We lose touch with our sense of play by age 29, research shows.
A study of 2,000 adults revealed 43 per cent have become less playful as they’ve got older.
GettyThe most popular way for Brits to play is using board games[/caption]
PapayaThe UK’s most playful region has been revealed as Northern Ireland[/caption]
Top reasons include increased responsibilities (45 per cent), feeling a need to be more productive (23 per cent) and a lack of time to engage in anything other than serious activities (35 per cent).
But 60 per cent of those that regularly play board games, video games or go to quiz or trivia nights said it reduced their stress levels.
While two thirds (64 per cent) wish they could ‘let go’ and allow themselves some time each week to entertain themselves with more playful recreational activities.
Online gaming app, PAPAYA (https://www.papaya.com/), which commissioned the research, has also partnered with Dr Stuart Brown, founder of National Institute for Play to reveal how play can positively affect us.
Dr Brown said: “Play is a powerful tool for building social connections, enhancing mental well-being, and fostering creative problem-solving skills that benefit our personal and work lives.
“When we engage in playful activities, whether in nature, with physical games, puzzles, video games, board games, or creative expressions like cosplay or doodling – dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and other important chemicals in the brain are activated.
“This opens the brain to new connections, reduces stress, boosts our mood, and strengthens resilience.
“Play taps into neural systems that enhance adaptability, innovativeness, optimism, social bonding, and emotional regulation, making it an essential part of a fulfilled, balanced, thriving life.”
The research went on to find 21 per cent of respondents take part in some kind of playful activity on a less-than-monthly basis.
But 75 per cent would be open to trying new playful recreations, as 71 per cent who are able to do this believe it helps connect them to their inner child.
Nearly half (47 per cent) of those who do engage in such activities believe they help them cope with difficult emotions.
And 55 per cent of all adults believe grown-ups undervalue the importance of being playful, according to the OnePoll.com data.
A spokesperson from PAPAYA, added: “As we age, play also becomes a powerful tool for building connections.
“It strengthens bonds with family and friends and fosters a sense of community.
“Activities like board games, team sports, or shared pastimes create opportunities to engage with others in meaningful and enjoyable ways.
“These interactions are crucial for combating loneliness and maintaining a strong social network, which is especially important as we get older.”
TOP TEN WAYS WE PLAY AS ADULTS:
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