In this joy-filled episode, Ginny sits down with positive psychology expert Dr. Elaine O’Brien, author of The Power of Play, to explore why play isn’t just for kids—and why adults may need it more than we realize. Elaine explains how play supports us physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally, helping relieve stress, strengthen relationships, spark creativity, and bring more joy into everyday life. From adventurous and movement play to storytelling, puzzles, conversation, and simply having fun, this conversation expands our definition of what it means to play at every age.
Ginny and Elaine share wonderfully practical ways to become lighter and more playful: try a “clockless day,” smile at the people you encounter, turn mundane chores into games, experiment with playful breathing exercises, seek out novelty, and spend time noticing the constantly changing natural world. They also explore Elaine’s Splash Dance approach, which combines aqua fitness, music, movement, and positive psychology in an activity that can bring everyone from children to adults in their 90s together.
Most importantly, Elaine makes the case that play shouldn’t be something we wait to stumble into—it’s something worth intentionally building into our lives. Whether it’s creating a “joy jar,” trying something new, moving our bodies, getting outside, connecting across generations, or simply making room for spontaneity, small doses of play can change the way we experience our days. This episode is an invitation to stop taking life quite so seriously, rediscover what lights you up, and remember that growing older doesn’t have to mean growing out of play.
Get Dr. Obrien's book here!
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