"This month we are focusing on the character strength of Playfulness." I have to confess that playfulness does not come easily for me. I wish it did. For one thing, I don't really like to play games.In fact, when my kids were little I used to cheat at CandyLand just so they would win, we could cheer.... and the game would be over  I love to be around playful people, though.Last week at an Oasis evening a group of women gathered and began sharing stories that had us all rolling in laughter. We all left feeling connected to each other and better about ourselves. Somehow just laughing about the challenges in our lives puts them in a different perspective.

 

As you likely know, there are many, many physical and emotional benefits to laughter and playfulness. It can decrease our stress hormones, protect our heart, lower our blood pressure and strengthen our immune system. The ability to use humor and playfulness to deal with challenges is one of five essential emotional intelligence skills. Our relationships with others are better when we inject them with healthy doses of playfulness. Go ahead.  Do something silly today. We'll all benefit.