Play is the Secret to Brain Health | Stay Young Mentally

I Get Younger Every Year: The Secret to Brain Health is Play

As a wise and venerable potter, professor, and movement educator nearing my 90th year (but don't worry, I get younger every year), I'm convinced that play is the key to keeping our brains as spry as they were in our youth. And let me tell you, I've got some proof.

I remember when I was teaching at UCF, I had a student who was a brilliant researcher, but struggling with anxiety and stress. She'd often come to class looking frazzled, unable to focus. One day, I asked her to join me for a pottery session after class. We spent two hours laughing, getting our hands dirty, and creating something beautiful together. The next week, she was back in class, relaxed and ready to go.

"What happened?" I asked her.

She smiled and said, "I don't know, Professor Jepson, but making pottery with you last week felt like playtime. And for the first time in months, I felt at peace."

That moment sparked a curiosity within me: What if play wasn't just for kids? What if it could be a tool for maintaining brain health across our entire lives?

The Science of Play

Turns out, I was onto something. Research shows that play is essential for cognitive development and function throughout life (1). It's not just about having fun; play stimulates the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, improves memory and learning, and even boosts creativity.

One study found that adults who engaged in creative activities – like painting or playing music – showed significant increases in gray matter in the brain (2). Another study discovered that older adults who participated in games and puzzles had improved cognitive function compared to those who didn't engage in such activities (3).

Challenge Both Sides of Your Brain

The playground doesn't care how old you are. In fact, it's precisely when we think we're too old for play that our brains benefit the most from it. The key is to challenge both sides of your brain: the left side, which loves structure and logic, and the right side, which delights in creativity and imagination.

As I always say, "Challenge both sides of your brain – every single day." Try this: take a few minutes each morning to doodle or draw something completely random. Don't worry about being good at it; just let your right brain run wild.

Or, try playing a musical instrument or learning a new language. These activities stimulate the growth of new neurons and keep our brains agile.

Just Keep Moving

Now, I know what you're thinking: "Stephen, this all sounds great, but what about exercise? Don't we need to do some sort of high-intensity workout to stay healthy?"

Well, here's the thing: while regular physical activity is essential for brain health, it's not just about the intensity. What matters most is movement itself – any kind of movement that brings us joy.

I've been making pottery for over 60 years, and I can tell you that the act of moving my body, creating something with my hands, has kept me young (yes, I get younger every year). It's not just about physical exercise; it's about keeping our entire being engaged and active.

Practical Steps to Get You Started

Ready to join the playground? Here are some simple steps to get you started:

* Set aside 10 minutes each day for creative play: doodle, draw, paint, or write a short story.

* Try something new: learn a language, take up an instrument, or try a new sport.

* Engage in physical activity that brings you joy – it doesn't have to be intense; just keep moving.

The Playground is Waiting

As I look back on my life, I'm reminded of the wisdom of the playground: "Never leave the playground." It's not just for kids; it's for anyone who wants to stay young at heart and maintain a sharp, curious mind.

So come join me. Let's create something beautiful together – our brains will thank us (and so will our bodies).

Ready to play? Visit neverleavetheplayground.com for more ideas, inspiration, and stories from the playground.

Never leave the playground.