In the hustle and bustle of adult life, it’s easy to lose touch with the whimsical, carefree spirit of our inner child. The responsibilities of adulthood often take centre stage, relegating playfulness and curiosity to the sidelines. However, nurturing and keeping your inner child alive is crucial for a happier and more fulfilling life. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips on how to reconnect with your inner child, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
“Let us listen to the needs of our inner child that is being tamed and imprisoned by the rules of a grown-up world. (“Going back to yesterday” )”
― Erik Pevernagie
Embrace Your Inner Child Alive
1. Play: Rediscovering The Joy Of Leisure
Play isn’t just for kids; it’s a fundamental aspect of maintaining a balanced and joyful life. Engaging in activities that evoke a sense of playfulness helps us unwind, destress, and reconnect with our inner child. Whether it’s playing games, participating in sports, or simply basking in nature’s beauty, find activities that bring joy and laughter. Research indicates that incorporating play into our lives can have positive effects on mental health and overall life satisfaction. [1]
2. Be Curious: Cultivating A Childlike Wonder
Children possess an innate curiosity about the world, asking questions and exploring everything in their path. As adults, it’s essential to foster and maintain that sense of curiosity. Continuously asking questions and seeking to learn new things keeps the mind engaged and the spirit youthful. Embracing a curious mindset contributes to a more fulfilling and vibrant life. [2]
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3. Be Creative: Express Yourself Unapologetically
Creativity is a hallmark of childhood, where drawing, painting, singing, and dancing are daily occurrences. As adults, incorporating creativity into our lives is a powerful way to nurture our inner child. Take a few minutes each day to engage in a creative pursuit, whether it’s doodling, writing, or experimenting with a new recipe. Studies show that creative expression has a positive impact on mental health and can enhance overall well-being. [3]
4. Be Silly: The Liberation Of Laughter
In the pursuit of maturity, many adults forget the joy that comes from being silly. Allowing yourself to let loose, be carefree, and have fun is a direct path to reconnecting with your inner child. Embrace the liberating power of laughter; it not only lightens the mood but also strengthens your emotional well-being. So, don’t be afraid to be silly and let your inner child shine through.
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“We nurture our creativity when we release our inner child. Let it run and roam free. It will take you on a brighter journey.”
― Serina Hartwell
Final Thoughts
Keeping your inner child alive is not just a nostalgic pursuit; it’s a vital aspect of maintaining physical and mental health. Engaging in play, fostering curiosity, expressing creativity, and embracing silliness are key components of a joyful and fulfilling life. So, the next time life feels overwhelming, take a moment to play, ask questions, create, and be silly—your inner child will undoubtedly thank you for it.
How do you keep your inner child alive?
References:
- Brown, S., & Vaughan, C. (2009). Play: How it shapes the brain, opens the imagination, and invigorates the soul. Avery. ↩
- Kashdan, T. B., & Yuen, M. (2007). Whether highly curious students thrive academically depends on perceptions about the school learning environment: A study of Hong Kong adolescents. Motivation and Emotion, 31(4), 260-270. ↩
- Stuckey, H. L., & Nobel, J. (2010). The connection between art, healing, and public health: A review of current literature. American Journal of Public Health, 100(2), 254-263. ↩
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PVM
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Mathukutty P. V. is the founder of Simply Life Tips. He is a Blogger, Content Writer, Influencer, and YouTuber. He is passionate about learning new skills. He is the Director of PokketCFO.
He lives with the notion of “SIMPLE LIVING, CREATIVE THINKING”. He Believes – “Sharing is caring.” and “Learning never ends.”
