Play Isn’t Just for Kids—Science Says So
We tend to think of play as something we grow out of. But science tells a different story.
Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play, has spent decades studying the role of play in human development. His research shows that adults who incorporate playful experiences into their lives tend to be more adaptable, resilient, and emotionally balanced[^1].
Play isn’t just about fun. It helps regulate emotions, boost creativity, and reduce stress. And yet—many of us abandon it as life becomes more demanding.
The Psychology of Play Deprivation
When play disappears, so does our flexibility.
A study published in the American Journal of Play links play deprivation with higher levels of anxiety and decreased problem-solving skills. Adults who forgo play are more likely to experience burnout, rigid thinking, and a decreased sense of curiosity—patterns often echoed in mental health language around stress and emotional regulation.
This isn’t just emotional—it’s neurological. Engaging in unstructured, enjoyable activities activates the prefrontal cortex, improving executive function and stress recovery. Without this outlet, our brains don’t get the rest they need to operate at full capacity.
Escapism Done Right: Why Immersive Play Works
Not all escapes are equal.
Bingeing shows or scrolling endlessly might feel like unwinding—but they rarely leave us feeling restored. In contrast, active escapism like games, creative hobbies, or physical experiences engage the mind and body, helping us enter what’s known as a flow state—a zone where time disappears and focus peaks.
Immersive experiences, like those offered in virtual reality (VR), allow adults to “play” in ways that are imaginative, social, and physically engaging. And unlike passive activities, these can help reduce anxiety and improve cognitive flexibility.
Exploring New Worlds (Without Leaving the City)
If you’re in a big city like Toronto, you don’t need to travel far to find your next escape.
Places like Levelup Reality offer a wide range of multiplayer experiences—from cooperative puzzle games to adrenaline-packed adventures. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with friends or simply blow off steam, these experiences tap directly into the psychology of play.
Virtual reality isn’t just tech—it’s an outlet. A few minutes in an alternate world might be the exact reset your mind needs.
Looking for ideas? Here’s a list of playful and immersive things to do in Toronto that could bring back a sense of fun.
Turning Play Into Practice
Reclaiming play doesn’t require massive change. Start small.
Try a game night with friends. Join a local improv class. Schedule time for creative hobbies—or step into a VR arcade and try something new. These playful practices are more than entertainment. They’re forms of mental hygiene.
If you’ve been running on empty, you don’t need more productivity hacks—you might just need to play.