Why Play Is the Secret to Brain Health

I'm Not Getting Older, I'm Just Leveling Up

As a former professor at UCF and an award-winning potter, I've had the privilege of living a life that's been equal parts chaos and joy. And let me tell you, it's not because I've mastered some secret to staying young – although I do like to think I have. No, the real reason I'm still moving with the energy of a kid on the playground is because I never leave. Never. Leave. The. Playground.

My Playful Path to Brain Health

I remember when my students would ask me how they could stay sharp and focused in their own lives. And I'd share with them the secret that's served me so well over the years: play. Not just any kind of play, but the kind that gets your hands dirty, your heart racing, and your brain buzzing.

Growing up, my family would take long road trips to visit relatives, and we'd spend hours playing "I Spy" in the backseat – or trying to spot a gazelle on the savannah in the African National Parks. My siblings and I were experts at creating our own games, using whatever was available: sticks, rocks, or even just our imaginations.

As I got older, my love for play only deepened. In my 20s, I started experimenting with pottery, and soon found myself completely absorbed in the tactile process of shaping clay into functional art. It wasn't long before I realized that this was more than just a hobby – it was a way to keep my brain nimble.

The Science Behind Play

Research has shown us what my lived experience already knew: play is essential for maintaining cognitive health as we age. One study after another highlights the benefits of engaging in activities that stimulate our brains, from problem-solving and creativity to spatial reasoning and memory.

But here's the key takeaway: it's not just about keeping your mind sharp; play can actually help rewire your brain to be more resilient against age-related cognitive decline. This is where things get really interesting – because what we've long believed about aging is that our brains naturally deteriorate as we grow older.

The Playground Doesn't Care How Old You Are

That's just not true, folks! I'm living proof. At 85 years young (yes, I like to call it "young"), I still throw myself wholeheartedly into the playground every day – whether that means experimenting with a new potting technique or simply taking a walk outside and noticing the world around me.

Here's what I know: if you challenge both sides of your brain – every single day – you'll be amazed at how quickly you can adapt, learn, and grow. It doesn't matter if it's Sudoku, dancing to 80s music, or even just trying a new recipe in the kitchen; play is the secret ingredient that keeps our brains young.

Just Keep Moving

So what does this mean for you? Don't worry – I'm not going to tell you to "just be more playful" or try some vague wellness exercise. No way! What I want to do is invite you onto the playground with me. Here are a few things we can do together:

1. **Get your hands dirty**: Try something new and messy, like pottery (I've got a beginner's guide on my website – check it out).

2. **Move your body**: Go for a walk, try some parkour (yes, really), or dance to your favorite song – just get moving!

3. **Challenge yourself**: Take on a puzzle, learn a new language, or attempt that difficult recipe you've been eyeing.

4. **Connect with others**: Join a group class, volunteer at a local community garden, or simply have coffee with a friend.

Stay Young, Stay Curious

So here's the deal: I get younger every year – not because of some miracle anti-aging cream (I wish!), but because I keep challenging my brain and engaging in activities that bring me joy. It's time for you to join me on this journey! Come on over to the playground – we'll leave our worries behind, and just play.

Stay curious, stay playful, and never leave the playground.

Visit [www.neverleavetheplayground.com](http://www.neverleavetheplayground.com) for more stories, tips, and inspiration to keep your brain young and active.