Sober Synthesis

 “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing” George Bernard Shaw

What is Play? 

• Play generally includes these characteristics:
  • Self-chosen and self-directed
  • An activity in which means are more valued than ends (low stakes in the outcome).
  • Play has structure, or rules, which are not dictated by physical necessity but created from the minds of the players.
  • Play is imaginative, non-literal, mentally removed in some way from “real” or “serious” life.
  • Play involves an active, alert, but non-stressed frame of mind.

Why is Play Important and How Does Play Influence Neuroplasticity?

• Play is an essential activity for animals and humans and is our most powerful portal for neuroplasticity.
  • This low stakes mindset decreases release of adrenaline supporting creativity (process) rather than competition (outcome).
  • During a play mindset, we release endogenous opioids from our brainstem that allow our prefrontal cortex (executive functioning) to be more flexible (more plastic).  
  • Playful rats have been shown to have significantly elevated levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is recognized to have a central role in developing and maintaining neural plasticity.
• A play mindset allows us to experiment with new contingencies/roles (exploration that feels safe). 
  • Role play is a very effective way to practice a new behavior or communication.
• We all develop a personal play identity and that identity can be modified to improve work, relationships, and overall happiness.
• People who play more have an enhanced sense of trust, greater self regulation, greater conflict resolution, and are more physically active. 

How Can We Harness the Power of Play?

• Play is most powerful when it is novel (something that you are not very good at).
• Play is most powerful when interacting with others.
  • Minimize playing solo repetitive electronic games (e.g. Candy Crush). These games focus on an outcome (winning) and are designed to promote addictive use. 
• Include play into your weekly routine.
  • Tinkering, playing any game with low outcome expectations, improv dancing or singing, playing an instrument, music mixing, art, playful sports, playing with children or animals, playing non-violent video games (preferably with others). 
• If your play activity is something you already are good at, try to experiment with new ways of playing. 

The Importance of Play for Adults: Tips for Being More Playful (psychcentral.com)

Proposed questions for thought/sharing:

1. How have play activities supported your recovery/health and wellness?
2. Do you have ideas on how to include play in your recovery plan? 

Disclaimer

This summary is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed.