Jesse Ojuka

Isn’t it tragic how as we grow, we use the word ‘Play’ less. Why is that? Is it because we don’t have time? Is it because it falls lower down our priorities?
Whatever reason you provide to neglect play will be insufficient.

If you watch nature, you will witness vicious lions playing together amongst their pack. If you look at the ocean, you’ll gasp as twenty-tonne whales leap from the water and splash as they land. Yet for some reason, in society, play is only maintained by artists or the eccentric.

I don’t think we were ever explicitly taught in schools that as humans, we have multiple sides. Physical, Mental and Physical.

To be a full human, a holistic human. All three sides must be nurtured and consistently watered.

It breaks my heart to see people grow into sad raisins because they are dried of any play as they age. Yet, the act of play, that is “To do something solely for enjoyment or recreation” is imperative to be a mentally balanced person.

In this day and age where everyone feels like they have to be perfect. Play holds even more value. Creating moments to play gives us an arena to discover ourselves. To create. To experiment without any fear of failure. How important is that? In a sense Play preserves a level of Freedom the system robs us of.

People who work the typical 9–5, go home, TV and sleep will inevitably end up stiff and afraid people as their life has become something ridged and predictable. The longer you spend without play, the more difficult it becomes to play and the more estranged you become with people who do play.

If you want to add another dimension to your life that will make you mentally healthier. More valuable in a room. Increase your life satisfaction and enhance your relationship with the world around you.

Make play a regular habit.

No great mind has ever existed without a touch of play — Aristotle.