Solution for our grand delusions

You now have permission to trash impossible declarations like, “I’m losing 50 pounds this year.” There’s actually a better one. Research shows the pressure and unpredictability of the past two years have left us tense, depressed, and anxious. The solution, according to one Harvard psychologist — is PLAY.

Dr. Natalie Dattilo, a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School says, “Adults desperately need to have some fun — and for the sake of our mental health — there’s no time like now.” — Doctor’s orders.

Whether you’re shooting hoops, or throwing clay, Dattilo says play has enormous health benefits, like a pumped up sense of well being:

Mood – Play makes us laugh, releasing endorphins that lower stress, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, Dattilo says it has the power to reduce both physical and emotional pain.

Brain health – Play improves memory and nurtures critical thinking.

Inspiration – Play fosters creativity by getting us out of our tired, routine headspace.

For ideas on spontaneous acts of play, I turn to my 6-year-old niece Mickey, who, in this video (below) has stopped showering for a moment to express herself artistically on the glass door. Children do this naturally, unexpectedly, and fearlessly. My resolution this year is to embrace my own 6-year-old self and start kicking some creative ass.