercise their minds, relax, and connect with friends and family.

A growing body of scientific evidence suggests regular brain stimulation is a key element in preventing memory loss and alleviating diseases such as Alzheimer’s. A recent study by The Alzheimer’s Association concluded that “mentally stimulating activities strengthen brain cells and the connections between them, and may even create new nerve cells.” Play should be considered an essential part of our daily lives because it is a doorway to learning, exercise, and brain stimulation.

Playtime is not simply a luxury as was once thought. It is an integral part of the natural rhythm of life and an essential element of our mental and physical well being.

Research shows chronic stress can cause memory problems, aggression, pessimism, anxiety, depression, anger, a loss of productivity, and a lack of creativity. Stress is the driver for most diseases, causing heart disease, cancer, obesity, strokes, insomnia, premature aging, and much more.

Health Benefits of Play

The benefits of play and laughter in overcoming and preventing stress, aging, and disease are numerous. Studies show that play and laughter lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, increase muscle flexion, and boost immune function. Below are just a few playful tips to help prevent stress in your life.

7 Play Tips That Prevent Stress 

• Revive your rhythm. Energetic, happy music can stimulate physical responses, such as increased heart rates and respiration resulting in an increase of energy.
• Comedy club. Play CDs and DVDs, or visit your favorite comedian or funny Website online. Laughter can increase your artery diameter by 22 percent and boost your immune system. Some call it “internal jogging!”
• Express gratitude. Smile while alone and be grateful for something in your life. It is physiologically impossible to experience stress and gratitude at the same time.
• Share a meal. Don’t eat alone at your home or office. Meet a friend for lunch to share a laugh or story.
• Reach out and touch someone. When you are stressed, call or email a friend with a playful joke or picture.
• Own a toy chest. Keep a drawer or box nearby with playful toys so that when you are stressed, you can shoot a basket, bounce a ball, or play jacks.
• Play an online game. Sit and enjoy an online game for a few minutes to relax and refresh your mind.

No matter how you express your playful side, do it! You will feel better physically and mentally. In fact, everyone around you will notice the difference, and your example might even rub off on them.