Why Play Is the Secret to Brain Health

The Secret's Out: Play is the Key to Unlocking a Brain That's Ageless

I get younger every year. Not because I've discovered some fountain of youth or hidden stash of anti-aging magic. But because I refuse to believe that getting older means losing your vitality, creativity, and sense of wonder. And it all starts with one thing: play.

As an 85-year-old former professor, award-winning potter, and movement educator, I've spent decades exploring the intersection of art, science, and human potential. And what I've learned is that our brains are wired to respond positively to play – it's like a built-in reset button for our minds and bodies.

Growing up on a farm in rural England, I was always encouraged to explore, experiment, and get my hands dirty. My parents would often say, "Stephen, go outside and find something interesting." And that's exactly what I'd do – I'd climb trees, build forts, and imagine entire worlds in the fields. Play was not just a child's domain; it was an essential part of life.

Fast-forward to my university days as a professor at UCF. I began to notice that my most innovative ideas, creative breakthroughs, and best teaching moments all involved some form of play – whether it was improvising with students or trying out new pottery techniques in the studio. And yet, when it came time to talk about "brain health," we'd often focus on serious-sounding topics like cognitive training, memory exercises, and stress management.

But here's the thing: our brains are designed for play. From a neuroscientific perspective, play stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine, which regulate mood, motivation, and learning. It also enhances neural plasticity – our brain's ability to adapt, change, and reorganize itself in response to new experiences.

Think of it this way: when you're playing a musical instrument or engaging in creative activity, your brain is forming new connections between neurons at an incredible rate. This process, known as neurogenesis, is essential for learning, memory consolidation, and even emotional regulation. And the best part? It's not limited to childhood – our brains remain capable of this kind of adaptation throughout life.

So what does play look like in adulthood? For me, it's about challenging both sides of my brain every single day. Whether I'm working on a new pottery design or trying out a tricky dance move, I'm committed to staying curious and open to novelty.

Here are some practical steps you can take TODAY to tap into the transformative power of play:

1. Schedule Playtime

That's right – make time for it. Set aside an hour each day to do something that brings you joy, whether it's painting, hiking, or playing with your kids (yes, play with them!). Don't worry about how "productive" it seems; the goal is to engage both hemispheres of your brain and have fun.

2. Get Your Hands Dirty

Literally. Dig in the dirt, mold clay, paint with messy brushes – do something tactile that stimulates your senses and encourages creativity. I still work in my pottery studio every week, experimenting with new techniques and designs.

3. Challenge Yourself

Try something you've never done before – dance classes, language lessons, or even a cooking course. The key is to push past your comfort zone and engage both sides of your brain simultaneously.

The playground doesn't care how old you are. In fact, it's precisely because we're older that we need to reclaim our playful spirit more than ever. So come join me on the playground – let's get moving, laughing, and exploring together!

Never leave the playground – visit neverleavetheplayground.com for inspiration, resources, and community support to keep you playing your way into a brain that's ageless and thriving.