Episode #329
When Did We Stop Having Fun? The Forgotten Habits That Keep Us Healthy
When did life become so serious? As adults, we spend so much time thinking about the things we should be doing for our health- exercising, eating well, getting enough sleep and managing stress. But what about the things that simply make us feel happy, connected and alive? In this episode of the Mind Movement Health Podcast, Kate Boyle explores the often-overlooked role that joy, play, friendship, nature, creativity and new experiences can have in supporting our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. As responsibilities increase, many of us gradually stop doing the things we once loved. We play less. We see our friends less often. We become more focused on productivity and spend less time doing things simply because they're fun. But these aren't frivolous extras. Research increasingly shows that social connection, time in nature, play, learning and new experiences can support brain health, reduce stress, improve emotional wellbeing and contribute to healthy ageing and longevity. Kate shares the science behind why play isn't just for children, why friendships matter for our long-term health, how nature can help calm the nervous system, and why travel and new experiences can stimulate the brain and bring a sense of adventure back into our lives. She also explores how wellness retreats can give us permission to step outside our normal routines, slow down, connect with others and rediscover parts of ourselves that may have been pushed aside by the busyness of everyday life. Retreat Invitation... If this episode resonates, this is exactly why I host immersive women’s health retreats focused on movement, nervous system healing, connection and restoration. My next international retreat, Pilates by the Mekong in Vietnam this October, is designed for midlife women who want to reduce stress, improve digestion, balance hormones and reconnect with themselves through Pilates, strength training, whole-food nutrition and daily regulation practices. Check it out and join our Pilates by the Mekong Retreat: https://mindmovementhealth.thrivecart.com/pilates-by-the-mekong/ Listen to previous episodes referenced in this episode: The Missing Pillar of Health: Why Connection Matters More Than Ever Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout 00:30 Rediscovering Joy and Playfulness 02:30 Why Play Matters for Adults 06:51 The Science of Play, Learning and Brain Health 09:37 Friendships, Social Connection and Wellbeing 10:31 Nature, Stress and Slowing Down 11:10 Travel, Adventure and New Experiences 13:06 Retreats, Connection and Perspective 14:06 How to Bring More Joy and Play Back Into Your Life Want a little help with your health? Then check out Paleo Valley’s range of organic foods and supplements. Grab 15% off all Paleo Valley products. From healthy snacks to helping to boost your protein needs or support your system with supplements, Paleo Valley products are organic and nutrient dense. Check out their range of products here: https://paleovalley.com/bfcm?oid=18&affid=1412 Sign up to our weekly newsletter and become an M&M Insider! You'll receive special discounts, bundles, behind the scenes podcast insights and simple tips to help you improve your health. Don't miss out! Join here: https://www.mindmovementhealth.com.au/subscribe/ Connect with Kate: Website: MindMovementHealth.com.au Facebook: facebook.com/MindMovementHealth Instagram: instagram.com/MindMovementHealth Haven’t subscribed to the podcast yet? Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review at: Apple Podcasts
