The Surprising Health Benefits of Play for Adults and Kids

When was the last time you really played?
Not just watched your kids play, or laughed at a funny video, but fully let go, got lost in the moment, and felt that spark of childlike joy.

Somewhere between growing up, working, and “adulting,” most of us stop making time for play. But research (and more importantly, God’s design) shows that play isn’t just for children. It’s a vital part of physical health, emotional balance, and even spiritual renewal.

1. Play Helps Regulate Stress and Reconnects Us to Joy

When we play, our body releases feel-good chemicals like endorphins, lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), and relaxes tense muscles. But beyond that, play reminds us what joy feels like.

It brings laughter back into our homes, connection back into our relationships, and peace back into our hearts. Play helps us shift from survival mode to presence mode - the place where healing and growth happen most naturally.

2. Play Strengthens Family Bonds

When families play together (whether it’s board games, tag in the yard, or a spontaneous dance party in the kitchen), it strengthens communication and connection. It’s hard to hold onto resentment or stress when you’re laughing together. Kids learn emotional resilience and problem-solving through play, but adults benefit just as much. Shared laughter and joy build trust and intimacy - things our modern, screen-filled lives often lack.

3. Play Supports Brain and Body Function

For kids, play develops coordination, balance, and creativity. For adults, it improves cognitive flexibility, boosts energy, and enhances overall mood. Movement-based play (like sports, hiking, or wrestling with your kids), even supports the nervous system by promoting healthy spinal motion and oxygen flow.

When your spine is aligned and your nervous system is clear, your body can respond to stress, movement, and joy more freely. Getting adjusted helps restore that natural flow, so your body isn’t stuck in “fight or flight,” but open to connection and play again.

4. Play Reflects God’s Design for Wholeness

God created us to experience joy, not just work and responsibility. Play is a reminder of His goodness and creativity in us. It draws us back to gratitude, laughter, and freedom - things that keep our hearts aligned with His. When we step away from the chaos and give ourselves permission to enjoy life, we often find peace waiting for us in the simple things.

So Here’s Your Challenge This Week

Put down the phone. Step away from the to-do list. And make time to play.
Toss a football in the yard. Build a fort. Dance in the kitchen. Be silly with your spouse or kids.

Your health isn’t just about what you eat or how much you exercise...it’s about how fully you live.
Play reconnects your body, mind, and spirit to the joy you were designed to experience.

Because healing doesn’t just happen on the table, it happens in the day-to-day.
Laugh more. Play often.
And remember: joy is a form of health, too.