A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology has shed light on an intriguing aspect of human resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the research, individuals with a positive outlook on life and high levels of “playfulness” showcased greater resilience and optimism compared to their more serious counterparts. Led by Xiangyou “Sharon” Shen, an assistant professor at Oregon State University (OSU), the study highlights the significance of playfulness as an underappreciated resource for maintaining well-being during challenging times.
The Role of Playfulness in Resilience
In the midst of a global pandemic that has brought unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, the ability to maintain a positive and playful attitude can make a significant difference in how individuals navigate adversity. Dr. Shen, who heads the Health, Environment and Leisure Research (HEAL) lab at OSU, emphasized the importance of understanding how playful individuals cope with stress and uncertainty.
In an interview with SWNS, Dr. Shen underscored the relevance of playfulness in developing interventions and strategies to help people build resilience. She noted that chronic stress is a significant public health concern, with implications for various health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, depression, and anxiety. By actively altering challenging situations, individuals with a playful disposition demonstrate a unique ability to infuse joy and creativity into their daily lives.
The Science Behind Playfulness
Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and Fox News’ senior medical analyst, shared insights on the study’s findings. He emphasized the role of playfulness, humor, and positive emotions in promoting overall health and well-being. According to Dr. Siegel, these emotions trigger the release of oxytocin in the brain, known as the “happy hormone,” which can help lower stress levels and improve cardiovascular health.
Moreover, Dr. Siegel highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between positive and negative emotions. He noted that individuals who embrace playfulness and creativity are better equipped to manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. By finding joy and novelty in everyday activities, playful individuals demonstrate a unique capacity to navigate difficult circumstances with resilience and optimism.
Practical Strategies for Cultivating Playfulness
The study conducted by Dr. Shen and her team involved over 500 U.S. adults, categorizing participants based on their levels of playfulness as measured by the Adult Playfulness Trait Scale. The findings revealed that individuals with higher levels of playfulness exhibited greater optimism, creative problem-solving skills, and enjoyment in daily activities. Despite facing similar risks and challenges as their less playful peers, these individuals demonstrated a unique ability to view obstacles as opportunities and maintain a sense of control over their responses.
Dr. Shen emphasized the importance of incorporating small doses of play into daily routines, noting that even 5 to 10 minutes of playful activity can have a meaningful impact on overall well-being. By creating moments of joy and infusing everyday activities with positivity, individuals can enhance their resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. As Dr. Shen aptly stated, playfulness doesn’t distort reality – it enhances it, offering a refreshing perspective on navigating life’s challenges.
In conclusion, the study’s findings underscore the transformative power of playfulness in fostering resilience and maintaining well-being during difficult periods. By embracing a positive and playful mindset, individuals can navigate adversity with optimism, creativity, and a sense of control over their responses. As we continue to face global challenges, the lessons from this research remind us of the importance of finding joy and playfulness in everyday life, even in the midst of uncertainty and hardship.
