Never Too Old to Frolic

Around this time last year, you might have seen a short clip on social media where a man says, “I’m about to frolic,” before he runs, giggles, then falls into a bed of buttercups.

Maybe you think a grown man frolicking is silly – and it’s supposed to be! Still, the viral hashtag #blackmenfrolicking garnered millions of views in 2023.

So what are the benefits of adults playing besides getting social media clicks?

First, it forces us to find some work-life balance. Over 80% of working adults say they experience job-related stress, and as we covered earlier in the month, those frustrations can wreak havoc on our sleep, contribute to unhealthy lifestyle choices and wear on the heart.

However, play allows us to throw out our to-do lists and focus on one thing – joy. Studies show that people who experience positive emotions, like joy, are up to 26% less likely to develop heart disease.

It doesn’t hurt that frolicking in the grass also benefits the heart and body in the physiological sense. Playtime fosters creativity, builds social relationships, releases endorphins, strengthens muscles and bones and promotes better circulation. This increased blood flow can help reduce the risk of clogged arteries, lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health.

So, buckle up, buttercup! It’s time to frolic!

Not sure where to start? There are all kinds of play for everyone, from dance classes to recreational sports leagues. But don’t be afraid to get creative. Play also includes storytelling, puzzles, playing an instrument, board games or even frolicking in the grass.

Though happiness can reduce heart disease risk, we aren’t always happy. But if you’ve been sad for several weeks or have lost interest in some of your favorite activities, it may be time to talk to your doctor about depression.

They say what goes up must come down, but we’re not talking about playing catch. Next time, we’ll talk about how to make sure your cholesterol levels aren’t frolicking right off the charts.