Where Did Play Go? Reclaiming Your Joyful Self in a Serious World

Episode Summary: Have you ever felt like a part of yourself got lost along the way? That lighter, playful version of you—the one who laughed without thinking, chased silly ideas, or turned a rainy day into an adventure—quietly slipped away amid responsibilities, deadlines, and endless to-do lists? When was the last time you played just for the joy of it? Not for productivity, not for output…just for YOU?

In this episode of Advancing Women Podcast, I explore the lost art of playfulness and why reclaiming it matters; not just for joy, but for creativity, resilience, connection, and well-being. Drawing inspiration from childhood stories, pop culture, and science-backed research, I’ll share practical strategies to invite play back into your life. #tunein

We’ll discuss:

• Why productivity culture and societal pressures often push play aside, especially for ambitious women.
• How play actually improves brain function, problem-solving, creativity, and relationships.
• Micro-play rituals and imaginative practices you can start today.
• How reconnecting with your playful self can reduce stress, spark joy, and strengthen community.

Key Takeaways:

• Playfulness is not optional—it’s foundational to thriving.
• Shared laughter and playful interactions enhance connection and trust.
• Start small: 5 minutes of dancing, doodling, silly voice texts, or gamifying everyday tasks can reignite your playful spirit.
• Revisit childhood joys and bring them into adult life intentionally.
• Use micro-play rituals to make routine spaces and moments playful and alive.

Resources Mentioned:

Brown, Stuart. Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul.Avery.

Ware, Bronnie. The Top Five Regrets of the Dying: A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing.Hay House.

Apps / Tools: Habitica. Habitica, https://habitica.com/ and Epic Win. Redwood Games, https://www.redwoodgames.com/epicwin

Let’s Connect:

Instagram: @AdvancingWomenPodcast https://www.instagram.com/advancingwomenpodcast/?hl=en

Facebook: Advancing Women Podcast https://www.facebook.com/advancingwomenpodcast/

LinkedIn: Dr. Kimberly DeSimone

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