Three weeks ago, I wrote how I finally cleared the clutter from my desk, and felt creatively energized by both the literal and the figurative Space I had opened up. I also agreed to hold myself accountable to you, and let you know how I was doing.
I'm delighted to report that both my desk and my office continue to be maintained as clutter-free. While the occasional spread of papers or cluster of piles surfaces now and then, it is so much easier to bring it all back under control in short order.
Today, as I tucked a few things away, I spied the wooden top from India, round and slightly flat, with a hint of a tip beneath, prettily painted with the leaves and pink petals of a flower, and a spindle protruding from its middle. My strategically-placed toy was looking for action.
Play time! The top serves as more than a decoration. It is the occasional reminder for me to stop and take the time to play, especially in the midst of a busy day.
According to the National Institute of Play, "In play our burdens feel lighter and we are opened to new possibilities. But play goes even deeper – it shapes our brains to make us smarter and more able to adapt to situations."
Play is an activity you do because you enJoy it, because it's fun. It might be something you do regularly, such as gardening or golfing. Play can also be spontaneous, with no hint of preparation or plan. For it to truly be play, though, what you are doing must have greater importance and meaning than why you are doing it, unless of course, the why is merely to have fun. Play engages the voice, the body, facial gestures, the mind, memory, passion, and desire.
When will you come out and play?
FYI: If you're in the Seattle area, come play at the workshop on Games Children Play, And What Adults Can Learn From Them.
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