Play for Brain Health: The Secret's Out

The Secret's Out: Play is the Ultimate Brain Tonic

I get younger every year. And it's not because I've discovered some fountain of youth or stumbled upon a magical elixir. No, no, my friends – it's all about play. Specifically, the kind that gets your heart rate up, your imagination sparked, and those pesky wrinkles on my forehead (okay, maybe just one) smoothed out.

It all started when I retired from teaching at UCF. My colleagues thought I was crazy for trading in my tenure for a life of pottery-making and movement education. "You're 70 years old, Steve," they'd say with a chuckle. "Time to put your feet up and enjoy the good life." But I knew better.

I'd always believed that play was essential for brain health – not just for kids, but for us grown-ups too. And now, as an octogenarian, I'm living proof that it's never too late to get your play on.

The Science of Play

Neuroplasticity is all the rage these days (and rightly so!). But what does it mean in real terms? Simply put, our brains are capable of rewiring themselves throughout life. It's like a superpower – and play is its catalyst.

When we engage in playful activities, we stimulate the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. We also increase the production of neurotrophins, those lovely chemicals that help our brain cells communicate with each other.

But here's the thing: play isn't just about physical activity; it's also about mental stimulation. When we challenge ourselves with puzzles, games, or creative pursuits, we're forcing our brains to adapt and change – much like a playground full of kids trying to figure out how to swing from the bars without getting their feet tangled in the rope.

My Playful Journey

As I entered my 70s, I started noticing changes in my own brain function. Simple tasks became more challenging, and I found myself relying on memory aids to remember even the most mundane things (like where I put my car keys... or was it the garage door opener?). But when I began incorporating play into my daily routine – whether it was throwing pots on the wheel, practicing tai chi, or playing with my grandkids – I noticed a remarkable shift.

My brain started to feel more agile, like it had shed some of that extra weight and was ready to take on new adventures. And let me tell you, those wrinkles? They're still there, but they seem less... serious.

Getting Your Play On TODAY

So, what can you do today to tap into the power of play? Don't worry – I'm not asking you to trade in your golf clubs for a ball pit or anything like that (although, if you want to, go for it!). Here are some simple steps to get you started:

* Challenge both sides of your brain — every single day. Try something new: learn a language, take up painting, or cook a cuisine you've never tried before.

* Get moving – physically and mentally. Dance like nobody's watching (or with them, if that's how you roll). Practice yoga or tai chi to get those neurons firing.

* Seek out play-based activities with others. Join a recreational sports team, sign up for a pottery class, or volunteer at a local playground (yes, really!). The more, the merrier – and the more brain-boosting fun.

The Playground Doesn't Care How Old You Are

As I look back on my life, I realize that it's been the playful moments – not the serious ones – that have left me feeling truly alive. So don't let anyone tell you otherwise: the playground is for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

In fact, I'd argue that our later years are precisely when we need to be playing more, not less. Think about it: what's the biggest risk factor for dementia? That's right – sedentary lifestyle. But with play on your side, you can reduce that risk and stay sharp as a tack.

Closing

So, there you have it – my take on why play is the secret to brain health. It's not rocket science (although, if I had a dollar for every time someone told me I was too old for pottery...). It's simply about embracing our inner child and getting playful.

I get younger every year – and you can too. Never leave the playground, my friends! Come on over to neverleavetheplayground.com and join the play revolution.