As we get older, it’s easy to lose sight of the playful parts of life. We’re bogged down by responsibilities, juggling careers, families, and the constant demands of daily life. But what if the secret to better health and wellbeing lay in something we’ve left behind—something as simple and joyful as play?

Nikita is the founder of Story Sense and spoke to YOMU about how storytelling can bring joy and welbeing to your life, it really is food for thought.

I’ve spent years working with children through Story Sense, where I help bring stories to life through play and imagination. What I’ve come to realise is that the benefits of storytelling and play aren’t just for children—they’re for all of us. In fact, tapping into these creative, playful practices can help us, as adults, find balance, reduce stress, and enhance our overall wellbeing.

We often think of play as something frivolous or reserved for children, but it’s actually a vital part of maintaining mental and emotional health. As a working mum of three, I have also experienced days of not wanting to 'adult', just for a moment; hopeful to see a glimpse of the carefree life I lived as a little girl. Studies have shown that engaging in playful activities can reduce stress, boost mood, and even improve cognitive function. For women in their 40s and beyond, who often find themselves carrying the emotional and mental load of caregiving, the opportunity to reconnect with playfulness can be a powerful tool for wellbeing.

When we allow ourselves to play, we give our minds a chance to rest and recharge. Playful activities, especially those rooted in storytelling, encourage us to step out of our usual routines and experience the world with fresh eyes. Whether it’s through creative expression, movement, or simple make-believe, play can remind us that there’s more to life than just ticking off tasks on a to-do list.

The good news is that you don’t need to be an artist or a performer to enjoy the benefits of play. It can be as simple as engaging in a bit of make-believe with your children or grandchildren, allowing yourself to get lost in a story together. Storytelling isn’t just about reading a book; it’s about creating a world where anything is possible, and the rules of reality can be bent to spark joy and curiosity.

In my work with Story Sense, I use storytelling to inspire children’s imaginations, but the truth is, adults can benefit from these same activities. We incorporate play through creative activities like drawing, dancing, or even building something with your hands. These activities tap into a different part of the brain—one that isn’t concerned with productivity or perfection, but with the pure joy of creation. And the best part? You don’t need to be “good” at it. It’s the process, not the outcome, that makes play so beneficial for your wellbeing.

Storytelling isn’t just a tool for children’s development—it’s a way for all of us to reconnect with our own creativity, joy, and sense of wonder. By embracing play, we can find new ways to manage stress, solve problems, and take care of our mental health.

For adults, this might look different than it does for children, but the underlying principle remains the same: when we give ourselves permission to play, we unlock a part of ourselves that is often left dormant. We stop worrying about what’s “realistic” or “practical” and instead open ourselves up to possibility and imagination.

Whether it’s through telling stories, playing games, or simply engaging in a creative hobby, incorporating more play into your life can have a profound impact on your wellbeing. You may find that you’re more resilient, more relaxed, and more connected to the things that truly matter to you.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of life, perhaps it’s time to embrace the idea of play again. Take a moment to step away from the seriousness of adulthood and reconnect with the joy and freedom that comes with playfulness.  You’ll find that a little bit of play can go a long way in boosting your mood and overall health.

For more information head to Story Sense.