According to psychiatrist Stuart Brown, M.D., author of Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul, many peoples feelings of stress, depression and anger can be alleviated by making time for play in their busy lives.
Brown has conducted more than 6,000 play studies during his 40-year career. There are all kinds of different types of play and Brown encourages you to find the right fit for youwhether that means playing tennis, tossing around a ball with the dog or leaving your cell phone behind as you embark on a bike ride.
However, he said it can be hard for adults to rationalize playing during hard economic times. People may feel guilty for indulging in enjoyable activities. But Brown said a healthy balance of work and play can help you live longer, stay sharp and increase the longevity of your personal relationships.