PUBLISHED 25 May 2022
Half term is not far away, and our thoughts turn to a bit of 'down time'. I say a 'bit' as I will have reports to write (it is that time of year).
I was in the hairdresser's last week and always get given a lovely cup of tea and a magazine to read. As I was reading, I came across an article which contained another 'f word'. This time FUN.
Fun is key to our wellbeing, says author Catherine Price. In the article she asks, 'When was the last time you had fun?'
I spent the whole weekend at a football tournament, which turned out to be good fun. The team and parents put up a gazebo, ate lunch together and chatted and laughed.
Catherine defines 'true fun' as any time, however fleeting, when three crucial elements combine: playfulness, connection with other people, and flow (so engaged you lose track of time and/ or forget your worries).
She ends her article by saying 'fun' is the antidote to the stress hormone, as you don't feel anxious when you're having fun. Part of building a more fun-filled life is appreciating the moments of micro fun that pop up nearly every day, such as the chance to give someone a compliment or smile, play some music (I usually do this in the car and annoy my two sons).
5 questions Catherine sets us to think about is:
- When I was a child, I enjoyed...
- I'm curious about...
- Things I used to do with my free time but don't any more...
- Things I always say I want to do or learn but, supposedly, don't have time for...
- I feel alive when I...
If you get an idea, try it. If it doesn't feel fun, then you don't have to do them. Find meaningful fun things... so this holiday (and everyday) don't forget to have some fun.
Have a lovely week and half term holiday.