Reclaiming Joy: The Psychology of Play
- Talisa Haskins
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
Making Space for Fun in a World That Forgot How
Written by Talisa Haskins
When was the last time you did something just for fun?
Not for productivity.
Not because it checked a box.
Not because someone else needed you to.
But simply because it made you smile, laugh, or feel more like you?
If you’re struggling to remember, you’re not alone. Adults often leave play behind as life becomes more serious—filled with responsibilities, routines, and a culture that values hustle over happiness. But at The Journey Counselling and Psychotherapy, we believe that joy isn’t optional. It’s essential.
And summer? It’s the perfect time to reclaim it.
Why Play Matters (Even for Adults)
Play isn’t just for kids. It’s deeply wired into our brains for a reason. Research shows that play:
Boosts creativity and problem-solving
Lowers stress and supports emotional regulation
Deepens relationships and connection
Builds resilience and mental flexibility
Whether it’s laughing with friends, dancing in your kitchen, gardening, painting, hiking, or playing board games—play invites us into the present moment, away from worry and toward what feels meaningful.
Why Joy Often Gets Lost
Many of our clients tell us they’ve forgotten how to “just have fun.” Life feels too heavy, too structured, or too chaotic for play to make sense. For others, perfectionism or people-pleasing gets in the way of doing something “just because.”If this resonates, you’re not broken. You’re human. And you’re likely overdue for something that lights you up.
Tips to Reconnect with Joy
This July, we invite you to explore what play could look like for you:
Start small: What did you love as a child? Can you bring a piece of that into your life now?
Ditch the outcome: Choose something you enjoy even if you’re “bad” at it. Play isn’t about performance.
Move your body: Physical movement is one of the fastest ways to access a playful state—try skipping, swimming, biking, or dancing.
Get curious: Try something new, silly, or spontaneous. Let yourself experiment without pressure.
Play with others: Joy is contagious. Connect with people who make you laugh and feel safe being yourself.
Let Play Be Your Medicine
You don’t need to escape your life to feel good. You just need small, intentional ways to come back to joy—regularly, gently, and with self-compassion.
Therapy can also be a space to explore what’s been getting in the way of play and rediscover who you are outside of stress and survival mode.
At The Journey, we walk with you—whether you're seeking reconnection, healing, or simply more lightness in your day-to-day. Your joy matters. Let’s help you find your way back to it.
Ready to start your journey?
Explore our therapists and find your perfect match today!
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