McKinney Chiropractor;
The Importance of Play
Shared by Dr. Anthony Vasile
The Importance of Play
If you go to a playground or a park and see kids running around it may not look like they are accomplishing much at all. They are just climbing monkey bars, playing tag, going down a slide, jumping over stuff, but in reality, they are developing their behaviors and their brains. Playing is a safe way for beings of all kinds to explore the world. Not only do humans play but so do other mammals and other animal species. It is something so natural and found in nature all over the world.
Research has shown that in mammals, whenever play is taken out of the picture, harm tends to ensue. There is evidence of decreased brain development, decreased brain activity, decreased intelligence, and decreased movement skills. I encourage everyone to find something they enjoy that is play to them. Some people may ask, how do you really define play? The most obvious answer to me is that you know it when you see it and you know it when you do it.
People may still be confused about what play is or they forget how to do it. Some may ask is this a type of workout? It shouldn’t be but it also can be. For example, I am not a big fan of hitting the gym to workout. I would much rather play something. Frisbee, basketball, but the most favorite for me is rock climbing. When I am done playing on rocks for the day, I am extremely exhausted. But it felt like no effort because I lost track of time or even purpose of what I was doing. I was absorbed in the process. That to me is play!
The take home message here is finding something you enjoy in life that is play. Whether it is with your children or if you find play in your work life or some type of physical activity game like golf or tennis. And know it not only benefits you physically but it is one of the best practices for mental health as well. I encourage you to examine your life and see if there are areas where you can do more to enjoy the The Importance of Play!
Article Reference:
Yogman, M., Garner, A., Hutchinson, J., Hirsh-Pasek, K., & Golinkoff, R. M. (2018). The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children. Pediatrics, 142(3). https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2018-2058
Our Message
Our Chiropractors, located near Eldorado Pkwy and Ridge Rd., know how to get you out of pain through better movement AND making sure you are getting the proper nutrients. We also teach our patients how to manage their stress for optimal health. When you are looking for a Chiropractor near you, choose one who will not only get rid of your back pain, neck pain, or headaches but who will also guide you to living a healthier lifestyle to keep you out of pain. And remember to get and enjoy the The Importance of Play!