When was the last time you set yourself free from rules and used your imagination, did away with logic and reason, and let yourself dream?

Seeing my mother’s delight upon opening a botanical-themed Lego set I’d bought for her birthday reminded me of the importance of play for adults, and how rarely I invite it into my own life.

As a results-driven individual, the thought of free play isn’t instantly exciting. In fact, being asked to begin any activity that doesn’t generate a significant, meaningful outcome is somewhat uncomfortable.

Maybe that’s why at the age of four, when taken to a toyshop, I chose a hoover over a guitar – emphasising a strong desire to get things done. What was I thinking?

That seemingly innocent decision has stayed with me; symbolising the direction my life may take. Not only am I lacking in musicality, but it inadvertently strengthened a belief that creative play is indulgent.

Until recently I was blending full-time work with part-time study, so, there was little room for play. But now, in 2025, I have an opportunity to be more intentional in how I relax.

So, where should we start?

From dance classes and art workshops to craft clubs and gaming groups, pastimes like this are ideal for supporting wellbeing. In fact, according to the National Institute of Play, engaging in playful activities ‘helps adults cope with stress and enhances mood’ –  increasing the likelihood of developing positive coping techniques during stressful periods such as ‘acceptance and reframing’ which can help to overcome anxiety or depression. This is before we uncover the added benefits of belonging, via social connections, that hobbies also provide.

However, I’m conscious play should try to feel organic. If it’s tightly scheduled it may feel forced (which is no fun) or could trigger an innate competitiveness (reducing the creativity factor).

Don’t overthink it

If play doesn’t come naturally to you, think about how you can find freedom in your day-to-day life such as cooking, decorating or DIY.  And, if this seems like a step too far, how about replacing one of your ‘go-to’ apps for a physical or online puzzle to stimulate your mind? Alternatively, keep a notepad by your desk and allow yourself to doodle during the day to explore a different perspective.

Whether it’s exploring a new interest outside your comfort zone, such as sport, or organising more solo activities, such as mindfulness as a form of self-reflection, you’ll soon feel the mental, emotional and physical benefits of play – making anything in life that’s currently feeling difficult feel further away.

That was my experience after recently inviting a friend to a quiz. I’d forgotten how fun the buzz of discussing the questions and committing to answers, then scored by strangers, is. In fact, I was dancing from the dopamine hit each time we scored a point and was even able to join in the collective groan when everybody got it wrong!

It was only afterwards that I was reminded that, in a society which praises productivity, the journey’s more valuable than the destination – and I’m grateful that I could not only grasp that but relax into it.

We didn’t win the quiz, but we did find time to play.

Team trivia aside. Maybe you’re looking for a more personal, one-to-one creative outlet?

Gigi, an art therapist, has recently joined The Fountain Therapy Trust’s counselling team, giving clients the opportunity to express complex thoughts and feelings through free-flowing creation. No prior knowledge or skill is required and you don’t need to be in crisis to start a long-term affordable counselling journey with us.

If you want to discuss any of the themes in this blog through therapy - including better understanding your identity, beliefs and upbringing - and how it affects your mental health, complete our Fountain Therapy Trust form or speak to our team to learn more.

Donna is an integrative counsellor running a small private practice, while supporting The Fountain Therapy Trust.